Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner Review

Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner
5.1
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Review

Does Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner has to offer:
 
  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.1 out of 10.
  • Soothing: Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.1 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.2 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈6.0%), Aloe Barbadensis Extract (est. ≈4.0%) and Arginine (est. ≈3.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is ideal for oily skin, offering significant hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula with a minimal amount of occlusive ingredients.

It’s also a great choice for people with normal skin who prefer lightweight moisturizers.

A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant boost will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer. This type of formulation is typically used in serums, where a light, fast-absorbing texture is key.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Aloe Barbadensis Extract (est. ≈4.0%) and Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract (est. ≈2.0%).

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Aloe Barbadensis Extract (est. ≈4.0%) and Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract (est. ≈2.0%).

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Pros & Cons of Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
  • As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, beneficial for any skin type
  • Lightweight texture
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
  • Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients like Aloe Barbadensis Extract and Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract

Cons: 

  • We couldn't find any

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
70
6
4
3
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.15
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Arginine
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sambucus Nigra Flower
Function:
Origin:
Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil
Function:
Origin:
Cymbopogon Winterianus Herb Oil
Function:
Origin:
Glycine
Function:
Origin:
Alanine
Function:
Origin:
Serine
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Function:
Origin:
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Arnica Montana Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Parietaria Officinalis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Phenylalanine
Function:
Origin:
Histidine
Function:
Origin:
Valine
Function:
Origin:
Isoleucine
Function:
Origin:
Proline
Function:
Origin:
Threonine
Function:
Origin:
Sodium PCA
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Lactate
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Polyquaternium-4
Function:
Origin:
Aspartic Acid
Function:
Origin:
PCA
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Methyl Gluceth-20
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Ricinoleth-40
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Citral
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
17.2
6
4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 17.2 10
10.0
6
4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 17.2 10
10
All humectants
17.2
6
4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
None
Total
0
None
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
4
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 8.2 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
8.2
Aloe Barbadensis Extract
4
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract
2
Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
1.3
Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract
0.3
Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 7.5 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
7.5
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %70
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Aloe Barbadensis Extract
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis ExtractAn antioxidant extract from the gelatinous pulp of Aloe vera leaves with humectant moisturizing polysaccharide mucilage. It is suitable for irritated or eczema-prone skin.
Arginine
Est. %3
Function
Origin
ArginineA humectant amino acid used to attract water to the skin’s surface. It is a part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of various compounds that keeps the skin’s surface well hydrated. Arginine can also be used as a pH adjuster.
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) ExtractAn extract from lavender flowers that mostly contains lavender essential oil. It also offers many beneficial antioxidant and astringent phytochemicals such as flavonoids, terpenes, and phenolic acids.
Sambucus Nigra Flower
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Sambucus Nigra Flower
Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Melissa Officinalis Leaf ExtractA fragrant extract derived from lemon balm leaves with antioxidant and antiviral flavonoids and terpenes. It has a lovely, fresh, lemon-like scent.
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil

A fragrant essential oil extracted from the rind or peel of a lemon. It is mainly comprised of limonene (up to 70%) and has a fresh, citrusy scent. Lemon peel oil may cause a sun-induced skin rash in people with a sensitivity towards citrus fruits.

Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil

An essential oil expressed from the peels of the bergamot orange. The scent of bergamot oil is woodier than those of other citrus essential oils. This essential oil is still not recommended if you are sensitive to citrus fruits.

Cymbopogon Winterianus Herb Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cymbopogon Winterianus Herb Oil
Glycine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GlycineA humectant moisturizing amino acid that is a part of skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor. Some recent studies suggest that it may have barrier repair properties.
Alanine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AlanineA simple amino acid used in skincare as a humectant moisturizing ingredient. It is a part of the so-called Natural Moisturizing Factor, a complex mixture of free amino acids and other water-soluble compounds found in skin cells.
Serine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SerineA non-essential amino acid, meaning that our body can produce it. It is the largest constituent of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor and is used in skincare as a humectant moisturizing ingredient.
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) OilAn essential oil derived from common, or true, lavender. It is used in skincare for its lovely, calming scent. Like all essential oils, however, it may cause a contact skin allergy in more sensitive individuals.
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dipotassium GlycyrrhizateA licorice root derivative with powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing activities. It is often used as a flavoring agent in lip products.
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit ExtractA soothing, cooling, and emollient extract derived from cucumbers. Cucumber has been used in skincare for centuries and is used to treat skin problems such as eye swelling, sunburn, and itchy and irritated skin.
Arnica Montana Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arnica Montana Flower ExtractAn extract derived from the flower heads of the mountain arnica plant. This plant is used as herbal medicine to treat wounds, bruises, and inflammation. In skincare, however, it is mostly added for fragrance purposes due to its pleasant pine and sage odor.
Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hedera Helix (Ivy) ExtractA soothing extract from the leaves of common ivy (not to be confused with poison ivy) that is rich in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and astringent triterpene saponins.
Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Flower Extract
Parietaria Officinalis Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Parietaria Officinalis Extract
Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sambucus Nigra Flower ExtractDerived from the plant called black elder or elderberry, this extract is an occlusive and soothing ingredient that also contains antioxidant flavonoids.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Phenylalanine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenylalanineAn essential amino acid used in the treatment of vitiligo and other pigmentation issues. It is considered less effective than other anti-pigment ingredients and is often used in combination with them.
Histidine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
HistidineA humectant moisturizing amino acid with weak antioxidant effects that is a part of the skin’s Natural Moisturizing Factor. It can attract water to the skin’s surface and is slightly alkaline, thereby helping to balance a product's pH.
Valine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ValineAn essential amino acid (meaning our body cannot make it on its own and we get it from food instead). Like some other amino acids, Valine is a part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor.
Isoleucine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
IsoleucineA humectant moisturizing, essential amino acid that is a part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor. It helps to increase water content on the skin’s surface and can increase the barrier repair effects of ceramides.
Proline
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ProlineThe best humectant moisturizer of all the amino acids. It is a part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor and increases hydration in the top layers of the skin. It also has antioxidant activity and helps to heal damaged skin.
Threonine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ThreonineAn essential amino acid that may play a role in collagen production. However, more research is needed in order to confirm or deny these claims.
Sodium PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium PCAOne of the most important parts of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of various compounds that keeps the skin’s surface well hydrated. Sodium PCA is used in skincare for its fantastic humectant properties.
Sodium Lactate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium LactateA sodium salt of lactic acid. Its main function is as a humectant but it can also serve as a pH adjuster. Additionally, sodium lactate can also be used as a chemical exfoliant due to its close chemical relation to lactic acid.
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.
Polyquaternium-4
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyquaternium-4
Aspartic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aspartic AcidA humectant moisturizing amino acid that is a part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor. It helps to retain water on the skin’s surface and is slightly acidic, thereby helping to balance the pH of a skincare product.
PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PCAAlso known as pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, this ingredient is one of the main components of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (which prevents the skin’s surface from drying out).
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Methyl Gluceth-20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Methyl Gluceth-20A humectant synthetically derived from glucose. It takes on the form of a clear, syrupy liquid.
Polysorbate 20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 20A viscous, amber-colored liquid that functions as a solubilizer to disperse small amounts of oil into a large water phase. Polysorbate 20 is frequently used to solubilize fragrance oils into water-based emulsions.
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-12 DimethiconeA synthetic silicone that improves lubricity and absorption.
Ricinoleth-40
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ricinoleth-40
Sodium Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium CitrateA salt of citric acid that has a salty and tart flavor and is used as a fragrance. It is mildly basic, meaning that its addition to a skincare product can adjust the pH upward.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hydroxide

An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.

Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrasodium Glutamate DiacetateA biodegradable chelating agent that chemically captures the heavy metal ions naturally present in water and disarms their harmful effects.
Linalool
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LinaloolA fragrant, volatile compound naturally present in many essential oils. It has a pleasant scent and is often used in skincare products as a fragrance. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.
Limonene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Limonene

One of the most used fragrances in skincare products. It is produced from the peels of citrus fruits and has a fresh, pleasant, citrusy smell. People who are sensitive to citrus should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Citral
Est. %0.15
Function
Origin
Citral

A fragrant compound found in many essential oils (especially lemon myrtle and lemongrass essential oil). It has a sweet, lemon-like scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citral, or at least do a patch test before using.

Geraniol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Geraniol

A fragrant, volatile, plant-based, liquid chemical that can be naturally found in many essential oils (specifically rose, palmarosa, citronella). It has a rose-like scent. It is a potential irritant and may cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.