Ultra Facial Oil-Free Toner
Ultra Facial Oil-Free Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, alcohol-free toner formulated for oily to normal skin. Infused with Glacial Glycoprotein and Desert Plant Extract, it removes residue and excess oil without stripping moisture, leaving skin refreshed, hydrated, and balanced. pH-balanced, paraben-free, and fragrance-free.
Glacial Glycoprotein (Antarcticine)
Biotechnologically derived from Antarctic sea bacteria, this marine ingredient deeply hydrates and helps protect skin from environmental stress while promoting cell renewal.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGlacial Glycoprotein (Antarcticine)
Biotechnologically derived from Antarctic sea bacteria, this marine ingredient deeply hydrates and helps protect skin from environmental stress while promoting cell renewal.
Desert Plant Extract
Imperata Cylindrica Root Extract contains high concentrations of potassium, known to provide immediate and long-lasting hydration even for the driest skin areas.
Sodium Hyaluronate
The salt form of hyaluronic acid attracts and binds water to the skin, delivering lightweight hydration without adding oil or heaviness to the formula.
Cucumber Fruit Extract
Natural cucumber juice soothes, cools, and refreshes the skin while providing antioxidant protection and a calming effect for stressed or irritated complexions.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always confirm with your physician.
Contains Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, a ferment-derived ingredient that can feed Malassezia yeast. Those with active fungal acne should avoid this toner.
Oil-free formula with no known pore-clogging ingredients. Glycerin and propanediol are non-comedogenic humectants. Very low risk of causing breakouts.
Free from alcohol, fragrance, parabens, sulfates, and dyes. pH-balanced and dermatologist-tested for safety and gentleness on all skin types.
Safe to use with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. This toner contains no exfoliating acids at active concentrations, so it will not cause over-exfoliation.
Used as a pH adjuster at low concentrations. Considered safe in leave-on products at levels below 5%. Present here at trace amounts for formula stability.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~5-10%Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain the skin's lipid barrier in a healthy liquid crystal state. One of the most well-studied and reliable hydrating ingredients in skincare.
- Function: Humectant, skin-identical moisturizer
- Research: Effective from as low as 3% concentration; more benefits for dry skin at 20-40%
- Safety: Comedogenicity 0/5, Irritancy 0/5
Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract (Glacial Glycoprotein) <1%Promising
A biotechnologically derived glycoprotein produced by fermenting Antarctic marine bacteria. Kiehl's signature hydrating ingredient that helps protect skin from dryness and promotes smoother skin texture.
- Function: Hydrating, skin-protecting, anti-aging
- Research: In-vitro studies show it promotes synthesis of type I and IV collagen and elastin
- Origin: Sustainably produced without further extraction of Antarctic glaciers
Imperata Cylindrica Root Extract (Desert Plant) <1%Promising
Sourced from a plant native to the Australian Outback and other desert regions, this extract contains high concentrations of potassium, providing immediate and sustained hydration to the skin.
- Function: Humectant, long-lasting hydration
- Research: Known to increase skin's water content and improve moisture retention over time
- History: Used as a salt substitute by indigenous Australians for centuries
Sodium Hyaluronate <1%Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid, with a smaller molecular size that penetrates skin more easily. A powerhouse humectant that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
- Function: Humectant, hydrating agent
- Research: Extensively studied; proven to improve skin hydration, elasticity, and reduce fine line appearance
- Safety: Non-comedogenic, non-irritating, naturally occurring in the body
Cucumis Sativus Juice (Cucumber Extract) <1%Promising
Natural cucumber juice provides soothing, cooling, and refreshing properties. Rich in vitamins and minerals that help calm inflammation and reduce puffiness.
- Function: Soothing, antioxidant, skin conditioning
- Research: Contains ascorbic acid and caffeic acid with mild antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
15 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Propylene Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Triethanolamine, Citric Acid, Imperata Cylindrica Root Extract, Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cucumis Sativus Juice/Cucumber Fruit Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and night after cleansing. Apply before serums and moisturizer. Pairs well with the full Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free line.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Pat skin lightly — it should be clean but not fully dry.
Saturate a Cotton Pad
Moisten a cotton pad generously with the toner. You can also pour a small amount into your palms for a more product-efficient application.
Sweep Across Face
Gently sweep the cotton pad across your entire face, focusing on the T-zone and areas prone to excess oil. Avoid the immediate eye area.
Let It Absorb
Allow the toner to absorb fully — it takes just a few seconds. Follow immediately with your serum and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin and want a non-greasy toner
- You need a gentle, alcohol-free option that won't strip moisture
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe toner
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formulas
- You want a toner that preps skin for serums and moisturizers
- You are new to skincare and want a simple, effective toner
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (contains a ferment extract)
- You want an exfoliating toner with AHA/BHA actives
- You need intense hydration for very dry skin (formula is lightweight)
- You want anti-aging actives like niacinamide or vitamin C in your toner
- You prefer toners with visible pore-minimizing effects
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically designed for oily skin. Oil-free, lightweight formula removes excess sebum without stripping. Leaves a fresh, matte feel.
Balances the T-zone without drying out drier cheek areas. Lightweight hydration works well across different face zones.
A great everyday toner that refreshes and preps normal skin without over-hydrating or leaving residue. Ideal as a routine staple.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and minimal ingredient list. Well-tolerated by most sensitive types. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Provides light hydration via glycerin and hyaluronic acid, but the oil-free formula may not deliver enough moisture. Layer with a richer serum and cream.
Non-comedogenic (1/5) and oil-free. Safe for acne-prone skin if your breakouts are bacterial. Avoid if you suspect fungal acne due to the ferment extract.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Immediate Freshness
Skin feels refreshed and clean immediately after application. Noticeable reduction in surface oiliness. No tightness or dryness.
90% noticedImproved Hydration Balance
Skin starts to feel more balanced throughout the day. Less midday shine reported. Skin appears smoother and more even-toned after consistent twice-daily use.
75% noticedVisible Oil Control
Consistent use helps regulate surface oil production. Skin texture appears refined and pores look less congested. Makeup application and wear time may improve.
65% noticedLong-Term Skin Balance
Skin's moisture barrier feels strengthened. Overall complexion looks healthier, more hydrated, and less reactive. Reduced frequency of oily-skin concerns.
55% noticedRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — no stinging, burning, or tightness even on sensitive skin
- Truly oil-free and leaves a fresh, matte finish without drying
- Minimal, clean ingredient list with only 15 ingredients
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, alcohol-free — ideal for reactive skin
- Effective at removing leftover cleanser residue and excess oil
- Hydrating despite being oil-free; doesn't leave skin feeling stripped
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe formula
Criticized
- Premium price ($26) for a simple hydrating toner with no actives
- Not fungal acne safe due to Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract
- No exfoliating or pore-minimizing active ingredients
- Some users find it too basic — feels like "expensive water"
- 250ml bottle runs out in about 6-8 weeks with twice-daily use
- Not available in a larger economy size
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Alcohol-free and gentle, with aloe vera and witch hazel for oil control. Larger 355ml bottle. Lacks hyaluronic acid and Glacial Glycoprotein but provides similar gentle cleansing and balancing.
A drugstore classic with a similarly gentle, alcohol-free formula. Contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil and panthenol. Simpler hydration approach but includes fragrance, unlike the Kiehl's version.
Features ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide for more robust hydration and barrier support. Slightly richer formula that may be better for combination-to-dry skin rather than pure oily skin control.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed. Keep cap tightly closed after use.
Plastic bottle with screw cap. Simple, functional design consistent with Kiehl's apothecary aesthetic.
No — 250ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a travel-size container or purchase a mini size.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This toner does not contain any of the commonly flagged pregnancy-unsafe ingredients such as retinoids, salicylic acid (at active concentrations), hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All 15 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Note: the original Ultra Facial Toner (non oil-free version) contains Ethylhexyl Salicylate and is NOT pregnancy safe — make sure you choose the Oil-Free version. As always, consult your physician for personalized advice.
No. This toner contains Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract (Glacial Glycoprotein), which is a ferment-derived ingredient. Ferments can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you have active fungal acne or are prone to it, consider fungal-acne-safe alternatives like the Thayers Unscented Witch Hazel Toner or a simple micellar water.
Yes. This toner is purely hydrating and does not contain any exfoliating acids or active ingredients at treatment concentrations. It is safe and beneficial to use before applying retinol, vitamin C serums, or AHA/BHA exfoliants. The citric acid present is at pH-adjusting levels only, not at exfoliating concentrations. The toner's hydrating properties can actually help buffer the potential irritation from stronger actives.
This toner is best for oily and combination skin types. It was specifically formulated to reduce excess oil while maintaining hydration. It also works well for normal skin. People with sensitive skin generally tolerate it well due to its minimal, fragrance-free formula. Those with dry skin may find it too lightweight on its own but can still benefit from it as a hydrating prep step before richer products.
You will notice an immediate fresh, clean feeling after your very first use. Reduced oiliness throughout the day becomes noticeable within the first 1-2 weeks of consistent use. More significant improvements in skin balance, texture, and overall hydration are typically seen after 3-4 weeks of twice-daily application. For best results, use consistently as part of a complete skincare routine.
Apply this toner as Step 2 in your routine, immediately after cleansing and before serums, treatments, and moisturizer. Use it both morning and night. In the morning: Cleanser → This Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen. At night: Cleanser → This Toner → Treatment/Serum → Night Cream. Apply while skin is still slightly damp for better absorption of subsequent products.
No. This toner has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it has a very low chance of clogging pores. The formula is entirely oil-free and contains no known comedogenic ingredients. Glycerin (comedogenicity 0), propanediol, and sodium hyaluronate are all non-pore-clogging humectants. It is suitable for acne-prone skin concerned about breakouts from skincare products.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 250ml bottle typically lasts 6-8 weeks with twice-daily use on a cotton pad. If you apply by patting directly with your hands (which uses less product), it can last up to 10-12 weeks. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. Discard if you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell.
Verdict: The Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Toner is a solid, no-fuss hydrating toner for oily and combination skin types. Its greatest strengths are what it leaves out — no fragrance, alcohol, oils, or parabens — making it an excellent choice for sensitive and pregnancy-safe routines. The Glacial Glycoprotein and Desert Plant Extract provide gentle hydration, while the ultra-short 15-ingredient list minimizes irritation risk. However, at $26 for a simple hydrating toner with no active ingredients like niacinamide or exfoliants, it feels overpriced compared to competitors. It also misses the mark for fungal acne sufferers due to the ferment extract. Best for those who value a clean, gentle formula from a trusted brand and want a reliable everyday toner without bells and whistles.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Phenoxyethanol
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|