A toner is a water-based skincare product applied after cleansing to remove any remaining impurities, balance the skin’s pH, and prepare the skin for subsequent products like moisturizers and serums
. It typically comes in a liquid form and can be applied with a cotton pad, sprayed on, or used with a tonic gauze mask
. Toners serve several purposes:
- Remove leftover dirt, oil, and makeup residue after cleansing
- Restore and balance the skin’s natural pH, which can be disrupted by cleansers
- Hydrate and refresh the skin, often containing humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid to attract and retain moisture
- Tighten pores and reduce inflammation with ingredients such as witch hazel or astringents
- Exfoliate dead skin cells chemically with acids like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs)
- Deliver antioxidants and other active ingredients to protect and improve skin texture and tone
There are different types of toners based on their ingredients and intensity:
- Skin bracers or fresheners: mild, mostly water and humectants, suitable for dry or sensitive skin
- Skin tonics: contain small amounts of alcohol, suitable for normal to oily skin
- Acid toners: contain exfoliating acids for chemical exfoliation
- Astringents: stronger, high in alcohol, used for oily skin but can be drying or irritating
Modern toners are generally gentler than older formulations and often alcohol- free, focusing on hydration and skin health rather than harsh cleansing
. They help the skin absorb subsequent skincare products better and can be used both morning and night
. In summary, a toner is a versatile skincare step that cleanses, balances, hydrates, and preps the skin for better absorption of other products, with formulations tailored to different skin types and concerns
