Your Guide to Toners: Everything You Need to Know
When it comes to skincare, toners are often misunderstood and under-utilised. However, incorporating a toner into your daily routine can have numerous benefits for your skin. Primarily, toners are used after cleansing to remove any residual dirt or makeup that may have been missed during cleansing. However, they also help to balance the skin's pH level, which can be disrupted by the alkaline nature of some cleansers. In addition, toners can help to hydrate, soothe, and prep the skin for further treatment products such as serums or moisturisers. Although that doesn't even scratch the surface when it comes to toners. Ready to learn all there is to know?
Toners are a great way to ensure your skin is truly clean before applying any further skincare products. Photo credit: Medik8.
The key difference between cleansers and toners
Cleansers are the first step in your daily skincare routine. They are used to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin's surface, as well as any grime that has built up throughout your daily adventures. On the other hand, toners are used to remove any remaining impurities following cleansing and help to balance the skin's pH level.
Cleansers can often be too harsh for the skin, leaving it stripped of its natural oils when used in isolation, whereas toners have many benefits for your skin, helping to replenish and hydrate the skin, making them a vital step in your skincare routine.
For more information on how to use cleansers in your skincare routine, check out our recent blog: Everything You Need to Know About Cleansers.
What types of toners are available
There are several types of toners available on the market, each designed to address specific skin concerns. While this can be overwhelming, we've created a handy table to highlight the main types of toners and their uses.
| Type of toner |
Benefits of toner |
Our toner recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrating toner - best for giving you a glow |
Adds moisture Leaves skin plump Keeps skin hydrated |
Medik8 Press and Glow |
| Exfoliating toner - best for removing impurities | Removes dead skin cells Unclogs pores Improves complexion Leaves skin visibly brighter and smoother |
Medik8 Press and Clear |
| Soothing toners - best for sensitive skin | Formulated with gentle ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile or green tea Helps to soothe and calm irritated or sensitive skin |
Medik8 Daily Refresh Balancing Toner |
| pH balancing toners - best to restore your skin to it's best self | Restores the skin's natural pH level Refines pores Hydrates the skin |
Medik8 Daily Refresh Balancing Toner |
| Clarifying toners - best for creating 'clean' skin | Often contains ingredients such as witch hazel, tea tree oil or salicylic acid Reduces oiliness Minimises appearance of pores |
Medik8 Press and Clear |
How to use toners in a skincare routine
Toners should be used after cleansing to rid the skin of any remaining makeup, grime or excess oil. It should be applied before other skincare products in your routine think of it as your second (or third!) cleanse.
Some toners can only be used once a day, however others are recommended to be used twice a day, therefore, be sure to check the directions on the specific product you choose to invest in. However, generally, here are the steps to follow when using a toner:
Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry.
Apply a small amount of toner to a cotton pad (opt for a reusable pad where possible - we like to look after the planet!)
Swipe the cotton pad across your face, avoiding the eye area.
Wait for the toner to dry before applying any other skincare products.
Simple!
Always check the recommended use of your toner to ensure you are using it correctly and with the right frequency.
What do I need to know about toners? Your frequently asked questions - answered.
Do I need to use a toner if I have dry skin?
Contrary to popular belief - yes! Toners can be especially beneficial for those with dry skin, as they help to hydrate and prep the skin for further treatment products, making each product as efficient and effective as possible.
Can toners be used on sensitive skin?
Absolutely! There are toners specifically formulated for sensitive skin that contain soothing ingredients such as aloe vera or chamomile. Check out our handy table above for our favourite soothing toner.
Can I use a toner in place of a cleanser?
No, toners are not designed to replace cleansers. Cleansers remove the main bulk of dirt. makeup and grime. Toners then do a final sweep of remaining impurities.
Do I need to wash my face after applying a toner?
Nope! Just use after cleansing and before your remaining skincare products. It perfectly preps the skin for all the goodness your following products will bring!
Is there anything to avoid when buying a toner?
Alcohol in toners is a big no-no. It can strip your skin of natural, vital oils and hydration, leaving your skin dry, leading to excess oil and enlarged pores in the long run. No thank you!
Overall, incorporating a toner into your daily skincare routine can have numerous benefits for your skin, from hydrating and soothing, to exfoliating and clarifying. With so many different types of toners available, there is sure to be one that addresses your specific skin concerns. By following the steps outlined above, you can use a toner effectively and efficiently to achieve healthy, glowing skin.
