Whether you have dry skin, struggle with blemishes, or are simply looking to make the most out of your skincare routine, a facial toner can be a helpful addition to your daily lineup. But as with any skincare product, knowing how to apply toner properly is key. Understanding when, where, and how much toner to use can help ensure you reap the benefits of your chosen toner without wasting precious product. To help, we’re answering all of your toner-related questions, right here. Ahead, we’ll explain what toner is, what it can do, and how to use it in your skincare routine. Read on for the details—and keep scrolling to discover a few of our favorite picks for every skin type. What Is Toner? A face toner is a liquid skincare product applied to the face after cleansing. Their main purpose is to help replenish hydration and prepare your skin for the remainder of your skincare routine. However, their benefits vary by formula—some toners exfoliate, others help soothe redness and discomfort, and some even target blemishes. Finding the right formula for your needs requires identifying your concerns and goals and choosing a formula designed to address those needs. What Is the Difference Between Astringent and Toner? Facial toners and astringents are similar, but they’re not quite the same thing. Toners are primarily water-based products designed to help hydrate and nourish the skin. They’re typically alcohol-free and may contain humectant ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Astringents, on the other hand, contain alcohol and are designed to help reduce excess oil. Because of their more drying nature, astringents are best suited for those with oily skin (toners, meanwhile, can be suitable for all skin types). What Does Facial Toner Do? Depending on the formula you choose, adding a face toner to your routine may help: Add hydration back to the skin after cleansing Balance the skin’s pH level Remove lingering oil, dirt, and/or impurities Provide gentle exfoliation Minimize the appearance of pores Visibly improve skin texture and tone Prepare your skin for the rest of your routine Keep in mind that different toners have different benefits, so if there’s a specific concern you’d like to address, you’ll want to select a formula designed for that need. The best facial toner for you will be one that targets your concerns without leaving your skin feeling tight, dry, or off balance (more on that shortly!) When To Use Toner The best time to apply a toner is immediately after washing your face, while your skin is still slightly damp. Because some face washes and cleansers can leave the skin feeling tight or dry, following with a balancing toner can help soothe and replenish your skin before you layer on your essences, serums, and other skincare products. How Often Should You Use a Facial Toner? Most facial toners can be used morning and night after cleansing. However, specific instructions may vary from product to product. If you’re using an exfoliating toner, for example, once-daily usage may be ideal. We suggest reading the directions on your chosen toner before adding it to your routine. How To Apply Toner How you apply toner is just as important as the product you pick. See below for our step-by-step guide. 1. Cleanse your face Toner should always be applied to freshly-cleansed skin. Start by reaching for your favorite face wash and lathering up with lukewarm water. Once you’re done, lightly pat your skin with a clean towel to remove any excess water. Your skin should be damp when you apply your toner, not dripping wet. 2. Apply toner with a cotton pad (or your hands) Right after cleansing, soak a cotton pad in the toner of your choice (or for a reusable option, try the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Eco Pads) and sweep the formula across your face. Depending on how effective your cleansing session was, you may need to use multiple cotton pads. You’ll know you’re done when the cotton pad comes away from your face looking clean. Another option is to use your hands. You can pour the toner right into your hand, rub it between your fingers, and then apply it directly to your skin. This method works well for those facial toners that have a thicker consistency—almost like an essence. 3. Pat it in Next, use clean hands to lightly pat or press your toner into your skin. This can help the formula absorb properly. Just be sure to avoid the immediate area around your eyes. 4. Complete your skincare routine Once your toner absorbs completely (it should take about a minute), you can proceed with your skincare routine as usual. Remember to layer your products in order of consistency from thinnest to thickest for the best results. Our Favorite Face Toners for Every Skin Type Finding the best facial toner for your skin will depend on your skin type and concerns. Thankfully, there’s a toner that can work best for you. Whether you need a mattifying toner or a hydrating one, we rounded up our favorite picks for every skin type below.
