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Finding the Best Toner For Sensitive Skin can feel surprisingly tricky. Sensitive skin often reacts to formulas that are too harsh, too drying, or simply too fragranced, so the right toner should feel supportive, soothing, and easy to fit into a daily routine. The best options on this list focus on gentle hydration, barrier-friendly ingredients, and formulas designed to help skin feel calmer and more comfortable.
When choosing from these products, look out for alcohol-free formulas, fragrance-free options, and ingredients that are commonly associated with hydration and barrier support, such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide, and milky textures.
Let’s get started!
Our Top Picks at a Glance
| Product | Best For | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner | Brightening and smoothing | Buy |
| BYOMA Hydrating Milky Toner | Ultra-hydration and redness support | Buy |
| CeraVe Hydrating Toner | Everyday sensitive dry skin care | Buy |
Best Toner For Sensitive Skin
1. Best Overall: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
- EXFOLIATING TONER: Smoothes skin texture, visibly evens tone, and enhances luminosity with daily use.
- POWERED BY 7% GLYCOLIC ACID: Promotes more even looking skin tone, reduces the appearance of lines, and wrinkles, and boosts radiance.
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL FORMULA: Can also be applied to the scalp to hydrate and rebalance dry scalp skin.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner is positioned as a brightening and smoothing daily toner for a more even-looking skin tone. It is clearly geared toward exfoliation, so it may be more appropriate for sensitive skin that can tolerate active ingredients rather than skin that is currently easily irritated.
For shoppers seeking a toner with a stronger focus on surface refinement, this option stands out among the list. It’s designed for regular use and is best approached carefully if your skin tends to react quickly to acids.
If your main goal is smoother-looking skin and a brighter appearance, this formula is one of the more targeted choices in the lineup. However, sensitive skin users should introduce it gradually and monitor how their skin responds.
Pros
- Designed for brightening and smoothing
- Aims for a more even-looking skin tone
- Daily toner format
Cons
- Contains glycolic acid, which may not suit very reactive skin
- Not the most obviously gentle choice on this list
2. Best for Deep Hydration: BYOMA Hydrating Milky Toner
- HYDRATE + SOOTHE: This ultra-soothing toner works to quench dry skin while supporting sensitive + sensitized skin barriers. Skin is instantly transformed, looking + feeling soft, supple, dewy and radiant all day long.
- ALL-DAY DEW: Polyglutamic Acid + Cica help lock in moisture across multiple layers of the skin + reduce the appearance of redness from dry skin.
- BARRIER-BOOSTING: BYOMA’s carefully researched Barrier Lipid Complex utilises a concentration of ceramides + skin identical lipids in an oil-based formula for the same results you know + love from BYOMA’s Tri-Ceramide Complex.
BYOMA Hydrating Milky Toner is described as a dewy, ultra-hydrating toner that soothes skin, locks in moisture, and reduces redness. That makes it a strong fit for sensitive skin shoppers who want something more comforting than exfoliating.
The milky texture and barrier-repair positioning suggest a formula designed around softness and hydration. For skin that feels tight, dry, or easily stressed, that kind of toner can be especially appealing for everyday use.
This is a good example of the type of toner many sensitive skin users look for first: gentle in feel, moisture-focused, and centered on calming support rather than aggressive correction.
Pros
- Ultra-hydrating and dewy formula
- Soothes skin and locks in moisture
- Designed to reduce redness
Cons
- May be better for hydration than treatment-focused needs
- Milky texture may not appeal to everyone
3. Best for Dry Sensitive Skin: CeraVe Hydrating Toner
- [HYALURONIC ACID & NIACINAMIDE TONER] pH balanced toner gently removes impurities after cleansing. With ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide the lightweight toner helps soften and smooth skin while locking in moisture for refreshed, healthy-looking skin.
- [ WITHOUT ALCOHOL] The alcohol free, non-astringent, and non-drying, formula leaves skin feeling balanced, soothed, soft, and clean.
- [ SENSITIVE SKIN TESTED & NON-GREASY FEEL ] Formulated with sensitive skin in mind, the hydrating and soothing formula is fragrance-free, oil-free, allergy-tested, sensitive skin-tested, and non-comedogenic so it will not clog your pores.
CeraVe Hydrating Toner is a non-alcoholic formula with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides, and it is specifically presented for sensitive dry skin. Those details make it easy to understand why this is a popular pick for the best toner for sensitive skin.
Its fragrance-free and non-comedogenic positioning adds to its appeal for users who want a low-fuss, daily toner. The ingredient combination suggests a focus on hydration and barrier support rather than exfoliation.
If your skin tends to feel dry, vulnerable, or easily stripped, this is one of the most straightforward options on the list for routine use. It keeps the focus on comfort and skin-friendly basics.
Pros
- Non-alcoholic formula
- Contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides
- Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
Cons
- Best suited for hydration rather than active treatment
- May feel too simple for users seeking stronger results
4. Best for Soothing Care: Anua Heartleaf 77 Soothing Toner
- [Heartleaf 77% Calm Hydration] - Powered by 77% Heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata) plus Hyaluron to help soothe stressed, sensitive-feeling skin and deliver fresh, lightweight hydration for a balanced, dewy look.
- [Low-Irritation Daily Redness Care] - Primary irritation tested, to support everyday use when skin feels reactive; helps reduce the look of redness and discomfort with consistent toning.
- [Instant Cooling Temperature Drop] - Delivers a skin cooling effect (temperature decrease) on contact for a refreshed feel—ideal after cleansing, post-sun warmth, or when skin feels overheated and tight.
Anua Heartleaf 77 Soothing Toner is described as a moisturizing and calming facial toner for glass skin, with hyaluronic acid and lightweight hydration for sensitive skin. It also highlights redness relief, which may appeal to those looking for a more comforting daily formula.
The lightweight nature of this toner makes it a practical choice for people who dislike heavy textures but still want a soft, hydrating step in their routine. Its soothing positioning is especially relevant for sensitivity-focused buyers.
For those who want a toner that feels gentle and refreshing while still supporting hydration, this is a standout option. It balances a calming message with a texture that is easy to wear daily.
Pros
- Calming and moisturizing focus
- Lightweight hydration
- Designed with sensitive skin in mind
Cons
- May not be ideal for users seeking exfoliation
- Some shoppers may prefer a richer texture
5. Best for Barrier Care: Anua Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner
- [Lightweight Milk Toner] Provides intense moisture with a blend of Rice Water, Niacinamide and Ceramides, yet leaves a refreshing non-sticky finish to achieve glass skin.
- [Skin Barrier Care] Contains Anua RICE CERA-PROTEIN, a blend of Ceramides and Protein that helps support the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
- [Radiance-Boosting & Sooting Hydration] 70% Rice Water + Niacinamide for dull skin; Panthenol, Glycerin & Allantoin soothe irritated skin and provide instant(temporary) moisture.
Anua Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner is presented as a hydrating and barrier-care toner with rice water, niacinamide, and ceramides. It is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, which makes it especially relevant for sensitive skin routines focused on comfort.
The milky texture and barrier-care language suggest a product that prioritizes softness and moisture retention. It may be a good fit for users wanting a gentle toner that feels more nourishing than watery formulas.
If your goal is to support a smoother, dewier-feeling complexion while keeping the routine skin-friendly, this one offers a balanced and thoughtful formulation style.
Pros
- Hydrating and barrier-supportive
- Contains rice water, niacinamide, and ceramides
- Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
Cons
- May be more moisturizing than some users prefer
- Not focused on exfoliation
6. Best Classic Gentle Option: THAYERS Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel Facial Toner
- NEW LOOK, SAME TONER FORMULA: Alcohol-free and formulated to purify, hydrate, and balance skin; This gentle face toner for men and women reduces the look of pores and smooth skin texture while maintaining the skin's moisture barrier
- SOOTHES SKIN AFTER SHAVE: Acts as an aftershave for men to hydrate, soothe irritation, and prevent razor burn. Apply this face care for men daily as part of a mens skincare routine.
- PROVEN RESULTS: In just one use of this face toner, skin feels nourished, healthier, skin tone appears even, and skin is hydrated all day long.
THAYERS Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel Facial Toner is designed for glowing skin and is described as a soothing, hydrating, refreshing toner for all skin types. Its alcohol-free format is an important point for sensitive skin shoppers.
Because it is positioned as a broad-use toner, it may appeal to people who want something simple and familiar without stepping into more intensive formulas. The rose petal styling gives it a classic toner identity.
For sensitive skin consumers who want a well-known daily toner with a gentle reputation, this is one of the most recognizable choices on the list.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Soothing and hydrating positioning
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Not specifically formulated only for sensitive skin
- May not offer the richer barrier support some users want
7. Best for Lightweight Calming: medicube PDRN Toner
- Glow Booster Toner: Glow Boosting Toner with Salmon DNA PDRN that helps improve skin texture, while enhancing a natural glow. Achieve a clear, radiant complexion and multiple skin benefits with this toner.
- Salmon DNA PDRN: Salmon DNA PDRN stimulates skin renewal and repair, giving your skin a clearer, more luminous complexion. It promotes a more even skin tone and a natural glow by improving skin health.
- Strengthens the Skin Barrier & Enhances Radiance: Reinforces the skin barrier to prevent moisture loss while gently eliminating dead skin cells. Delivers a natural glow and deep hydration, restoring vitality to dry and fatigued skin.
medicube PDRN Toner is described as a lightweight and watery soothing toner with salmon DNA PDRN CICA support, plus peptide and niacinamide for uneven skin tone care. The wording clearly centers on calming and skin-boosting goals.
This toner may be appealing to sensitive skin users who prefer a fluid formula that does not feel heavy. Its soothing focus and Korean skincare positioning make it a notable choice in the lineup.
If you want a toner that leans into comfort while still acknowledging tone-related concerns, this is a balanced option to consider.
Pros
- Lightweight and watery texture
- Soothing and calming focus
- Includes peptide and niacinamide
Cons
- May not suit users wanting a richer milky feel
- Not primarily a hydration-heavy formula
8. Best for Dry and Sensitive Skin: THAYERS Milky Face Toner
- Milky Hydrating Toner: This facial toner delivers 48 hours of moisture leaving skin feeling soft, cushioned and hydrated. Toner for face helps skin feel hydrated while removing impurities. Alcohol free toner is suitable for sensitive skin
- Finest Natural Ingredients: Thayers vegan facial toner is formulated with snow mushroom, hyaluronic acid and elderflower water. This pH balanced, milky hydrating toner for face helps to tone skin without disrupting its moisture barrier
- Face Skin Care Essential: Gentle on skin, this hydrating toner for sensitive skin is creamy and non-drying. Thayers Milky Toner leaves skin feeling smooth, comforted and prepped for the rest of the facial skin care products in your routine
THAYERS Milky Face Toner includes snow mushroom tremella and hyaluronic acid and is described as a natural gentle facial toner for dry and sensitive skin. That makes it a very relevant pick for comfort-first skincare routines.
The milky style and hydration-oriented ingredients point to a toner that aims to support softness and reduce the stripped feeling some sensitive skin users experience after cleansing.
For anyone prioritizing a gentle, moisturizing toner with a more nourishing profile, this option fits well within a sensitive skin selection.
Pros
- Made for dry and sensitive skin
- Contains hyaluronic acid
- Gentle milky formula
Cons
- May be too rich for some oily skin types
- Not an exfoliating toner
9. Best Budget Brightening Option: Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner
- BRIGHTEN, BALANCE, AND SOOTHE: Embrace newfound confidence with the Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner made with powerful ingredients to reveal your most radiant skin! Tone and brighten with this super gentle, alcohol-free toner!
- TARGET HYPERPIGMENTATION, DULLNESS, AND ENLARGED PORES: Notice the difference in your skin! This gentle toner targets texture, dullness, uneven skin tone, and discoloration with a formula designed to bring out the best in your skin, leaving you glowing and refreshed.
- POTENT FORMULA FOR RADIANT SKIN: Niacinamide and Arbutin work to brighten dull skin and improve the look of hyperpigmentation, while licorice root extract helps to soothe inflammation, giving your skin an even clear tone.
Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner is a toner for face with niacinamide and arbutin, designed for skin tone balancing and pore minimizing. It is one of the more affordable options in the group.
Its brightening positioning may appeal to users who want a simple toner with a clearer goal beyond hydration. Still, sensitive skin users should keep in mind that tone-evening products vary in how skin responds.
If affordability matters and you want a toner with a more noticeable skincare angle, this is a practical choice to review carefully.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Contains niacinamide and arbutin
- Targets skin tone balancing
Cons
- Brightening focus may not suit very reactive skin
- Less centered on soothing than some alternatives
10. Best Simple Daily Toner: Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Gentle Daily Facial Toner
- 8-fluid ounce bottle of Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Facial Toner gently tones and refreshes skin, removing makeup and impurities without over-drying or disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier
- This gentle, dermatologist-recommended toner is alcohol-free and non-comedogenic, making it ideal for daily use on sensitive, oily, or normal skin to clarify, hydrate, and maintain a healthy skin barrier
- Formula is hypoallergenic and free of fragrance, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and alcohol, this facial toner effectively reconditions skin while removing makeup and impurities leaving skin refreshed and clean
Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Gentle Daily Facial Toner is fragrance-free and designed to tone and refresh skin while gently removing impurities and reconditioning skin. Its hypoallergenic positioning is particularly relevant for sensitive skin shoppers.
This is a straightforward daily toner that keeps the formula promise simple and accessible. That can be appealing if you want a familiar option without many bells and whistles.
For those seeking a plain, gentle toner that fits into a routine without much complexity, this is a solid consideration.
Pros
- Alcohol-free and fragrance-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle daily use positioning
Cons
- Less specialized than some other options
- Does not emphasize barrier support as strongly
11. Best Premium Sensitive Skin Pick: EltaMD Skin Recovery Essence Face Toner
- ALCOHOL FREE GENTLE SKIN TONER: This alcohol free toner improves the skin’s ability to absorb and maintain hydration without drying your skin out; it uses Glycerin to draw moisture into the skin for lightweight hydration
- REMOVES SKIN IMPURITIES: This gentle facial toner is formulated with malachite extract, a mineral-rich copper complex that removes impurities from the skin and helps protect it from environmental aggressors; it also gives the toner its pale blue color
- FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: This hydrating face toner delivers essential nutrients that improve the skin's ability to absorb and maintain moisture, making it a suitable facial toner for all skin types, including dry, oily, acne-prone and sensitive skin types
EltaMD Skin Recovery Essence Face Toner is a hydrating facial toner for sensitive skin and is described as alcohol-free and suitable for acne-prone sensitive skin. It is the highest-priced option in this list, which places it in a more premium category.
The “skin recovery” emphasis makes this toner especially interesting for users who want a gentle essence-style step that feels thoughtful and supportive. Its positioning suggests a premium, care-focused formula.
If your priority is a sensitive-skin-centered toner and budget is less of a concern, this is one of the more refined options available here.
Pros
- Designed for sensitive skin
- Alcohol-free
- Suitable for acne-prone sensitive skin
Cons
- Higher price than most others on the list
- May be too expensive for a basic toner need
12. Best Milky Exfoliating Option: The Ordinary Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner
- GENTLY EXFOLIATES AND BRIGHTENS: A gentle toner that smooths uneven skin texture and enhances radiance through yeast ferment technology and N-Acetylglucosamine (NAG).
- BOOSTS HYDRATION: Provides all-day hydration and promotes a stronger skin barrier, making it ideal for dry skin types.
- HELPS REDUCE DARK SPOTS: Clinically tested to reduce the appearance of dark spots and improve overall skin brightness.
The Ordinary Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner is described as an exfoliating and hydrating toner for smoother, brighter skin. The milky texture makes it feel more approachable than harsher exfoliating formats, though it still belongs in the active category.
This toner may appeal to sensitive skin users who want a hydrating format but are also looking for smoothing benefits. Because it is exfoliating, it may work best for skin that tolerates active care better than very reactive complexions.
It is a good example of a hybrid-format toner for those who want moisture alongside visible refinement.
Pros
- Hydrating and exfoliating
- Milky toner format
- Targets smoother, brighter skin
Cons
- Contains exfoliating action that may not suit very sensitive skin
- Not ideal for users who want only calming care
13. Best Refillable Milky Toner: LANEIGE Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer
- Combining the benefits of a rich cream with the lightweight texture of a liquid toner, this innovative two-in-one formula delivers soothing and nourishing hydration. Enriched with a ceramide and peptide complex, it visibly firms the skin and reinforces its moisture barrier. This product is dermatologist tested and suitable for sensitive skin.
- Highlighted Ingredients: Ceramide and Peptide Complex: Provides intense, nourishing hydration and visibly firming benefits. White Leaf Tea: Is a skin-soothing ingredient rich in amino acids.
- Skin Type: Normal, Dry, Combination, and Oily
LANEIGE Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer is a lightweight refillable Korean milky toner with ceramide and peptide for hydration, firming, and barrier support. That combination makes it relevant for sensitive skin users who want a more cushiony feel.
Its toner-and-moisturizer concept is useful for people who prefer simplifying their routine. The barrier support angle also makes it a thoughtful choice for skin that needs gentle hydration.
If you like a milky, moisturizing feel and appreciate added convenience, this option stands out for both function and format.
Pros
- Hydrating toner and moisturizer in one concept
- Contains ceramide and peptide
- Refillable format
Cons
- May feel richer than some users prefer
- Not designed as an exfoliating toner
14. Best for Oily-Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner
- This exfoliating acne toner with salicylic acid and glycolic acid helps remove pore-clogging debris and smooth skin texture. It removes excess dirt and dead skin cells to leave skin feeling refreshed and even.
- Removes excess dirt and dead skin cells to leave skin feeling refreshed and even
- Treats skin concerns like Red, raised pimples, Blackheads, Whiteheads, clogged pores, Enlarged pores, Uneven skin texture, Sensitive skin
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner is a pore-refining toner with salicylic acid and glycolic acid, designed for oily skin and dead skin-cell removal. It is clearly a treatment-oriented toner rather than a calming daily hydrator.
Because it includes exfoliating acids, this product may be more appropriate for sensitive users whose skin is also oily and tolerates active ingredients. It should be approached thoughtfully if your skin is easily irritated.
For people who need a toner with a stronger clarifying role, this is one of the most targeted options in the product list.
Pros
- Designed for oily skin
- Includes salicylic acid and glycolic acid
- Pore-refining toner
Cons
- May be too strong for very sensitive skin
- More treatment-focused than soothing
15. Best for Hydrating Essence Feel: Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water
- Skin Harmony: Whether you're dealing with oily or dry skin, this ginseng essence water serves as a gentle astringent, toner, and hydrating solution, leaving your face feeling revitalized and glowing.
- K-Beauty Essential: Elevate your personal care routine with Beauty of Joseon, where traditional Korean skincare meets modern beauty. A perfect fusion of toner, moisturizer, and essence, making it the best in Korean skincare.
- Key Ingredients: Ginseng Water 80% for moisturizing and energizing the skin with full nutrition. Niacinamide 2% for Niacinamide 2% for skin barrier, tone up, pore closing. BHA 0.5% for exfoliating
Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water is described as a hydrating face toner for dry, dull skin. Its essence-water format makes it feel like a lightweight step that still aims to support moisture.
This toner may appeal to sensitive skin users who want something elegant and simple in texture, especially if dryness is part of the concern. It is positioned as a moisturizing skin-care step for both men and women.
For those who value a gentle hydrating toner with a lightweight essence feel, this is a refined option to consider.
Pros
- Hydrating essence-water style
- Designed for dry, dull skin
- Lightweight feel
Cons
- Not specifically targeted only to sensitive skin
- May not offer the barrier focus some buyers want
Buying Guide
Key Ingredient Types to Look For
For sensitive skin, ingredients that support hydration and barrier comfort are usually the safest place to start. Products in this list commonly highlight hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide, and milky or essence-style textures. Those are often favored because they aim to support skin without the harsh feel associated with many stronger treatments.
Why Alcohol-Free Matters
Alcohol-free toners are a strong consideration for sensitive skin because they tend to be less drying and less likely to leave skin feeling stripped. Several products on this list specifically mention being alcohol-free, which is a helpful signal when comparing options.
Fragrance-Free Can Be a Smart Choice
Many sensitive skin shoppers prefer fragrance-free formulas to reduce the chance of irritation. In this lineup, some products are clearly marked fragrance-free, and those may be worth prioritizing if your skin reacts easily.
Choose Hydrating Toners for Daily Use
If you want a toner for everyday use, hydrating and soothing formulas are usually the most practical. Milky toners and essence waters can be especially useful when your skin feels tight, dry, or stressed after cleansing.
Use Exfoliating Toners More Carefully
Exfoliating toners can be helpful for smoothing and brightening, but they are not always the best starting point for sensitive skin. If you choose an acid-based toner, begin slowly and make sure your skin is able to tolerate it before using it often.
Match the Toner to Your Main Concern
If your biggest issue is dryness, choose a hydrating toner. If redness is your concern, look for soothing and calming language. If you want brightening or smoothing, the exfoliating options may be worth a look, but they should be selected more cautiously.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best toner for sensitive skin?
The best toner for sensitive skin is usually one that is alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and focused on hydration or barrier support. In this list, options like CeraVe Hydrating Toner, BYOMA Hydrating Milky Toner, and THAYERS Milky Face Toner are especially relevant.
Should sensitive skin use exfoliating toner?
Sensitive skin can use exfoliating toner, but only if the skin tolerates it well and the formula is introduced slowly. Exfoliating toners in this list, such as The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner and La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution, are more treatment-focused and may not suit every sensitive complexion.
Is fragrance-free toner better for sensitive skin?
Fragrance-free toner is often a better choice for sensitive skin because it reduces one common potential irritant. While not every sensitive skin user reacts to fragrance, minimizing unnecessary extras is usually a safer approach.
Can I use toner every day if I have sensitive skin?
Yes, many sensitive skin users can use toner daily if the formula is gentle and hydrating. Alcohol-free, soothing, and barrier-supporting toners are usually the best candidates for frequent use.
What ingredients are commonly helpful in a toner for sensitive skin?
Ingredients commonly associated with sensitive-skin-friendly toners in this list include hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide, and milky hydration-focused formulas. These ingredients are often chosen because they support moisture and comfort.
How do I know if a toner is too strong for my skin?
If a toner leaves your skin feeling stinging, tight, overly dry, or uncomfortable, it may be too strong. Sensitive skin users should pay attention to how skin feels after application and stop using a product that causes irritation.
Conclusion
Choosing the Best Toner For Sensitive Skin comes down to keeping things gentle, hydrating, and simple. The strongest everyday choices in this list are the ones that emphasize alcohol-free formulas, fragrance-free comfort, and barrier-friendly ingredients. If you want a true daily toner for sensitive skin, CeraVe Hydrating Toner, BYOMA Hydrating Milky Toner, and THAYERS Milky Face Toner are especially worth a close look.
If you are shopping for smoothing or brightening benefits, the exfoliating options on this list can help, but they should be matched carefully to your skin’s tolerance. The best toner is the one that supports your skin without overwhelming it, and that balance is especially important when sensitivity is part of the picture.