The best makeup tonics to upgrade your skincare and makeup routine

A quick tip: Store a makeup tonic in the fridge, and your morning routine will turn into a refreshing wake-up call.

26 December, 2025
The best makeup tonics to upgrade your skincare and makeup routine

Now a staple in modern beauty routines, makeup tonics do far more than simply refresh the skin. Originally inspired by botanical waters used in Egypt, today’s tonics are packed with hydrating mild acids—glycolic, lactic, or salicylic—that help prep your skin and ensure your makeup glides on smoother, sits better, and lasts longer. These balancing formulas are available for all skin types.

Quick tip: For a cool effect, apply your tonic after washing your face, while your skin is slightly damp, so that the botanical waters can seep into the skin. If you are using evening tonics, apply them after removing your makeup and see your skin reset. 

Here is a curated list of tonics we swear by. 

Fenty Skin Cherry Dub BHA Toner, ₹3,525


Ras Luxury Skincare Glow Potion Essence Toner, ₹1,090


Embryolisse Eau de Beaute Sosamelis Face Toner, ₹1,750


Pixi Beauty Glow Tonic Exfoliating Toner with Glycolic Acid, ₹2,850


Avon Radiance Maximising Tonic with Vitamin C & Glycolic Acid, ₹1,199


Oriflame Optimals Comforting Facial Toner, ₹829


Foxtale Glow Toner+Makeup Setting Spray, ₹395


All images: The brands
 

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Also read: Why blush balms are the low-effort glow stick for fuss-free radiance

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