Do I Really Need Toner?

Everywhere you go, there's people trying to sell you things with no promise of them working.

It's the same in skincare too: products with ingredient buzzwords, lines for a 15 step skincare routine.

If you're a discerning spender, you've surely asked yourself before.

How much of this do I actually need?

To get straight to the point. No, you don't need to use a toner. But that doesn't mean that it's useless.

It's a product that comes with lots of great benefits if you use it right.

Keep reading to figure out whether toner is something for you, or if you should skip it all together.

What Is Toner and Why Was It Originally Used?

Toner was originally introduced into skincare routines as a post-cleansing step to rebalance the skin's natural pH.

Human skin is slightly acidic, with a pH of around 4.7 to 5.75. This maintains its barrier function and wards off harmful microbes.

Many traditional cleansers were alkaline, which disrupted that balance.

When the skin's pH is off, it becomes more vulnerable to irritation.

Toners were used to restore the skin's acidity and return it to a balanced state faster than it would on its own.

As time has passed, the necessity of toner for pH correction has waned.

Now cleansers are formulated to be pH balanced.

But toner formulations have also changed to become more than just balancing agents.

Now they come packed with actives and other ingredients that target all kinds of skin concerns.

Toners today are a gentle addition to a skincare routine that gives your other products the boost they might need.

 Is Toner Necessary in Your Skincare Routine?

Generally, the answer is no. You don't need it, but it's nice to have.

But if you live in an area where the climate is harshly humid or dry, there are lots of environmental pollutants, and/or the water is hard, toner can really help.

In these circumstances, cleansing alone usually isn't enough to clean your skin.

Despite it not being a must-have, many skincare enthusiasts still use toners because of these benefits:

• removes residual dirt, oil, and makeup that may have been missed during cleansing
• preps the skin to absorb serums and moisturizers more effectively
• adds hydration or exfoliation, depending on the formula
• supports barrier repair and reduces inflammation with specific ingredients
• restores nutrients lost during the cleansing process

These advantages help boost a basic routine into a more effective, targeted one.

How to Decide If You Need Toner

The best way to figure out if you need toner is to start with your skin.

Think about your skin type and what it needs the most help with.

If your skin is dry and flaky, hydration or gentle exfoliation is what you’re after.

If you’re dealing with breakouts or shine, something with oil control or calming ingredients is better for you.

Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s all about the ingredients.

We’ll break down everything you need to know for each skin concern in the next section.

Toners for Different Skin Types and Concerns

Not all toners are made the same, and that’s a good thing.

Here’s what to look for based on your skin type or concern.

1) Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

Look for toners that help regulate oil and keep pores clear without over-drying.

Ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, witch hazel (in low concentrations), and green tea are ideal.

These help reduce shine, calm inflammation, and prevent breakouts.

2) Dry Skin

Go for toners with humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and panthenol.

Look for formulas that feel soothing, not stripping.

That means no alcohol or strong actives. Hydration is key for you, and these work against that.

3) Sensitive Skin

You need something gentle, calming, and free of harsh additives.

Look for ingredients like centella asiatica, allantoin, oat extract, and chamomile.

Skip fragrance and essential oils when possible.

4) Combination Skin

Your goal is balance, so the toners you need have lightweight hydration and mild oil control.

Try ones with rose water, aloe, niacinamide, or beta-glucan.

Spot-toning parts of your face with separate toners that address different issues is also an option.

5) Mature Skin

Look for toners that support elasticity and moisture retention.

Ingredients like peptides, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and gentle exfoliants like lactic acids are great choices for you.

6) All Skin Types

If you just want something to lightly hydrate and prep your skin, go for simple, no-fuss formulas.

Glycerin, rose water, and low-concentration panthenol are great all-rounders.

Tips for Choosing the Right Toner

With so many available formulas, picking the right toner comes down to knowing your skin and reading labels.

Match ingredients to your skin's needs with the problems and ingredients we went over together earlier.

Don’t get distracted by marketing and buzzwords. It’s easy to word things to make them sound a certain way, but the ingredients list is what will tell you if that product is what makes sense for you.

Make sure to patch test first. Even the best formulas can cause a reaction.

Apply a small amount behind your ear or your jawline before using it all over. This simple step can save you from a full-face breakout.

Lastly, keep your expectations realistic.

Marketing can make products seem like they’re the next holy elixir, but that simply is not what toners are.

They can boost your routine, but they can’t replace a good cleanser and moisturizer. All three products work hand in hand, so it’s best if all three are of the same caliber.

How to Incorporate Toner Into Your Routine

Toner is a really simple product and it’s easy to work into your existing routine.

It fits in right after cleansing, while your skin is still damp.

You can apply it with a cotton pad if you’re trying to sweep away leftover residue, such as makeup or SPF.

Or if your goal is hydration, just pat it into your skin with clean hands. No harsh rubbing or scrubbing.

Once you’re done with that, move on with your usual routine.

As for how often to use toner, it depends on the kind that you use.

Hydrating and calming toners are fine to use daily, while exfoliating toners should only be used a few times a week.

If your skin starts to feel tight, irritated, or breaks out, scale back.

The main thing to remember is that toner isn’t essential for everyone, but if you find one that suits your skin type and goals, it’s always a nice addition.

Don’t be afraid to experiment a little, but always pay attention to how your skin responds. 
With the right toner, your skin won’t just look better. It’ll also feel better, as in cleaner, softer, and more balanced.

Going on Google or social media for recommendations can be overwhelming. Everyone swears by something different.

If you don’t know where to start, feel free to check out our acne and detox toners. We may have exactly what you’re looking for.