Remember when ‘cleanse, tone and moisturise’ were once considered the golden steps of skin care? Then serums and the 10-step K-Beauty routine came along and toners really got left behind. But lately, if you’ve been wondering “do I need to use a toner?”, we’re here to discuss that very topic.
Toners have copped a lot of flack over the years, so we’re not entirely surprised by their unpopularity.
Not too long ago, many toning potions contained alcohol, which causes the skin to dry out. Fast.
But today, toners are fighting back and claiming their rightful role as a skin care step by ditching their alcoholic qualities in favour of moisture-boosting, acne-fighting, pore-tightening ingredients. It’s brilliant.
So, to get you clued up on toners and decide whether using one is right for you, here’s a breakdown…
What do toners actually do?
Think of toners as a big drink of water for your skin. When you wipe or spritz them onto your skin after cleansing, you’re immediately boosting the moisture content of your complexion, while removing any traces of leftover product or dirt too. This in turn reduces dehydration and refreshes the skin.
Why should I bother with the extra step?
Well, there are lots of reasons. As we age, our pores tend to get bigger, and toners are wonderful at refining pores, which promotes youthful skin. They also make your serums and moisturisers work harder because the toner preps the skin by moistening it, allowing these products to penetrate deeper into your skin cells. Oh, and they also help to eliminate dead skin cells, so you’ll find yourself sporting smooth, even-toned skin with regular use. Amazing, huh?
When do I use a toner?
Toner is typically applied as a second step, after cleansing and before serums and moisturisers. You may recall dousing a cotton pad in toner and wiping it over the skin. And while this is still an option, some toners these days can be pressed into the skin (similar to a serum or essence) and you can also mist on spritz-able varieties during the day for an extra dose of hydration. (Note: hold it a bended arm length away to avoid it messing with your makeup.) Work one into your routine and you’ll soon enjoy all the aforementioned benefits, as well as minimised shiny T-zones and fewer breakouts.
Not sure which toner suits your skin type best? We’ve gathered a few of our favourites, each of which targets different skin concerns…
Sukin Naturals Purely Ageless Firming Mist Toner
Packed with the wonderful antioxidant that is acai berry, this alcohol-free gem is perfect for those concerned with ageing, tired or stressed skin.
$13.95 at Woolworths
Read Sukin Naturals Purely Ageless Firming Mist Toner reviews
Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Toner
This pretty rose petal-filled toner will look might fine on your vanity and feel even better on your face. Ideal for dry skin, its rose-infused formula utilises hyaluronic acid for plump, hydrated skin.
$38 at Sephora (or try the new 250ml for $68)
Rodan + Fields REVERSE Intensive Brightening Toner
Kick dullness, dark spots and discolouration to the curb. This toner comes equipped with niacinamide to decongest skin and visibly even out tone.
Read Rodan + Fields REVERSE Intensive Brightening Toner reviews
$68 at rodanandfields.com.au
Natio Clear Breakout Control Toning Mist
If breakouts are bumming you out, keep this convenient mist on hand. It contains green tea to calm and salicylic acid to help boot out blemishes.
$12.95 at Myer
Read Natio Clear Breakout Control Toning Mist reviews
Clarins Soothing Toning Lotion
Prone to sensitivity? This soothing toning lotion makes use of organic purple coneflower extracts to comfort and rebalance the skin flora.
$46 at Adore Beauty
Read Clarins Soothing Toning Lotion reviews
Main image credit: Getty
So, now you’re feeling completely clued up when it comes to toners, will you add this step to your routine? Or are you already using one?
I prefer a really simple skin care routine.
I always use a toner. I like the Loreal age perfect Toner with vitamin c
I really need a toner
I don’t mind rosewater, it feels nice when it’s been in the fridge
That sounds lovely! I love anything that feels cooling on my skin
Me too, especially on days like today (32 degrees C)
I do that too! It feels so good.
Yes and they make me feel much more refreshed on a hot day
I haven’t tried that yet!
SAme. I buy those from specialty food shops, food grade ones. Just plain rosewater.
I don’t use toner. I used to but didn’t see any benefit in it.
Depending on the type of toner, it usually helps prep absorption of subsequent products (i.e. like a carrier) and can also help adjust pH of skin before use of actives.
I like using a toner – I have three on the go at present.
How do you choose between the three?
I have to admit that I can get a bit lazy with my toner & often skip it when I’m in a hurry.
I have always used a toner and love them . If I have been outside working the first thing I do is spray my face with toner as it is so refreshing and always in the morning after washing my face.
I agree, it is so refreshing
I never used to bother with toner until I started trialling one a few years back – I haven’t looked back. I use one twice a day and my skin has never looked better.
I haven’t used any of these.interesting to read some of the toners, you have to press into your skin.
I love my glycolic acid toner by The Ordinary
I find some toners so soothing. And love using them (like plain pure rose water, real one) to soothe the skin before applying serum and cream on.
Yes even from my teenage years I always knew that a toner was important. There are so many lovely ones around now. I haven’t tried the ones in the article but I will when I’ve finished the one I’m using.
I’m blackhead & blemish-prone, so I reckon toner makes a difference. I often buy TN Dickinson’s Witch Hazel, but I try others from time to time.
I haven’t used toner in a while. Might rethink now.
Hydrating toners have made a huge difference to my skin. I don’t skip this step.
I love a good mist toner. Skin physics one is my fave
I always use a toner. My current favourite is the A’kin Rose Mist Toner.
I have toners, I just don’t use them all the time.
Yes I like using toners!
I don’t have time for a toner in my routine. I’m too busy . Got enough.
Really have a buy a Cleanser and a Toner some great brands to choose from. 💗
I have always used a toner morning and night since my 30s. Some have been hit or miss but the one that I have been using for about 2-3 years now is not mentioned above. I find it fabulous from a great brand as well. It’s very soothing for my dry skin too.
great article. I have been using a sukin toner with lavender which is cooling and lovely to use before going to bed
Ooh, I want to try this!
I don’t use toner everyday, but I think it’s an important step in my routine.
The fresh rose toner looks so good.
I use a toner, but I’ve gone through stages in the past that I haven’t bothered
Okay now I need to go get a toner, I am having trouble with my skin atm being dry and not feeling moisturised, also causing my foundations to not go on right
Using a Toner always made my skin feel cleaner and brighter (not to mention the pores on my nose shrunk!).
“Simple Kind to Skin Toner” is also fantastic for ladies with sensitive skin!
I love Rose water ice cold on hot days.
I love using a toner. It always makes my skin feel refreshed.
Wow. I didn’t kno our pores tend to get bigger as we age. 🙁
I am currently addicted to Misting Toners. Perhaps because of the Summer heat. I applied for one through this year’s RR which is growing on me plus I just purchased Essano Rosehip mist toner.
I need a toner in my life
I still tend to question whether I need to use a toner and probably will continue to.