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Face toners have come a long way from their alcohol-laden past. The best toners for mature skin are less about stripping away oil and more about supporting your skin, a shift that becomes even more important as you age. Over time, skin cell turnover slows, collagen production declines, and the skin's ability to retain moisture decreases, leading to everything from dryness and dullness to fine lines, discoloration, and uneven texture. Fun, right?
While all of this is completely normal, there are skin-care products that can help your complexion look and feel its best. Case in point: toner. Today's formulas are packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, and gentle exfoliants that can target specific skin concerns, like lax skin or dark spots, while offering a baseline of hydration. While they’re not a must-have for everyone, the right formula can replenish lost moisture, remove impurities, and boost your skin barrier, as well as prime your skin for the rest of your products, says New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Pooja Rambhia, MD. Think of them as an extra layer of care tailored to your skin's evolving needs.
Our Top Toners for Mature Skin
- Best Overall: Isntree Ultra-Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Toner, $16
- Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Medik8 Press and Clear, $38
- Best for Sensitive Skin: The Ordinary Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner, $14
- Best for Dark Spots: Kiehl’s Daily Refining Milk-Peel Toner, $62
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- Should I use toner on mature skin?
- What is the best toner for a 50-year-old woman?
- Who should not use toner?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: Isntree Ultra-Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Toner
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Isntree
Ultra-Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Toner
Amazon
Yesstyle
Why we love it: It wasn't until we discovered Isntree’s Ultra-Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Toner that we even knew 14 different types of hyaluronic acid existed. This K-beauty skin-care favorite combines an impressive blend of high- and ultra-low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acids with mineral-rich deep seawater sourced from Ulleung Island in Korea, creating a formula that's all about serious hydration. “The ultra-low molecular weight HA can penetrate more deeply into the skin, while larger HA molecules help support hydration closer to the surface, which helps to balance skin sensitivity and provides deeper hydrating support,” says Alessandra Haskin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. Each swipe leaves your skin looking plumper, bouncier, and smoother, with fine lines appearing less pronounced.
Beyond the HA complex, humectants like glycerin and betaine draw moisture into the skin, while panthenol and allantoin soothe and support a compromised skin barrier. Best of all, “because the formula skips exfoliating ingredients altogether, it layers beautifully alongside other active ingredients in your routine,” which means it’s especially welcome if your skin is feeling dry from retinoids or exfoliating acids, says Dr. Haskin.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, betaine, panthenol, allantoin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Medik8 Press and Clear
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Medik8
Press and Clear
Amazon
Dermstore
Medik8
Why we love it: There's a common misconception that acne disappears with age, but for many women, breakouts make a comeback during perimenopause and menopause as estrogen levels decline and hormonal fluctuations ramp up. Medik8’s Press & Clear “addresses a common complex concern of mature skin, which is acne (often hormonal) coupled with dry, sensitive skin," says Dr. Haskin. Its encapsulated 2% salicylic acid takes a milder approach than many traditional acne treatments, slowly releasing into the skin to help clear blackheads, unclog pores, and keep congestion in check without stripping. The addition of 2% tranexamic acid tackles the lingering aftermath of breakouts by fading discoloration and visibly evening skin tone, while fermented rice extract delivers hydration and supports a healthy skin barrier.
Better yet, “it’s gentle enough to be combined with other actives, which is important because many mature patients are looking for acne control without abandoning their existing mature skin-care routines,” says Dr. Haskin. Even if active breakouts aren't your main concern, this toner is still worth considering for aging skin: The exfoliating action sweeps away dead skin cells, smooths rough texture, and restores radiance to skin that's looking a little dull or lackluster.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: 2% encapsulated salicylic acid, 2% tranexamic acid, fermented rice extract,
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: The Ordinary Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner
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The Ordinary
Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Sephora
Why we love it: As we age, mature skin naturally produces less oil and becomes more prone to dryness, irritation, and sensitivity—making harsh exfoliants a tougher sell. However, the Ordinary's Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner shines with a gentle, straightforward formula that relies on just a handful of hardworking ingredients, including Saccharomyces ferment, a yeast-derived ingredient that delicately exfoliates to smooth texture and boost radiance without overwhelming delicate skin. The addition of squalane replenishes moisture and supports the skin barrier, while “the milky texture leaves behind a subtle dewy glow that instantly makes dull skin look fresher and more luminous,” says Dr. Haskin, who notes that it's a "balanced, clarifying toner that delivers the benefits of exfoliation and hydration” in one go.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: Saccharomyces ferment, squalane
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Redness: Paula’s Choice Enriched Calming Toner
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Paula's Choice
Enriched Calming Toner
Amazon
Dermstore
Why we love it: Paula's Choice has no shortage of toners—six, to be exact—and the brand's color-coded collections make it easy to find the right one for your skin concerns. If mature skin is your focus, look for the deep pink bottle. The Enriched Calming Toner is "a one-stop shop for many skin needs as we mature," thanks to a lineup of barrier-supporting, glow-boosting ingredients, says Carlos Vieira, a board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia.
It combines vitamin E and vitamin B5 (panthenol), which he calls "a good combo for antioxidant protection and barrier repair," while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate create a dewy, skin-plumping effect. Evening primrose oil and borage seed oil replenish moisture and calm redness, making the formula appealing for mature skin that's become drier or more reactive over time. Niacinamide helps brighten uneven tone, while Dr. Vieira is a fan of the allantoin in the formula because it "simultaneously draws in water while also having a very mild exfoliating effect to combat dull-appearing skin." Gentle enough for everyday use, this silky, lotion-like toner delivers hydration, soothing barrier support, redness relief, and a healthy glow in a single step.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: vitamin E, vitamin B5, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, evening primrose oil, borage seed oil, niacinamide
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Eczema: Prequel Skin Half and Half Fluid Moisturizer
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Prequel
Skin Half and Half Fluid Moisturizer
Amazon
Why we love it: Many of us think of eczema as something that shows up in childhood and disappears with age, but according to the National Eczema Association, more than 16 million adults are living with the condition. If you're dealing with an eczema-compromised skin barrier and fine lines at the same time, Prequel’s Skin Half and Half Fluid Moisturizer is the multitasker to keep handy. In fact, the formula has earned the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance, meaning it has been vetted by a panel of experts for those with sensitive, eczema-prone skin.
While it’s light and liquid, “it has all the benefits of a good moisturizer,” says Dr. Viera, thanks to a blend of glycerin, squalane, and skin-replenishing ceramides that hydrate, soothe, and smooth rough texture while reinforcing the skin barrier. What’s more, the peptide complex "supports the cellular infrastructure of the skin as we mature,” he says. The milky texture absorbs without feeling heavy, making it an ideal choice for skin that's dry, sensitive, or recovering from an eczema flare but still looking for a little extra support in the firmness and fine-line department.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: glycerin, squalane, ceramides, peptides
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Large Pores: SkinCeuticals LHA Toner
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SkinCeuticals
LHA Toner
SkinCeuticals
Dermstore
Bluemercury
Why we love it: A toner for skin cell turnover? Yep, we found one. LHA—or lipo-hydroxy acid, the main ingredient in SkinCeuticals' LHA Toner—is a salicylic-acid derivative that's ideal for improving skin tone, clogged pores, and wrinkles. It's expert-approved, too: “This is a low-pH toner [meaning it’s closer to your skin’s natural pH] for a more gentle experience, and helps remove dead skin cells and decongest pores,” San Diego-based board-certified dermatologist Saami Khalifian, MD, previously told Allure. “It’s perfect for aging skin prone to breakouts.” Plus, the formula contains glycolic acid for a true one-two exfoliating punch that'll have your skin looking glowier and more even ASAP.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: glycolic acid, salicylic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dry Skin: Laneige Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner & Moisturizer
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Laneige
Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner & Moisturizer
Amazon
Sephora
Why we love it: If your skin seems to drink up moisturizer only to feel dry again an hour later, Laneige’s Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner & Moisturizer may be the hydration boost you're missing. Dr. Vieira calls it "a great option for those looking to optimize hydration," thanks to a trio of humectants—butylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin—that work together to draw water into the skin and keep it there. The 2023 Best of Beauty winner also features a ceramide and peptide complex that supports healthy barrier function and firmer-looking skin, while white leaf tea provides soothing amino acids to comfort stressed or sensitive complexions. Despite its deeply moisturizing benefits, the milky formula feels remarkably lightweight, says Dr. Vieira.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“It's so easy to give my skin a boost of moisture—especially after a few hours straight of staring at my computer (I know, I know, eye strain). It's lightweight, too, a crucial factor for muggy New York City summer days.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: butylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramide, peptides, white leaf tea
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Combination Skin: Beauty of Joseon Glow Replenishing Rice Milk
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Beauty of Joseon
Glow Replenishing Rice Milk
Sephora
Why we love it: We're major fans of Beauty of Joseon's viral sunscreens, but if that's where your relationship with the brand ends, you're missing out. The Glow Replenishing Rice Milk—an all-time favorite for Karan Lal, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale and New York City—is particularly well-suited for mature combination skin, striking that elusive balance between hydration and shine control. Inspired by traditional Korean skin-care treatments, the formula combines rice extract and rice amino acids to nourish, soften, and boost radiance, while humectants like glycerin, urea, and sodium hyaluronate replenish moisture. What makes it particularly appealing for combination skin is the addition of kaolin clay, which absorbs excess oil and keeps the T-zone in check without over-drying the rest of the face. Meanwhile, panthenol, ceramides, and Centella asiatica support the skin barrier and calm redness. The result is a milky toner (remember to shake it!) that leaves skin looking fresh, balanced, and glowier—never greasy.
Tester feedback from Han
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“I love the sensorial aspect of shaking and mixing the dual layers and seeing the formula transform into milky emulsion goodness. I have combo skin and I find that this formula works especially well for that, but I think a lot of skin types—including oily, acne-prone, and redness-prone skin—would benefit from this rice milk. My shiny-as-heck T-zone is toned down and my skin feels so much smoother after my double cleanse.” —Han, commerce editor
Best for Dark Spots: Kiehl’s Daily Refining Milk-Peel Toner
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Kiehl's
Daily Refining Milk-Peel Toner
Amazon
Nordstrom
Why we love it: Reduced skin cell turnover oftentimes results in skin looking flat and dull—a byproduct of aging. But don’t fret: An easy and great way to increase radiance and fade hyperpigmentation is to find an exfoliating product like Kiehl’s Milk-Peel Gentle Exfoliating Toner, recommended by Dr. Rambhia. “This toner brightens the skin while maintaining moisture—it’s gentle enough for everyday use, replenishes hydration, and protects the skin barrier,” she says, noting that it’s safe for daily use and mature skin will find that their complexion looks overall brighter, smoother, and softer.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: capryloyl salicylic acid, squalane, adenosine
- Fragrance-free: yes* (*contains essential oils which may be irritating)
Best Drugstore: CeraVe Hydrating Toner
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CeraVe
Hydrating Toner
Amazon
Dermstore
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: Little secret—you don’t have to drop major dollars to get a toner that delivers on formulation and results. Just take a peek at the CeraVe Hydrating Toner, which is available at virtually any drugstore and is jam-packed with impressive ceramides, lipids, humectants, and antioxidants. It gets the seal of approval from both Dr. Lal and Dr. Rambhia for its budget-friendly price and ability to improve hydration while simultaneously smoothing and calming your skin. “This toner supports the skin barrier while leaving the skin soft and plump, making it a great choice for those over 50,” says Dr. Rambhia. Plus, the formulation is non-comedogenic, alcohol-free, oil-free, astringent-free, and fragrance-free, making it a safe choice for hyper-reactive skin types.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: niacinamide, ceramides, hyaluronic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use toner on mature skin?
While facial toners are not always a necessary addition to your skin-care routine, mature skin can benefit from a formula that supports your skin barrier while addressing skin concerns that come with aging, explains Dr. Rambhia. “Look for toners containing hydrating ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which help maintain moisture levels as skin's natural retention decreases with age,” she says, adding that other ingredients to look for include niacinamide, peptides, ceramides, and antioxidants. Dr. Lal and Dr. Rambhia both agree to avoid any formula that contains alcohol as it will cause and exacerbate dryness.
What is the best toner for a 50-year-old woman?
“Remember, at this age, less is more,” says Dr. Rambhia, who adds that you want to focus on nurturing your skin rather than aggressive exfoliation. Collagen, the key protein responsible for skin’s firmness, elasticity, and moisture retention, begins to decline at 20. Studies show that women lose 30 percent of collagen during the first five years of menopause, with levels continuing to drop gradually afterward. Because of this, Dr. Rambhia says that someone in their fifties should look for a toner that focuses on replenishing and supporting their skin with hydrating glycerin and hyaluronic acid, barrier-strengthening ceramides, collagen-boosting peptides, and antioxidants to combat environmental damage.
Who should not use toner?
There may be no age limit on glowing skin, but toner isn't necessarily a must-have for everyone. Dr. Lal says there's no age at which you're "too old" to use one, though if you're already using a great cleanser and your skin feels balanced, you may not need it. Evaluate your skin: “If it’s healthy and balanced without a toner, there's no need to introduce one into your routine,” says Dr. Rambhia, adding that some people's skin simply functions better with a minimalist approach.
Meet the experts
- Alessandra Haskin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Weiser Skin MD based in New York City
- Saami Khalifian, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of SOM Aesthetics in San Diego, CA
- Karan Lal, DO, a board-certified dermatologist in Scottsdale and New York City
- Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm based in New York City
- Carlos Vieira, a board-certified dermatologist at The Dermatology Specialists based in Philadelphia
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best toners for mature skin, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists who test and recommend moisturizers almost every day. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors — in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon — is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
