Toner is a crucial step in any skincare routine as it helps to balance the skin’s pH level, shrink pores, and eliminate any lingering dirt, oil, or makeup residue. It’s a versatile product that can also help to firm and rejuvenate the skin, and there are various toners available with specific formulations that target specific skin issues like dryness, dullness, or acne.
For those with darker skin tones, it’s recommended to opt for toners that provide extra moisture to address common concerns like dryness and lack of radiance. It’s important to choose a toner that’s appropriate for your skin type and concerns, and to follow the recommended usage instructions carefully. Additionally, don’t forget to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 during the day to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
10 Best Toner for Black Skin in 2023：Our choice
| BEST OVERALL | Pixi Beauty Glow Tonic 250ml |
| BEST BUDGET | Niacinamide Brightening Toner with Retinol |
| BEST DRUGSTORE | Supple Preparation Unscented Toner 6.08 fl oz |
| BEST FOR LARGE PORES | Dickinson’s Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner |
| BEST FOR ACNE-PRONE SKIN | Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner |
| BEST FOR ACNE-PRONE SKIN, RUNNER-UP | Murad Hydration Hydrating Toner |
| BEST FOR HYPERPIGMENTATION | La Roche-Posay Effaclar Astringent Face Toner |
| BEST CLASSIC | Bolden Skin Brightening Toner |
| BEST FOR OILY SKIN | Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner |
| BEST FOR DRY SKIN | Biologique Recherche Lotion P50V 5.1 oz |
Initially, toners were primarily used to restore the skin’s pH balance and eliminate any remaining impurities after cleansing. However, toners have evolved to become a versatile skincare product with numerous benefits. Astringent toners are effective at reducing oiliness and tightening pores, while moisturizing toners are great at boosting hydration and improving the absorption of serums and creams. Additionally, there are exfoliating toners that help to remove dead skin cells and those specifically designed to address discoloration.
1.Pixi Beauty Glow Tonic 250ml
What We Like
- Generous size
- High concentration of glycolic acid
- Aloe vera soothes and hydrates
- Alcohol-free
What We Don’t Like
- May strip skin if overused
People are obsessed with this product because it does wonders for exfoliating and brightening the skin, all thanks to its powerful five-percent glycolic acid concentration. However, we believe it’s an ideal choice for those who have combination skin, with oily and dry areas, because it also contains witch hazel that acts as an astringent to absorb excess oil while hydrating with aloe vera. And the best part is that it’s alcohol-free, so you don’t have to worry about it drying out your skin or stripping it of its natural oils.
2.Niacinamide Brightening Toner with Retinol
Are you tired of dealing with hyperpigmentation? Look no further because this toner might just be the solution you need. It’s specially formulated to target dark spots without causing irritation to the surrounding healthy skin. That’s why PROOT- Niacinamide Brightening Toner has made it to our list of top toners for black skin. Not only does it reduce dark spots, but it also hydrates your skin, which is an added bonus.
Plus, you can trust that this toner is made with natural and advanced ingredients that are free from any synthetic stabilizers, scents, or harsh chemicals.
To achieve this effect of reducing hyperpigmentation they used these ingredients:
- NIACINAMIDE makes sure that skin tone is noticeably brightened and aids in the development of the skin barrier while shielding the skin from environmental stresses
- CENTELLA ASIATICA which helps skin cells repair and relieves irritations and reduces stretch marks, leaving the skin clean and smooth
- HYALURONIC ACID is great for retaining moisture without causing greasy skin and reducing the skin’s current melanin.
- WITCH HAZEL is a great source of antioxidants and helps to reduce the signs of aging and their progression and to reduce inflammation
3.Supple Preparation Unscented Toner 6.08 fl oz
Pros:
- Designed for sensitive skin as it’s free of artificial fragrances, essential oils, alcohol, and parabens
- Balances the pH, moisturizes, and reduces discoloration and inflammation
- Speeds recovery from acne breakouts
Cons:
- None
Looking for a toner that’s gentle on sensitive Black skin? Look no further than this K-beauty product from a brand that specializes in gentle skincare. It comes in scented and unscented versions, but we recommend the unscented option for sensitive skin. And the best part is that it’s free from alcohol, parabens, artificial fragrances, or aromatic essential oils.
Not only does it balance the skin’s pH like a traditional toner, but it also enhances the potency and absorption of serums and moisturizers. With key ingredients like Centella asiatica, licorice root, and panthenol, this toner soothes and strengthens the skin. Centella asiatica is especially great for healing and treating acne, while licorice root reduces discoloration and inflammation.
Users have reported that the toner is slightly thick but not sticky at all. It helps them recover from breakouts quickly and leaves the skin feeling supple. Plus, the translucent bottle allows you to see how much product you have left.
4.Dickinson’s Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner
What We Like
- Affordable
- Alcohol-free
- Generous size
What We Don’t Like
- Strong smell
The new formula is a lot gentler and less irritating than the previous version. Despite this, it still contains a powerful dose of witch hazel that’s great for purifying and absorbing excess oil. The best part is that it’s alcohol-free, so you don’t have to worry about it drying out your skin unnecessarily. In fact, the infusion of hyaluronic acid and vitamin E help to soften and nourish your skin, leaving it feeling hydrated and healthy.
5.Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Recyclable bottle
- Fragrance-free
What We Don’t Like
- May strip skin if overused
When your pores get clogged with dirt and grime, they tend to become more noticeable and larger in appearance. That’s why it’s important to clear out the gunk and restore them to their original size. Thankfully, a gently acidic formula can do just that while also containing soothing ingredients that reduce any redness.
In fact, the addition of niacinamide to this formula can have numerous benefits, including minimizing hyperpigmentation, reducing wrinkles, and protecting your skin from harmful free radicals. As Chen explains, it’s a powerful ingredient that can do wonders for your skin.
6.Murad Hydration Hydrating Toner
Pros:
- Suitable for all skin types, but excellent for dry, flaky skin
- Moisturizes, tightens pores, and balances pH
- Free from mineral oil, parabens, gluten, and animal ingredients
Cons:
- Contains potential allergens
This toner is a great addition to your skincare routine as it not only helps to balance the skin’s pH but is also alcohol-free. The formula contains sodium PCA, a scientific solution that helps to banish dryness and keep your skin hydrated. In addition, the toner contains cucumber and chamomile, both of which are known for their soothing and softening properties.
What’s great about this toner is that it doesn’t contain any mineral oil, parabens, animal derivatives, gluten, or animal ingredients, making it a mild and effective option for all skin types, including those with oily skin. One of the key ingredients is witch hazel, a natural astringent that can help to tighten pores and leave your skin looking refreshed.
Users have reported that this toner has worked wonders for dry, flaky skin such as psoriasis, providing relief that moisturizer alone cannot. However, it’s worth noting that if you have sensitive skin, you should check the label carefully as the toner contains dyes and an artificial fragrance.
7.La Roche-Posay Effaclar Astringent Face Toner
What We Like
- Doubles as a primer
- Affordable
- Lightweight
What We Don’t Like
- May irritate sensitive skin
- High potency means conservative use
When it comes to tackling blemishes, a toner can be a valuable addition to your skincare routine. However, it’s essential to choose the right one that will effectively target excess oil and keep your pores clear without causing your skin to dry out, which can ironically lead to more breakouts.
Enter this toner, which uses a minimal-yet-effective amount of salicylic acid to dissolve oil and prevent pore clogging. It also contains glycolic acid, which provides gentle exfoliation to help ward off blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. The combination of these two ingredients makes for a potent formula that can effectively treat and prevent blemishes.
8.Bolden Skin Brightening Toner
What We Like
- Free of parabens, phthalates, and sulfates
- Affordable
What We Don’t Like
- Includes fragrance
If you’re dealing with dark marks on your skin caused by sun damage or acne scarring, this product can be a game-changer for you. It features a powerful combination of glycolic acid and an antioxidant blend that works to even out your skin tone. Additionally, the formula contains licorice root extract, which helps to fade hyperpigmentation, and niacinamide, which can reduce irritation. With these ingredients working together, you can expect to see a noticeable improvement in the appearance of your skin over time.
9.Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner
This toner is perfect for those with acne-prone skin. It helps to brighten and even out the skin while also minimizing the appearance of pores. The best part? It’s gentle enough to use daily and is both fragrance and oil-free.
The toner’s formulation includes niacinamide for brightening, glycerin for moisturizing, and arbutin for its antioxidant and skin-brightening properties, as well as other ingredients with moisturizing benefits.
10.Biologique Recherche Lotion P50V 5.1 oz
What We Like
- Phenol-free
- Quick results
- Lightweight
What We Don’t Like
- Strong smell
The Biologique Recherche Lotion P50V is a toner that works to clarify and balance the skin using a combination of exfoliating and astringent ingredients. It’s best used in the evening after cleansing and is suitable for all skin types except sensitive. By removing dead skin cells, tightening pores, and improving texture and tone, this product can help you achieve healthier-looking skin.
The formula contains ingredients such as lactic acid, salicylic acid, and vinegar, which work together to exfoliate and tone the skin. However, it’s important to use the product as directed on the packaging and to wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 during the day to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Dark Skin Toner Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons of using toner on dark skin:
Pros:
- Toner can help to remove any remaining traces of dirt, oil, or makeup after cleansing, leaving the skin feeling clean and refreshed.
- Toner can help to tighten pores and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin.
- Toner can be formulated with ingredients to address specific skin concerns such as dullness, dryness, or acne.
Cons:
- Some toners may contain alcohol or other harsh ingredients that can be drying or irritating to the skin.
- Overuse of toner, or using a toner that is too harsh for your skin type, can lead to skin irritation and other issues.
- Toner is an additional step in a skincare routine, which may be time-consuming or inconvenient for some people.
It is important to choose a toner that is suitable for your skin type and concerns, and to follow the recommended usage instructions to avoid potential negative effects.
Toner Buying Guide for Dark Skin
When shopping for a toner for dark skin, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Skin type: Choose a toner that is formulated for your specific skin type, whether it is oily, dry, combination, or sensitive.
- Skin concerns: Look for a toner that addresses your specific skin concerns, such as dullness, dryness, acne, or uneven skin tone.
- Ingredients: Choose a toner that is formulated with nourishing and skin-loving ingredients, such as aloe vera, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid. Avoid toners that contain alcohol or other harsh ingredients that may be drying or irritating to the skin.
- pH balance: Look for a toner that is formulated to help balance the pH of your skin. The pH of healthy skin is typically between 4.5 and 5.5, and using a toner that is too alkaline or acidic can disrupt this balance and lead to skin irritation and other issues.
- Packaging: Choose a toner that comes in a packaging that is convenient for you to use, such as a spray bottle or a pump dispenser.
- Price: Consider your budget when shopping for a toner, but keep in mind that it is generally worth it to invest in a high-quality product that is formulated with skin-loving ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, toner can be used on all skin types. However, it is important to choose a toner that is formulated for your specific skin type, whether it is oily, dry, combination, or sensitive.
How often should toner be used?
It is generally recommended to use toner once or twice daily, after cleansing and before moisturizing. However, the specific frequency of use may vary depending on the specific toner and your skin type and concerns. It is important to follow the recommended usage instructions on the product packaging.
Is toner necessary in a skincare routine?
Toner is not necessarily a necessary step in a skincare routine, but it can be beneficial for a number of reasons. Toner can help to remove any remaining traces of dirt, oil, or makeup, adjust the pH of the skin, and tighten pores. It can also help to tone and firm the skin, and it may be formulated with ingredients to address specific skin concerns such as dullness, dryness, or acne.
Are natural or organic toners better for dark skin?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the effectiveness of a toner will depend on the specific formulation and ingredients. It is generally recommended to choose a toner that is formulated with skin-loving ingredients, whether they are natural or synthetic. However, if you have sensitive skin or are concerned about the potential impact of synthetic ingredients on the environment, you may want to consider an organic or natural toner.