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Head to head · Skincare

Hydrating Milky Toner vs Resurfacing Retinol Face Serum

Ravvy scores Hydrating Milky Toner at 93.46 and Resurfacing Retinol Face Serum at 92.83. Hydrating Milky Toner takes the overall pick, best for dry skin types and those with compromised skin barriers.

Ravvy pick

BYOMA Hydrating Milky Toner

$15

Buy this if you want a budget-friendly, high-performance hydrating layer that rivals luxury milky essences, provided you do not mind a slightly tacky initial finish.

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Face Serum with Niacinamide, Pore Minimizer, 1oz

$16

A top-tier budget choice for fading dark spots and smoothing skin, provided you are patient with the gradual results of a gentle formula.

How they score

FactorHydrating Milky TonerResurfacing Retinol Face Serum
Absorbency85–
Skin Soothing94.5–
Hydration Power96.5–
Ingredient Quality92–
Packaging Function82–
Gentleness–94
Barrier Support–96
Pigmentation Fading–82
Texture Improvement–88.5
Ingredient Stability–90

Hydrating Milky Toner

What owners praise

  • High-end barrier repair ingredients at a drug store price
  • Completely fragrance and alcohol free for sensitive skin
  • Noticeable reduction in redness thanks to Cica infusion
  • Generous 150ml size offers great value per ounce
  • Non-comedogenic formula won't clog pores despite the milky texture

What to know first

  • Can feel slightly sticky if too much product is applied
  • Bottle design makes it difficult to dispense the very last drop
  • May be too heavy for use under thick sunscreens in humid climates

Skip it if individuals with very oily skin who prefer a matte finish

Resurfacing Retinol Face Serum

What owners praise

  • Encapsulated retinol reduces risk of peeling
  • Contains ceramides to protect the skin barrier
  • Licorice root naturally brightens dark spots
  • Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic formula
  • Affordable price point for high-quality actives

What to know first

  • Lower concentration of retinol means slower results
  • Plastic pump can sometimes get stuck
  • Not intended for treating active acne breakouts

Skip it if people with active, severe cystic acne or those seeking professional-strength prescription retinoids

Specs side by side

SpecHydrating Milky TonerResurfacing Retinol Face Serum
ASINB0CSDWS3HJB07VWSN95S
Size5.07 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)–
Item FormLiquidSerum
Skin TypeDryAcne Prone, Mature
Brand NameBYOMACeraVe
Scent NameUnscentedFragrance Free
Unit Count5.07 Fluid Ounces1 Fluid Ounces
Item Volume150 ml30 ml
ManufacturerBYOMACeraVe
Model NumberBYOMA | HYDRATING MILKY TONERB07VWSN95S
Number of Items11
Customer Reviews4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars (6,313) 4.7 out of 5 stars4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars (56,757) 4.6 out of 5 stars

Other options in this category

Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant 4 Fl Oz
96.5

Best for oily and congestion prone skin types seeking a smoother texture.

  • 2 percent Beta Hydroxy Acid concentration
  • pH balanced for maximum efficacy
  • Includes soothing green tea antioxidants
$37