18 Best Korean Toners For to Help You Get Glass-like Glowing Skin

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Mar 12, 2024
Korean Toners For a Glowing Skin
Korean Toners For a Glowing Skin
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

Toners are a must-have in any skincare routine, however, regular toners often have harsh ingredients such as denatured alcohol present in them or have a very high pH, which has a drying impact on your skin. But the best Korean toners are often packed with amino acids, mineral water, hyaluronic acid, and other skin-friendly nourishing ingredients that are devoid of nasties that aggravate your skin.

Unlike regular toners with watery compositions, Korean toners have viscose, gel-like textures that not only work to improve your complexion but also boost hydration in your skin. This nourishing edge that they have over regular toners is the reason why they have been making waves in the beauty world lately. You can trust these products to keep your skin looking and feeling its best. 

“Toners are critical after the double cleanse because they remove any impurities your cleansers didn’t catch,” says Charlotte Cho, a licensed esthetician and founder of Soko Glam, an online destination for Korean beauty products. 

With regular use, you’ll be able to reap the benefits of a Korean toner, helping to keep your skin looking healthy and radiant. But with so many options out there, it can be difficult to know which one will be best for us. That's why we've shortlisted 13 top-rated products after conducting experiments with them to help you make informed decisions based on your skin type. So let's dive in and discover the wonders of Korean toners!

18 Best Korean Toners

The DearKlairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner is a unique facial toner that helps to balance and soothe the skin. This toner is enriched with hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that helps attract moisture to the skin and keep it hydrated. It also contains natural plant extracts to help nourish the skin, resulting in a softer and more supple complexion. Its lightweight formula makes it easy to apply and leaves the skin feeling refreshed and hydrated. With regular use, it helps to maintain a healthy skin balance and prevent signs of aging.

Pros
  • Vegan
  • Paraben-free
  • No alcohol
  • Non-irritating
  • Non-greasy
  • Great for sensitive skin
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Overpowering smell

Quick Tip

Apply this with a cotton pad or hands after cleansing to protect and prepare your skin for serums and moisturizers.

  • Best Alcohol-free Toner

    TonyMoly Wonder Ceramide Mochi Toner

    TonyMoly Wonder Ceramide Mochi Toner
  • Dry skin types will substantially benefit from the ceramides infused in this toner by TonyMoly as they are excellent in replenishing the skin's moisture barrier. This hydrating toner cushions the skin with emollients and humectants like panthenol, allantoin, and macadamia oil so richly that it becomes soft and dewy — in contrast to highly astringent formulas that render the skin pale. Numerous happy consumers claim that this hydrating toner miraculously reduces parched skin areas while protecting their skin from external aggressors. Moreover, oily, combination and sensitive skin types can benefit from it too!

    Pros
    • Alcohol-free
    • Softens the skin
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Antioxidant goodness
    • Sustainable choice
    • Fresh, heavenly scent
    Cons
    • Infused lemon oil can be irritating
  • PYUNKANG YUL Essence Toner

     PYUNKANG YUL Essence Toner
  • The Essence Toner is enriched with the hydrating ingredients like astragalus and milk vetch root extract to improve the elasticity of your skin. Furthermore, the product is approved by dermatologists and verified as an irritation-free product that can suit every skin type. It has a lightweight texture that quickly dissolves into the skin and penetrates deeply without being sticky. Utilize the product and recover all the skin woes in a jiffy!

    Pros
    • Improves elasticity
    • Dermatologically-tested
    • Irritation-free
    • Lightweight
    • Non-sticky
    • Suits all skin type
    Cons
    • Could be more potent

    Quick Tip

    Apply the toner on a cotton pad and place it on your forehead, cheeks, chin, and nose. This will perform an intensive hydrating treatment for your face.

  • ISNTREE GREEN TEA FRESH Toner

    ISNTREE GREEN TEA FRESH Toner
  • With an intriguing packaging, the viral Korean toner is packed with the goodness of minerals, polyphenols, hyaluronic acid, allantoin, and Jeju green tea to give you the brightening appearance that you have been yearning for your skin! Along with 24 hours of hydration, the protein relieves skin irritation and revitalizes it at the same time. Addedly, the dermatologically-tested formula ensures an irritation-free experience that will not make you stay away long from the product.

    Pros
    • Revitalizes skin
    • 24 hours of hydration
    • Dermatologically-tested
    • Irritation-free
    • Skin-friendly ingredients
    • Non-comedogenic
    Cons
    • Chemical smells
  • SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner

    SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
  • Experience the SOME BY MI Miracle Toner and get the best of both worlds—AHA, BHA, and PHA in one powerful product. This toner is a powerhouse of gentle exfoliating acids that help to clear away dead skin cells and promote brighter, smoother skin. Formulated with natural ingredients, this toner helps to remove dirt and oil while providing deep hydration. The toner helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, while also improving texture and reducing pore size. With regular use, you will notice a brighter, more even complexion in just 30 days.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Sulfate-free
    • No alcohol
    • Suitable for all skin types
    • Great for daily use
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • A bit drying
  • Best Exfoliating Toner

    COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner

    COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
  • It is the perfect solution for troubled skin. Formulated with natural ingredients, this toner helps to effectively exfoliate and clarify the skin, removing dead skin cells and improving skin texture. With regular use, this toner helps to reduce excess oil production, balance skin tone, and restore hydration. It also helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. The skin is left feeling softer, smoother, and brighter with a more even complexion. Perfect for all skin types, this toner is ideal for anyone looking to refresh and improve their skin.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Dermatologist-tested
    • Cruelty-free
    • No paraben
    • Sulfate-free
    • Hypoallergenic
    Cons
    • Small quantity
    • Pricey
  • COSRX Centella Water Alcohol-Free Toner

    COSRX Centella Water Alcohol-Free Toner
  • This K-beauty toner is infused with centella asiatica leaf water, Jeju mineral water, and plant-based ingredients to calm your skin and provide the nourishment at the same time. Apart from giving you a refreshing and hydrating effect, the alcohol-free toner also claims to minimize the appearance of redness, dryness, and dullness caused by environmental stressons. To top it all off, the convenient pump dispenser of this toner makes it an even more worth your buck!

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Hydrating
    • Alcohol-free
    • Calms sensitive skin
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Dermatologically-tested
    Cons
    • Could be more soothing
  • Suitable for All Skin Types

    I'm From Rice Toner

    I'm From Rice Toner
  • Give your skin the nourishing boost it needs with this toner. Packed with rice extract from Korea, this toner is brimming with natural, skin-friendly nutrients that help to promote a healthy, youthful-looking complexion. Rice extract contains brightening and skin-soothing benefits to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots. It also helps to balance your skin's pH levels, which helps to maintain hydration levels in the skin (1) The toner also contains niacinamide, which helps to reduce the appearance of pores, firm the skin and improve the appearance of uneven skin tone. With continuous use, your skin will feel softer, smoother, and more hydrated.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • PETA approved
    • No alcohol
    • No harmful chemicals
    • Fragrance-free
    • Great for all skin types
    Cons
    • Very sticky
    • Overpriced
  • Best Paraben-free Product

    The Face Shop Rice Ceramide Moisturizing Toner

    The Face Shop Rice Ceramide Moisturizing Toner
  • Experience deep hydration and nourishment with this innovative toner. This toner infuses your skin with the goodness of rice extract and helps maintain the natural balance of your skin. It also contains ceramide, which helps to keep your skin soft and supple. The gentle and non-irritating formula is perfect for all skin types, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a lightweight and hydrating toner.

    Pros
    • Paraben free
    • No talc
    • No mineral oil
    • Lightweight
    • Non-sticky
    • Suitable for all skin types
    Cons
    • Strong scent
    • Small bottle
  • SKINFOOD Peach Sake Facial Toner

    SKINFOOD Peach Sake Facial Toner
  • The Peach Sake facial toner takes the upper hand at keeping the excessive oil in your face at bay while providing a silky smooth skin that you have been desiring for! It extracts all the impurities effectively that your face wash might have left on the surface. Addedly, the brightening Korean toner comes in a peachy scent to soothe your senses at the same time while you use it. It has an ultra-lightweight texture that suits every skin type, to say the least.

    Pros
    • Keeps excessive facial oil at bay
    • Provides silky skin
    • Extracts Impurities
    • Suits all skin type
    • Ultra-lightweight
    • Brightens skin tone
    Cons
    • Stings a bit
  • Best Non-comedogenic Product

    Etude Soonjung pH5.5 Relief Toner

    Etude Soonjung pH5.5 Relief Toner
  • Get intense hydration and relief for your sensitive skin with Etude Soonjung Toner. It is designed to reduce redness and irritation and helps to restore the skin's natural pH balance. It is enriched with panthenol and madecassoside, both of which help to protect the skin against environmental stressors (2). This lightweight toner easily absorbs into the skin and helps to lock in moisture, leaving your skin feeling soft, smooth, healthy, hydrated, and refreshed.

    Pros
    • Dermatologist-tested
    • Vegan
    • Paraben-free
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Hypoallergenic
    • No fragrance
    Cons
    • Sticky
    • Costly
  • Best Mineral Oil-free Formula

    Natural Outcome Oily Skin Mattifying Toner

    Natural Outcome Oily Skin Mattifying Toner
  • Enjoy the natural outcome of beautiful skin with this facial toner. This purifying toner is formulated with natural ingredients such as witch hazel, green tea, and aloe vera, which help to reduce excess oil and dirt while providing skin with a soft and clear complexion. This gentle formula also helps to balance the skin’s pH levels, improve skin tone, and hydrate the skin. With regular use, your skin will be left feeling clean, refreshed, and balanced.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • Paraben-free
    • No sulfate
    • No mineral oil
    • No alcohol
    Cons
    • A bit oily
    • Strong smell
  • Best Dermatologically-tested Formula

    N.M.F Intensive Hydrating Toner

    N.M.F Intensive Hydrating Toner
  • N.M.F Intensive Hydrating Toner is an essential part of your daily skincare routine. This toner is formulated with hyaluronic acid and natural moisturizing factors to help lock in moisture and replenish your skin's natural balance. Its gentle, yet effective ingredients help to reduce dryness and improve your skin's overall texture and appearance. With regular use, your skin will become softer, smoother, and more hydrated. It is suitable for all skin types and is an effective way to maintain a healthy and balanced complexion.

    Pros
    • Dermatologist-tested
    • Scientifically-backed
    • Natural ingredients
    • Absorbs fasts
    • Suitable for daily use
    • Great for combination skin
    Cons
    • Small size
    • Poor packaging
  • Best Travel-friendly Pick

    Meebak Cica Toner

    Meebak  Cica Toner
  • Add the nourishment your skin needs with Meebak Cica Toner. It is formulated with natural herbal extracts and cica, an herb known for its soothing and calming properties (3). It helps to gently remove dirt and impurities while also delivering intense hydration to the skin. This toner is ideal for those with sensitive skin, as it helps to reduce redness and irritation, leaving your skin feeling softer and more balanced. With regular use, you can expect to have healthier, more radiant skin with a brighter complexion.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Paraben-free
    • No sulfate
    • No alcohol
    • Travel-friendly
    • Perfect for sensitive skin
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • Overpriced
  • Hypoallergenic

    The Lab By Blanc Doux Oligo Hyaluronic Acid 5000 Toner

    The Lab By Blanc Doux Oligo Hyaluronic Acid 5000 Toner
  • Reveal your soft, glowing, and beautiful skin with this toner. This nourishing toner is formulated with an ultra-hydrating combination of hyaluronic acid and oligo-peptides, which helps to boost skin hydration levels, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and improve skin texture. The toner also contains natural plant extracts, which help to soothe and balance skin while providing antioxidant protection. Ideal for all skin types, the lightweight formula absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling refreshed and hydrated.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • Natural ingredients
    • Hypoallergenic
    • No alcohol
    • Free cotton pad wipes
    Cons
    • Not for dry skin
    • Pricey
  • Enough Project Face Toner

    Enough Project Face Toner
  • The Enough Project Face Toner is an effective and natural way to improve how your skin looks and feels overall. This unique product is formulated with only the best quality ingredients to help your skin stay healthy and radiant. It helps to remove dirt, oil, and other impurities that can lead to dull skin. The toner also helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve your skin tone and texture, and give you a refreshed and healthy look. It's gentle enough to use on all skin types so that you can get the best results possible.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • No animal ingredients
    • Mineral oil free
    • No imidazolidinyl urea and triethanolamine
    • No synthetic colorant
    • Great for both men and women
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • Not affordable
  • PYUNKANG YUL Black Tea Deep Infusion Toner

    PYUNKANG YUL Black Tea Deep Infusion Toner
  • You can have a refreshed and rejuvenated complexion by using this toner. Formulated with black tea extract and designed to provide deep hydration, nourishment, and moisture to the skin, it works to purify and refine the skin's texture while replenishing its natural moisture. It also helps to reduce the appearance of pores, leaving the skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. Rich in antioxidants, this toner helps to protect the skin from environmental damage and also helps to improve skin tone and texture.

    Pros
    • Naturally sourced ingredients
    • Officially certified product
    • No smell
    • No irritation
    • Great for aging skin
    • Nice packaging
    Cons
    • Leaves a residue
    • A bit thicker
  • IOPE Super Vital Softener

    IOPE Super Vital Softener
  • Moisturize and hydrate your skin properly with this face toner. Its unique combination of herbal extracts and botanical oils provides intense hydration and nourishment that leaves skin feeling soft and dewy. The delicate formula works to gently remove impurities while restoring vital moisture and nutrients. It is gentle enough to use daily, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and invigorated. With its lightweight texture, this one of the best Korean toners for dry skin absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling silky-smooth and balanced.

    Pros
    • Anti-aging ingredients
    • Fast absorbing
    • Evens skin tone
    • Non-irritating
    • Great for daily use
    • Suitable for dry and sensitive skin
    Cons
    • Costly
    • Poor packaging

    So, now that you've already known about the products, time to take a look at how you can pick one.

    What Does A Toner Do? Is A Toner Really Necessary in Your Skincare Routine?

    • An effective toner takes the upper hand at balancing the pH level of your skin right after it is disturbed by the ingredients present in face wash. 
    • Other than that, it further extracts all impurities, residues, and grimes that your cleansing product is leaving behind. 
    • Toners that are packed with antioxidants, acids, vitamins and essential oils help in keeping the hyperpigmentation and aging signs at bay.
    • Some of the toners are also effective in chemical exfoliation that gently removes the upper layer of your skin to improve the skin texture that has blemishes, fine lines, and wrinkles.
    • It further lessens the appearance of acne by minimizing the chances of pore-blockage.
    • Last but not least, it effectively hydrates your skin for a refreshing feeling all day long.

    What to Consider Before Buying a Skin Toner?

    Before you make a purchase, here are a few things to consider when shopping for a skin toner.

    Skin type: The first thing to consider before buying a skin toner is your skin type. Different skin types require different toners. If you have dry skin, look for a toner that is enriched with moisturizers and humectants. If you have oily skin, you should opt for a toner that is alcohol-free and oil-free. It’s also important to look for a toner that is suitable for sensitive skin.

    Pro Tip

    Korean toners hydrate & balance pH. Apply with a gentle patting motion for maximum absorption. Prep your skin for a flawless, dewy finish. Cheers to radiant days.

    Ingredients: You should also consider the ingredients in the toner. Look for natural ingredients like aloe vera, witch hazel, and green tea extract. These ingredients can help to soothe and calm the skin, as well as help to reduce inflammation. Avoid toners that contain alcohol, synthetic fragrances, and other harsh chemicals.

    Price: Price is also an important factor to consider when selecting a toner. In general, you should look for a toner that is reasonably priced and of good quality. You don’t need to break the bank to get a good toner, but you should also avoid cheap toners that may contain harsh chemicals that could irritate your skin.

    Reviews: Finally, it’s always a good idea to read reviews before buying any skin care product. Check out reviews from other customers who have used the toner to get an idea of how it works and how well it works for them. This can help you to make an informed decision before you purchase.

    Choosing the right toner for your skin can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels, so take the time to do your research and select the one that’s right for you.

    How to Apply Skin Toner?

    Before applying toner, you should make sure to remove all traces of makeup and dirt from your face. Use a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water to thoroughly cleanse your skin.

    • After cleansing your face, you can then apply the toner with a cotton ball or pad. 
    • Use a gentle, circular motion when applying the toner to your skin. 
    • Avoid the eye area as this can cause irritation.
    • Allow the toner to sit on your skin for a few minutes.
    • Wait for the toner to dry completely before proceeding with the rest of your skincare routine.
    • You should then apply a moisturizer to your skin. This will help keep your skin hydrated and prevent any potential irritation.

    Korean toners are some of the best toners available in the market as unlike regular ones, they are packed with skin-nourishing ingredients that help to keep your skin looking bright and healthy. While we curated the above-list through trial and error, and witnessed amazing results over weeks, we suggest you to go through our buying guide before making any investment. This is because a formulation that may work for one skin type may not be so ideal for another! Besides, we assure you that these products offer fantastic hydration benefits, so you can count on them for days when you miss applying a moisturizer. We hope you like our recommendations. Happy shopping!

    FAQ's

    How do I properly use a toner?
    To use a toner properly, it should be applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. Make sure to choose an appropriate toner for your skin type and to use it in moderation to avoid over-drying your skin.
    Can I use a toner with other skincare products?
    Yes, you can use a toner with other skincare products to achieve your desired skin goals. While it is best to experiment and find out what works best for your skin type, using a toner in combination with other skincare products can help to keep your skin healthy and vibrant. Take into account the specific ingredients of the other skincare products you are using to ensure that the combination is beneficial for your skin.
    How does toner differ from an essence and cleansing water?
    Toners are used to balance the pH of the skin, essences are used to deliver key ingredients and cleansing water is used to remove makeup and dirt from the skin. All three products have their own unique advantages, so it is best to choose the one that is best suited for your skin type and needs.
    How do Koreans put toner on?
    Koreans put toner on their skin by first cleansing their face with a gentle cleanser and then patting their face with a cotton pad soaked in toner. They then apply the toner lightly into their skin until it is fully absorbed. Koreans also use toner as part of their skincare routine, which helps to boost their skin’s hydration, make their skin look brighter, and maintain its pH balance.
    Is toner safe to use every day?
    It is considered safe to use toner every day, as long as it is not overly harsh and is applied correctly. However, if any skin irritation occurs, it is best to discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.
    Can I skip moisturizer after toner?
    It is generally recommended to use both toner and moisturizer in your skincare routine. While it is possible to skip the moisturizer after using toner, it is not recommended, as using both will help to lock in moisture and prevent dryness. By using both toner and moisturizer, you can help keep your skin healthy and hydrated.
    What Can It Do for Your Complexion?
    Regular use of Korean toners will brighten up your complexion undoubtedly, thanks to the nourishing ingredients present in the product. Plus the effective acid based components de-pigment your skin that further makes the skin appear brighter.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Anoushka, the author of this article, claims that Korean toners offer an intense amount of hydration, preparing the skin for other products to go on after. They generally contain nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin that moisturize the skin and leave it looking plump. After testing all of the recommendations with help from her friends, Pyunkang Yul’s Essence Toner is what impressed her the most. It was lightweight, non-sticky, and didn’t irritate her skin. Plus, it’s also dermatologically tested and suits all skin types.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Pinkvilla to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    1. Rice Water: A Traditional Ingredient with Anti-Aging Efficacy

    https://www.researchgate.net/publication/324179387_Rice_Water_A_Traditional_Ingredient_with_Anti-Aging_Efficacy

    2. A new topical panthenol-containing emollient: Results from two randomized controlled studies assessing its skin moisturization and barrier restoration potential, and the effect on skin microflora

    https://www.researchgate.net/publication/305414277_A_new_topical_panthenol-containing_emollient_Results_from_two_randomized_controlled_studies_assessing_its_skin_moisturization_and_barrier_restoration_potential_and_the_effect_on_skin_microflora

    3. Moisturizing and Antiinflammatory Properties of Cosmetic Formulations Containing Centella asiatica Extract

    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4852572/

     

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More