Whether you need to prep, cleanse, or correct, look no further than toner. Not sure which one is right for your skin type? Let’s find out.

August 20, 2021

Your favorite beauty brands stock it. Social media makeup gurus swear by it. And you? Well, you might be confused about it—and we can’t blame you. The thing is, toner is a misunderstood skincare product. It’s the step between the cleanser and the moisturizer that often goes overlooked. Here’s why we recommend that you don’t skip this important step.

You can use toner for acne, general cleansing, and prepping your skin for other facial products. But, you’ll need to make sure you’re using the right product for your skin type. Ready to uncover your perfection potion? Here’s everything to know about how to use toner.

What Is Skin Toner And What Does It Do?

Toner is a water-based liquid that can quickly penetrate the skin and help prime it for moisturizers and serums. It typically contains skin-soothing ingredients like acids, glycerin, and antioxidants. But, that’s not all. Toner can help correct and balance the pH levels of your skin, bringing it to its natural acidic state. So, what does that really mean? Let’s put it in simpler terms. 

When your skin is at its best, it can help ward off bacteria, irritation, and acne. Toner can help rid your skin of excess oil, dirt, and makeup, as well as dead skin cells that have built up on the surface. That’s why many people use face toners for acne-prone skin. 

So, how should you incorporate toner into your skincare routine? It’s simple. We recommend using it morning and night. Remove any makeup first and then apply a generous layer of toner to your skin. It will then be better prepped to absorb moisturizer and serums that follow.

The Best Toner For Your Skin Type

Just like fitness looks different for everyone, so does skincare. While you might thrive off of high intensity interval training and running, someone else might feel their best with long walks and weightlifting. The same can be said about toner. What works for one person’s oily skin might not work for someone with a drier complexion. Here’s the thing—different brands use different ingredients. There may be ingredients in some face toners for acne-prone skin, while others may include ingredients to help tighten skin. That’s why you should make sure you know what skin type you have before making a purchase.

What To Look For In A Toner

Here’s what you should know about ingredients based on your skin type:

Best Toner For Combination Skin

Meet your new best friend—lactic acid. This common ingredient is found in many skincare products due to its ability to help hydrate skin gently, making it a top contender for those with sensitive skin. 

Best Toner For Acne-Prone Skin

Ready to kick that acne to the curb? The best toner for acne-prone skin usually includes salicylic acid as the main ingredient, like the Rosé All Day Anti-Acne Toner + Pore Refresher 1% Salicylic Acid Treatment from Artistry Studio™. This non-sticky, water-based, liquid tonic helps keep your skin refreshed, your pores unclogged, and your blackheads controlled. While toner may not be the answer when thinking about how to remove acne scars, this particular salicylic acid toner contains rose extract (yup, the flower), which can help soothe irritated skin. 

Best Toner For Normal Skin

Normal skin should still be treated with extraordinary care. We recommend using a toner with Coenzyme Q10 (a power antioxidant) or Hyaluronic acid, which can help keep skin feeling hydrated and soft ​throughout the day.

Best Toner For Dry Skin

Let’s get one thing straight—the last thing you want to do is dehydrate your skin even more. That’s why you should avoid toners with drying ingredients, specifically alcohol. Instead, look for products containing glycerin, a moisturizer with soothing properties that can help to soften the skin. 

Best Toner For Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin deserves a gentle touch, like aloe vera or algae. These natural skin-soothers contain amino acids, which can help remove irritating impurities and detoxify your skin.

How To Use Toner

First things first, remove that makeup and any surface-level oils that may have built up throughout the day. We recommend washing your face using a gentle cleanser, like the Clean Start Micellar Makeup Remover + Cleanser from Artistry Studio™. Then, grab your bottle of toner and get ready to give yourself a glow:

• Apply several drops of toner onto a cotton pad and gently sweep outward, starting from your nose to your ear. Be sure to follow the same movements across your neck.
• If using a mist toner, simply spray the product directly on your face and follow the same outward swiping movements using a cotton pad. 
• No cotton pads? No problem. Apply a few drops of toner right into your palms and gently press your hands on your face. 

Long gone are the days of skipping this simple skincare step. Tone, tighten, and help take back your glow with a solution that sets the stage for an even better routine.