What a toner really does for your skin

What does toner do for your skin? This underrated skin care item helps your skin more than you realize. Toner is necessary regardless of your skin type or concern, the key is to find the correct one for your skin. Keep reading to see what toner does for your skin, why you need it and which toner you should us for your skin type and concerns.

What is a toner?

Toners are usually a liquid-based formula used to rebalance skin after cleansing and prep your face for the next skin care product you apply. Some formulas are meant to be spritzed on, while others are meant to be applied with a cotton pad. They are sometimes called ‘skin toner’, ‘tonics’, or ‘skin fresheners’.

When most people think of toner, they think of outdated, alcohol-based astringents. These formulas of the past often caused dehydration, and even irritation or stinging. Unfortunately, this history has given toners a bad reputation.

However, modern toner formulas have evolved far past that. There are many different skin toner benefits.

What does toner actually do for the skin?

Toner can do some unexpected things for your skin, like soothe stinging or otherwise sensitized skin or help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Just look at what toner does for your skin:

Rid the skin of excess impurities and oil
Help heal acne that you've picked at by keeping it clean
Saturate the skin with problem solving ingredients
Keep skin hydrated
Prevent premature aging
Soothe irritated skin
Help your skin better absorb serums and moisturizers
Protect your skin from outside irritants
Keep skin fresh while traveling

Why your skin needs toner

You absolutely need toner for your skin because any high quality toner will rebalance the pH levels of your skin. Your skin’s pH levels can become unbalance by practically anything – even just rinsing your face with tap water – so it’s crucial to rebalance. In addition to rebalancing your pH levels, toners help replenish your skin’s protective surface barrier, otherwise known as the Hydro Lipidic Barrier (HLB) which protects your skin.

How to use toner

Using a skin toner is very straight forward. Simply cleanse your skin, gently pat dry, and follow with a spritz of toner or swipe on a thin layer with a cotton pad, depending on the directions. Make sure to apply your toner before applying your other skin care products so your skin is properly prepped.

As long as it’s not an astringent formula, you can also apply your toner anytime throughout the day to keep your complexion dewy.

How often should you use toner on your face? We recommend twice daily after cleansing your skin and anytime you need a refreshing “pick me up” throughout the day.

The right toner for your skin

Toner is necessary no matter what, but you have to choose the correct one to see results. Click any of the toners below to learn more.

Just because you’re on the go doesn’t mean you should forget about your skin care! Travel size toner is the perfect addition to your carryon luggage. Simply spritz onto your face to arrive at your destination with a glowing complexion.