I'll admit I never bother with toners so can't really compare this to anything. I got it because it came with the kit. This and the clay mask have probably made the biggest difference to my skin. I think its the higher level of niacinamide in this (or the cactus?), but it really packs a punch and I probably saw the biggest improvement in texture and tone from this. Its fragrance free and not the best smelling product, but its scentless once dry and trust me, you want this on your skin.