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Tried-and-true formulas for redness, enlarged pores, and excess oil.
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If you’re on a budget, we recommend theCerave Hydrating Toner.
It’s formulated with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to pack in moisture and feels gentle on the complexion.
If youve been skipping overtonerin your daily skincare routine, we urge you to think again.
PHOTO: Sephora
According to board-certified dermatologistDr.
Lucy Chen, M.D., toners fall into two camps:exfoliatingand hydrating.
We judged each one based on feel, absorption, and hydration.
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The star ingredient,hypochlorous acid, is what makes the formula so effective at pacifying redness and irritation.
Likehyaluronic acidandceramides, hypochlorous acid is made naturally by our body, and it boasts antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
When applied to the skin, it fends off bacteria and promotes skin healing.
PHOTO: Amazon
We appreciate that this toner comes in a spray bottlewhich ensures a mess-free applicationandprevents contamination.
The toner is watery and lightweight, so it soaks into pores in seconds.
Once absorbed, the skin feels hydrated and calm.
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It keeps my oily skin in check by preventing redness and breakouts."
It absorbs immediately and leaves my skin noticeably softer for a complexion that looks glowy and juicy."
We were also impressed by the toners ability to clean our pores thoroughly.
PHOTO: Sephora
I have very sensitive skin, and this toner did not irritate my complexion.
It appeared to help with my dull and uneven skin texture and feels hydrating."
The consistency is so lightweightit almost feels like water on the skin.
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It felt refreshing on our skin, and we noticed an improvement in the appearance of pores almost immediately.
My face feels hydrated and refreshed."
Theantioxidant-richelderberry toner is designed to be used after washing and helps balance and relax super-sensitive skin.
PHOTO: Sephora
When we tested it, we noticed that it reduced the appearance ofhyperpigmentation.
Our only gripe is that we wish it were a little more hydrating.
This combines oil-dissolvingsalicylic acid, exfoliating papayaenzymes, and purifyingmoringa seed extractto unclog pores and refresh greasy skin.
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It’s great for sweeping on for additional cleansing and moisture.
Chantia, tester with combination skin:“This did an excellent job of cleansing and refreshing.
My skin felt rejuvenated, and it provided a hydration boost without feeling heavy or sticky.”
PHOTO: Renee Rouleau
Since nothing is perfect, theres one thing we wish we could change: The smell.
While its not scented, it still has a subtle smell that we werent a fan of.
If you’re able to get past that, though, its worth every penny.
PHOTO: Byrdie / Jessica Juliao
It feels refreshed and less oily."
When its out of whack,breakouts, dullness, and other unwanted concerns pop up.
We also noticed that it helped to visibly reduce redness and give the skin an overall more even-toned appearance.
The only caveat we have with this product is the pump.
Miriam, tester with combination skin:“The toner has a watery consistency that absorbed almost instantaneously.
My skin felt more hydrated and smooth to the touch after applying.
But the more I’ve used the pads, the more my skin becomes increasingly radiant and balanced.”
We also considered each product’s claims to ensure the formulas met expectations.
Toners fall into two camps: exfoliating and hydrating.
Dr. Chen recommends applying toner after cleansing the face but before applyingmoisturizersorserums.
J Clin Aesthet Dermatol.
2018 Nov;11(11):36-39.
PHOTO: Amazon
Epub 2018 Nov 1.
PMID: 30588272; PMCID: PMC6303114.
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PHOTO: Sephora
PHOTO: Byrdie / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Sephora
PHOTO: Byrdie / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Sephora
PHOTO: Byrdie / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Sephora
PHOTO: Byrdie / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Mediheal
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