Even reading the list will make you luminous from the inside out.

Image by Jenny Tarbell

Image by Jenny Tarbell

words by JO ALLEN • Shop The StoryBeauty

Deep skin luminosity. That’s what your toner can provide. And these 8 are the best of the best.

With new steps being added to the skin routine almost daily, it can be difficult to narrow down what is a necessity. Toner is officially on that list – but which one exactly? A toner can help even out skin tone, prevent breakouts, and offer a deep cleanse beneath the surface. But there are some toners that work beyond the norm, offering your complexion an added luster and brightness – giving you a perfect, fresh-faced glow.

1.

Dr. Barbara Sturm Balancing Toner 

Who Should Use it: Those with sensitive skin who love wearing makeup

Key Ingredients: Purslane, Pro-Vitamin B5, Hyaluronic Acid, Beta Glucan

Why you should use it: This toner can be used as a part of your daily skincare, applied after cleansing. What’s great about this toner, is that not only does it regulate the pH value of the skin but also provides moisture – which not all toners can achieve. This mild toner aids in soothing sensitive skin and minimizes the appearance of pores.

2

La Mer Tonic

Who should use it: Anyone and everyone who wants a fresh look! 

Key Ingredients:  Seaweed Extract, Eucalyptus oil, Caffeine, and Proprietary Deconstructed Waters

Why you should use it: With the infused nutrients, minerals, and sea kelp extracts, La Mer Tonic helps detoxify your complexion for overall fresh the skin! Like all La Mer products, this tonic is made without using parabens and sulfates and is suitable for daily use. Just apply after cleansing and before the rest of your regime

3.

Sunday Riley Martian Mattifying Melting Water-Gel Toner 

Who should use it: If you need to blot too many times a day, or have acne-prone skin – you will fall in love with this water-gel toner. 

Key ingredients: bentonite clay, marshmallow, green tea, cucumber, witch hazel, Manuka tea tree oil, black cumin, magnolia bark extract. 

Why you should use it: Specially formulated for oily and acne-prone skin, this unique gel toner melts from gel to water to reduce pore size, tone, and tighten. Purifying the skin and removing oil the toner gives you a shine-free matte complexion.

4.

SISLEY PARIS PHYTO-BLANC LIGHTENING TONING LOTION

Who should use it: Anyone looking to brighten their skins appearance! 

Key ingredients: Lemon, Scutellaria and White Mulberry 

Why should use it: Toner and lotion are usually two different steps, not only has Sisley combined the two into this unique Phyto-Blanc Toning lotion, but it can also work to remove makeup. It’s hard to believe, but trust us this is the real deal. Apply with a cotton pad both morning and evening for a fresher, smoother more luminous look and feel.

5.

Tata Harper CONCENTRATED BRIGHTENING ESSENCE

Who should use it: If you want to reduce the appearance of dark spots

Key ingredients: Lemon, lavender, and Willow

Why you should use it: This lightweight brightening essence will not only minimize the look of dark spots but wrinkles as well. The Concentrated Brightening essence is the perfect base before applying all your creams and serums to ensure maximum absorption. And guess what, it contains 16 scientist-approved ingredients!

6.

Eve Lom Time Retreat Radiance Essence

Who should use it: If you live in a city, this can help cleanse the toxins of air pollution right out! 

Key ingredients: Liposome-encapsulated retinol, tri-peptide complex & lavender oil.

Why you should use it:  This powerful little serum is packed with vitamins for fighting the signs of age, such as fine lines and wrinkles. For normal, dry, oily and combination skin this essence brings you back in time leaving your skin radiant, hydrated and visibly smoother and brighter.

7.

Derm Institute Cellular Brightening Toner 

Who should use it: Everyone who wants to prevent UV damage, anti-aging, and overall dullness. 

Key ingredients: Fruit Extract,  Salicylic acid, anti-oxidants, vitamin c.

Why you should use it: If you want to improve impurities and clear away dirt without stinging or irritation, this magic-in-a-bottle will become your savior. If you have grey or yellow undertones, this toner will help keep you hydrated and bright all day long.

8.

Rodial Vitamin C Glow Tonic 

Who Should use it: Tired, Dull hardworking girls that want a radiant glow. 

Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, amino acids, Vitamin B5, Salicylic acid & lactic, glycolic and fruit acids. 

Why you should use it: The essential acids found within this toner work to give you a smoother brighter look while clearing your skin and improving the texture. With vitamins and amino acids, you will have visibly brighter and clearer skin.

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