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Whether you have dry skin year-round or only in the colder months, you shouldn't rely on just a moisturizer to do all of your hydrating and protecting. By adding one of the best toners for dry skin into your daily routine, you can increase your skin's ability to retain moisture and fight dryness while properly prepping it to do a better job absorbing the remaining products in your routine.
Because toners often get a bad rap for being too drying, you might be surprised to find out that there are just as many dry-skin specific toners out there as acne-fighting and oily skin-focused ones. But toners formulated for dry skin and those made for oily skin are very different. For one, a toner for dry skin shouldn’t mess with your skin’s pH levels at all. Your skin’s acidity levels need to remain as stable as possible so your moisture barrier can function properly. Also, dry skin toners should clear away dead skin and dirt (much like oily-skin ones), but without harsh ingredients like strong acids or drying alcohols.
Instead, toners formulated for dry skin should list hydrating ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or aloe, and contain anti-inflammatory add-ins and antioxidants. These five formulas are formulated to hydrate the skin and help lock in moisture.
1
A Japanese Drugstore Favorite With A Short, Simple List Of Ingredients
Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion, $12, Amazon
With hyaluronic acid as its star ingredient, this simple toner increases your skin’s ability to absorb moisture and feel plump. It also spreads easily but dries matte, so you don’t notice it. For just $12, it’s an excellent choice for anyone on a budget with severely dry skin.
2
A Creamy, Skin-Restoring Toner Enriched With Antioxidants
Paula's Choice Moisture Boost Essential Hydrating Toner, $20, Amazon
With powerful (yet gentle) antioxidants like green tea and grape leaf extract and fatty acids that protect the skin’s moisture barrier, the cream-like toner removes any last traces of makeup as it restores moisture to the skin.
3
A Gentle De-Stressing Lotion Toner With Chamomile
Clarins Toning Lotion for Normal to Dry Skin, $22, Amazon
This highly-rated toning lotion from French luxury brand, Clarins, de-stresses and relieves dry skin with the help of chamomile and linden extract. It also calls on Vitamins A, B, and E to soften and protect the skin for a long-lasting smooth feeling.
4
A Gentle Hydrating Toner That's Safe For Sensitive Skin
Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner, $17, Amazon
A popular non-irritating toner that spreads and absorbs easily, this formula contains hyaluronic acid, centella extract, and licorice root extract for next-level soothing and superior dry skin relief. It's great for all skin types, including those who are sensitive or prone to breakouts.
5
A Calming Toner Made With Mineral Water
Vichy Pureté Thermale Perfecting Facial Toner, $18, Amazon
This gentle toner uses a rich mineral water to gently cleanse the surface of the skin — it can even remove the last traces of makeup — while helping improve your skin’s moisture barrier function. The formula also includes glycerin, which attracts moisture to your skin while leaving it soft and supple to the touch. Keep mind that this product does have an added fragrance, so it may not be the best choice for those with sensitive skin.
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