mybest
Women's toners

Helping You Find the Best

Close
  1. TOP
  2. Beauty
  3. Women's toners
  4. 10 Best Korean Toners for Dry Skin of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed)
  • 10 Best Korean Toners for Dry Skin of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed) 1
  • 10 Best Korean Toners for Dry Skin of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed) 2
  • 10 Best Korean Toners for Dry Skin of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed) 3
  • 10 Best Korean Toners for Dry Skin of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed) 4
  • 10 Best Korean Toners for Dry Skin of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed) 5

10 Best Korean Toners for Dry Skin of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed)

Gone are the days when toners were used as astringent to kill bacteria and address acne. Today, those with dry skin can enjoy the gentle formulations of toners, especially Korean ones, as they're loaded with hydrating and moisturizing properties. They even balance the skin, leaving it smooth, plump, and radiant. 


That's why we did the homework for you and found 10 great Korean toners to moisturize your dry skin! Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner, for example, is so light on the skin that those with dry and sensitive skin don't need to worry about irritation. On our 10 best list, there are nine more Korean toners formulated for dry skin and enjoyed by many users. We've also included a buying guide reviewed by a board-certified dermatologist to get you acquainted with all there is to know about Korean toners. 

Last updated 03/18/2024
Dr. Lauren Levy
Expert
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.

Dr. Lauren Levy's Profile
…Continue reading
mybest US Editors
Guide
Editing Dept.
mybest US Editors

mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.

mybest US Editors's Profile
…Continue reading
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Korean Toner for Dry Skin

With the advent of K-beauty in America, it is becoming increasingly challenging to pick out a product that is guaranteed to be safe, gentle, and effective. What's more, using topical products on dry skin is not straightforward, given its sensitive nature. That's why we've come up with these tips to help you find the best one for you on your own!

1

Ensure Proper Hydration Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, and More

Ensure Proper Hydration Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, and More

When it comes to toners for dry skin, the main goal is hydration. The formulation must boost hydration as this skin type has a weak moisture barrier that doesn't effectively lock hydration in the skin and keep irritants out. 


Environmental factors such as the sun, weather, aging, lifestyle, and skincare habits all play a part in causing the natural moisture barrier to weaken. Even tap water used for cleansing the face has drying salts and chlorine, which may not bother other skin types but can leave dry skin parched. 


Go for a toner loaded with hydrating and moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. Glycerin is another humectant that prevents more moisture loss from the skin.


Furthermore, the toner should be water-based and not alcohol-based. Water-based toners enhance the absorption capabilities of dry skin to accept whatever comes next. The moisturizer, serum, essence, and other skincare products you apply next would be absorbed more efficiently because of the toner's added layer of water. 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Many people associate toners with being drying or irritating. Toners have come a long way from the sting you would get from Sea Breeze (anyone who grew up in the 1990s knows exactly this feeling).

Many toners are made with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid which provides skin hydration. Using a toner that is alcohol-free is also a way to prevent drying the skin and these could even be used on sensitive skin.

2

Avoid Ingredients Like Alcohols That Can Add to Your Dryness

Avoid Ingredients Like Alcohols That Can Add to Your Dryness

Ingredients to avoid in your toner are alcohol, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and retinoids, especially in high concentrations, as these only leave your skin feeling taut, tight, and even more dry. These may work for acne-prone or oily skin types because of their exfoliating properties, but they're often too potent for more sensitive dry skin. 


When talking about alcohol, here are a few of the other names it can be presented as in a toner: ethanol, methanol, and anything that ends in the word alcohol! You may come across a particular toner with these alcohol types which are included to prepare the skin for the other ingredients.


A rule of thumb would be to test out the product first on a small area to check if it's too drying. Often, the added alcohol is overpowered by the other hydrating ingredients and poses no problem.

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

If you have acne or oily skin, you probably can tolerate a toner with salicylic or glycolic acid. Both of these ingredients can help with active acne lesions, remove sebum and oil, and exfoliate the skin. 


Those with oily skin may be able to use these nightly, while those with combination skin should probably use toners with these ingredients only a few times a week. 


Also, avoid using toners with AHAs the same night as using a retinol or retinoid, as the skin could become very irritated and dry from this combination.

3

Look for Ingredients That Make a Hydrating Toner Even Better

Now for the added benefits, because you can be sure that Korean skincare products are packed with extra goodies for the skin. You can look for toners that soothe and calm irritated skin, moisturize, or make the skin firmer and healthier. 

Chamomile, Aloe, and More for Soothing and Moisturizing Properties

Chamomile, Aloe, and More for Soothing and Moisturizing Properties

Beyond hydration, a good toner does so much more, such as protecting, balancing skin pH, soothing redness and irritation, and prepping the skin for what's next.


Rosewater, aloe vera, green tea, chamomile, and other plant and fruit extracts are a few examples of natural ingredients that hydrate and soothe at the same time. These are also very mild and can be used for dry, sensitive skin. 


For a toner that has added moisturizing and brightening properties, look for vitamin B3 (or niacinamide), phospholipids, and omega 3-, 6-, and 9-rich oils from flax seeds, walnuts, plant oils, raspberry and blackberry seeds, among others. Bringing dry skin and extra essential fatty acids together is a formula for healthy and radiant-looking skin.

Ingredients Like Ceramides That Makes the Skin Stronger

Ingredients Like Ceramides That Makes the Skin Stronger

Another ingredient to look out for is ceramides. These are the skin's natural lipids that protect the surface by keeping it strong at a cellular level. They're like the glue that maintains skin cells and keeps them intact.


In turn, ceramides slow down the signs of aging and ensure the skin's protective barrier is unimpaired. Toners can include ceramides to complement the natural production of lipids as it decreases with age. 


Korean toners often include plant extracts, essential oils, and even snail secretion to give the formulation added benefits. Prolonging signs of aging is one of the standards K-skincare brands strive to offer. Therefore, they boast of brightening, tightening, hydrating, smoothing, and soothing effects. 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Toners with ceramides are great for those with sensitive skin, eczema, or other dermatitis. Ceramides help repair the skin barrier


Using a toner with ceramides followed by a moisturizing cream can help leave the skin feeling clean and refreshed without damaging the skin barrier. 


If you have eczema or sensitive skin, I recommend avoiding products with essential oils as these can often be triggers for eczema or contact dermatitis.

Don't Forget Layering Features

Don't Forget Layering Features

With K-skincare, it's important to note that layering is another factor to consider, given the routine includes at least seven steps. The product description often mentions if the product works great in a team, meaning the formulation can be used with moisturizers, essences, serums, and the like. 


With their layering capabilities, you can rest assured that Korean toners are gentle, lightweight, and easily absorbed by the skin. 


If the toner is the only skincare product offered by a particular brand, check to see if it works just the same when mixed with other brands. The product details and reviewer comments would often give you the needed information. 

4

Consider a Pick-Me-Up Toner

Consider a Pick-Me-Up Toner

On top of using your toner in the morning and before bed, you can also grab one in a spray bottle. This works as a nice pick-me-up during the day and is especially helpful for those who experience their skin getting parched in hot or dry weather. The extra moisture and hydration ensure your skin has enough to last through the day. 


Spray-type toners are known to be extra helpful during summertime or hot weather when evaporation is on overdrive. The added hydration from the mist ensures your skin's pH remains balanced. Check the consistency and reviews to see if a particular toner can be transferred to a spray bottle for misting. 


Spray toners are also beneficial for extra sensitive dry skin as it does not need any wiping motion from a cotton pad or finger. The rubbing can irritate the skin further. You can opt to spray the solution over the face and gently tap to dry. 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Spray toners are great for those with acne who need extra treatment or product application during the day. Additionally, you do not have to use your hands (which may be soiled) to touch your face. 


Spray toners that contain AHAs are especially helpful for those who feel like their oil production is constant throughout the day. An extra application can help reduce oil and sebum build-up over the course of the day.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Korean Toners for Dry Skin

Here are our 10 best picks for Korean toners for dry skin. We made our choices based on the points listed in the buying guide below, as well as reviewer comments when available.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Klairs

Supple Preparation Unscented Toner

Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner 1

$21.90

Mid

A Lightweight, Unscented Toner for Supple Skin

2

Pyunkang Yul

Essence Toner

Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner 1

$16.99

Low

A Hydrating Toner With Only 7 Ingredients

3

belif

Aqua Bomb Hydrating Toner

belif Aqua Bomb Hydrating Toner 1

$28.00

Mid

A Toner That Drops a Bomb of Hydration

4

Laneige

Cream Skin

Laneige Cream Skin 1

$33.00

High Mid

A 2-in-1 Formula for Maximum Hydration

5

Tonymoly

Wonder Ceramide Mochi Toner

Tonymoly Wonder Ceramide Mochi Toner 1

$23.00

Mid

The Versatile Toner for Dry Skin

6

Whamisa

Organic Flowers Toner Deep Rich

Whamisa Organic Flowers Toner Deep Rich 1

$41.00

High Mid

An Enhanced Toner That Deeply Nourishes

7

Amore Pacific

Botanical Soothing Toner

Amore Pacific Botanical Soothing Toner 1

$95.00

High

A Soothing Toner That Leaves the Face Moisturized

8

Etude House

Moistfull Collagen Facial Toner

Etude House Moistfull Collagen Facial Toner 1

$20.00

Low Mid

A Moisture-Filled Toner With Added Collagen

9

AHC

Aqualuronic Toner

AHC Aqualuronic Toner 1

$26.79

Mid

A Toner With Triple Hydrating Power

10

Benton

Snail Bee High Content Skin

Benton Snail Bee High Content Skin 1

$18.00

Low Mid

A Toner With Potent Healing Capabilities

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

KlairsSupple Preparation Unscented Toner

Supple Preparation Unscented Toner 1
Source:amazon.com
Supple Preparation Unscented Toner 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$21.90
Mid
Reference price
$21.90
Mid

A Lightweight, Unscented Toner for Supple Skin

This toner is completely unscented, essential oil-free and alcohol-free. It also has a pH level of six, which is perfect for ensuring a balanced skin surface. What's more, the formulation includes soothing and bacteria-fighting ingredients to minimize irritation or inflammation. 


Those with extra-sensitive skin are advised to conduct a patch test first as a few reviewers with dry and sensitive skin felt like their skin reacted negatively to the solution. 


On a positive note, many reviewers found their holy grail toner with this product. It's very hydrating, moisturizing, lightweight, and soothing at the same time. The consistency of the product easily gets absorbed by the skin, they added. 

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Pyunkang YulEssence Toner

Reference price
$16.99
Low

A Hydrating Toner With Only 7 Ingredients

This toner only has seven ingredients and is specifically designed to be light and gentle on the skin. The milk vetch root extract provides hydration, while the arginine amino acid helps boost the effects of the ingredients. The particles in this solution are also smaller than purified water, which makes it easy to absorb. 


A few reviewers felt like the toner left their skin feeling dry or tight. However, many added that you need to follow this step with a moisturizer as it works well with other products to complete the skincare routine. 


Reviewers who've used the product for years shared that it is gentle and definitely hydrating. Those with dry and sensitive skin had no issue using the toner. Many also liked that it had no scent

No.3

belifAqua Bomb Hydrating Toner

Reference price
$28.00
Mid

A Toner That Drops a Bomb of Hydration

When it comes to the aqua bomb-like power of this formulation, we're talking three ingredients that complement one another to provide a blast of hydration. The sodium hyaluronate provides hydration while the honeysuckle helps to soothe the skin. Lastly, the baobab locks all of that in for the skin to absorb. 


There is alcohol listed in the ingredients, though, which may dry out or irritate sensitive-dry skin. A few reviewers advise testing out the product on a small patch of skin to ensure it doesn't strip the surface of moisture. 


Meanwhile, those with dry skin noted this product left their face feeling moisturized and refreshed. Many with combination skin types said their dry areas did not react negatively to the formulation. The product also smells great and goes on very gently. 

No.4

LaneigeCream Skin

Reference price
$33.00
High Mid

A 2-in-1 Formula for Maximum Hydration

This two-in-one formula functions as a toner and moisturizer, making it perfect for dry skin types. The toner preps the skin while the creamy texture ensures maximum hydration and moisture. The amino acids in the white leaf tea extract help strengthen the skin's protective barrier to keep the good stuff in and pollutants out! 


Those with oily skin felt like the product was too heavy on their skin and made it feel sticky. But those with dry or sensitive skin could attest to the hydrating powers of the product. They loved that the formulation cut a step in their skincare routine. After use, their skin felt soft, smooth, and moisturized. 

No.5

TonymolyWonder Ceramide Mochi Toner

Reference price
$23.00
Mid

The Versatile Toner for Dry Skin

This is one of the few toners that is effective even when used in varying methods. You can apply it by hand, with a cotton pad, as part of a complex skincare routine, as a face mask or spray mist. The hyaluronic acid and ceramides in the solution work to reinforce the skin's moisture barrier for soft, plump skin.


A few reviewers noted that this toner was meant for dry skin types as their oily skin didn't react well with the formulation. Some also suspected the product was fake, however, others confirmed that Tonymoly had a recent change to the packaging of the product. Their storefront on Amazon is genuine.


The many who have tried the product for the first time were quickly converted and added it would become a staple in their collection. It even helps other products get absorbed better. Those with dry, dehydrated, and flaky skin couldn't get enough of this toner!

No.6

WhamisaOrganic Flowers Toner Deep Rich

Organic Flowers Toner Deep Rich 1
Source:amazon.com
Organic Flowers Toner Deep Rich 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$41.00
High Mid

An Enhanced Toner That Deeply Nourishes

It's difficult to go wrong with a product that consists of 72 percent aloe vera! This essence-like toner is specially designed for dry skin due to its hydrating power. What's more, the added fermentation process of certain ingredients enhances their potency and nutritional features. The essential oils included help to soothe the skin.


A few reviewers didn't like the change from the old formulation to the more scented one of today. The scent may bother users sensitive to fragrances in their skincare products. 


Many reviewers commented on the moisturizing effect of the toner, saying it softened their skin and smoothed fine lines and wrinkles. Those with dry skin experienced glowing, hydrated, and improved skin condition. The product also works great with a complete skincare routine. 

No.7

Amore PacificBotanical Soothing Toner

Reference price
$95.00
High

A Soothing Toner That Leaves the Face Moisturized

If you have dry skin that is dull and uneven on top of needing extra hydration, get this toner! It's lightweight, gentle, and known to provide much moisture to the skin. The bamboo sap and hyaluronic acid in the formula ensure needed hydration and moisture while the panthenol soothes the skin and locks the good stuff in. 


The scent of this product, although not bad, may bother those who prefer unscented skincare solutions. The ingredients also include alcohol, which may irritate extra sensitive skin types. A patch test is recommended. 


Those with dry skin shared that the toner leaves their skin soft and addresses the dry patches on the face. It can also be used under makeup and blends well. Meanwhile, those with irritated skin felt the soothing effects of the product. 

No.8

Etude HouseMoistfull Collagen Facial Toner

Moistfull Collagen Facial Toner 1
Source:amazon.com
Moistfull Collagen Facial Toner 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$20.00
Low Mid

A Moisture-Filled Toner With Added Collagen

This essence-like toner is made with hydrolyzed collagen - which is smaller and easy to absorb - and baobab water, making it potent in hydrating and revitalizing. Baobab trees are known as the water tanks of the dessert, which allows your skin to retain the moisture it needs! The collagen works at keeping the skin youthful and plump


A few reviewers noted that the consistency of the product was thick. There's also a faint scent that isn't too pungent but could annoy some. Those with sensitive skin felt a slight tingling upon application due to the citrus ingredients or alcohol. 


On a positive note, many reviewers confirmed the product left their skin moisturized and hydrated. The formulation lasts all day, protecting their skin from outside pollutants. Reviewers also liked the gel-like texture of the formulation as it felt like they were using toner and serum simultaneously. 

No.9

AHCAqualuronic Toner

Aqualuronic Toner 1
Source:amazon.com
Aqualuronic Toner 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$26.79
Mid
Reference price
$26.79
Mid

A Toner With Triple Hydrating Power

This toner is perfect for extra dry skin types as it's infused with back-to-back hydrating ingredients, from the triple blend of hyaluronic acid to the French seawater, carrot root water, and camellia leaf water. You can expect a highly moisturized and refreshed face after using this toner! 


A few reviewers felt like the product was too watery, and they didn't feel like it packed a punch in terms of richness or moisturizing properties. The scent also seemed synthetic to some users.


Recent reviews show many users were highly satisfied with the product. After about a month of use, they could already see visible results, wherein their face looked and felt smooth, clear, and soft. Those with sensitive skin used the product without any adverse reactions. 

No.10

BentonSnail Bee High Content Skin

Snail Bee High Content Skin 1
Source:amazon.com
Snail Bee High Content Skin 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$18.00
Low Mid

A Toner With Potent Healing Capabilities

Get this toner if you have dry or irritated skin as it will soothe and heal the skin at a fast pace. It's easy to get over the fact that the main ingredient is snail secretion filtrate because it's filled with moisturizing, healing, and balancing properties. At the same time, you have bee venom, which boosts your skin's natural barrier. 


There are a few ingredients in the formulation that may cause allergic reactions, though, so a patch test is recommended for safety. Furthermore, some users found the toner to be too watery and said that it left a sticky finish.


Others loved the silky light consistency, making it easier for the skin to absorb. The hydration was definitely there, plus, it leaves the skin dewy and glowing. The toner is also great to use with Benton products or other brands. 

Toner Application Hacks to Remember

Toner Application Hacks to Remember

Do cleanse before applying toners to get the best results from the formulation. Once toned, follow up with a moisturizer. Toners work to prep the skin for the next product, meaning the surface is now ready to absorb whatever nutrition you have in store. 


Pro tip: don't wait for the toner to dry before applying your serums, moisturizers, and essences to give your skin that hydration boost. This is especially helpful during cold and dry weather, where the air is too quick in stealing the humectants meant for your skin. 


Lastly, you can consider applying the toner by other means such as spraying, pouring it on a face mask, or patting to use, in case you have extra sensitive skin and rubbing with a cotton pad is too harsh.

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

If you feel your toner may be drying out, but you still like the benefits of the clean and refreshed skin, try using the toner a few times a week to start. 


Eventually, you may be able to use it nightly as your skin builds up a tolerance to it. Don't forget to moisturize after using a toner. You can try using a cream-based moisturizer with emollients after the toner to help with dryness.

Top 5 Korean Toners for Dry Skin

No. 1: KlairsSupple Preparation Unscented Toner

No. 2: Pyunkang YulEssence Toner

No. 3: belifAqua Bomb Hydrating Toner

No. 4: LaneigeCream Skin

No. 5: TonymolyWonder Ceramide Mochi Toner

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
  1. TOP
  2. Beauty
  3. Women's toners
  4. 10 Best Korean Toners for Dry Skin of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed)

Search by category

mybest

We connect users with the best tried and true products,
tested by our in-house guides and backed by expert insight.

Copyright mybest All Rights Reserved.