At this point, we are sure you are well aware of 'toner' being an essential part of one's skincare routine. Following CTM, the holy grail steps one has to preach in their skincare journey, toner acts as the stuffer in between your cleanser and moisturiser. But, there's still a lot of confusion as to when to use the toner (before the serum, after the serum or before the cleanser are the common queries we have heard). So, here's a deep dive into what a toner is and how to use it correctly on the skin to get maximum benefits.
How To Use A Toner Correctly For Maximum Benefits
What is Toner?
Toner is a liquid that removes excess oil, cleanses the skin, and prepares it for other products in your skincare routine. It also tightens pores or moisturises skin, depending on the formula you choose, and prepares your face for deeper treatments—like serums, masks, moisturisers, or eye creams.
Benefits Of Using A Toner On Your Face
Balances Skin pH: Acidic or alkaline skin creates an ideal environment for acne-causing bacteria. Thus, a balancing toner can help put a stop to it.
Cleanses: Facial toners help clean and prepare the skin for further treatments, such as moisturisers or serums.
Tightens Pores: Facial toners tighten the skin when applied to a clean face. A tighter texture makes the complexion look fresher and smoother.
Helps In Better Absorption Of Products: Applying serums and moisturiser or any other skincare product you are banking on for getting maximum effects from is futile if you apply it on cleansed, dry skin and that's where a toner plays a key role in preparing the skin for better absorption of formulas.
How To Use Toner On Your Face
Step 1: Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser or facewash. Apply a small amount of cleanser and gently massage in circular motions. Make sure to rinse the product to maintain the toner's effectiveness.
Step 2: Pat dry your face with a clean towel or tissue.
Step 3: Apply a cotton pad with toner to your face. Use one saturated with the product, then gently swipe it over your skin in upward motions.
Step 4: Wait for a minute or two for the toner to absorb and next, apply a face serum, moisturiser and other products.
Best Toners For Different Skin Concerns
Dry Skin
Plum Bulgarian Valley Rose Water Toner
₹390
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A tried-and-tested toner for dry skin, the Plum Bulgarian Valley Rose Water Toner has a loyal fan-following with its lovely , moisturising formula shining through. Apart from the hydrating Bulgarian rose water, it has hyaluronic acid to keep the skin moisturised, calendula extract to help soothe the skin and witch hazel to tighten the pores.
Nykaa Rating: 4.4/5
Oily Skin
Clinique Clarifying Lotion 4
₹3000
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This toner is quite popular among dermatologists for oily, acne-prone skin since it has salicylic acid and witch hazel to help with exfoliation. For oilier skins, twice-daily exfoliation helps minimise excess oil and keep pores clear. However, it is essential that you follow it up with a nice moisturiser to prevent drying of the skin.
Nykaa Rating: 4.4/5
Sensitive Skin
Simple Kind To Skin Soothing Facial Toner
₹460
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This one is 100% alcohol free and is meant for balancing the skin's PH level. It's main job as a toner is to soothe skin, especially for sensitive skin as it is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. The star ingredients are chamomile, pro vitamin B5, witch hazel and allantoin so there's only the good stuff to keep your skin sorted.
Nykaa Rating: 4.4/5
Pigmented Skin
PIXI Glow Tonic
₹1550
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This exfoliating toner was considered a sensation at one point. It's a highly concentrated toner with 5% glycolic acid that deeply cleans pores by sweeping away excess oil and impurities while aloe vera soothes and hydrates your skin. And since glycolic acid has brightening properties, regular use helps reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
Nykaa Rating: 4.4/5
Dull Skin
Caudalie Beauty Elixir
₹1550
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Made of 100% natural-origin ingredients, the Caudalie Beauty Elixir is an all rounder that works as a toner, facial mist and a primer for your makeup too! Ingredients include grape, orange blossom, rose balm mint and rosemary – all components which promote radiant skin. Our only ick with this toner is that it has perfume but other than that, it continues to remain a hit!
Nykaa Rating: 4.5/5
