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From milky emulsions to glow-boosting tonics, the best Korean toners are suddenly everywhere on TikTok.
Courtesy of brands / Original photo fromGlamourcontributor / Gabrielle Langdon
AsKorean sunscreensandmoisturizersgo viral, it makes sense that facialtonerswould follow suit as the first step in yourskin care routine.
The use of Korean toners has become more widespread with the surging popularity ofKorean skin care products, saysY.
Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist atUnionDermin New York.
Theyre an essential step.
To find K-beautys most effective options, we polled beauty experts andGlamoureditors on the formulations theyve personally tested.
Below, their top recommendations for every skin throw in, complexion concern, and price point.
The best Korean toner for you depends entirely on your skin jot down.
Is Korean essence the same as toner?
In K-beauty, Korean essences fall under the wider category of toners.
It removes my makeup cleanly without stinging my eyes, says Cho.
Cho especially loves the inclusion of a high percentage of licorice root, which is a natural brightener.
Use it to targetdark spots, or just to give your complexion an allover glow boost.
Ive run through multiple bottles over the years and love how lightweight yet moisturizing it feels.
Dr. Chang recommends this hydrating essence for dry or dehydrated skin in need of a powerful boost of hydration.
According to Dr. Chang, its benefits include hydrating, repairing, and brightening.
With regular use, the formulas sebum-controlling properties also help my nose pores and blackheads look less congested.
Dr. Chang loves the hydrating, glow-boosting effect of this formula when her complexion looks dull.
The former helps brighten, while the latter ingredients speed up skin-cell turnover for smoother skin.
Its packed with 80% panax ginseng root water, ginseng extract, and niacinamide.
The added niacinamide also helps skin look smoother, brighter, and more balanced.
While it doesnt contain any fragrance, the formula features a subtle herbal scent from the ginseng root.
In testing, I loved how hydrated, healthy, and smooth it made my skin feel.
Although its extremely moisturizing, it has a lightweight, refreshing feel that absorbs in seconds.
I love how it preps my skin for the rest of my routine without feeling heavy or sticky.
I personally love this formula for days when my combination skin leans dry.
It makes my skin look immediately bouncier and dewier, and my face just drinks it up.
Its a TikTok favorite, says Cho.
She loves the way her complexion looks and feels healthy and plump after just one use.
This hydrating cleansing toner is easily among the best Ive tried.
It featuresCentella asiaticaextract (also known as cica), a dermatologist-loved ingredient for its potent calming properties.
Try it if you dislike heavy toners; it goes on light and absorbs instantly.
Its also extremely hydrating.
Cho loves the slightly viscous texture that doubles as a moisturizer if you layer it a few times.
Its made with mildly exfoliating papaya extracts and hydrating botanicals that Cho says create a clean and hydrated feeling.
