When shopping for toners, Koreans don’t settle for just regular alcohol-based toners because these tend to dry and damage the skin. IMAGE (L) Instagram/banilaco_official (R) Beauty MNL 

In any Korean skincare routine, toning is considered an important step. It effectively cleans up the residue from your cleanser so your skin is clean and prepped for the next skincare products you’ll be applying. When shopping for toners, Koreans don’t settle for just regular alcohol-based toners because these tend to dry and damage the skin. Instead, they go with hydrating toners for a gentler way of removing dirt while making sure there’s enough moisture to achieve smooth, glowing skin. If you want to see it for yourself, below are some K-beauty hydrating toners you should check out: 

1. Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner

P1,150 available online 

Here’s a toner that works on any skin type! It has amino acids that deeply hydrate the skin. In fact, you can apply a generous amount of this toner on your face as it helps soothe and moisturize especially if you’re going through hormonal breakouts. 

2. Banila Co. Dear Hydration Toner

P845, available online 

Get your money’s worth with a big bottle of Banila Co’s popular hydrating toner. Aside from clearing skin impurities, this toner adds a moisturizing layer to improve the texture of your skin. It’s lightweight so you won’t have that greasy, uncomfortable feeling. You’ll also love the floral scent as it makes your skin feel like it’s well taken care of!

3. COSRX Light Fit Real Water Toner to Cream

P1,100, available online 

If you want a shortcut when it comes to doing your skincare routine, then this two-in-one item might just do the trick! COSRX is a genius for coming up with a toner-slash-lotion that’s definitely worth the splurge. Now, this product looks and feels like a cream at first. But once applied, it sets on your skin like a hydrating toner. Don’t worry because it won’t feel sticky! Your skin can easily absorb the vitamins that can help give you a clear complexion.

4. Innisfree No Sebum Toner

P670, available online 

Are you still dealing with acne-prone skin? One way to treat it is through using a salicylic acid toner. Not only does it hydrate and refresh your face, but this toner also helps restore pH balance to control oil production and minimize pimples. 

Innisfree is known for using natural ingredients from Jeju so rest assured your skin is getting a real touch of Korean skincare! Since this toner helps your skin become less oily, it can also prevent your makeup from looking caky or melted. 

IMAGE Beauty MNL 

5. A’Pieu 18 First Toner

P395, available online 

While this toner resonates with young adults, you can still use it to maintain the pH balance on your skin. It’s mild and gentle enough to make your skin feel soft and smooth. You can also use this toner to remove your makeup without drying your skin. 

IMAGE Beauty MNL 

6. The Saem Jeju Fresh Aloe Toner

P540, available online 

Aloe vera is a well-known hydrating ingredient. You can find it in so many skincare products. But if you’re looking for a toner, we highly recommend you try The Saem’s version. It is said to contain 92% fresh aloe vera leaf extract that is also from Jeju island! 

Since we’re talking about aloe vera, expect the refreshing, watery ingredient to work wonders on your skin. It effectively moisturizes and brings dehydrated skin back to life. You also get other plant-based ingredients that help brighten your skin’s complexion. Go for that glow!

IMAGE Beauty MNL 

7. Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner

P650, available online 

This gel-type essence toner is made for intense hydration because it has a nutrient-rich formula dedicated to moisturizing your skin and strengthening its barrier. So, if you have tired or very sensitive skin, you can count on this toner to help restore your healthy complexion. It’s made mostly of milk vetch root extracts which your skin can absorb to stay hydrated. 

IMAGE Beauty MNL 

And in case you’re new to the name, Pyunkang Yul is sub-owned by Pyunkang Oriental Medicine Clinic which is known as one of the major oriental medicine clinics in South Korea. The clinic is a go-to for Koreans who want to address their skin problems. Now, they’re more accessible to Korean skincare fanatics in other parts of the world with a line of skincare must-haves you can add to your cart ASAP!