11 Best Toners for Oily Skin in 2024

We were most impressed by Kiehl’s Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion.

Amid the sea of ​​effective night masks, crystal deodorants, Botox-like serums, and even electric lip plumpers, it’s no surprise that toners have been overlooked in our skincare and beauty routines. After all, they don’t conjure up images of glittery selfies, and their application can be pretty disappointing.

However, toners are especially important for oily skin because of the many benefits they offer. “Toners are good for oily skin because they penetrate deep into the pores, provide a more thorough cleansing, and even out skin tone,” says board-certified dermatologist Corey L. Hartman, MD.

They remove excess oil, prevent blackheads, and exfoliate the skin—all common issues for oily, acne-prone skin. A high-quality toner can balance the skin’s pH and enhance the effects of the rest of your skincare routine for a radiant complexion.

Read on to learn about the best facial toners for oily skin.

Best Product: Kiehl’s Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion

Developed in 1964, this facial toner is an integral part of Kiehl’s extensive skincare range for no reason. It balances and soothes oily skin, while camphor and menthol provide a cooling and refreshing sensation.

You can use it all over your skin, but it’s also great for spot treatments if you only want to treat a few oily areas, such as your T-zone.

Best Value: Dickinsons Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner

Not only is this toner cheaper than a latte macchiato, but it’s also a true classic. Its 100% natural formula is ideal for oily skin. Highlights: Witch hazel is a fat-absorbing ingredient commonly found in many skincare products, and it’s fragrance-free. The brand also uses a unique undiluted distilled witch hazel for optimal effectiveness.

Best for Large Pores: Origins Zero Oil Pore Purifying Toner with Saw Palmetto and Peppermint

Contrary to popular belief, you can’t change the size of your pores. They neither open nor close. They may, however, appear larger or smaller, depending on how much stuff is in there. In other words, the more clogged your pores are, the larger they become and the more noticeable they look.

That’s why this formula is the best choice. It contains oil-soluble salicylic acid to keep pores clear (and make them look smaller). Skin-cleansing saw palmetto keeps impurities at bay, while cooling mint delivers an especially refreshing feeling, especially after a sweaty workout or on a hot day.

Best Exfoliating Formula: Ole Henriksen Balanced Oil Control Toner

Not only does this multi-tasking product remove excess oil and mattify skin, it does so effectively yet gently, thanks to a combination of three different acids. The formula’s blend of alpha and beta hydroxy acids, lactic acid, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid, mattifies your complexion and adds just the right amount of radiance.

But that’s not all: With a unique blend of active botanicals like green tea, eucalyptus, algae, and Irish moss, the formula helps absorb unwanted oil and also acts as a natural antiseptic.

Best drugstore product: Pixi Glow Tonic

This glow toner from Pixi is considered one of the best drugstore products, and it’s said to be just as impressive as its pricier counterparts. Here’s a great recommendation from former Byrdie editor Faith Xue. It contains 5% glycolic acid, ginseng, and aloe vera for oil-fighting benefits.

Best face spray: Boscia Rose Witch Hazel Water Mist

Even if you have oily skin, that doesn’t mean your toner has to dry out your skin. This face spray from Boscia does just the opposite: Its rosewater and aloe vera formula provides intensive hydration, while witch hazel cleanses the skin and absorbs excess oil.

It’s also vegan, paraben-free, and fragrance-free. The result is hydrated, soft skin—and we love it! For acne-prone skin: Glytone Anti-Acne Toner

If you’re someone who often struggles with blemishes, a toner is usually a great addition to your routine, especially with this formula. The formula with 2% salicylic acid controls excess oil, unclogs pores, and gently exfoliates.

This way, existing blackheads, pimples, and skin blemishes are treated and prevented from forming. Since the product absorbs excess oil, you should start with once-daily use and gradually increase to twice-daily use to avoid accidentally drying out your skin.

For Sensitive Skin: Origins Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Mega-Mushroom Relief & Resilience Soothing Treatment Lotion

Excess oil and sebum can trigger a vicious cycle of frustrating acne, redness, and hyperpigmentation spots. This facial toner contains Dr. Andrew Weil’s super-mushroom blend because, for Origins, it’s the ultimate solution to relieve and resolve all of these skin issues. It’s especially great for those with oily and sensitive skin.

Best Fragrance: Kopari Coconut Rose Facial Toner

Skin is never static, and while oil will always be our biggest enemy, some days our skin is smoother than others. For that reason (and also because of its stellar ingredient list), we love this coconut and rose toner from Kopari.

(If you’re not familiar, the brand is basically a mecca for coconuts.) This option evens out skin tone, reduces redness, and tightens pores, but is still gentle enough for the days when our skin is better (and less oily).

Best Solid Product: Milk Makeup Matcha Toner

Who says toners are only for liquids? This stick toner is the first solid toner on the market, perfect for travel (no need to worry about TSA compliance) or gym bags, since you don’t have to worry about spills.

Made with matcha green tea, witch hazel, and cactus extract, this gel formula glides smoothly over skin to cleanse, absorb oil, and hydrate.

Best Vegan Product: Herbivore Botanicals Jasmine Green Tea Oil Control Toner

This pretty mint green spray from Herbivore is formulated for oily, acne-prone skin and is vegan and cruelty-free. A powerful blend of green tea, witch hazel, aloe vera, ginger root, and white willow bark are expertly blended with soothing organic jasmine flowers. Quickly spritz the product over your complexion for a practical, refreshing pick-me-up.