The Rhode Glazing Milk may be TikTok’s go-to milky toner for glossy, hydrated skin. But at £32, it’s not exactly kind on the wallet.
As a girlie forever counting her pennies, I’ve been using a budget-friendly dupe that gives similar results for less than half the price: The Breakout Hack’s Rebound Skin Milk Activated Cica Toner (£14.99). Of course, the Rhode Glazing Milk has its own formulation – but if you are shopping on a budget, this is a solid option.
I’ve always craved skin that’s dewy, hydrated and exceptionally compliment-worthy. But in winter, maintaining these standards can become tricky with cold air and indoor heating sapping moisture. That’s where this hydrating toner comes into play.
What I love about The Breakout Hack’s Rebound Skin Milk:
- It strengthens the skin barrier and deeply hydrates
- Lends the skin a supple, dewy finish
- Foundation looks extra glowy when layered on top or mixed in with the toner
- It’s only £14.99
I never saw milky toners as an essential part in my routine. They are designed to be used post-cleanser and before any serum or moisturiser, so it was a step I’d often completely forget about.
That was until I saw them having a huge moment on social media, with dermatologists and experts explaining how milky toners deliver deep, long-lasting hydration while still feeling like a refreshing splash of moisture. Unlike traditional watery toners, they help reinforce the skin barrier — which is crucial when dryness and sensitivity is at its peak.
There are so many milky toners out there but, with The Breakout Hack being a new Aussie brand to hit UK shelves, I was particularly excited to try this newbie. I applied three pumps of Skin Milk onto the palm of my hand and gently pressed it into my freshly-washed skin.
Instantly I noticed the texture was creamier than others – less liquid-y you could say – but in a way that made my skin feel plump and cushioned. There was no irritation, no stingy feeling and the milk instantly absorbed into my skin, ready for serum and moisturiser.
I have to give huge props to the overall glossy, healthy-looking sheen it left. For that reason, I only reach for it in the morning (no one can appreciate my dewy skin in bed). It also layers beautifully under foundation without pilling or causing my base to dry out. When I’m after a very minimal makeup look, I even mix it into my foundation to create a fresh-faced sheen of coverage.
Then, we have to talk about the impressive ingredients list which contains the ultimate concoction of hydrators and skin-soothers.
- Cica (Centella Asiatica): Soothes irritation and supports the skin barrier.
- Bisabolol: Acts as an anti-inflammatory and reduces redness.
- Ginger Root Extract: Helps to brighten.
- D-Panthenol: Moisturises and retains water in the skin.
I also find myself running to Skin Milk as soon as I get out of a warm shower, which often makes my complexion feel super tight and dry. My skin drinks up the nourishing ingredients, instantly mollifying uncomfortable sensations, and after a few minutes my face looks calm and hydrated.
The Breakout Hack’s Rebound Skin Milk: Overall thoughts
Even after just a few days of use, my skin is so much softer and plumper. You also can get involved no matter your skin type. I have combination skin so I find that this works perfectly for me – hydrating dry spots but not overwhelming oily areas.
But even those with oily complexions will appreciate how quickly it sinks in without leaving a greasy slick. And at the incredibly reasonable price tag of £14.99, your bank balance will appreciate it too.
Shop The Breakout Hack Rebound Skin Milk, £14.99
Clare Stephenson is the Senior Fashion and Beauty E-commerce Writer for Cosmopolitan, ELLE and Harper’s Bazaar. She has been an e-commerce writer since 2022, creating matter-of-fact reviews and shopping pages filled with her favourite products for every budget and need – whether that’s a glow-giving foundation, a high-tech LED face mask or the perfect wear-with-everything blazer.
Alongside writing, Clare loves to be in front of the camera creating shopping content, putting viral products to the test to see which ones are truly worth the hype. Through her work, she has interviewed leading dermatologists, makeup artists and industry experts to bring readers trusted advice and product recommendations.
Clare has contributed to titles across the Hearst UK portfolio, including Women’s Health, Good Housekeeping, Red and Prima. Prior to joining Hearst, she earned a BA in Multimedia Journalism from Bournemouth University, focusing her studies on magazines and editorial. She later worked as an editorial assistant at Voir Fashion Magazine, covering events including Fashion Week and interviewing notable brand founders.
Outside of work? You can find Clare strolling through London’s Columbia Road Market, pouring her fourth coffee of the day or heading to a Pilates class.
Follow Clare on Instagram @clarefrancesstephenson.
