A carefully created anti-aging skincare routine is the best way to say goodbye to wrinkles and fine lines. If toners used to be reserved for people with oily skin who needed extra control, it isn’t the case anymore. Now, face toner is for everyone, and you can choose the right one for your skin type. Here’s an overview of this refreshing and often underrated part of skincare. 

What Is Face Toner? 

What is face toner exactly, and why should you add it to your skincare routine? Face toner is a product used between two important steps: cleaning and moisturizing. 

It can remove excess oil and impurities left behind after cleansing, especially if you opt for a more astringent one. You can also choose one that hydrates and soothes your skin. Think of it as a refreshing mist after a day outside in the sun. Toners will also prepare the skin for serum and moisturizer.  

There are three typical toner bases: alcohol, glycerine, and distilled water. Alcohol works better for oily skin, glycerine can benefit dry and aging skin, and water-based is ideal for sensitive skin. Other ingredients include rose water, vitamin E, tea tree oil, alpha hydroxy acid, and a wide range of plant extracts.  

Dermatologists recommend matching a toner for your specific skin type. For example, if you are prone to acne, a toner rich in salicylic acid can help significantly. Water-based would be the best toner for sensitive skin since alcohol might dry the skin too much. Fragrance should be avoided. Mature skin requires antioxidants such as hyaluronic acid. 

It’s also important to balance the toner’s ingredients with your other products. If you are using a strong exfoliating serum, you might want a gentler toner. If your moisturizer is gentle and nourishing, you could choose a toner that is a bit more potent. 

What Does Toner Do to Your Face? 

Toner is a vital step in your skincare routine because it clears out any impurities, traces of makeup, or excess oil that may remain. Different types of toners have different effects on your skin. 

For people prone to acne, toner ensures the skin is deeply cleansed, reducing the chances of future breakouts. The best toner for oily skin will contain some alcohol to control the excess sebum. Another option for oily skin is using alpha hydroxy acids. 

For dry skin and mature skin, a toner provides a boost of nutrition and hydration, replenishing moisture lost during cleansing. A moisturizer will then seal in this hydration. A gentle, water-based product, with vitamin E, chamomile or hyaluronic acid is the best toner for dry skin. 

For all skin types, a toner enhances the performance of other products, making your skincare routine even more effective. 

How To Use Face Toner 

How to use face toner is up to you, as they come in different formats. Some are in a spray bottle, so you can simply spray your face. Cotton pads work well if the toner is in a regular bottler, or you can even use your hands. Apply it to your face, your neck, and décolleté. 

Toner should be used after cleansing and before serum and moisturizer. Simply apply and continue with the rest of your routine, without rinsing it off.  

It’s crucial to find a toner that works with your skin type, as some might be too harsh and cause irritation. Others might be too gentle and have barely any effect at all. You can ask a professional to help you find your best choice. 

When To Use Toner on My Face 

You should use toner after cleaning your skin and before other steps, such as serum and moisturizer. If you are wondering when to use toner on your face during the day, know that it can be once or twice a day during your skincare routine.  

If yours is more astringent, especially for treating acne or oily skin, it’s best to start by using it once a day. If yours is gentle, there shouldn’t be any problem with using it twice a day. If your skin gets dry, switch to every other day. Some people prefer a gentle toner in the morning instead of cleaning their face. Others reserve a toner strictly for a night routine to remove any leftover makeup.  

A Mist of Youth 

Toners aren’t what they used to be, and we couldn’t be happier about it. Whether you need a soothing spray to cool down after a long day or an energizing one to start your morning right, you’ll be sure to find a toner that will serve your skin type well. Choose the right one and enjoy!