REN Glow Tonic vs Pixi 2023 (The Definitive Guide)

So, you've decided you want to try a best-selling exfoliating toner, but you can't quite decide which one would work best for your skin? We've all been there, don't worry!

Come with us as we compare the REN Glow Tonic vs Pixi Glow Tonic side-by-side to help you decide which is right for you. Enjoy!

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REN Glow Tonic vs Pixi Glow Tonic

In recent years, toners have become a new staple in skincare routines. And while some may still be skeptical over whether they’re truly necessary, real ones know that these magic potions are incredibly complementary to the rest of your lineup.

Depending on your skincare needs, various brands offer toners for different concerns: exfoliation, calming redness, moisturizing, balancing, etc. When applying it to your face - after cleansing, and before everything else - it may just give your complexion that little something extra.

Two of our favorites, REN Clear Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic and Pixi Glow Tonic, are ideal for those who’d like to add an exfoliator to their routine in addition to their moisturizers.

But this begs the question: which one should you commit to? Let’s take a closer look at both.

Comparison

While we know that both toners work to slough away dead skin cells, each formula approaches exfoliation differently.

REN’s toner relies on a combination of AHAs and BHAs—specifically azelaic acid, lactic acid and salicin—to clear away dead skin and excess sebum. The results? Hydrated, brighter, smoother skin with smaller pores and less visible fine lines and pigmentation. (Sheesh, talk about a formula that does it all.) And given that this tonic is powerful, yet gentle enough for daily use, even those with sensitive skin can use this (if it’s diluted with some water first). Those with dry or acne-prone skin may also see improvements in their dermal conditions within a few weeks.

Pixi’s tonic credits a concentration of 5% glycolic acid for kickstarting exfoliation and cell renewal upon application. Additionally, aloe and red ginseng soothe, nourish, and balance your skin tone. Like REN’s toner, pixi’s also claims to reduce the appearance of pores for a glowy, more airbrushed finish. It doesn’t appear to be on par with REN’s anti-aging benefits, but they do state that this formula is suitable for all skin types.

Anti-aging differences aside, both toners have sparkling, 5-star reviews on their respective websites, so it appears that each is undeniably effective. However, there’s a sizable difference in price between the two, with REN’s toner costing $39 for a 250ml bottle while pixi’s is $29 for the same amount.

Conclusion

Between capabilities and cost, this comparison still feels neck and neck. Perhaps shedding some light on each company’s business ethics will allow us all some clarity…

So, what’s more about REN’s toner is that it’s vegan and cruelty-free, and the packaging for this item is made from 100% recycled plastic. Further, REN made the Zero Waste Pledge in 2018 “to only produce packaging designed to be recyclable, containing recycled materials, or being reusable by the end of 2021.” As an aside, though, we’d like to note that not all their products are vegan.

On the other hand, pixi is also cruelty-free but not entirely vegan. In terms of sustainability, there isn’t anything on pixi’s website that explicitly states that they’re committed to cleaner policies. (And even after some digging elsewhere, we were unable to find additional information on this matter.)

Although REN’s formula is more expensive, it appears you’ll reap more benefits, and their brand is better for the Earth. Case closed!