Milky toners are trending online, and these 12 are truly deserving of the buzz.

      (Image credit: @kaitlyn_mclintock; original art by Audrey Hedlund)

      Some refer to them as milky toners, while others call them milky essences or skin milks. Despite their various, somewhat ambiguous names, they are ubiquitous online. A quick scroll through Instagram or TikTok reveals numerous celebrities, influencers, and skincare professionals incorporating them into their Get Ready With Me (GRWM) videos. These products are not exactly new; they have been around for a while but have seen a surge in popularity recently, largely due to the "skin flooding" trend and the internet’s fixation on smoothing, plumping, and moisturizing solutions. Furthermore, today's offerings feature advanced formulations that include hydrating moisturizers, soothing ingredients that strengthen the skin barrier, and actives that enhance skin glow. Dr. Brendan Camp, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in NYC, describes these products as toner-moisturizer hybrids. "Milky products have a milk-like look and texture due to the emulsification of oils and water-soluble ingredients. Unlike traditional toners, milky toners are more hydrating and can sometimes act as both a toner and a lightweight moisturizer." For many individuals, especially during fall and winter when skin issues like dryness, redness, and irritation become more prevalent, these toners have become essential. Personally, my skin absorbs them wonderfully, enjoying the hydration and comfort they provide. However, I am selective about which milky toner I use—after trying countless formulas, I have narrowed it down to 12 expert-recommended options that are truly worth the attention. Below, you'll find my top 12 milky toners available today, as endorsed by both myself (a beauty editor) and two leading skin experts.

      The Best Milky Toners, Ranked

      - Best Overall: Rhode Glazing Milk

      - Best Affordable: Bubble Cosmic Silk Hydrating Milky Toner

      - Best Barrier-Strengthening: Ilia The Base Face Milk

      - Best Brightening: Chanel Éclat Premier Bright Milky Essence

      - Best Exfoliating: Eadem Cashmere Peel Gentle AHA + PHA Exfoliating Toner

      - Best Spray: Violette_FR Boum Boum Milk

      Best Overall: Rhode Glazing Milk

      Size: 2.2 or 4.2 oz | Key Ingredients: Ceramide trio, mineral complex, vitamin E

      I believe Hailey Bieber's Rhode Glazing Milk has significantly fueled the internet's fascination with milky toners. Launched as one of her initial skincare products, it has garnered immense popularity since. As a beauty editor, I find it easy to dismiss celebrity-endorsed products as mere hype (especially in today's saturated market). However, this product genuinely lives up to its reputation. Its milky, creamy texture envelops the skin in luxurious moisture. Ingredients like ceramides, magnesium, zinc, and copper contribute to skin strengthening and anti-irritation effects, while vitamin E provides antioxidant defense. Additionally, Rhode’s Glazing Milk bestows a beautiful, dewy glow on my skin, truly living up to its name. In my opinion, it's the ideal product to prep the skin before moisturizer and makeup.

      Beauty editor Kaitlyn McLintock after using Rhode Glazing Fluid. (Image credit: @kaitlyn_mclintock)

      Customer review: "Rhode Glazing Milk instantly makes my skin appear healthier. It’s extremely lightweight and absorbs quickly, imparting a fresh, dewy glow without greasiness. It preps the skin so well—my moisturizer and makeup apply beautifully, as if my skin is smoother and more hydrated. If you desire that radiant, glazed look effortlessly, this is the perfect daily step. It’s gentle, soothing, and makes my skin feel alive."

      Best Affordable: Bubble Cosmic Silk Hydrating Milky Toner

      Size: 3.4 oz | Key Ingredients: Oleic acid, linoleic acid, arnica, allantoin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, maple sap water

      I stand firmly by the belief that drugstore skincare can rival or even surpass high-end options. When friends or family ask for a budget-friendly recommendation, I always suggest Bubble's Cosmic Silk Hydrating Milky Toner. This product is creamy yet lightweight, non-comedogenic, and effectively soothes redness and irritation—truly versatile! Its impressive ingredient list includes ceramides, hyaluronic acid, fatty acids, and the skin-calming properties of arnica and allantoin. The only drawback? The twist-top packaging can be tricky; if you're not careful, it can spill, resulting in waste. Nevertheless, I rate it as my top drugstore choice because the formula is outstanding.

      Customer review: "This product is incredibly hydrating. In the harsh midwestern winters, my skin often gets tight and itchy, but this has been a total lifesaver