Photo ยฉElise Hassey
Applied after cleansing and before serums, toners have evolved dramatically from the oil-stripping, alcohol-laden astringents of the past. Once used primarily to remove makeup residue or provide a squeaky clean feeling, toners today have become highly versatile, designed to balance, hydrate and prepare the skin for subsequent products.
In the realm of skincare, the French have always preferred a patient approach over aggressive treatments. The French beauty world has therefore been long-time producers of some of the markets most coveted toners, which work with the skinโs natural function to gently plump and brighten, without damaging or stripping.
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An indispensable first leave-on step after cleansing, weโve curated a selection of seven exceptional French toners, celebrated for their high-quality ingredients, thoughtful formulations and skin health benefits. Infused with nourishing ingredients, whether youโre seeking hydration, anti-aging benefits, pore refinement, or soothing botanicals, these seven French toners offer something for everyone โ creating an enviable base for glowing, healthy skin.
Biologique Recherche: Lotion P50
For an even, radiant complexion
$88
Biologique Recherche’s cult-favorite Lotion P50 1970 is often referred to as a โfacial in a bottle.โ With a holistic approach, the famous P50 1970 toner carefully combines gentle acids (including lactic, malic and salicylic acids) with fortifying vitamins to exfoliate and rebalance the skinโs pH, promoting cell renewal and refining pores.
Known for its potent formula, it suits those looking to address dullness, congestion and uneven texture. Best applied in the evening 1 – 3 times per week, expect a mild tingling sensation โ those with sensitive skin may want to try the updated P50 formula for gentler exfoliation.
Lancรดme: Hydrating Toner with Hyaluronic Acid
For nourished skin
$42
Beloved for their combination of scientific precision with indulgent textures, Lancรดme’s Hydrating Toner is designed to envelop the skin in a cushion of moisture. This soothing toner contains hyaluronic acid and honey extract, two ingredients proven to deep hydrate and nourish the skin. Its thick, lotion-like consistency makes it particularly suitable for dry and sensitive skin, delivering a comforting, non-irritating experience that helps smooth and restore the skinโs natural barrier.
Chanel: Revitalizing Essence Lotion
For a plump complexion
$125
Chanelโs Nยฐ1 DE CHANEL line brings together sophistication and advanced skincare. At the heart of the Revitalizing Essence Lotion is red camellia extract, valued for its antioxidant properties and luminous effect on the skin. This lightweight, milky essence-toner hybrid is also especially good at prepping the skin for serums and creams, enhancing their absorption. With its nourishing formula, itโs particularly well-suited to a range of skin types, especially those seeking an anti-aging boost.
Caudalie: Vinopure Salicylic Acid Pore Minimizing Toner
For minimizing pores
$30
Caudalie, founded in Bordeauxโs wine country, draws on the antioxidant power of grapevine polyphenols. Loved for their targeted products, their Vinopure Natural Salicylic Acid Toner is designed for those needing to purify and balance oily, or acne-prone skin. Formulated with natural salicylic acid derived from wintergreen, it helps to clear pores, reduce breakouts and regulate sebum production. The addition of organic rose water and grape seed polyphenols enhances th’s toner’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, making it ideal for troubled, stressed out skin.
La Mer: The Essential Tonic
For thirsty skin
$120
La Merโs ocean-based luxury skincare is world renowned โ for good reason. This toner combines the brandโs signature Miracle Broth โ a potent infusion of nutrient-rich sea kelp โ with additional marine extracts to soothe, energize and protect the skin from environmental stressors. Lightweight and silky texture, it works to restore moisture balance and gently refresh the skin. An excellent choice for sensitive or dehydrated skin types.
Guerlain: Royal Honey Anti-Aging Fortifying Lotion Toner
For supple skin
$85
Guerlain has dedicated its Abeille Royale (Royal Honey) line to harnessing the restorative properties of bee products. Their anti-aging toner uses royal jelly and honey, rich in vitamins, minerals and amino acids, to visibly firm, fortify and revitalize the skin.
Designed with mature and dry skin types in mind, this rich toner helps reduce signs of fatigue, enhances elasticity and leaves skin feeling silky, deeply hydrating and youthfully supple.
Typology: Organic Orange Blossom Hydrolate
For a fresh feel
$22.90
Using high-quality and sustainably sourced ingredients, Typology brings a refreshing, minimalist approach to skincare. Their Organic Orange Blossom Hydrolate is made of a 100% pure distillation of orange blossom, revered for its calming and toning effects on the skin. This gentle toner hydrates and balances, making it suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive and combination skin. Lightweight and naturally fragrant, this hydrolate can be used throughout the day to refresh the skin. Alternatively, apply after cleansing to add an immediate boost of hydration, leaving the complexion plump and dewy.
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