Paulas Choice SKIN BALANCING Pore-Reducing Face Toner with Niacinamide for Oily Skin Combination Minimizes Large Pores Controls Oil

The media could not be loaded. I’ve been using the Paula’s Choice Pore-Reducing Toner and the difference in my skin is honestly amazing. My pores look smaller, my skin feels more balanced, and I’ve noticed a much more even tone overall. It gives my skin that hydrated, healthy look without feeling heavy or greasy. What I love most is that it’s alcohol-free, so it doesn’t sting or dry me out. Instead, it leaves my skin soft, refreshed, and ready for the rest of my routine. I have combination skin, and this toner has done a great job helping control oil throughout the day while still giving me enough hydration. After using it consistently, my skin just looks smoother and clearer — the results are definitely noticeable. If you have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin and want something gentle that actually makes a difference, this toner is absolutely worth trying. Read more

This toner has been a lifesaver for my oily/combination skin! It feels super refreshing and lightweight, and it doesn’t leave my skin tight or dry like some other toners do. After using it consistently, I’ve noticed less shine during the day and my pores look a bit smaller and smoother. I also love that it has niacinamide—it really helps calm redness and balance my skin tone. It layers well with the rest of my skincare routine and doesn’t cause any irritation. The bottle is big and lasts a long time, which makes the price very reasonable. I’ll definitely keep this in my routine for the long run! Read more

I’ve tried many MANY products on my face over the past couple decades, all price ranges. Paula’s Choice products are the only line that’s tough enough to get the job done but gentle enough to not make your face peel. Her products are pricey but they work and they’re worth every penny. The AHA/BHA might/day combo are the magic elixir to keeping my pores unclogged and skin glowy Read more

My favorite toner, been using for years. Very refreshing and get any residual makeup that I missed when washing my face. Not sure I see any pore reduction Read more

Paula’s Choice toner is hands-down one of the best skincare products I’ve used. From the very first week, my skin felt calmer, smoother, and more balanced. It’s incredibly gentle yet effective—no stinging, no irritation, just clean, refreshed skin that actually feels cared for. What I love most is how lightweight it is. It absorbs quickly, layers beautifully with serums and moisturizers, and leaves my skin hydrated without any residue or tightness. Over time, I noticed improved texture, fewer clogged pores, and a healthier overall glow. The formula feels thoughtfully made—fragrance-free, non-drying, and perfect for daily use, even on sensitive skin. It truly preps my skin and makes the rest of my routine work better. If you’re looking for a toner that actually does something without being harsh, Paula’s Choice delivers. Worth every penny and a permanent staple in my skincare routine. I partner it with Paula’s Choice Exfoliant BHA Toner and my 40 year old skin feels and looks like my high school skin again! Read more

Great product, does what it says and I will be buying again! Read more

I've been holding off on this review, hoping for something to justify its price. However, I have not found anything to do so. While its a good toner, its exactly that, just a good toner. I was using a drug store witch hazel toner before this. I have oily skin that does so much better without toner, letting my face wash and matching moisturizer do its thing. However, toner is a must to thoroughly clean your face and remove skin flaking (I use cvs brand exfoliating cotton rounds, nothing compares to them). I don't have acne, so I can't speak for that aspect. I can say I have noticed in comparison to the toner I was using prior, I blot my face less. However, I still have to blot all day, so this toner isn't really doing me much of a favor. And again, this is also combined with a great face wash and moisturizer for oily skin. Overall, I don't see the $22 price tag I bought it for as justifiable. I've used many oily skin products over the years, from drug store to department store; from my experience, this toner is over-priced. Maybe it will work for you, and work well for acne. For myself, I will be trying other brands in hope to one day find a toner that has real oil control. ----- Update: 12/9/25 - this bottle ran out weeks ago and I have not replaced with another toner. I have been only using my face wash and moisturizer (c r ve), both formulated for oily skin. My face has never been so oil-free for so many hours (I barely blot now). After all these years, I am convinced that while toners help remove extra dirt, they have no other benefits for oily skin (unless I've yet to find the magical oily skin formula that actually works). For reference, I wash with a face cloth once or twice per week (depending on if I feel I need it, but usually once per week), for exfoliation/removing dead skin cells. Other than that, I just use my hands with my face wash for daily washes. I hope this helps at least one person that has had similar trials and errors! Read more

Love this stuff! I pair it with the paulas choice clear face wash and its done amazing things to my problematic skin. I have combination skin that usually gets oily under my makeup through the day and this helps so much with reducing that. I used to struggle with occasional acne but since pairing these two, as long as I stay consistent, I don't even get the dots around "that time of month" Read more