Skin toner is a water-based liquid product used in skincare to cleanse, refresh, and prepare the skin for subsequent treatments like moisturizers and serums. It typically follows cleansing and helps remove any residual dirt, oil, makeup, or impurities left on the skin after washing
. Toners serve multiple functions, including:
- Removing leftover impurities and excess oils from the skin
- Restoring and balancing the skin’s natural pH, which can be disrupted by cleansing
- Hydrating and smoothing the skin’s surface, making it look fresher and more refined
- Providing targeted benefits depending on the formula, such as exfoliation (with acids like glycolic or salicylic acid), pore tightening, calming inflammation, and brightening
There are different types of toners based on their ingredients and strength:
- Skin bracers or fresheners: Mild, mostly water and humectants, suitable for dry or sensitive skin
- Skin tonics: Contain some alcohol and humectants, good for normal to oily skin
- Acid toners: Contain exfoliating acids for chemical exfoliation
- Astringents: Stronger toners with higher alcohol content, used for oily or acne-prone skin but may be drying or irritating
Modern toners tend to be gentler and focus on hydration and skin barrier support rather than just oil control
. They are applied typically with a cotton pad or by spraying onto the face after cleansing and before moisturizing
. In summary, toner is a versatile skincare product designed to complete cleansing, balance the skin, hydrate, and enhance the effectiveness of other skincare products applied afterward
