article highlights:
Toner is a water-based solution that helps balance the skin's PH levels and hydrate the skin.
Toner is ideally used after cleansing the skin.
You may have heard of toners. You may have even used them. But do you really understand their benefits and know why they are such a critical part of your skincare routine? Well, we’re here to set the record straight on what toner is, how to use it, and what to look for.
So, what is a toner?
Toners are water-based solutions that help balance the skin’s pH levels. The ideal time to apply them is directly after cleansing, since they can help deliver more hydration to the skin. Toners also act as a primer for the rest of your skincare routine and allows the remainder of the products to penetrate the skin more effectively.
What are the benefits of toner?
Toner can help deliver added nutrients and benefits into the rest of your skincare routine. A few examples: increased hydration for a dull complexion, cleaning out clogged pores, and removing dulling surface cells for more even skin.
Why should you use toner after cleansing?
The main reason is to help fully cleanse the skin. Even when you double cleanse, some oil or debris may be left behind. Toner also helps to refine the skin after cleansing.
How often should you use toner?
You can use toner in both your morning and evening skincare routines, depending on your skin’s needs and ability to accept toner’s benefits. It is ideal to incorporate toner into your skincare routine immediately following double cleansing. Those with more sensitive skin may want to use a toner like UltraCalming Mist — a soothing, hydrating mist to help calm redness and sensitivity — only once per day, so you can fully lift away any sunscreen, makeup, oil, or dirt that may have found its way onto your skin throughout the day. We recommend incorporating it into your evening skincare routine.
How do you use toner?
Toner can come in a liquid form, which is poured onto a cotton pad and then swept into the skin. It is also available in a spray, which can be spritzed directly onto the skin both during your skincare routine and throughout the day as needed. This also helps to deliver essential moisture to your skin. Finally, toner is available as a mist or an essence, both of which are slightly richer product forms that help deliver benefits to the skin. After applying toner, you can then follow with the rest of your skincare routine — moisturisers, serums, eye treatments, sunscreen, et cetera!