Is your skincare routine missing a key step that could make all the difference? Many men wash their face and call it a day, only to deal with lingering tightness, visible pores, or unpredictable razor burn. A good toner isn’t just an extra product; it’s the secret weapon for balancing and preparing your skin for everything that comes next.
The real challenge is finding a toner that actually works for you. With so many options, how do you know which one won’t dry out your skin or cause irritation? You need something that tackles your specific concerns, whether it’s post-shave sensitivity, oily patches, or just a general lack of refreshment. It’s frustrating to buy a product that promises results but ends up sitting unused on your shelf.
That’s where we come in. We’ve done the research and testing to take the guesswork out of your search. This review breaks down the top-performing toners for men, explaining exactly what each one does and who it’s best for. Keep reading to find your perfect match and elevate your grooming game.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
CeraVe Hydrating Toner for Face | Sensitive, Dry Skin | Prices |
 |
THAYERS Cucumber Witch Hazel Facial Toner | Soothing & Refreshing | Prices |
 |
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner | Exfoliating & Brightening | Prices |
 |
THAYERS Unscented Witch Hazel Facial Toner | Sensitive Skin | Prices |
 |
THAYERS Rose Petal Witch Hazel Facial Toner | All Skin Types | Prices |
 |
Harry’s Freshening Hydrating Toner | Daily Hydration | Prices |
 |
Natural Outcome Man Skin Face Toner | Pore Cleansing | Prices |
 |
Brickell Men’s Balancing Face Toner | Natural Ingredients | Prices |
 |
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 8.1 Fl Oz | Large Size Exfoliating | Prices |
 |
Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Gentle Daily Facial Toner | Gentle & Fragrance-Free | Prices |
CeraVe Hydrating Toner for Face
If you have dry or sensitive skin and want a toner that hydrates without any sting or fuss, this is the perfect, no-nonsense choice for you.
Its key feature is a blend of three essential ceramides. These ceramides are naturally found in your skin and work to restore its protective barrier. Think of it like fixing a leaky wall; a stronger barrier means your skin holds onto moisture better and is less irritated by things like shaving or harsh weather.
It also has hyaluronic acid to pull moisture into the skin, and it’s completely fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores. The formula feels more like a light, refreshing liquid than a traditional, drying alcohol-based toner, making it a fantastic base layer before your moisturizer.
Pros:
- 🟢 Packed with ceramides to repair and strengthen the skin’s barrier
- 🟢 Contains hyaluronic acid for a serious hydration boost
- 🟢 Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, ideal for sensitive skin
- 🟢 Lightweight, non-sticky texture that absorbs quickly
- 🟢 Very affordable and widely available at most drugstores
Cons:
- 🔴 Those with very oily skin might want a more astringent formula
- 🔴 The simple, clinical look may not appeal to everyone
- 🔴 The hydrating effect is great, but it doesn’t offer exfoliation
My Honest Opinion:
This toner is absolutely worth the money for anyone struggling with dryness, redness, or sensitivity. It’s a workhorse product that focuses on skin health over fancy frills, making it one of the most reliable and effective hydrating toners on the market.
THAYERS Cucumber Witch Hazel Facial Toner
If you’re a guy with sensitive skin looking for a toner that hydrates and soothes without any sting, this is the perfect choice for you.
The star ingredient is natural witch hazel, which gently tightens pores and removes leftover grime after washing. Unlike harsh alcohol-based toners, this one uses aloe vera to calm your skin. After a shave, it feels incredibly refreshing and helps prevent irritation. It’s like a cool drink of water for your face.
I also love the simple, no-fuss formula that’s free from parabens and artificial fragrances. The subtle, clean cucumber scent is light and disappears quickly, so it won’t clash with your cologne. It’s a straightforward product that delivers exactly what it promises: clean, comfortable, and hydrated skin.
Pros:
- 🟢 Extremely gentle and great for sensitive skin
- 🟢 Soothes post-shave irritation effectively
- 🟢 Alcohol-free formula with hydrating aloe vera
- 🟢 Light, fresh cucumber scent that doesn’t linger
- 🟢 Simple, clean ingredient list
Cons:
- 🔴 The liquid can be a bit watery and run off your hands
- 🔴 May not be strong enough for very oily skin types
- 🔴 The bottle design is simple and a bit plain
My Honest Opinion:
This toner is absolutely worth the money for anyone who wants a reliable, no-nonsense product for daily use. It’s especially ideal for men with normal to dry or sensitive skin who prioritize comfort and hydration over intense oil control.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
If you’re a guy looking for a powerful, no-fuss solution to tackle dull skin, rough texture, and occasional ingrown hairs, this toner is your new best friend.
The 7% Glycolic Acid is the star here, working to gently dissolve dead skin cells that can clog pores and make your complexion look tired. Think of it as a daily reset button for your face; after using it, your skin feels smoother and any shaving products or moisturizers you apply afterward can sink in much more effectively. A little goes a long way, so the large bottle lasts for ages.
Beyond your face, it’s a true multi-tasker. Many users swear by applying it to their chest, back, or even underarms to help with body breakouts and odor. Just remember that this is a potent formula, so it demands consistency with sunscreen during the day to protect your newly revealed skin.
Pros:
- 🟢 Effectively exfoliates to reveal smoother, brighter skin
- 🟢 Huge bottle offers incredible value for the price
- 🟢 Versatile enough to use on the body for back acne or ingrown hairs
- 🟢 Simple, straightforward formula with no unnecessary fragrance
Cons:
- 🔴 Can be too strong for sensitive skin or if used too frequently
- 🔴 Requires diligent daily sunscreen use to prevent sun sensitivity
- 🔴 The simple packaging doesn’t include a spray head, which would be handy for body use
My Honest Opinion:
This is arguably the best value in skincare, but it’s truly for the guy who isn’t new to acids and is committed to using sunscreen. If your skin is resilient and you want clinical-level results without the luxury price tag, it’s an absolute must-try.
THAYERS Unscented Witch Hazel Facial Toner
If you have sensitive skin that gets easily irritated by fragrances or harsh ingredients, this unscented toner is the perfect, gentle starting point for your routine.
Its main ingredient is witch hazel, which helps to remove any last traces of oil and dirt after you wash your face. Think of it as a final clean sweep that leaves your skin feeling fresh but not stripped. For example, if you shave, a quick swipe with this can help soothe any minor irritation and prevent ingrown hairs.
I also love that it’s formulated with aloe vera, which adds a layer of hydration. This means it balances your skin instead of just drying it out. The simple, no-fuss formula is alcohol-free, so it won’t leave your face feeling tight or uncomfortable.
Pros:
- 🟢 Alcohol-free and unscented, making it ideal for sensitive skin
- 🟢 Gently removes excess oil and dirt without over-drying
- 🟢 Contains soothing aloe vera to calm and hydrate the skin
- 🟢 Can help soothe post-shave irritation and prevent ingrown hairs
Cons:
- 🔴 The liquid can be a bit watery and run off your hands easily
- 🔴 The simple formula may not feel “powerful” enough for very oily skin
- 🔴 The bottle design is basic and not very travel-friendly
My Honest Opinion:
This toner is absolutely worth the money for anyone new to skincare or with sensitive skin. It’s a reliable, no-nonsense product that gets the job done without any fuss or irritation.
THAYERS Rose Petal Witch Hazel Facial Toner
If you’re a guy with sensitive or easily irritated skin looking for a gentle, hydrating toner, this is the perfect pick for you.
The star ingredient is witch hazel, which works to gently tighten pores and remove any leftover grime after washing. But unlike many toners, it doesn’t leave your skin feeling tight or dry. That’s because Thayers adds aloe vera and rosewater, which soothe and add a layer of moisture. After shaving, a quick swipe with this instantly calms any razor burn.
I also love the simple, no-fuss design. The bottle is sturdy and the screw-top lid prevents leaks, making it great for travel or a gym bag. It has a light, fresh rose scent that isn’t overpowering, so it won’t clash with your cologne or aftershave.
Pros:
- 🟢 Incredibly gentle and great for sensitive skin
- 🟢 Hydrates with aloe vera instead of drying skin out
- 🟢 Effectively removes leftover dirt and tightens pores
- 🟢 Soothes razor burn and irritation post-shave
- 🟢 Leak-proof bottle is ideal for travel
Cons:
- 🔴 The rose scent, while light, might not be for everyone
- 🔴 The liquid can be a bit runny if you pour it out too quickly
- 🔴 Not the most potent option for very oily skin types
My Honest Opinion:
This toner is absolutely worth the money for men with normal, dry, or sensitive skin who want a reliable, multi-purpose product. It’s the ideal daily toner for anyone who wants to improve their skin’s health without any harsh side effects.
Harry’s Freshening Hydrating Toner
If you’re a guy with normal to oily skin looking for a simple, no-fuss toner that actually works, Harry’s Freshening Hydrating Toner is the perfect starting point.
Its main job is to hydrate and rebalance your skin after washing. It uses witch hazel to gently remove any leftover grime and tighten your pores, but it pairs it with glycerin to add moisture right back in. After you shave, a quick swipe with a cotton pad soothes any irritation and preps your face for your next moisturizer, making it absorb better.
I really appreciate the straightforward, no-nonsense design. The bottle feels solid, the spray head delivers a fine mist, and the subtle, clean scent is refreshing without being overpowering. It’s a reliable, affordable product that delivers exactly what it promises without any complicated steps.
Pros:
- 🟢 Effectively hydrates while reducing shine
- 🟢 Soothes skin and reduces redness post-shave
- 🟢 Light, fresh scent isn’t overpowering
- 🟢 Great value for the price
- 🟢 Simple, durable packaging with a good sprayer
Cons:
- 🔴 Might be too simple for those seeking advanced anti-aging benefits
- 🔴 The alcohol content could be slightly drying for very sensitive skin types
My Honest Opinion:
This toner is absolutely worth the money for any man new to skincare or who just wants a dependable, effective product. It’s a solid, no-frills workhorse that will improve your daily routine without breaking the bank.
Natural Outcome Man Skin Face Toner
If you’re a guy with normal to oily skin looking for a simple, no-fuss toner that actually works, Natural Outcome is the perfect choice.
Its main job is balancing your skin’s pH after washing, which sounds technical but is simple. Washing can strip your skin, leaving it tight or oily. A quick swipe with this toner brings it back to a comfortable, neutral state. This helps your skin better absorb your next product, like a moisturizer, making it more effective. It’s a small step with a big payoff.
Beyond balancing, it provides light hydration with ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera. This means it doesn’t dry your face out like some alcohol-heavy toners can. The scent is a subtle, fresh herbal aroma that isn’t overpowering, and the spray bottle is convenient for a quick, even application without wasting product.
Pros:
- 🟢 Effectively balances skin pH without causing irritation
- 🟢 Provides light, non-greasy hydration with glycerin and aloe
- 🟢 Refreshing, subtle herbal scent that isn’t overwhelming
- 🟢 Convenient and hygienic spray bottle for easy application
- 🟢 Free from harsh alcohols that can dry out the skin
Cons:
- 🔴 The light hydration may not be enough for very dry skin types
- 🔴 The spray mechanism can sometimes be a bit inconsistent
- 🔴 Priced slightly higher than some basic drugstore alternatives
My Honest Opinion:
This toner is absolutely worth it for men with oily or combination skin who want to simplify their routine with a reliable, multi-tasking product. It’s a solid, effective formula that delivers on its core promises without any gimmicks.
Brickell Men’s Balancing Face Toner
If you’re a guy with oily or combination skin looking for a simple way to look fresher and feel cleaner, Brickell’s Balancing Face Toner is the perfect next step in your routine.
Its main job is to restore your skin’s natural pH balance right after you wash your face. This is more important than it sounds, because when your pH is balanced, your skin is better at keeping moisture in and irritants out. For example, after a close shave, this toner feels incredibly soothing and helps prevent any redness or bumps from flaring up.
Beyond balancing, it tackles shine without drying you out. It uses natural astringents like organic witch hazel to tighten pores and control excess oil throughout the day. This means your face stays matte for longer, and you won’t see as much midday shine peeking through.
Pros:
- 🟢 Effectively reduces shine and tightens pores
- 🟢 Soothes skin and prevents irritation after shaving
- 🟢 Made with high-quality, natural and organic ingredients
- 🟢 Refreshing, masculine scent isn’t overpowering
- 🟢 Alcohol-free formula doesn’t strip or dry out the skin
Cons:
- 🔴 Priced higher than many drugstore alternatives
- 🔴 The scent, while pleasant, may not be for everyone
- 🔴 The pump can sometimes dispense a bit too much product
My Honest Opinion:
This toner is absolutely worth the investment if you have oily or combination skin and value natural ingredients. It’s a workhorse product that genuinely improves your skin’s clarity and comfort, making it a standout choice in the men’s grooming market.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 8.1 Fl Oz
If you’re a guy looking for a powerful, multi-purpose toner that delivers serious results without a serious price tag, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 8.1 Fl Oz is your perfect match.
Its key feature is the 8.1% glycolic acid concentration, which works to gently dissolve dead skin cells and unclog pores. Think of it like a deep clean for your face and body. For example, using it a few times a week can visibly smooth rough skin on your elbows or help prevent chest and back breakouts after a workout. It’s a true workhorse that tackles multiple skin concerns with one bottle.
You also get a massive 8.1 Fl Oz bottle, which is significantly larger than most toners. This makes it an incredible value. The no-frills, straightforward formula means you’re paying for the active ingredient, not fancy packaging or perfume. It’s a strong, effective, and budget-friendly choice for anyone ready to level up their skincare.
Pros:
- 🟢 Highly effective at exfoliating and smoothing skin texture
- 🟢 Excellent value due to the very large bottle size
- 🟢 Multi-purpose for face, body, and even scalp
- 🟢 Free from unnecessary additives like fragrance and alcohol
Cons:
- 🔴 Can be too strong for sensitive skin or beginners
- 🔴 The watery texture can be messy to apply
- 🔴 Requires diligent use of sunscreen the next day
My Honest Opinion:
This is arguably the best value in skincare. It’s absolutely worth the money for guys who aren’t sensitive and want clinical-grade results. Just start slow and always wear sunscreen.
Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Gentle Daily Facial Toner
If you have sensitive skin that gets easily irritated by harsh products, this Neutrogena toner is the perfect, gentle addition to your daily routine.
Its alcohol-free formula is the real star, meaning it won’t dry out or sting your face after you shave. Instead of that tight, uncomfortable feeling, your skin just feels clean and refreshed. For example, after washing your face, a splash of this on a cotton pad will pick up any leftover grime your cleanser might have missed without any irritation.
I also love that it contains glycerin, a simple but effective ingredient that helps to hydrate your skin. It preps your face to better absorb your next product, like a moisturizer, making your entire skincare routine more effective. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss product that delivers on its promise of gentle, effective cleansing.
Pros:
- 🟢 Alcohol-free and doesn’t cause stinging or dryness
- 🟢 Effectively removes leftover dirt and oil after washing
- 🟢 Contains hydrating glycerin to help skin retain moisture
- 🟢 Very affordable and widely available in most drugstores
Cons:
- 🔴 The light fragrance, while pleasant, may not be for everyone
- 🔴 Won’t provide the intense astringent feel some men with very oily skin might prefer
- 🔴 The bottle design is simple and a bit basic
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic, no-nonsense toner that is absolutely worth the money for anyone with normal to sensitive skin. It’s the ideal starter toner for a man looking to build a simple, effective skincare routine without any drama.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Your Skin Type
This is the most important factor. For dry or sensitive skin, look for hydrating and alcohol-free formulas like the CeraVe Hydrating Toner. For oily or acne-prone skin, a toner with witch hazel like THAYERS Unscented or a gentle exfoliant like The Ordinary Glycolic Acid can help control oil and clarify pores.
Ingredients to Seek and Avoid
Focus on beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration, witch hazel for astringent properties, and glycolic acid for exfoliation. Always avoid products with high concentrations of denatured alcohol or SD alcohol, as they can strip and irritate the skin, leading to more oil production.
Skin Care Goals
Define what you want to achieve. Is it simply to refresh and hydrate after washing? Harry’s Freshening Hydrating Toner is great for that. For tackling texture and dullness, an exfoliating toner like The Ordinary Glycolic Acid is key. If you want to minimize pores and balance oil, a witch hazel-based toner from THAYERS is your best bet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do men really need to use a toner?
A1: While not strictly “necessary,” toner is highly beneficial. It completes the cleansing process by removing any leftover impurities, balances your skin’s pH, and preps it to better absorb moisturizers and serums that follow.
Q2: How often should I use a toner?
A2: For most men, once or twice a day after cleansing is perfect. If you’re using a potent exfoliating toner like The Ordinary Glycolic Acid, start with 2-3 times a week to see how your skin reacts before moving to daily use.
Q3: What’s the difference between an astringent and a toner?
A3: Traditionally, astringents are stronger and contain high levels of alcohol to strip oil, which can be harsh. Modern toners, like the ones listed here, are gentler and focus on hydration, balancing, and delivering beneficial ingredients without irritation.
Q4: Can toner help with razor burn?
A4: Absolutely. An alcohol-free, soothing toner like THAYERS Cucumber or Brickell Men’s Balancing Face Toner can calm the skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent infection after shaving, making it a great post-shave step.
Q5: Should I use a toner if I have sensitive skin?
A5: Yes, but you must choose carefully. Opt for fragrance-free, alcohol-free formulas designed for sensitivity. The THAYERS Unscented Witch Hazel and Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Gentle Daily Facial Toner are excellent, gentle choices.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Our top all-around pick is the CeraVe Hydrating Toner for Face for its gentle, effective formula that works for nearly every skin type. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, THAYERS Unscented Witch Hazel Facial Toner is the best choice for clarifying pores without fragrance. For those seeking powerful exfoliation to tackle dullness and texture, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner delivers unmatched results for the price.
