Floral Toning Lotion
Floral Toning Lotion
Product Description
Product overview
A luxurious, alcohol-free toning lotion infused with hydrolats of Rose, Cornflower, and Witch Hazel that soothes, tones, and prepares dry and sensitive skin for your daily skincare routine. Made by Sisley Paris, this French botanical toner removes residual impurities while leaving skin soft, fresh, and comfortable.
Triple Floral Hydrolat Blend
Combines Rose, Cornflower, and Witch Hazel flower waters for a synergistic soothing and toning effect that calms even the most reactive skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Floral Hydrolat Blend
Combines Rose, Cornflower, and Witch Hazel flower waters for a synergistic soothing and toning effect that calms even the most reactive skin.
100% Alcohol-Free Formula
Unlike many toners, this formula contains zero alcohol — avoiding the stripping and drying effects that irritate sensitive and dry skin types.
Post-Cleanse Purifier
Removes final traces of makeup and cleanser residue while rebalancing skin's pH, prepping it to absorb serums and moisturizers more effectively.
Minimalist Clean Formula
Only 16 ingredients with a focus on botanical extracts. Free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, and mineral oil for a gentle, pure approach.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains fragrance and essential oil components (Linalool, Limonene, Citronellol). No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, which can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have pityrosporum folliculitis.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Water-based formula with no heavy oils or waxes. Very unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Contains zero drying alcohols (no ethanol, denatured alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol). Won't strip or compromise your skin barrier.
Contains Parfum/Fragrance plus individual fragrance components (Linalool, Limonene, Citronellol) which are EU-listed allergens. Patch test if highly sensitive.
This gentle toner is safe to layer with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. It contains no active exfoliants that could cause over-exfoliation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSRosa Centifolia Flower Water ~10-15%Proven
Also known as Rose Hydrolat or May Rose water. A gentle, soothing floral water obtained by steam distillation of Rosa Centifolia petals. Prized in French skincare for its calming, refreshing, and mildly hydrating properties.
- Function: Refreshes, softens, and provides mild antioxidant benefits to the skin
- Research: Rosa Centifolia extracts show anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity in vitro studies
- Source: Steam-distilled from French-grown roses; a Sisley signature botanical
Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water ~5-10%Proven
Cornflower hydrolat, a blue-flowering European botanical long used in French pharmacy traditions. Known for its soothing, decongestant, and anti-inflammatory properties, especially around the delicate eye area.
- Function: Soothes irritation, reduces redness, and calms sensitive skin
- Research: Cornflower extracts contain flavonoids and anthocyanins with documented anti-inflammatory effects
- Tradition: A classic French pharmacy ingredient used for centuries in eye compresses and skin toners
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water ~5-10%Proven
Witch Hazel hydrolat, a natural astringent extracted from the bark and leaves of the Hamamelis shrub. Provides gentle toning and pore-refining action without the harshness of alcohol-based witch hazel.
- Function: Tones the skin, mildly astringent, helps refine the appearance of pores
- Research: Contains tannins and polyphenols with proven astringent and anti-inflammatory properties
- Note: This is alcohol-free witch hazel water (hydrolat), much gentler than alcohol-based distillates
Pentylene Glycol ~3-5%Multifunctional
A plant-derived humectant (from sugar beet) that serves dual roles: it softens and moisturizes the skin while also acting as a mild preservative booster to keep the formula stable.
- Function: Humectant, skin conditioner, and preservative enhancer
- Safety: Generally well-tolerated; considered gentle enough for sensitive skin formulations
- Benefit: Provides a smooth, non-greasy feel and helps the formula glide on cotton pads
16 ingredients
Water/Eau (Aqua), Pentylene Glycol, Rosa Centifolia Flower Water, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Fragrance (Parfum), Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Linalool, Limonene, Citronellol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening, immediately after cleansing and before all other treatment products. Pairs beautifully with Sisley Lyslait cleanser.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Remove makeup and cleanse your face thoroughly with your preferred cleanser. Pat skin lightly — it can still be slightly damp.
Soak a Cotton Pad
Generously soak a cotton pad with the Floral Toning Lotion. The watery consistency means you need a good amount for full coverage.
Sweep Over Face & Neck
Gently wipe the soaked cotton pad over your entire face, neck, and décolleté in upward, sweeping motions. Avoid the immediate eye area.
Let It Absorb
Allow the lotion to penetrate for a few moments. Then proceed with your serum, moisturizer, or other treatment products.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry or sensitive skin that reacts to harsh toners
- You want an alcohol-free toner that won't strip your barrier
- You appreciate luxury French botanical skincare
- You need a gentle post-cleansing step to remove residue
- You prefer minimal, clean ingredient lists
- You love a subtle, elegant floral scent
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil)
- You're highly sensitive to any fragrance or essential oil components
- You want active ingredients like niacinamide, AHAs, or hyaluronic acid
- You're looking for value — this is a premium luxury price point
- You need a mattifying or oil-control toner for oily skin
- You prefer fragrance-free formulations
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis product was designed for dry skin. The alcohol-free, hydrolat-rich formula soothes without stripping any moisture. Leaves skin feeling comfortable and hydrated.
Gentle botanical hydrolats are calming and non-irritating. One star off because it does contain fragrance and essential oil-derived allergens — patch test if extremely reactive.
Lightweight and balancing. The witch hazel provides gentle toning for the T-zone while rose and cornflower soothe drier cheeks. A solid all-rounder.
It works but may not provide enough oil control or mattifying effect. Oily skin types may prefer the Sisley Grapefruit Toning Lotion or a toner with niacinamide.
Low comedogenic risk (1/5) and non-irritating, but lacks active acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide. Not suitable for fungal acne.
Results timeline
2-3 MONTHSInstant Freshness & Comfort
Skin feels refreshed, clean, and soothed right after application. The floral scent provides a luxurious sensory experience. Any tightness from cleansing disappears.
95% noticed immediatelySmoother, Softer Skin Texture
With consistent use morning and evening, the skin surface becomes noticeably smoother and softer. Subsequent skincare products absorb more evenly and effectively.
80% noticed by week 2Calmer, More Balanced Complexion
Redness and irritation are reduced over time. The skin looks more even-toned, radiant, and healthier. Dry patches become less frequent as the barrier strengthens.
70% noticed by week 6Long-Term Skin Resilience
Skin is better prepared for seasonal changes and environmental stressors. The consistent gentle toning helps maintain a clear, comfortable, and luminous complexion.
65% noticed long-term improvementRatings by platform
350+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle and soothing — even for very sensitive skin
- Alcohol-free formula that never strips or dries the skin
- Elegant, delicate floral scent that feels luxurious
- Effectively removes residual cleanser and makeup traces
- Skin feels instantly refreshed, soft, and comfortable
- Minimalist ingredient list with botanical hydrolats
- Excellent as a prep step before serums and moisturizers
- Long-lasting bottle — 250ml lasts 3-4 months with daily use
Criticized
- Extremely expensive for a relatively simple formulation
- No active ingredients (no niacinamide, HA, or exfoliants)
- Contains fragrance and essential oil-derived allergens
- Not fungal acne safe (PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil)
- Many reviewers feel cheaper toners perform just as well
- Rose scent can feel "old-fashioned" to some users
- No visible anti-aging or brightening benefits
- Uses a lot of product per application (cotton pad method)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains the same two hero botanicals: witch hazel and rose water. Adds aloe vera for extra hydration. Alcohol-free. Nearly identical soothing effect at a fraction of the price. Slightly less refined texture and scent.
Pure rosewater with added glycerin for hydration. Lacks witch hazel and cornflower but delivers similar refreshing and soothing sensation. Can be spritzed directly or applied with cotton pad. Ultra-affordable entry point.
Also a French pharmacy product with cornflower as the star ingredient. Designed for soothing sensitive skin and the eye area. Lacks rose and witch hazel but shares the same French botanical philosophy at a much lower price.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Chanel Le Tonique Toner
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use.
Plastic bottle with screw-top cap. Sturdy and travel-resistant — won't shatter if dropped.
The 250ml bottle exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit. A 100ml travel size is available separately. Decant into a travel bottle for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The Sisley Floral Toning Lotion does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the most commonly flagged pregnancy no-go ingredients. However, it does contain fragrance (Parfum) and fragrance components such as Linalool, Limonene, and Citronellol, which some healthcare providers advise minimizing during pregnancy. We recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before incorporating it into your routine while pregnant or breastfeeding.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, which is a polyethylene glycol ester that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. If you suffer from pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne), you should avoid this toner and consider alternatives like Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Toner or a simple pure rosewater without PEG-based emulsifiers.
Yes, absolutely. The Sisley Floral Toning Lotion contains no active exfoliating acids or retinoids, so it is perfectly safe to layer with prescription retinol, vitamin C serums, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). In fact, its gentle soothing formula makes it an ideal prep step before applying stronger actives, as it calms the skin without any risk of over-exfoliation or pH interference.
This toner was specifically formulated for dry and sensitive skin. Its alcohol-free formula with soothing rose, cornflower, and witch hazel hydrolats makes it ideal for anyone whose skin reacts to harsh toners. It also works well for combination skin. Oily skin types may find it too mild and may prefer the Sisley Grapefruit Toning Lotion, which offers more astringent and mattifying benefits.
You will feel results immediately — skin feels fresher, cleaner, and more comfortable after the very first use. For visible improvements in skin texture and overall calmness, expect to see noticeable changes within 1-2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. For long-term benefits like reduced redness and a more balanced complexion, give it 4-6 weeks. Keep in mind this is a gentle toning product, not an active-rich treatment, so results are subtle and cumulative.
This toning lotion should be the very first step after cleansing, both in your morning and evening routines. Apply it right after your cleanser (and makeup remover if used) but before any serums, essences, eye creams, moisturizers, or sunscreens. It removes any remaining residue from cleansing and prepares your skin to better absorb all subsequent products.
Very unlikely. This product has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It is a lightweight, water-based formula that contains no heavy oils, waxes, or known pore-clogging ingredients. The witch hazel component actually has mild astringent properties that can help keep pores clear. It is suitable for acne-prone skin from a comedogenicity standpoint, though it lacks active acne-fighting ingredients.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, you should aim to use it within one year. With twice-daily use on a cotton pad, the 250ml bottle typically lasts around 3-4 months, so you will finish it well before the PAO expires. Store it in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed to maintain freshness and efficacy throughout its shelf life.
Verdict: The Sisley Floral Toning Lotion is a beautifully crafted, gentle toner that delivers on its promise of soothing, refreshing, and preparing dry and sensitive skin. The triple-botanical blend of Rose, Cornflower, and Witch Hazel hydrolats provides a genuinely calming experience, and the alcohol-free formula is a standout. However, the very high price tag is hard to justify given the relatively simple, inactive formula — especially in an era where modern toners from brands like Fresh and K-beauty offer more sophisticated formulations with active ingredients at a fraction of the cost. Ideal for Sisley devotees and luxury skincare lovers who value the elegant sensory experience, but budget-conscious shoppers can achieve similar results with the affordable dupes listed above.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Rosa Centifolia Flower Water
|
|
|
| 1 |
Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|