What Does Toner Do for Your Skin—and Do You Really Need It?

You’re probably well acquainted with the skincare basics: face wash, moisturizer, and sunscreen. As long as you’re doing these three things then your skin is getting the TLC it needs. Outside of this trifecta, however, there are additional steps you can weave into your regimen to enhance the self-care experience and your complexion. 

Using a toner is one of those steps, and today you’ve got lots of options to choose from. So what does toner do? We’ve consulted skincare pros for the answer.

What Does a Toner Do For Your Skin?

Historically, toners were an astringent step in your skincare routine that further cleansed and stripped the skin. We’ve really gotten away from that in the last couple decades, though, and a new class of toners has stepped up to the place. This crew is far more gentle and even diverse in its offering, making it a step that anyone and everyone can incorporate into their regimen.  

“Over the years, toners have evolved by incorporating additional hydrating and active ingredients,” says Ryan Turner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City  and the co-founder of TRNR Skin. “Unlike the past—when astringent toners were the norm for balancing the pH levels of oily or dry skin—currently toners offer a more diversified range of options.” 

What Step Do You Apply Toner? 

Toners are applied after your cleanser and before any treatments, serums, or moisturizers. This follows the golden rule in skincare application, which is to apply your products in order of thickness starting with the thinnest first. Toners are very lightweight—essentially like water—making them first up in your routine post-cleanse. 

Some formulas are milkier or creamier compared to others, but Dr. Turner says that despite their appearance they’re formulated to absorb quickly so they still go first.  

“Toners should be used in both your AM and PM routines,” adds Rachael Gallo, esthetician and chief operating officer at Silver Mirror Facial Bar. You can them by dispensing into your hand and patting onto your face, or you can soak a cotton round and sweep it across your face. 

Different Types of Toners to Try 

As is the case with any skincare product, consider your skin type and specific skincare goals to determine which toner is right for you. “With the fundamental categorizations of oily, dry, or normal,” you can effortlessly determine the most suitable toner for your requirements,” she says. “Additionally, incorporating a hydrating toner during colder weather can prove to be a beneficial choice.” 

Clarifying 

Clarifying toners target breakouts and blemishes. The goal isn’t to harass your skin, though; you want a gentle toner with hydrating qualities formulated with ingredients that target pimples. 

• Colleen Rothschild Gentle & Clear Clarifying Solution 
• Peach & Lily Snail Rescue Blemish Busting Toner
• La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner 

Moisturizing 

Heavier, milky, opaque toners are best for those with dry skin or sensitive skin, Dr. Turner says. These are typically formulated with hydrating and strengthening ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, botanical oils, and ceramides. 

• Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Serum Toner
• Belif Moisturizing Bomb Toner
• Ilia The Base Face Milk

Exfoliating 

Depending on their potency, exfoliating toners can be worked into your routine on a daily or weekly basis. They gently exfoliate the top layer of your skin to nix dead skin cells and impart a healthy glow. 

“If you’re looking for an exfoliating toner, consider the specific chemical exfoliants used in the formulation,” says Dr. Turner. “For example, lactic acid and PHAs offer gentler exfoliation, while glycolic acid and salicylic acid are stronger.”

• Innisfree Green Tea Enzyme 7% PHA Gentle Exfoliating Toner
• The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
• Pixi Beauty Glow Tonic with Glycolic Acid

Soothing 

Soothing toners are ideal for those with irritated or sensitive skin. They’re typically made with ingredients that have a calming effect, like cica (centella asiatica), rose water, or aloe vera. 

• CosRx Centella Water Alcohol-Free Toner
• Clarins Soothing Toning Lotion with Chamomile
• Mario Badescu Aloe Vera Toner

There’s no one-size-fits-all with toners. Feel free to mix and match your toners throughout the week or from morning to night. The goal is to listen to your skin and actively work toward your skincare goals.