When to Use a Toner in Your Skincare Routine

You may be wondering, what is a facial toner? Does it really do anything? There are many people I know who skip toner simply because they don’t know what it does. Toner can be an important part of your skincare routine, as it helps to balance your skin’s pH level and offers extra hydration. Here are 5 reasons why you should include toner in your skincare routine if you haven’t already.

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What is Toner?

In a nutshell, toners are usually designed to restore balance and hydration to your skin after cleansing, but they can also help minimize the appearance of pores, temporarily tighten skin, and naturally remove oil and dirt.

Toner is a staple in my skincare routine. It lowers and balances your skin’s PH level and allows other treatments like moisturizers, vitamin C, and retinol to work better. In addition, it prevents essential oils and protective elements from being stripped from your skin.

How should toner be applied?

One of the most effective ways to apply toner is by soaking a cotton pad or ball with the product and then gently rubbing it across your face, neck, and chest. The best time to perform this step is after you have washed your face, but before you use any other products.

I read an article that suggested moist skin is ten times more absorbent than dry skin so I recommend applying toner while your face is still damp — not wet, but damp. This way your skin can get that extra boost of hydration.

What skin types should use a toner?

Toner benefits all skin types. Those with oily skin often notice reduced acne and oil and tighter pores. People with dry skin can use toner to hydrate, soothe and calm.

How can I pick the right toner for my skin?

Toner doesn’t have to be complicated. The best thing you can do is choose natural products and avoid ingredients that can irritate your skin. The process does take trial and error, but I’ve listed a few toners I love below and what to look for on your journey to finding the “perfect” match.

Here’s What to Look for…

Take a look at the ingredients label and make sure it doesn’t contain harsh chemicals or drying ingredients like alcohol, parabens, or artificial fragrances. Go for natural, plant-based ingredients like green tea, which has antioxidants, aloe vera for smooth skin, witch hazel for oil balance, or rose flower oil for temporary tightening.

• Alcohol: There’s no surprise that alcohol dries you out. It can irritate and inflame sensitive skin.
• Salicylic acid: It’s commonly found in acne-fighting facial toners. There’s a tendency for it to dry out your skin.
• Benzoyl Peroxide: A common acne treatment, benzoyl peroxide can also be too intense for some people.
• Artificial fragrances: Should be avoided at all costs. Real over fake.
• Phthalates and parabens: Chemicals commonly used as low-cost preservatives. It’s not good for your skin to absorb toxins like these.

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Natural Toners Contain

• Witch Hazel: Plants like witch hazel have been used in skincare for centuries. It promotes an even skin tone and helps unclog pores and balances natural oils.
• Green Tea: The ancient ingredient green tea is known for its antioxidant properties, so it can help your skin look younger.
• Aloe Vera: In addition to providing hydration, aloe vera soothes and relieves temporary redness.
• Tea Tree Oil: Traditional uses of tea tree oil include balancing the skin and removing buildup. In addition to minimizing pores, it’s regenerating and mattifying.
• Rose Water/Rose Water Oil: There are a lot of benefits to rose water oil, from soothing temporary redness to balancing skin. 

Is there toner included in your skincare routine?