Truthfully, if you have dry skin, the last thing you're probably thinking about reaching for is a toner — but hold up just a second. Many of us were conditioned to believe this super important step is just for oily skin types, but the best Korean toners for dry skin are nothing like the alcohol-filled, astringent toners we're used to. Korean toners are actually intended to provide a base layer of hydration that lasts long after you rinse your gorgeous face.
But not all toners are created equal, and what's best for one skin type may not be the right choice for another. If you’re susceptible to dryness, you'll want to avoid toners with alcohol, since they'll only leave your skin feeling tight and irritated. Instead, look for one packed with hydrating and plumping ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and ceramides. And aside from just providing moisture, a great toner for dry skin should also balance the skin's pH, soothe redness and irritation, and provide a protective dose of antioxidants, perfectly prepping your face for the rest of your skin care routine.
There’s also a special method for applying a toner when you have dry skin. Instead of using a cotton pad, try using your hands to apply the product of choice. Then, gently tap and press your fingers into your skin — the heat from your hands will help your skin absorb the toner. Or, for an extra boost of hydration, you can make your own sheet mask by saturating cotton rounds with your favorite hydrating toner, applying them all over your face, and leaving them on for about ten minutes.
So before you dismiss this oh-so crucial step, check out these super hydrating Korean toners and see what all the hype is about.
1
A Nourishing Toner With A Rich Gel Texture
The Face Shop The Therapy Essential Tonic Treatment, $24, Amazon
Fun fact: This gel-like toner is based on a 200-year-old formula that eliminates flaky patches, guards against premature aging, and deeply nourishes the skin. Users rave that it's unlike any toner they’ve ever used before due to its unique texture and the instantaneous hydration it provides.
2
A Calming Toner For Sensitive Dry Skin That Helps Improve Barrier Function
LJH Dr's care BIO+N alike SKIN Toner, $23, Amazon
When it comes to comparing toner formulas, you tend to see some similar ingredients. This toner, however, is unique in that it contains biomimetic water that is comprised of ingredients similar to the skin’s natural moisture factor. A calming and soothing treatment, it also contains a hearty dose of moisture-binding hyaluronic acid to strengthen and protect the skin's barrier.
3
A Toner That's Infused With Ceramides For Long-Lasting Hydration
Mizon Collagen Intensive Skin Barrier Toner, $13, Amazon
You may already know that hyaluronic acid is a dry skin’s best friend, but this toner actually contains smaller molecules of this hydrating ingredient so that it’s absorbed into the skin even more effectively. The formula is also infused with ceramides that form a barrier to help trap moisture in so you’re left with a glowing complexion.
4
A Gentle Calming Toner For Sensitized Skin
KLAIRS Supple Preparation Facial Toner, $24, Amazon
While it’s suitable for all skin types, this gentle toner works particularly well on a dry skin that tends to be sensitive, too. Hyaluronic acid, beta-glucan, and plant extracts hydrate and calm while a blend of citrus and floral essential oils promote a healthy, glowing complexion that’s pH-balanced.
5
A Cult Favorite Made With Fermented Yeast Extract
MISSHA Time Revolution Clear Toner, $19, Amazon
Fermented yeast extract is the key ingredient in this popular toner that hydrates, soothes, and helps the remaining products in your routine absorb better. A gentle, non-irritating alpha and beta hydroxy blend dissolve dead skin cells to bring forth a glowing complexion.
6
A Gel Toner That Comforts & Soothes Dry Skin
Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Water, 41, Amazon
Due to the gel texture of this hydrating toner that’s made with active ingredients derived from the matrimony vine and the purslane plant, skin is immediately infused with moisture sans any sticky residue. The formula spreads easily and is also a good remedy if you’ve gotten too much sun — try throwing it in the fridge if that’s the case!
7
An Ultra-Nourishing Toner For Severely Dry Skin
Skin Food Premium Avocado Rich Toner, $14, Amazon
While you might be more apt to think of avocado as a great ingredient for a skin cream, it works wonders in this toner, too. Avocado oil and ceramides restore a dry, rough complexion that’s in need of a serious moisture boost and some extra TLC.
8
A Collagen-Rich Toner That Improves Dermal Structure
Etude House Moistfull Collagen Facial Toner, $14, Amazon
This mild, gel-like toner is literally collagen in a bottle — and that’s not all. This reviewer-favorite also contains a concentrated form of baobab tree extract that leaves skin noticeably refreshed and supple while promoting long-term benefits that help to improve the dermal structure of the skin.
9
A Lightly Exfoliating Toner Made With Galactomyces
Cosrx Galactomyces Alcohol Free Toner, $15, Amazon
Galactomyces ferment filtrate is a buzzy Korean skin care ingredient known for its ability to awaken a tired complexion while gently exfoliating and hydrating at the same time. Reviewers love how this toner provides a quick pick-me-up.
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