№ 1
Glow 9.3
P50 1970
Best for cult exfoliating toner
The famously aggressive French chemical exfoliant. Smells like vinegar, looks like science. 6-week skin transformation when used correctly.
Editorial Ranking · Skincare · 2026
Best Toners in Australia (2026)
Toners tested across hydrating, exfoliating, and balancing categories. Ranked on barrier support, layering performance, and value.
6 products tested
April 2026 editorial visit
5-axis Glow Score
0 paid placements
Full ranking · 1 to 6
Glow's full ranking.
Most toners are skippable. The exceptions earn their place by doing one job exceptionally — hydration, gentle exfoliation, or pH rebalancing.
№ 2
Glow 9.1
Soothing Toner
Best for sensitive + barrier
Korean-formula, beta-glucan, low-pH. The pick for sensitive skin that needs hydration without acids. The category bargain.
№ 3
Glow 8.8
Iris Hydrating Toner
Best for premium texture
Beautifully formulated, pleasantly fragranced. Premium texture for those who treat skincare as ritual. The skin benefit is solid but not exceptional.
№ 4
Glow 8.5
Perfectly Clean Hydrating Toner
Best for multi-step routine
Designed to layer. Strong on prepping skin for serums. The right pick for established multi-step routines.
№ 5
Glow 8.7
Glycolic 7% Toning Solution
Best for exfoliating budget
Toner doubling as treatment. Use 2-3× weekly. Patch test before scaling.
№ 6
Glow 8.6
Eight Greens Phytomulsion
Best for clean luxury
Cult clean-beauty toner. Botanical ingredient list, premium experience, premium pricing. Cleansing-balm pairing if budget allows.
Frequently asked
Common questions.
Do I need a toner?
Probably not. Modern cleansers don't disrupt pH the way old soap formulas did. The exceptions: exfoliating toners (real value) and dry skin needing extra hydration.
Should I apply toner with cotton or hands?
Hands for hydrating toners (saves product). Cotton pad for exfoliating toners (controlled distribution). Press, don't drag.
Can I skip toner if I use serums?
Yes. Serums often do the toner's job better. Toners earn their place when they specifically deliver something the serum doesn't.
Toner vs essence?
Toner is liquid prep; essence is concentrated treatment. Korean routines use both; Western routines often combine. Pick one to start.
More from Glow.
For more skincare editorial, see our Skincare hub, or browse all brands and brand reviews. For our annual edit, see The Glow 100.