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Do I Really Need Toner? What This Step of Your Skincare Routine Actually Does

Do I Really Need Toner? What This Step of Your Skincare Routine Actually Does

It can feel like the skincare scene is the Wild West. There are so many products, and people rush to get on any trendy bandwagon product that pops up. But… are toners a fad or are they here to stay? Spoiler: this essential yet often misunderstood step could be the game-changer your skin has been waiting for. So, today we’re going to chat about the benefits of toner, what toner ingredients to look out for, and more. Let’s get started.

What Does Toner Do for My Skin?

Toner plays a vital role in the skincare routine by removing any leftover dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin after cleansing. It can also help to balance the pH level of your skin (depending on what toner you use), preparing it to absorb the following skincare products more effectively. Toner can also minimize the appearance of pores (through hydration), refresh the skin, and provide an extra layer of protection against environmental aggressors.

Toners can also be a great line of defense against acne, with ingredients like witch hazel, chamomile, and other gentle, bacteria fighting ingredients.

What Are the Benefits of Toner?

The benefits of using a toner include enhanced skin clarity, improved hydration, and the prevention of acne and breakouts, like we mentioned above. Toners with hydrating ingredients can help to lock in moisture, making the skin feel soft, supple, and plump. They also assist in evening out skin tone, reducing redness, and calming irritation (source).

There’s little peer-reviewed scientific evidence to fully support these claims, though. No studies singling out specific toners have been conducted. And, even if they were, there are a variety of different types of toners out there. But, that doesn’t mean they don’t have a place in our routines.

What Toner Ingredients Should I Look For?

Look for toners that contain natural astringents like witch hazel if you have oily or acne-prone skin, as they can help control excess oil and protect against bacterial overgrowth. 

For dry or sensitive skin, hydrating ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and rosewater are beneficial. 

Antioxidants like vitamin C and E can help protect the skin from environmental damage, while alpha or beta hydroxy acids (AHAs or BHAs) offer gentle exfoliation for smoother, brighter skin. Be careful with exfoliation products, though, if you suffer from acne or dry skin.

How Can Toner Be Beneficial to My Skincare Routine?

Incorporating toner into your skincare routine can significantly enhance the overall health and appearance of your skin. By ensuring that your skin is thoroughly cleansed and balanced, toners facilitate the deeper penetration of serums and moisturizers. This step ensures that you're getting the maximum benefits from your skincare products, leading to more radiant and clear skin.

Find Gentle Products to Add to Your Skincare Routine at Rejuvaskin

At Rejuvaskin, we're committed to providing you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your skincare routine.

Build a Skincare Routine Today!

Remember, the best skincare routine is one that's tailored to your specific needs. Whether toner is a necessary step for you depends on your skin type, concerns, and the rest of your skincare regimen. With the right information and products, achieving healthy, glowing skin is well within your reach!