Preparation
Just because something is common doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s right and good. Case in point? Alcohol in skin care—and, more specifically, toners. While this ingredient is heavily regarded for its drying abilities (which many people want to believe is beneficial for oily, acne-prone skin types, especially when formulated into this product type), the reality is that it has simply not studied widely enough. In fact, a 2008 dermatological review found that there is so much conflicting evidence between studies on topical alcohol application that they determined the “necessity of its use should be critically evaluated.”
If you’d rather avoid it until more research can be done, you’re in luck—there are plenty of alcohol-free toners on the market. Ahead, 15 formulas that nourish and balance the skin without ever stripping it.
Glow Recipe “Watermelon Glow” PHA +BHA Pore-Tight TonerFresh Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration TonerNeutrogena Alcohol-Free TonerBiossance Squalane + BHA Pore-Minimizing TonerFarmacy Deep Sweep 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner with Moringa + Papaya
