Burn factor: 3/5
What it does: Of the new batch of glow tonics, this product is one of Mitan's favorites. "It contains a potent formula — the combination of the exfoliator with the amino acids and aloe vera will lower irritation of the skin while producing powerful results," she says.
TotalBeauty's take: An under-$10 toner with such a high concentration of glycolic acid is pretty extraordinary in the beauty world. If you're new to skin acids, try a less powerful product before working up to this one; it has an accessible price tag, but it's not for noobs.
Buy now
Burn factor: 2/5
What it does: "This product contains 8 percent glycolic acid to chemically exfoliate and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, so it is a bit stronger than other toners in this list," says Mitan. "I like that it combines chamomile and aloe vera to calm the skin's natural barrier."
TotalBeauty's take: The product's glycolic acid concentration sounded like a wallop, so I was pleasantly surprised by how non-drying and non-tingly it felt. I'd have no problem incorporating this into my daily anti-aging routine once or twice daily to minimize lines.
Buy now
Burn factor: 1/5
What it does: "I really like the probiotic approach in this product and how it includes lactococcus ferent lysate," says Mitan. "Our microbiome (which is all the teeny, tiny microorganisms cleaning out skin) will become healthier using probiotics." Mushroom and beet extracts help nourish and hydrate the skin, she explains, while blueberry extract and turmeric fight oxidation.
TotalBeauty's take: The liquid-gel consistency of this product is a genius feature; not only does it feel lovely on skin, you can pat it on with your hands so you don't need to waste any product by applying it with cotton. The probiotic-packed, gentle formula makes this product a good bet for those with rosacea or acne.
Buy now
Burn factor: 2/5
What it does: "This product has the most minimal ingredients of [the products on] the list, but it does not necessarily mean it is not as effective," says Mitan. "It uses a much higher concentration of salicylic acid (2 percent) combined with one of the most powerful antioxidants, green tea, that has calming properties."
TotalBeauty's take: This is like a grown-up version of my favorite acne-fighting drugstore astringent — just as powerful but way more soothing. It feels less like a toner and more like a light facial oil. Just be careful using it with other anti-acne products, which may lead to skin dryness.
Buy now
Burn factor: 3/5
What it does: "This company has an incredible reputation," Mitan says of Biologique Recherche, a brand introduced in 1970 that has a cult following today. "They used exfoliator agents (AHAs, BHAs and PHAs) together with purifying lightening and antioxidant ingredients to maximize the potency of the formula."
TotalBeauty's take: So much has been said of this HG toner's strength and scent — it's a favorite product on Reddit's Skincare Addiction subreddit — that I literally held my breath when I applied it. Luckily, the funky scent dissipates rather quickly, and the tingle is so much milder than I anticipated.
Buy now
