Toner is a staple in many skincare routines, yet its proper use and efficacy are often misunderstood.

Once regarded as an optional step, toners have evolved into an essential part of achieving healthy, balanced skin.

But what does toner do, and how should you be using it to see the best results? In this article, we’ll explore the correct usage of toner and its actual benefits for your skin!

1. What Is a Toner?

Toner is a liquid skincare product applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. Historically, toners were primarily used to remove residue from harsh cleansers and restore the skin’s pH balance, which could be disrupted by soap-based products. Today, toners serve a variety of functions depending on the ingredients, such as hydrating the skin, reducing the appearance of pores, and delivering targeted treatments for specific skin concerns.

2. The Correct Usage of Toner

Using toner correctly is crucial to maximizing its benefits. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to incorporate toner into your skincare routine:

Step 1: Cleanse Your Skin

Always begin by thoroughly cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser. This removes dirt, makeup, and impurities, preparing your skin for the toner and subsequent products.

Step 2: Apply Toner

After cleansing, pour a small amount of toner onto a cotton pad or directly into your hands. If using a cotton pad, gently swipe the pad across your face, focusing on areas prone to oiliness, such as the T-zone. If applying with your hands, gently pat the toner into your skin, avoiding the eye area.

Step 3: Let the Toner Absorb

Allow the toner to fully absorb into your skin before moving on to the next step in your skincare routine. This usually takes a few seconds, but it ensures that the toner can deliver its benefits effectively.

Step 4: Follow with Serums and Moisturizers

Once the toner has been absorbed, continue with your usual serums, moisturizers, or treatments. Toner helps prepare the skin to better absorb these products, making them more effective.

3. The Actual Efficacy of Toner

Toners can provide several key benefits to your skin, depending on the ingredients they contain.

Hydration: Many modern toners are formulated with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These ingredients help attract moisture to the skin and lock it in, making toners an excellent addition for people with dry or dehydrated skin.

Balancing the Skin’s pH: The skin’s natural pH is slightly acidic, around 5.5. Toners help restore the skin’s natural pH level, ensuring that it remains in a healthy range.

Minimizing Pores: Some toners contain astringent ingredients like witch hazel or salicylic acid that help tighten pores and reduce excess oil production.

Exfoliation: Exfoliating toners that contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) can gently remove dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and improving the skin’s texture over time.

Soothing and Calming: For those with sensitive or irritated skin, toners containing aloe vera, chamomile, or centella asiatica can help soothe inflammation and reduce redness.

4. Choosing the Right Toner for Your Skin Type

To maximize the benefits of toner, it’s important to choose a product that suits your skin type and addresses your specific concerns. Here’s a quick guide to selecting the right toner:

For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: Look for toners that contain ingredients like salicylic acid, witch hazel, or niacinamide.

For Dry or Dehydrated Skin: Hydrating toners with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera are ideal.

For Sensitive Skin: Opt for toners that are alcohol-free and contain calming ingredients such as chamomile, rose water, or aloe vera. These toners help soothe irritation and prevent further sensitivity.

For Combination Skin: If you have combination skin, choose a toner that strikes a balance—hydrating but not too oily, and with ingredients that can manage both dry and oily areas. Toners with mild exfoliating acids can be a good choice.

Dear Lykkers! Toner is no longer just an optional step in skincare, it’s a versatile product that can provide significant benefits when used correctly.

WHAT DOES TONER DO TO YOUR SKIN? | ASK DR. STURM

Video by Dr. Barbara Sturm