How to Use Toner: The Skincare Step You Shouldn’t Skip

Toner is often overlooked, but it plays an important role in a well-rounded skincare routine. Think of it as a refreshing reset—it helps balance your skin after cleansing and prepares it for the next steps in your routine.

What Is Toner?

A toner is a water-based liquid designed to:

  • Support your skin’s natural pH
  • Remove residual makeup, oil, or cleanser
  • Help refine the appearance of pores
  • Prep your skin for moisturizer or serums

Some formulas include calming or hydrating ingredients like aloe, rose water, witch hazel, or green tea.


When to Use Toner

Apply toner directly after cleansing and before your serums or moisturizers.

Typical order:

  1. Cleanser
  2. Toner
  3. Serum (optional)
  4. Moisturizer
  5. Sunscreen (daytime only)

How to Apply Toner

1. With a Cotton Pad (great for oily or breakout-prone skin)

  • Apply toner to a cotton pad
  • Gently swipe across your face, focusing on areas like the T-zone
  • Avoid harsh rubbing

2. With Your Hands (ideal for dry or sensitive skin)

  • Pour a few drops into your palms
  • Pat gently into your skin with clean fingertips
  • Let it absorb before applying your next product

How Often Should You Use It?

Most toners can be used twice daily—morning and night. If your toner contains active ingredients like exfoliants (AHAs/BHAs), start gradually and adjust based on your skin’s comfort level.


Choosing the Right Toner for Your Skin

  • Dry/Sensitive: Look for alcohol-free formulas with aloe, chamomile, or rose water
  • Oily/Breakout-Prone: Try clarifying ingredients like witch hazel, tea tree, or salicylic acid
  • Normal/Combination: Opt for balanced formulas with gentle extracts or mild exfoliants

💡 Pro tip from BeautyBossEstheticss: Always patch test new skincare products on a small area of skin before full use.


Wrap-Up: Why Toner Matters

Toner is more than just a rinse—it helps refresh your skin and prepare it for hydration and other treatments. Adding the right toner to your routine can support a balanced, cared-for complexion.

✨ At BeautyBossEstheticss, we’re all about clean, effective skincare made simple. Explore our ingredient-conscious approach to toning and discover a better way to care for your skin.