18 Best Korean Toners for Dry Skin 2024 (+ Super-Sensitive Skin Picks)
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Looking for the best Korean toners for dry skin?
These skin-soothing staples are an important part of the K-beauty routine for healthy, glowing skin! They’re great for balancing the skin’s pH levels, and you can take your pick between deep-moisturizing and exfoliating toners, depending on what you need.
The question is: Which ones are really worth the hype?
We love geeking out on all things skincare, makeup, hair, and lifestyle here at Haul of Fame. We’ve done the research and here’s our Top 3 shortlist of the best hydrating, exfoliating, and acne-friendly toners to add to your daily Korean routine for dry skin:
- Best Korean Toner For Dry Acne-Prone Skin: Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
- Best Korean Moisturizing Toners For Dry Skin: I’m From Rice Toner
- Best Exfoliating Korean Toners For Dry Skin: Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Toner
Check out our complete buying guide on the best Korean toners!
Best Korean Toners For Dry Acne-Prone Skin
A soothing swipe of toner can be just the TLC your skin needs, but finding one that doesn’t break you out can be a real challenge when you’re prone to irritation.
We’ve compiled a few of our sensitive skin-friendly favorites for you to check out! Here are our picks for the best Korean toners for dry sensitive skin:
1. Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
1. Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
Known as Korea’s best-selling toner, the Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner has a lot to live up to – and boy, does it deliver! We totally see why this cult-favorite skincare staple nabbed the top spot in the Toner category at Olive Young Awards 2022.
Rich in heartleaf extract, this lightweight toner does a fantastic job of soothing and hydrating the skin.
The water-like texture goes on smoothly and refreshes the skin. We love that it feels breathable and there’s no sticky residue. For best results, we highly recommend pairing this with the best Korean cleansers for dry skin.
The squeaky-clean non-comedogenic formula makes it a perfect fit for sensitive skin types. You’ll notice this toner is especially loved by acne-prone skin types who rave about the toner working wonders on soothing redness.
At the same time, some users find that the toner doesn’t seem to improve their sensitive skin so keep in mind that results differ from one person to another.
What we love:
- Great for soothing redness
- Formula feels light and refreshing on the skin
- Clean ingredients – suitable for sensitive skin types
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan
Something to consider:
- Although it’s generally safe for sensitive skin, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test
2. ETUDE HOUSE Soonjung pH 5.5 Relief Toner
2. ETUDE HOUSE Soonjung pH 5.5 Relief Toner
It’s not always easy to find Korean skincare products that can play nice with extra-sensitive skin. That’s where ETUDE HOUSE Soonjung pH 5.5 Relief Toner comes in!
This K-beauty gem earns a spot as one of the top toners for dry skin thanks to its skin-compatible formula that mimics the skin’s natural pH levels.
Panthenol is used in this toner to strengthen the skin barrier and boost hydration, while madecassoside helps the product go into full repair-and-rejuvenate mode.
We’re a fan of the cooling sensation! It’s an especially soothing treat on inflamed bits as it helps to reduce any burning sensation. While the formula is wonderfully lightweight, it does seem to create that feeling of tightness once applied.
What we love:
- Great for soothing redness
- Cooling effect to calm irritated skin
- Gentle pH 5.5 formula – close to skin’s natural levels
- Clean ingredients – suitable for sensitive skin types
- Fragrance-free
Something to consider:
- Leaves a bit of a tight feeling
- Although it’s generally safe for sensitive skin, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test
3. ABIB Heartleaf Calming Toner Skin Booster
3. ABIB Heartleaf Calming Toner Skin Booster
If red, inflamed skin is something you struggle with, ABIB Heartleaf Calming Toner Skin Booster is the intensive hydrating toner to try. Infused with heartleaf extract, this skincare gem feels super soothing and instantly moisturizing.
The addition of hyaluronic acid helps to seal hydration in, while the cooling formula helps to bring down the skin’s temperature and reduce inflammation.
It’s easy to apply the lightweight, watery texture but we notice the absorption takes some time.
What we love:
- Great for soothing redness
- Cooling effect to calm irritated skin
- Gentle yet super moisturizing formula
- Feels lightweight on the skin
Something to consider:
- Takes some time to be fully absorbed
4. Torriden Dive-In Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Toner
4. Torriden Dive-In Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Toner
Excuse us while we geek out a little bit but here’s a cool fact about the Torriden Dive-In Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Toner: The brand uses 5 different types of hyaluronic acid molecules to penetrate deep within the skin for optimum hydration!
A swipe of this lightweight toner gives a calming and refreshing feel. This deep-hydrating acid toner keeps skin feeling super soft and ready to absorb all the products in your skincare routine.
It’s generally suitable for sensitive skin but some users find this a little too harsh on irritated skin.
What we love:
- Great for deep-moisturizing the skin
- Leaves skin feeling nourished and supple
- Clean ingredients – suitable for sensitive skin types
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan
Something to consider:
- Although it’s generally safe for sensitive skin, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test
5. Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner
5. Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner
An essence and toner all in one nifty product? We approve! Tap into the super-hydrating properties of the Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner, made with just 7 essential ingredients for proper nourishment with zero nasties.
Astragalus is one of the key ingredients of this minimalist formula, known for its deep-moisturizing perks. This essence toner is made with sensitive skin types in mind and earns loyal fans for being super gentle on irritated skin.
The texture is pretty thick for a toner, which can be a good or bad thing depending on what you prefer.
What we love:
- Great for deep-moisturizing the skin
- Gentle on irritated skin
- Clean ingredients – suitable for sensitive skin types
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan
Something to consider:
- Takes some time to be fully absorbed
- Thick consistency
6. ROUND LAB Dokdo Toner
6. ROUND LAB Dokdo Toner
The ROUND LAB Dokdo Toner takes watery-style toner to a whole new level! This mineral-rich mix is infused with deep sea water from Korea’s Dokdo Island, offering a toner that exfoliates while it hydrates.
The toner is great for getting rid of the last bits of dead skin cells, thoroughly hydrating the face, and getting it nice and ready to absorb the best Korean moisturizer for dry skin (we like this hyaluronic acid-infused one by ROUND LAB too!).
We’re super impressed with how lightweight yet ultra-moisturizing this toner feels. The water-based toner gets absorbed in a jiffy and leaves skin looking soft and healthy.
What we love:
- Great for deep-moisturizing the skin
- Gently exfoliates skin
- Leaves skin feeling nourished and supple
- Clean ingredients – suitable for sensitive skin types
- Fragrance-free
Something to consider:
- The exfoliation effect is milder compared to acid-based toners
7. Numbuzin No.1 Centella Re-Leaf Green Toner Pad
7. Numbuzin No.1 Centella Re-Leaf Green Toner Pad
As an alternative to bottled toners, you can also try them in convenient pad form like the Numbuzin No.1 Centella Re-Leaf Green Toner Pad. The pre-soaked pads make for easy application, delivering just the right amount of toner with each cotton pad.
These super-soothing pads are made with centella asiatica extract to calm and hydrate irritated skin. Other nutrient-packed herbs like licorice root extract and heartleaf extract add to the soothing effect of these toner pads.
What we love:
- Great for soothing redness
- Gentle on irritated skin
- Pre-soaked cotton pads make for convenient application
- Clean ingredients – suitable for sensitive skin types
Something to consider:
- Not the most affordable toner for dry skin – it’s pricier compared to bottled toners
Best Hydrating Korean Toners For Dry Skin
From rice to ginseng, Korean best toners for dry skin use an imaginative range of natural ingredients to deliver skin-deep moisturization.
Here are our picks for the best Korean moisturizing toners:
8. I’m From Rice Toner
8. I’m From Rice Toner
We’re obsessed with the curation of skin-loving ingredients that go into this TikTok-viral toner! The I’m From Rice Toner cinches a spot as one of the best skin toners for dry skin thanks to the ultra-moisturizing properties of Goami rice extract.
If you’ve always been a fan of the rice water hack for healthy skin, you’ll love this hydrating toner. The rice extract, which makes up the most part of the formula, gently removes dead skin cells, seals moisture in, and protects against sun damage.
The two-layer toner has a combination of watery and emulsion texture. Mix well and let it glide richly on the skin. It’s oh-so-soothing! It does leave a bit of a sticky feeling on the skin though.
What we love:
- Great for deep-moisturizing the skin
- Helps to protect against sun damage (pair this with the best Korean sunscreens for dry skin!)
- Milky yet lightweight feel
- Fragrance-free
Something to consider:
- Leaves a bit of a sticky feeling
9. COSRX Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner
9. COSRX Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner
For something ultra-hydrating, take full advantage of COSRX Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner’s nourishing formula. Made with a high concentration of black bee propolis and honey extract, the toner feels like an absolute treat on the skin.
The watery texture is nice and lightweight. It absorbs pretty quickly and naturally brings out healthy-looking glowing skin.
For an extra boost in moisturizing and anti-aging properties, combine it with the COSRX Propolis Light Ampoule. The standout serum is truly one of the best Korean ampoules for dry skin.
What we love:
- Great for deep-moisturizing the skin
- Absorbs quickly
- Rejuvenates dull and dehydrated skin
- Clean ingredients – suitable for sensitive skin types
Something to consider:
- It’s pretty pricey
10. Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner
10. Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner
Earning rave reviews on Amazon for being one of the best moisturizing toners, the Haru Haru Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner is jam-packed with the good stuff to deep-hydrate dry, flaky skin.
The hydrating toner helps give skin its bounce back with fermented black rice and bamboo shoot barks. Hyaluronic acid provides skin-deep moisturization while plant-based glycerin locks in all that hydration for a healthy, dewy finish.
It has such a cool, comforting feel when you apply it. Heads up: This product contains fragrance.
What we love:
- Great for deep-moisturizing the skin
- Formula feels light and refreshing on the skin
- Absorbs quickly
- Rejuvenates dull and dehydrated skin
Something to consider:
- Contains fragrance
- Might not be the best face toner for dry skin that’s extra sensitive
11. ISNTREE Green Tea Fresh Toner
11. ISNTREE Green Tea Fresh Toner
We love a good refreshing toner and the ISNTREE Green Tea Fresh Toner checks all the marks! Yes, the ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Toner is the classic favorite for dry skin types, but we find that this matcha-infused one works wonders too.
The green tea version still contains hyaluronic acid in the formula and leaves the skin feeling refreshed and moisturized. The toner is also infused with centella asiatica extract to soothe irritation, combat sun damage, and refine fine lines and wrinkles.
As with most ISNTREE skincare products, this toner is made without parabens, artificial fragrances and dyes, sulfates, and mineral oils. Although it’s unscented, it does have an almost clinical smell.
What we love:
- Great for well-balanced skincare that soothes, hydrates, and refines
- Formula feels light and refreshing on the skin
- Absorbs quickly
- Clean ingredients – suitable for sensitive skin types
Something to consider:
- Has a noticeable scent (not totally unpleasant but might take getting used to)
12. Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water
12. Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water
Can you use essence water as toner? If the goal is to hydrate, absolutely! While toners are traditionally meant to balance pH levels and essences to moisturize skin, they have overlapping benefits these days thanks to the robust K-beauty industry.
Go with the best Korean essence for dry skin: Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water.
Made up mostly of ginseng extract, the soothing herbal formula pulls double duty in providing deep hydration and evening out skin tone. If you’re noticing a bright, glowing complexion, that’s probably thanks to the niacinamide.
We recommend pairing this with the Beauty of Joseon Revive Serum to get all the good stuff in ginseng. K-beauty fans swear by this best Korean serum for dry skin!
What we love:
- Great for deep-moisturizing the skin
- One of the best Korean toners for hyperpigmentation
- Helps to brighten complexion
Something to consider:
- Feels a little heavy on the skin
- Might not be the best Korean toner for acne-prone skin
13. TONYMOLY Wonder Ceramide Mochi Toner
13. TONYMOLY Wonder Ceramide Mochi Toner
If you’re looking for a standout K-beauty toner that can work some anti-aging magic, it’s gotta be the TONYMOLY Wonder Ceramide Mochi Toner.
The skin-repairing toner is formulated with ceramides to strengthen the skin’s natural moisture barrier while protecting the skin from environmental damage. The rich, creamy texture is perfect for targeting fine lines and wrinkles, giving an overall moisturized feel.
What we love:
- Great for refining fine lines and wrinkles
- Formula feels incredibly hydrating
- Rejuvenates dull and dehydrated skin
Something to consider:
- Has a strong citrus scent
- Might not be the best Korean facial toner for acne-prone skin
14. Numbuzin No.3 Super Glowing Essence Toner
14. Numbuzin No.3 Super Glowing Essence Toner
Made with 50 different types of fermented ingredients for skin barrier health, the Numbuzin No.3 Super Glowing Essence Toner is all set to deliver smooth, glowing skin. A touch of niacinamide helps to refine pores and soften fine lines and wrinkles.
The watery texture glides smoothly onto the skin and absorbs really quickly, serving as an excellent prep for all the skincare products to follow in the routine. This essence toner leaves skin feeling moisturized and refreshed.
If you need a little extra help with refining pores, follow up the toner with the Numbuzin No.3 Tingle-Pore Softening Sheet Mask. The mask penetrates deep into the pores to repair and refresh, making it one of the best Korean masks for dry skin.
What we love:
- Great for refining fine lines and wrinkles
- Rejuvenates dull and dehydrated skin
- Clean ingredients – suitable for sensitive skin types
Something to consider:
- Leaves a bit of a sticky feeling
Best Exfoliating Skin Toners For Dry Skin
When you have dry, flaky skin, it’s especially important to keep your face clean from dead skin cells using a gentle exfoliating toner.
Here are our picks for the best exfoliating Korean toners for dry skin:
16. Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Toner
16. Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Toner
The Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Toner is one of our favorite exfoliating acid toners for dry skin that’s able to give a deep-clean feel without drying out the skin.
The secret is in the unique formulation: The potent combo of AHA and BHA helps to unclog pores and scrub away dead skin cells, while green plum water and mung bean extract soothe and smooth the skin.
Although it’s meant to be safe for sensitive skin types, some users report this toner to be a bit too harsh on their skin.
What we love:
- Great for mildly exfoliating
- Deeply-moisturizing formula
- Rejuvenates dull and dehydrated skin
Something to consider:
- Might not be the best facial toner for dry skin that’s extra sensitive
16. SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
16. SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
If you’re on the lookout for a good acid toner that works great for dry skin, try the SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner.
The nutrient-rich ingredients list includes a potent blend of alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), beta hydroxy acids (BHA), and poly hydroxy acids (PHA) that gently exfoliates and naturally brightens the skin. The formula is great at dissolving excess sebum and dead skin cells, revealing smoother-looking skin.
This popular toner includes a high concentration of tea tree extract, which greatly helps to soothe breakouts and redness. You’ll notice that it lends a subtle, natural scent to the product too.
On the flip side, tea tree sensitivity is pretty common though. If you’re sensitive to this ingredient, this is one toner to avoid.
What we love:
- Great for mildly exfoliating
- Naturally brightens and smooths skin
- Pleasant tea tree oil scent
- Clean ingredients – suitable for sensitive skin types
Something to consider:
- Not suitable for those with tea tree sensitivity
- Can be a little too drying for some
17. Anua Heartleaf 77 Toner Pad
17. Anua Heartleaf 77 Toner Pad
Anua Heartleaf 77 Toner Pad is a travel-friendly way to have Anua’s signature heartleaf formula with you on the go!
You’ll notice a refreshing and hydrating feel as you glide the pads across your face, thanks to the heartleaf extract. These pads are also infused with PHA to exfoliate the skin while tightening pores and refining fine lines.
What we love:
- Great for mildly exfoliating
- Helps to refine pores and fine lines
- Pre-soaked cotton pads make for convenient application
- Clean ingredients – suitable for sensitive skin types
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan
Something to consider:
- Not the most affordable toner for dry skin – it’s pricier compared to bottled toners
18. Needly Exfoliating Toner Pad
18. Needly Exfoliating Toner Pad
You know we love the convenience of toner pads, and the Needly Exfoliating Toner Pad is another one we like! The textured side of the cotton pads scrubs away sebum and dead skin cells, while the smooth side can be used as a facial mask.
The pH 5.5 formula is packed with all the good stuff, including BHA for exfoliation and PHA for refining fine lines and wrinkles. Artemisia princeps leaf water offers deep-moisturizing properties in these multi-purpose pads.
What we love:
- Great for multi-purpose skincare that exfoliates, hydrates, and refines
- Pre-soaked cotton pads make for convenient application
- Gentle pH 5.5 formula – close to skin’s natural levels
- Formula feels light and refreshing on the skin
- Clean ingredients – suitable for sensitive skin types
Something to consider:
- Contains tea tree extract – not suitable for those with this sensitivity
Source: Alena Darmel
Is Toner Good Or Bad For Dry Skin?
Toners offer plenty of benefits for dry skin! Using good toners for dry skin helps with removing any leftover impurities, balancing pH levels, moisturizing the skin, and refining pores. Plus, applying toner can help the skin to better absorb skincare products.
Just be sure to go with hydrating toners if you have dry skin. Avoid alcohol-based ones as they can be incredibly drying.
How To Use Korean Toners
Toners are pretty versatile and can be used in many ways! Here are some ideas:
As Part Of Skin Care Routine
After cleansing, pour toner onto cotton pads. Apply to the central parts of the face and gently sweep outwards. Your skin is prepped and ready for the next part of the routine!
As A Soothing Mask
Pour toner liberally onto cotton pads until they’re soaked through. Place onto preferred areas on your face and leave for about 5 minutes. Remove pads from your face once they start to dry out.
As A Refreshing Pick-Me-Up
Pour toner onto hands and tap across the face. This is great for refreshing the skin, especially if you’re in a dry environment like an air-conditioned room.
Best Korean Toners For Dry Skin FAQs
What Is The Best Korean Toner For Dry Skin?
These are the Top 3 best Korean toners for dry skin:
- Best Korean Toner For Dry Acne-Prone Skin: Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
- Best Korean Moisturizing Toners For Dry Skin: I’m From Rice Toner
- Best Exfoliating Korean Toners For Dry Skin: Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Toner
Is Toner Good For Dry Skin Every Day?
Yes, toner is good for dry skin as part of your daily skincare routine! Toners for dry skin are gentle enough for everyday use in the morning and evening.
Can I Skip Toner And Use Moisturizer?
Toners are optional – you can skip them and go straight to moisturizing. That being said, toners are loaded with skin-boosting benefits so you’ll probably want to keep it in your routine.
Can I Skip Toner And Use Serum?
Yes, you can skip toner and use serum. If you want to use both in your skincare routine, start with toner first, followed by serum.
Why Does My Toner Make My Face Dry?
The ingredients in the toner can have a drying effect on the skin, especially if they’re alcohol-based. If your skin feels dry after using toner, switch to an extra-hydrating one like the I’m From Rice Toner.
Should I Skip Toner If I Have Dry Skin?
No, you shouldn’t skip toner if you have dry skin. Using a moisturizing toner can help with hydrating the skin, balancing pH levels, removing dead skin cells, refining pores, and reducing fine lines.
Can I Apply Sunscreen After Toner?
Sunscreen should be applied as the last step of your morning skincare routine. Going with the full K-beauty routine? Once you’re done with the toner, follow with essence, serum, eye cream, and moisturizer. Lastly, apply sunscreen.
Who Shouldn’t Use Toner?
Toners are not off-limits for any skin type as long as you pick one that’s suitable. If you’re worried about sensitivities when using a toner, start with one that uses clean and minimal ingredients like the Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner.
Is Micellar Water A Toner?
Yes, micellar water can be used as a toner. Just keep in mind that micellar water can form a pore-clogging film when left on the face, so using a toner is generally a better idea.
How Do I Know If My Toner Is Hydrating?
Check the ingredients list to see if your toner is hydrating. Hydrating toners usually include moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, heartleaf, and ginseng.
Source: Ron Lach
Summary: Best Korean Toners For Dry Skin
Coveting that signature glass-skin look? Make sure to add the best Korean toners for dry skin to your daily skincare routine!
Not sure which toner to get? Here’s a recap of our favorite ones:
- Best Korean Toner For Dry Acne-Prone Skin: Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
- Best Korean Moisturizing Toners For Dry Skin: I’m From Rice Toner
- Best Exfoliating Korean Toners For Dry Skin: Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Toner
Catch up on more K-beauty buzz with our latest skincare features!