Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links and the products featured were provided for review.Alcohol-free versions of the Thayers' original astringent toner were first available back in 1989 and have received a repackaging and reformulation in the past couple of years. I recall trying the alcohol version of the toner in my early teens but haven't used the brand in years. Recently, Thayer's sent over a few alcohol-free toners from its now much more extensive line-up so I wanted to give the revamped formula a try. To read my review of the Rose Petal, Coconut Water, and Unscented
Thayer's Witch Hazel Aloe Vera Formula Toner (C$17.99 for 355ml), click......
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| Thayer's | Witch Hazel Aloe Vera Formula Toner Rose Petal, Coconut Water & Unscented |
Housed in a cylindrical plastic bottle topped with a flip cap, the Thayer's Witch Hazel Aloe Vera Formula Toner is described as a "pH balanced, gentle toner" formulated with water, glycerin, and non-distilled witch hazel high in tannins known for its antioxidant properties, and aloe juice. The alcohol-free formulation is also vegan and cruelty-free. Within the skincare community, witch hazel is a pretty controversial ingredient. While the alcohol used in the distillation of witch hazel is the major culprit for its drying effect, the alcohol-free versions still draw criticism as witch hazel itself is an astringent that can be drying and sensitizing to some. I'm not sure where I stand on this topic but speaking from experience as someone with combination skin, I've not personally had any issues with the ingredient.
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| Thayer's | Witch Hazel Aloe Vera Formula Toner Rose Petal, Coconut Water & Unscented |
With a lightweight, watery consistency, Thayer's Witch Hazel Aloe Vera Formula Toner is available in a handful of different varieties including "Original", Blemish Clearing/Lemon, Lavender, and Cucumber. I have here the Rose Petal (the brand's bestseller), Coconut Water, and Unscented. The formulation for all three is largely identical with the most notable difference being the scent. Rose Petal has a soft rose water smell, the coconut water has a sweet coconut scent, and the unscented, needless to say, has no smell. The formulation spread easily on the skin and there's no cooling sensation given the alcohol-free formulation. The toners absorb easily with no noticeable residue. The formulation is lightly hydrating and I've not experienced any drying effect or sensitivities. Overall, I really like the Thayer's Witch Hazel Aloe Vera Formula Toners. As is the case with most toners I've tried, these are not game-changers or absolute necessities in my skincare routine but they do function as a nice first step in preparation for serums and moisturizers. Given their wide availability and reasonable pricing, the Thayer's Witch Hazel Aloe Vera Formula Toners make great everyday toners for those looking for a lightly moisturizing toner.
Ingredients (Rose Petal): Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Rosa Centifolia (Rose) Flower Water, Parfum/Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Potassium Hydroxide.
Ingredients (Coconut Water): Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Water, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Potassium Hydroxide.
Ingredients (Unscented): Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Potassium Hydroxide.
Availability:
Thayer's is available at London Drugs, Shoppers Drug Mart, Walmart, and other mass retailers nationwide.
