Rose Petal Alcohol Free Toner with Witch Hazel Aloe Vera
Rose Petal Alcohol Free Toner with Witch Hazel Aloe Vera
Product Description
A gentle, alcohol-free toner featuring certified organic witch hazel and aloe vera with rose water. This cult-favorite formula cleanses, balances pH, and hydrates skin while visibly tightening pores. Clinically tested to immediately hydrate skin by 50% and improve texture by 22%.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Certified Organic Witch Hazel
Non-distilled extraction preserves 195% more beneficial tannins compared to other brands. Grown on a family farm in Connecticut.
8-Hour Hydration
Clinically tested to immediately hydrate skin by 50% with glycerin and aloe vera working synergistically.
Pore Minimizing
Natural tannins help visibly reduce pore appearance by 7% while controlling excess oil production.
pH Balanced Formula
Maintains skin's natural moisture barrier without stripping or drying, suitable for daily use.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or other pregnancy-unsafe ingredients. Witch hazel is considered safe for topical use during pregnancy. The unscented version is recommended for extra caution.
Formula contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Confirmed safe by multiple ingredient databases.
Lightweight, water-based formula rated 0-1 on the comedogenic scale. Will not clog pores or cause breakouts.
Natural rose fragrance included. If you have fragrance sensitivities, consider the Unscented version instead.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
πΏ Witch Hazel Extract Proven
The star ingredient sourced from certified organic witch hazel grown exclusively for Thayers on a Connecticut farm. Non-distilled extraction preserves natural tannins with antioxidant and astringent properties.
- Research: Studies show witch hazel reduces inflammation and has antimicrobial properties against acne-causing bacteria
- Tannins: Thayers contains 195% more tannins than distilled witch hazel, providing antioxidant and oil-control benefits
- Function: Acts as natural astringent to tighten pores and control sebum production
π± Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract Proven
Certified organic aloe vera provides soothing hydration and anti-inflammatory benefits. Works synergistically with witch hazel to calm irritated skin.
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and moisturizing properties
- Research: Contains polysaccharides that help retain skin moisture
- Function: Soothes redness and irritation while providing lightweight hydration
π§ Glycerin Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture to the skin and helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier. Provides the 8-hour hydration benefit.
- Function: Attracts and retains water in the skin's outer layer
- Concentration: Listed high in ingredient list, indicating significant amount
- Benefits: Supports skin barrier function and prevents transepidermal water loss
πΉ Rosa Damascena Flower Water Promising
Rose water provides the signature scent while offering mild soothing and hydrating properties. Contains natural antioxidants.
- Benefits: Mild astringent properties, soothing, and refreshing
- Source: Distilled from rose petals, providing natural fragrance
- Traditional Use: Used for centuries in skincare for its calming properties
15 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract*, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract*, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Potassium Hydroxide, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum/Fragrance, Geraniol, Citronellol. (*Certified Organic)
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply immediately after cleansing while skin is still slightly damp. Can be used morning and night. Also works as a refreshing mist throughout the day or as an aftershave.
π How to Use
Cleanse Your Face
Start with clean skin. Use your regular cleanser and rinse thoroughly with water.
Apply to Cotton Pad
Saturate a cotton pad or ball with the toner. Alternatively, pour a small amount into your palms.
Sweep Across Face
Gently sweep the cotton pad across your face and neck in upward motions. Avoid the eye area.
Let Absorb & Continue Routine
Allow the toner to absorb for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then follow with your serum and moisturizer.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want a gentle, alcohol-free toner
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin
- You want to minimize the appearance of pores
- You prefer natural, plant-based skincare
- You're looking for a pregnancy-safe toner
- You have fungal acne and need a safe option
- You want an affordable cult-favorite product
- You enjoy a light rose scent
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin (may need more hydration)
- You're sensitive to fragrance (try Unscented version)
- You have rosacea (witch hazel may irritate)
- You need active ingredients like AHA/BHA
- You prefer fragrance-free products only
- You want a more minimalist ingredient list
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal match. Witch hazel's astringent properties help control excess oil and minimize pore appearance without over-drying.
Balances oily and dry zones effectively. Light enough for T-zone without stripping drier areas.
Great maintenance toner to keep skin balanced, hydrated, and pores looking refined.
Provides hydration but may need a richer moisturizer on top. Consider the Milky Hydrating Toner for extra moisture.
Alcohol-free formula is gentle, but rose fragrance may irritate very reactive skin. Try Unscented version for best results.
Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe. Witch hazel has antimicrobial properties that help with breakouts.
π Results Timeline
Instant Hydration & Refreshment
Skin feels immediately cleansed, refreshed, and hydrated. Clinically tested to hydrate skin by 50% instantly.
95% noticed immediate refreshImproved Skin Texture
Smoother skin texture becomes noticeable. Reduced oiliness and fewer small breakouts. Pores may appear slightly smaller.
70% noticed smoother skinVisible Pore Refinement
Consistent use shows measurable improvement in pore appearance (7% reduction in clinical testing) and overall skin clarity.
65% noticed smaller poresBalanced, Healthier-Looking Skin
Long-term use helps maintain balanced oil production, improved skin tone, and a natural healthy glow. Skin texture improved by 22% in clinical tests.
80% would repurchaseβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Alcohol-free formula doesn't dry skin
- Affordable price for large 12oz bottle
- Certified organic witch hazel
- Pleasant natural rose scent
- Visibly reduces pore appearance
- Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe
- Works great as aftershave
- Over 175 years of brand heritage
- Widely available at most retailers
- HSA/FSA eligible
β Criticized
- Rose scent may be too strong for some
- Contains fragrance (allergen potential)
- May cause initial purging period
- Not hydrating enough for very dry skin
- Formula has changed over the years
- Plastic bottle (not the most eco-friendly)
- May irritate rosacea-prone skin
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Similar witch hazel and rosewater formula. Contains 98% natural ingredients. Slightly different preservative system and may have polysorbate-20 which isn't fungal-acne safe.
Rose-focused toner with glycerin. Less witch hazel concentration but more rose-forward. Gentler formula, good for very sensitive skin.
Organic witch hazel-based toner from the same Connecticut region. Simpler formula without rose water. Unscented option available.
Spa-brand alternative with similar concept. Contains additional botanical extracts. May have more fragrance and slightly different texture.
π Comparison with Competitors
Thayers Rose Petal Toner (This Product)
$13.99Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel
$4.99Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner
$23.00Pixi Glow Tonic
$29.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Check bottom of bottle for batch code and expiration date.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required but can be stored in fridge for extra refreshing application.
Translucent BPA-free plastic bottle with flip-top cap. Sturdy and practical design.
12oz size exceeds TSA limit. Available in 3oz travel size for air travel. Transfer to smaller container for carry-on.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Thayers Rose Petal Toner is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients typically avoided during pregnancy. Witch hazel has been used safely during pregnancy for decades with no reported adverse effects from topical application. However, if you have fragrance sensitivities during pregnancy, consider the Unscented version. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
Yes, Thayers Rose Petal Toner is fungal acne safe. The formula contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters (except citric acid which is safe), oils, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Multiple ingredient analysis databases confirm it has 0 fungal acne triggers. It's actually recommended by many fungal acne communities as a safe toner option.
Yes, Thayers Rose Petal Toner is compatible with most active ingredients including retinol, vitamin C, and AHA/BHA acids. Since it's a gentle, pH-balanced toner without active exfoliants, it won't interfere with or neutralize other products. Apply the toner first after cleansing, let it absorb, then apply your actives. If using strong acids, you may want to wait a few minutes between steps or use the toner on alternate nights.
Thayers Rose Petal Toner works best for oily, combination, normal, and acne-prone skin types. The witch hazel helps control oil and minimize pore appearance while the aloe vera and glycerin provide hydration. It's also suitable for dry skin when followed with a good moisturizer. Those with very sensitive skin or rosacea should patch test first or opt for the Unscented version to avoid potential fragrance irritation.
You'll notice immediate hydration and refreshment after the first use. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, you may notice smoother skin texture and reduced oiliness. Visible pore refinement typically occurs around 4-6 weeks. Clinical studies show skin hydration improves by 50% immediately, texture improves by 22%, and pore appearance reduces by 7% with consistent use. Some users experience initial purging (small breakouts) in the first week as the toner helps clear congested pores.
Apply Thayers Rose Petal Toner immediately after cleansing, as the second step in your routine. The order is: 1) Cleanser, 2) Toner (this product), 3) Essence/Serum, 4) Eye cream, 5) Moisturizer, 6) Sunscreen (AM only). Apply while skin is still slightly damp for best absorption. Can be used both morning and evening.
No, Thayers Rose Petal Toner is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 0-1 out of 5. The lightweight, water-based formula contains no pore-clogging oils or heavy ingredients. In fact, the witch hazel helps cleanse and minimize pores. The product is dermatologist-tested and specifically designed not to clog pores or cause breakouts.
Thayers Rose Petal Toner has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. This means it should be used within one year of opening. The 12oz bottle typically lasts 3-6 months with twice-daily use, well within the shelf life. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain product integrity. Check the bottom of the bottle for the batch code and expiration date.
Verdict: Thayers Rose Petal Toner has earned its cult-favorite status for good reason. This affordable, alcohol-free formula delivers on its promises of gentle cleansing, hydration, and pore refinement. With over 175 years of brand heritage and certified organic witch hazel grown in Connecticut, it offers quality ingredients at a drugstore price point. While the natural rose fragrance may not suit everyone (the Unscented version is a great alternative), this toner is an excellent choice for those with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin looking for a reliable, pregnancy-safe, and fungal-acne-safe daily toner. The #1 toner brand in America has earned that title.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Extract
Antiseborrhoeic, Astringent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Rosa Centifolia Flower Water
|
|