The short answer is "it goes after cleansing," according to Amy Wechsler, a dermatologist based in New York City. She recommends including toner in both your day and night skin-care routines. To get more specific, you should use toner after you double cleanse and exfoliate your skin, both Cho and Chang agree.
Because of its water-like consistency, toner is meant to be applied immediately after cleanser and before serums, moisturizers, and oils.
No, toning is not necessary for skin health. Toners were originally developed to remove soap scum from the face when lye-based soaps combined with hard water left a sticky residue post cleansing. The alcohol-based toner removed the soap scum eliminating irritation and contributing to cleanser mildness.
Generally we follow the cleanse, tone, and moisturize series of steps. When we add in a hyaluronic acid serum, it should come after a toner and before the moisturizer in order to optimize the absorption of weights of hyaluronic acid. Repeat after me: after a toner, before a moisturizer.
Toners can restore skin's PH levels to a normal level, hydrate, and refresh the skin. Serums, on the other hand, provide a high concentration of active ingredients to the skin, hydrate and deal with skincare concerns like wrinkles and fine lines.
However, as gentle as they are, you do not want to use an exfoliating toner daily. Once or twice a week should do it, unless you have dry skin, in which case, once a month. "That can cause a major imbalance in your skin's microbiome, disrupt your natural skin barrier, and make your skin dehydrated.
But, whether you get it in a toner, exfoliant, serum, or moisturizer, it doesn't matter. Just find a product you like and that works for you. If it's a toner, use a toner. If it's a serum, use a serum and skip the toner.
You definitely need to apply moisturizer after toner. Moisture is necessary for having healthy, wrinkle-free skin. After using a toner, your skin can absorb and retain moisture better than before; hence you should use a moisturizer.
Damp skin is more receptive to products so there is no need to wait for your tonic to dry first. Apply your moisturizer directly after spritzing your Natural Face Toner to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated for longer.
This will vary from product to product — a toner may take mere seconds to dry, while a serum or thick nighttime eye cream could take a minute, or even a few minutes to dry and be properly absorbed. A good rule to follow to simplify things? Wait about one minute between applying each skincare product.
“Alcohol-free toners are an important step in skincare, but in order to get the full benefits, you must leave it damp on your skin before applying your serum or moisturizer,” Rouleau says.
A toner's job is meant to gently refresh your skin without stripping it of its natural moisture. This means toner won't irritate sensitive skin or cause excessive dryness. Toner also prepares the skin to drink up your post-cleansing moisturizer and any other skin treatments that you may apply.
Yes, micellar water is an all-over toner that can help cleanse and tone the skin effectively. Not only that, it acts as a makeup remover, facial cleanser, toner, and moisturizer, all in one bottle.
Is Rose Water a Natural Toner? Rose water is, indeed, a natural toner. It comes from the Rosa damascena flower, commonly known as the Damask rose, and is created by distilling rose petals with steam. While it's become more popular in recent years, rose water has actually been used for centuries.
It can also help reduce inflammation and tighten pores for healthier-looking skin. Finally, it is antioxidant and helps control oil production, which can overall help keep skin looking its best. In short, witch hazel is an ideal toner to keep your skin looking healthy and glowing.
Toner is meant to absorb quickly and be left on—it isn't a rinse-off facial cleanser. Think of toner as being similar to astringent or micellar water in this way, which also shouldn't be washed off.
Toners can help close pores and tighten cell gaps after cleansing, reducing the penetration of impurities and environmental contaminants into the skin. It can even protect and remove chlorine and minerals present in tap water. It acts like a moisturizer.
“A toner or toning lotion can be even better than washing in the morning,” says Carlen. “This is because your day cream penetrates better when your skin is damp but you don't want to strip your skin just to put nutrients back in.”
While hyaluronic acid is most often applied as a serum, it can also show up in toners, face mists and even as ingestible powders. Take a look at these different products that use hyaluronic acid: Cleansing Face Mist by Rooted Beauty. Gentle Anti-Aging Facial Toner with Hyaluronic Acid by Tree To Tub.
A toner with niacinamide can be especially beneficial when applied after cleansing to rehydrate and replenish skin. A concentrated 10% Niacinamide Booster can be used on its own (much like a serum) or mixed into your favorite non-SPF moisturizer, based on personal preference.
INSTREE Hyaluronic Acid Toner Renewed is a hydrating toner for dry and tight skin types. The non-sticky, watery toner rejuvenates your skin with moisture. Your skin will feel plump and firm with hydration and naturally healthy after using it daily.
Cleaning the face before exfoliating allows you to start with a fresh slate. Exfoliation dives into the pores, more so than a mild cleanser. It's important to remove your makeup and clean your face on a daily basis. It's not always necessary to exfoliate with the same frequency.