The best toners in Kenya, and which one your skin needs

Toner confuses a lot of people. The old idea of toner was a stinging, alcohol-heavy liquid that “finished” your cleanse. Most modern toners do the opposite. They add water, calm the skin and prepare it for serum and moisturiser. Here is what each kind of toner does, and the ones we recommend in Kenya.

Do you actually need a toner?

Not strictly. A cleanser, a moisturiser and a sunscreen cover the basics. A toner earns its place if your skin feels tight after washing, if you want an extra calming layer in the dry season, or if you want something lighter than cream on hot Nairobi days.

The main types of toner

• Hydrating toners are water-light and add moisture. Good for dry, tight or dull skin.
• Soothing toners use calming plants such as heartleaf or centella. Good for redness, breakouts and sensitive skin.
• Brightening toners often use rice or niacinamide for skin that looks dull or uneven.
• Exfoliating toners contain acids such as glycolic or salicylic acid. Useful, but strong. Use them a few times a week, never on irritated skin.
• Astringents are usually alcohol-heavy. They give a quick matte feel but can leave skin tight, so they are not our first choice.

Our picks

Best for oily and breakout-prone skin: Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner

Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner is one of the most popular Korean toners for good reason. It is watery, calms redness and helps balance oil. It suits oily, combination and sensitive skin, and works well in hot weather.

Best for glow: Anua Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner

Anua Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner is a milky toner with rice, niacinamide, ceramides, panthenol and hyaluronic acid. It gives a soft, dewy finish and suits most skin types, including oily skin that still feels dry.

Most hydrating: I’m From Rice Toner

I’m From Rice Toner is made with Goami rice for moisture and a brighter-looking finish. It feels richer than a typical toner, which makes it a good dry season choice.

Best budget toner for sensitive skin: Simple Kind to Skin Soothing Toner

Simple Kind to Skin Soothing Toner is alcohol-free and gentle. If you are new to toner, or your skin reacts to most things, start here.

For a more even look: Clear Essence Brightening Tonic Lotion

Clear Essence Brightening Tonic Lotion is an alcohol-free tonic aimed at dullness and uneven-looking tone. Use it with a daily sunscreen, or the sun will undo your efforts.

Our toners cost roughly KSh 950 to KSh 3,400. The larger Anua bottles last a long time because you only need a few drops each use.

How to use a toner

Use toner after cleansing and before serum. Pour a few drops into your palms and press them gently into your face and neck. A cotton pad works too, but it soaks up more product. In the dry season, you can apply two or three thin layers, letting each one sink in, for extra moisture.

Morning

1. Cleanser.
2. Toner.
3. Serum, if you use one.
4. Moisturiser.
5. Sunscreen.

Night

The same, without sunscreen. If you double cleanse, toner comes after the second wash. Our Korean skincare routine guide shows where toner fits in a longer routine.

Questions we get asked

What is the best toner for oily skin in Kenya?

Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner. It is light, calming and helps balance oil without the tight feel of an alcohol astringent.

How much is a good toner in Kenya?

Our toners cost roughly KSh 950 for the Simple Soothing Toner up to about KSh 3,400 for I’m From Rice Toner. The live prices are in the list above.

Do I use toner before or after serum?

Before. The order is cleanser, toner, serum, moisturiser, and sunscreen in the morning. Thin, watery products go first and thicker ones last.

Is rice toner good for skin?

Rice toners like I’m From Rice Toner and Anua Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner are hydrating and give a soft, bright-looking finish. They suit dull or dry skin well, and most skin types can use them.

Can a toner remove dark spots?

Not on its own. A brightening toner can help skin look more even, but for marks a targeted serum and daily sunscreen do most of the work. Expect weeks, not days.

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See every toner we stock in our toners section, or the full Anua range. Choosing for a skin type? Read skincare for oily skin in Kenya, products for sensitive skin, or our guide to fading dark spots. Order on WhatsApp or online, with same-day delivery in Nairobi and pay on delivery.