The Korean skincare market keeps developing. Toners now do more than cleanse. Modern K-beauty toners have many benefits. They hydrate and treat skin. So, they are essential in any skincare routine. Here’s a list of the most effective options for different skin concerns:
Anua Heartleaf 77 Soothing Toner
This calming toner with 77% Heartleaf Extract hydrates, balances pH, and preps skin for serums and moisturizers. Suitable for all skin types, it’s free from harsh ingredients and loved by skincare fans on TikTok.
Skin Type: All.
Ingredients: Houttuynia Cordata Extract (77%), Centella Asiatica Extract, Glycerin, and Panthenol – Known for soothing, hydrating, repairing, and improving skin elasticity.
Customer Review: I can’t say enough good things about the Anua Heartleaf 77 Soothing Toner! This has become a must-have in my skincare routine. Gentle and Soothing: From the first use, I noticed how gentle and soothing this toner is. The heartleaf extract really helps calm my skin, especially on days when it feels irritated or sensitive.
ANUA Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam,
This gentle deep pore cleanser removes impurities and controls excess oil, leaving your skin smooth and refreshed. It exfoliates, soothes inflammation, and hydrates without stripping, making it perfect for oily and combination skin. Use daily for clearer, smoother skin.
Skin Type: All.
Ingredients: Houttuynia Cordata Flower/Leaf/Stem Water (33.32%), Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Betaine Salicylate.
Customer Review: I use this face wash as an everyday cleanser after my double cleanse and it works wonders. It makes my face feel fresh and clean. It has a gentle scrub for exfoliating, which leaves my face feeling soft. It’s also extremely moisturizing, my face isn’t dried out.
ANUA Heartleaf 77 Toner Pad 70 Sheets
This all-in-one toner pad gently exfoliates with PHA, reducing blackheads, whiteheads, and breakouts. Infused with 77% Heartleaf Extract, it soothes and hydrates the skin, making it perfect for daily use, especially for sensitive skin. It helps control sebum, minimize pores, and balance the skin.
Skin Type: All, Combination, Normal.
Ingredients: Houttuynia Cordata Extract (77%), Water, Gluconolactone, Propanediol.
Customer Review: I was very iffy about buying/ using these toner pads at first. When I first used them I was immediately impressed with them. I enjoy using them as a temporary “mask” or just as a quick exfoliater. Gives a cooling effect will calming skin and helping heal it too.
I’m from – Rice Serum
Revitalize dull skin with our lightweight serum, infused with gamma-orizanol, niacinamide, and rice bud extract for deep hydration and a refreshed complexion. Safe, gentle, and dermatologically tested, it’s perfect for all skin types. Pair with our rice line products for enhanced collagen and elasticity.
Skin Type: All, Sensitive, Dry.
Ingredients: Aspergillus/Rice Germ Ferment Extract Filtrate, Propanediol, Glycerin, Methylpropanediol.
Customer Review: This serum is so refreshing!! I just ordered another one. I use it with the rice toner as well. It hydrates and it pairs well with my moisturizer and makeup!! My skin feels and looks better.
Pyunkang Yul – Essence Toner
This essence toner provides 24-hour hydration, reduces dead skin cells, and boosts radiance. Suitable for all skin types, it’s made with Astragalus root extract for enhanced moisture and vitality. Trusted globally with over 3 million units sold.
Skin Type: All, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal.
Ingredients: Astragalus Membranaceus Root Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Carbomer, Arginine
Customer Review: This is a good toner. Its a thicker base so goes on smoothly, leaves your face feeling very hydrated. Doesn’t leave behind any residue. I have pretty sensitive skin and have had no reactions at all. I’ve been using it as a second base toner since it thicker after I have cleaned my face and leaves a nice shine.
numbuzin – No. 3 Super Glowing Essence Toner
This essence toner, with 50 fermented ingredients, brightens skin, tightens pores, and boosts elasticity. Clinically proven to improve radiance by 52.89% and elasticity by 9.09% in 2 weeks. Safe for all skin types.
Skin Type: Dry,All Skin Types.
Ingredients: Niacinamide,Butylene Glycol,Glycerin,Methyl Gluceth-20,Spiraea Ulmaria Extract,Adenosine,Geraniol.
Customer Review: I’ve been using this essence toner almost everyday for the past 29 days and it has helped a lot with my dull skin and I really like how it makes my skin feel after applying it, it isn’t harsh on the skin either. I use 7 drops from my hands, i tried it with a cotton pad a few times when I first started using it but i feel like i need to use more of the toner when using the pads and it doesn’t give my skin as much of a glow when using the pad so i use my hands.
Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner
This product deeply hydrates, restores skin elasticity, and enhances your skin’s resilience. It helps lock in moisture for a smooth, radiant complexion while providing long-lasting hydration. Suitable for daily use, it supports a healthy skin barrier and keeps skin soft and nourished.
Skin Type: All.
Ingredients: Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Phyllostachys Pubescens Shoot Bark Extract, Aspergillus Ferment, Hyaluronic Acid.
Customer Review: I have mature skin and have fine lines with a few dark spots from sun damage, as well as some areas with larger pores. I hate wearing make-up so I usually just tone and mositurize. I have tried so many toners, at all price points, however this toner is hands down the best I have tried and very affordable. It does a wonderful job at shrinking my pores and moisturing my skin as well as fading my dark spots and plumping my fine line areas. It does not dry my skin or make it feel tight. It makes my skin feel wondeful. I don’t feel I need mositurizer, but I like the SPF my mositurizer provides. I use it twice a day and only a little after a week, I am noticing a difference. I am so happy that I tried this, I have already ordered more for my vacation home.
Haruharu WONDER – Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner Fragrance-Free
This fragrance-free toner provides intense moisture and hydration, leaving your skin smooth, radiant, and deeply nourished. Perfect for sensitive skin, it regenerates and boosts skin elasticity with Hyaluronic Acid and Beta-Glucan, while being vegan, cruelty-free, and EWG-safe.
Skin Type: All.
Ingredients: Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Phyllostachys Pubescens Shoot Bark Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Hyaluronic Acid.
Customer Review: I love this toner! It’s affordable and leaves me dewy and hydrated. 10/10 Works doublely well when paired with another Hyaluronic acid, for extreme hydration into the skin. I layer this in between my steps at night for an even extra boost of hydration and I wake up looking dewy and refreshed.
SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
SOME BY MI is a skincare brand focused on delivering effective, safe products. Their Miracle Toner gently exfoliates, smooths, and clarifies the skin, making it an essential first step in any skincare routine. The Miracle Line is designed for sensitive skin, offering soothing and balancing care for a healthy, clear complexion.
Skin Type: Normal.
Ingredients : AHA, BHA, PHA, Niacinamide, tea Tree Leaf Extract.
Customer Review: Korean skincare which is such an easy buy for me. You no longer have to spend $35 on the Paula’s Choice. I have the money for it but I don’t want to pay that much for a toner..rather put it on some good food or perfume. or I can get 3 elf lip oils for that price! This here was $13.90. Tea tree and Niacinamide? Yes, please. Absolutely zero odor. Skin feels supple, hydrated, and cleansed. Not drying. I have no negatives to report after night 2. I am pleased I found this more affordable option because as an oily skin baddie, I need my aha/bha/pha/abc toner!
COSRX – AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
This exfoliating toner improves skin texture, refines pores, and removes dullness with AHA and BHA. It hydrates and soothes, perfect for daily use on all skin types. Free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates.
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal.
Ingredients: AHA, BHA, Mineral Water, Glycolic Acid.
Customer Review: I have a skin problem where my face is ALWAYS dry and flaky no matter what i do. This works pretty well to exfoliate & doesn’t dry my face out more than it already is, which is a plus.
TIRTIR – Milk Skin Toner
TIRTIR Milk Skin Toner hydrates and brightens, promoting a radiant, “glass skin” look. It strengthens the skin barrier, soothes irritation, and is perfect for all skin types, leaving your skin smooth and glowing.
Skin Type: Dry, Rough, Sensitive Skin.
Ingredients: Rice Bran Extract, Chamomile, Ceramide, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate.
Customer Review: Milk toners are my favorites i used to love the Laniege milk toner but I couldn’t justify 40 bucks. This one is so much better and feels so much more luxurious. The bottle is beautiful in my skincare cabinet as well and I love that it’s glass. I have acne-prone and very dry skin and my skin loves this stuff:)
LANEIGE Cream Skin Refillable Toner & Moisturizer
This cream-toner hybrid, enriched with ceramides and peptides, deeply nourishes and strengthens your skin’s moisture barrier for a radiant, hydrated complexion. Winner of the 2024 Vogue Best Hydrating Toner, it’s perfect for daily use and can be layered for extra hydration.
Skin Type: All, Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal.
Ingredients: Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Squalane, Hyaluronic Acid, CERAMIDE & PEPTIDE/ WHITE LEAF TEA
Customer review: I love this toner so much that I bought a full-size after I used it up! It is hydrating and my skin loves it. There is no scent. It is a little sticky but has a milky color and is absorbed by the skin easily.
Paula’s Choice SKIN BALANCING Pore-Reducing Face Tone
This alcohol-free toner balances oily skin, controls oil, minimizes pores, and provides light hydration for an even skin tone. Apply after cleansing with a cotton pad, no rinse is needed.
Skin Type: Oily, Acne Prone Skin, Combination, Norma.l
Ingredients: Niacinamide, Vitamin B3, Hyaluronic Acid, Chamomile.
Customer Review: I had a bunch of pimples coming out and 1-2 days after I started using this they retreated into my skin. LOVE this!
ROUND LAB – 1025 Dokdo Toner
This toner exfoliates dead skin cells and provides long-lasting moisture with a water-like texture that absorbs quickly. Panthenol, Allantoin, and Betaine soothe and hydrate tired skin. After cleansing, apply with a cotton pad for refreshed, nourished skin.
Skin Type: Dry, Normal, Sensitive.
Ingredients: Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Sea Water.
Customer Review: I love this toner. I have incredibly sensitive combination skin with some acne and redness issues. It’s so hard for me to find skincare that doesn’t irritate my skin. Seriously, sometimes moisturizer stings so you can imagine how hard it is for me to find an exfoliator. Until I found this toner!! It has never once irritated my skin and it exfoliates without scrubbing.
Beauty of Joseon – Green Plum Refreshing Toner: AHA + BHA
Green Plum Toner gently exfoliates and hydrates with 25% green plum water, AHA, and BHA. It smooths skin texture, removes dead skin cells, and preps skin for better product absorption. Suitable for daily use, leaving skin refreshed and moisturized. Perfect for gifting.
Skin Type: All.
Customer Review:I have always been a loyal fan of Beauty of Joseon, and their Green Plum Refreshing Toner has once again exceeded my expectations! As someone deeply invested in skincare, I am constantly on the lookout for products that deliver visible results without compromising on quality, and this toner truly stands out from the crowd.
Conclusion
When choosing a Korean toner, consider your specific skin concerns rather than following trends. The best toner is one that addresses your unique needs while maintaining skin barrier health. Remember to patch-test new products and introduce them gradually into your routine for optimal results.
