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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 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: Medik8 Press and Glow Toner, $35
- Best for Redness: Aestura A-Cica365 Cooling Relief Toner Pads pH4.5, $28
- Best for Large Pores: SkinCeuticals LHA Toner, $44
- Best for Dullness: Paula’s Choice Enriched Calming Toner, $32
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: Medik8 Press and Glow Toner
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Medik8
Press and Glow Toner
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Why it’s worth it: The last thing your skin needs is an exfoliating toner that leaves it feeling tight and dry. That's why we like Medik8's Press & Glow Exfoliating PHA Tonic, which contains glycerin to keep skin moisturized. “It's one of my favorite humectants to keep the skin looking fresh and bouncy,” says Carlos Vieira, a board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia. As for its exfoliating powers, “it's formulated with 5.5% gluconolactone, a type of polyhydroxy acid that gently removes dead skin cells while helping skin hold onto moisture,” says Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans. The toner also includes soothing ingredients like aloe vera, acai, and prickly pear extracts to keep irritation in check.
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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“It’s only recently that I’ve become a toner convert, and this one finally convinced me that toners aren’t the stingy, drying formulas of the past. It feels as gentle as water (don’t worry—it’s definitely not just water) on my dry, sensitive skin. The mild exfoliating acids are cushioned with aloe vera, leaving my skin soft, calm, and refreshingly clean.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: 5.5% gluconolactone, glycerin, aloe vera, acai, prickly pear extracts
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Redness: Aestura A-Cica365 Cooling Relief Toner Pads pH4.5
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Aestura
A-Cica365 Cooling Relief Toner Pads pH4.5
Amazon
Sephora
Why it’s worth it: You probably don't think much about your skin's pH, but it can affect how your skin looks and feels. Skin is naturally slightly acidic (around 4.5 to 5.5), which keeps its protective barrier healthy. As we age, though, that pH can creep up, leaving skin more prone to dryness, irritation, and redness. Aestura's toner pads have a pH of 4.5 to restore balance, plus a blend of Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica) and zinc to soothe irritation and calm visible redness, and PHA to gently remove dead skin cells without going overboard. “Hyaluronic acid helps keep skin hydrated, while niacinamide works on uneven tone and brightens skin,” says Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. The pads also feel slightly cooling on contact, making them especially refreshing when your skin needs a little pick-me-up. “I also love how they stay moist for a very long time,” says Dr. Chang, so you can leave them on for a few minutes as a quick mini mask.
Tester feedback from former features director Dianna Singh
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“My super-fair skin has always leaned a little bit pink, but lately, I've been dealing with genuine redness. (I blame pregnancy, cold temperatures, and Best of Beauty testing.) These toning pads have an instant soothing effect and help reduce some of the rosiness on my cheeks in just about 10 minutes of wear.” —Dianna Singh, former features director
More to know
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- Key ingredients: pH4.5 Cica complex (Centella asiatica, zinc, PHA), hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Uneven Texture: Biologique Recherche Lotion P50V
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Biologique Recherche
Lotion P50V
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Why it’s worth it: The “50” in Biologique Recherche's Lotion P50V refers to the roughly 50 days it takes for skin to go through two renewal cycles—which is also how long the brand suggests giving the formula to improve skin texture and tone. "Biologique's P50 philosophy emphasizes maintaining an acidic skin environment, which helps keep its protective barrier functioning properly," says Alessandra Haskin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. To smooth things out, the formula uses a mix of exfoliating acids, including lactic, salicylic, and phytic acids, along with gluconolactone to loosen and remove dead skin cells.
Also FYI, P50 comes in several versions: While P50V is geared toward mature skin, P50W is designed for sensitive skin, and P50 PIGM 400 targets dark spots. Fair warning: While it has no added fragrance, the botanical extracts, vinegar, and sulfur give it a noticeable scent.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: lactic, salicylic, and phytic acids, gluconolactone, vinegar, sulfur
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: Isntree Ultra-Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Toner
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Isntree
Ultra-Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Toner
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Why it’s worth 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 Dr. Haskin. 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.
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- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, betaine, panthenol, allantoin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Large Pores: SkinCeuticals LHA Toner
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SkinCeuticals
LHA Toner
SkinCeuticals
Dermstore
Bluemercury
Why it’s worth 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 gentler 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.” And LHA isn't working alone: The formula also contains salicylic acid to help tackle excess oil and clogged pores, plus glycolic acid to smooth rough texture and uneven tone.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: lipohydroxy acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dullness: Paula’s Choice Enriched Calming Toner
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Paula's Choice
Enriched Calming Toner
Amazon
Dermstore
Why it’s worth it: Paula's Choice has no shortage of toners—nine, 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
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 Dry Skin: Laneige Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner & Moisturizer
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Laneige
Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner & Moisturizer
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Sephora
Why it’s worth 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 two-time Best of Beauty winner (2026 and 2024!) 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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“I love this product both in traditional toner and mist form! Whether I'm applying a few dollops in the a.m. to wake up my skin or misting throughout the day to, well, reawaken my skin, I get an instant boost of moisture that my skin drinks up. Hello, plumpness! The milky, lightweight texture is great for all year round; I'll just add additional layers when it's a little colder and drier out, or stick to one when it's hotter and muggier.” —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
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use toner on mature skin?
While facial toners aren't always necessary, mature skin can benefit from a formula that supports the skin barrier while addressing 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. Karan Lal, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona, 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% of their collagen during the first five years of menopause, with levels continuing to drop gradually afterward. Because of this, Dr. Rambhia says someone in their fifties should look for a toner that replenishes and supports 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
- Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm based in New York City
- Saami Khalifian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of SOM Aesthetics in San Diego
- Karan Lal, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona
- 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 in an effort 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 (or lack thereof), 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. 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.
