9 Best Milky Toners For Glowing, Dewy Skin

Despite promising myself that 2025 would be the year that I cut down my screen time, as a beauty editor I find myself perpetually online finding inspiration for the biggest beauty trends of the year and trying to spot emerging ones. And chances are, if you spend any time scrolling social media at all, you will have noticed that there’s been something of a buzz around milky toners at the moment. However, unlike other more questionable skincare trends, this one is actually for good reason.

“Milky toners have gone viral on TikTok, thanks to trends like glazed skin which focus on deep hydration and a radiant glow,” explains Dr Emma Cunningham, aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Emma Clinics. “They’ve become a must-have for anyone looking to boost their glow and maintain a healthy skin barrier—combining a traditional toner’s refreshing feel with a moisturiser’s nourishing benefits.”

Promising plump, dewy, hydrated skin, adding a milky toner to your skincare routine might sound like an extra step that you don’t need, but it’s actually a really hassle-free way of achieving a juicy complexion. “The rise of ‘skinimalism’—a minimalist skincare routine—has made milky toners even more appealing as they offer hydration and toning in one simple step, which is perfect for those who want a practical, fuss-free routine,” explains Dr Cunningham. “They’re a real multitasker with a creamy, lightweight texture that helps calm, hydrate and balance skin.”

Known for their ability to boost moisture levels, soften and smooth, and really bring the glow, milky toners are a surprisingly versatile product that work for a whole host of skin types. “Milky toners are perfect for dry, sensitive or dehydrated skin, because they provide deep hydration without feeling heavy or greasy,” says Dr Cunninhgam. “But that doesn’t mean they’re only for dry skin types—lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas can also balance oil production and keep combination or oily skin hydrated without clogging pores.” This makes them a great option for those who want to get their oil in check without having to rely on a mattifying moisturiser for oily skin.

Even better, adding a milky toner to your skincare could actually make the rest of your routine more efficacious. “They’re packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide and botanical extracts, to lock in moisture, strengthen the skin barrier and reduce redness. Plus, they actually hydrate and preps the skin, making serums and moisturisers absorb better for maximum benefits,” says Dr Cunningham.