How To Use Toner On Skin?

If you are not sure how to use toner, you are not alone. It is one of the most overlooked steps in skincare routines. However, when used correctly, it can refresh your skin, tighten pores, and prep your face for better absorption of serums and moisturisers.¹

In this blog, we will discuss exactly how to use a toner, when to apply it, and how to pick the right one for your skin type. Whether you are building a new routine or refining a current one, this guide will help you get the most out of your toner.

What Is A Toner? 

A toner is a water-based skincare product that is applied to the face after cleansing. It helps remove leftover traces of dirt, oil, and makeup. This prepares your face for the next steps in your skincare routine. Modern face toners also do so much more. For instance, they help restore your skin's natural pH, hydrate, and tighten pores. ¹ 

What Are The Benefits Of Using A Toner?

Toner is one of those skincare steps that often gets skipped. For some, it feels unnecessary. For others, it’s just confusing. But if you’ve been sleeping on toner, it might be time to give it a second look. Keep reading to explore the benefits of using a toner.

It Helps Your Skin Bounce Back After Cleansing.

Cleansers can mess with your skin’s pH balance. That tight feeling after washing? It is a sign your skin needs help. A good toner steps in to restore balance and calm things down, making your skin feel normal again. ^1,2

It Preps Your Skin.

Toner acts like a primer for skincare. A slightly damp, toned face absorbs serums and moisturisers much better than dry skin. This is especially true for products that contain humectants, which draw moisture from the air and deeper layers of the skin. Dampness helps these ingredients work more effectively.³

It Keeps Pores In Check.

While a toner will not make your pores vanish (spoiler: nothing can), it may help reduce their appearance. If your toner has actives like AHAs, it may also help unclog pores. The result? Fresher-looking skin that is less prone to breakouts.⁴

It Controls Oil Production.

If your skin is oily or acne-prone, certain toners can help keep shine and breakouts under control. Look for ingredients like niacinamide that help control sebum production.⁵

It Adds Lightweight Hydration.

Toners with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid can add an extra layer of hydration to your skin. They are great under makeup and perfect for layering if you love that dewy, glass-skin look. ⁶

How To Use Toner For Face: A Step-By-Step Guide 

Toner might seem like a small step, but it plays a big role in your skincare routine. It is quick, easy, and helps prep your skin for everything that follows. If you have ever been unsure about how to use toner the right way, this simple guide breaks it down for you, step by step.

Step 1: Start With A Clean Face

Toner should always go on freshly cleansed skin. This gives it a clean canvas to work on. 

• Use a gentle face wash to remove dirt, oil, and leftover makeup.
• Apply the cleanser to damp skin and massage in gentle circles for around 30–60 seconds.
• Rinse it off with lukewarm water.
• If you are wearing heavy makeup or sunscreen, start with an oil-based cleanser before your regular one.

Step 2: Gently Pat Your Skin Dry

Once you have rinsed, resist the urge to rub your face with a towel. Instead:

• Pat your skin with a soft, clean towel. Just enough to leave it slightly damp.
• Alternatively, if you have time, let your skin air-dry.

Step 3: Apply Your Toner

Now comes the actual toner step. There are two ways to do it, and both work well.

Option 1: Using A Cotton Pad 

• Pour a few drops of toner onto the pad.
• Gently swipe it across your face.
• Be careful near your eyes if your toner has active ingredients.

If you do not have cotton pads and are wondering how to use face toner, try this method.

Option 2: Using Your Hands

• Pour a few drops onto your palms.
• Rub them together and lightly press the toner into your skin.
• Pat it in gently. No rubbing or dragging!

Avoid tugging or dragging your skin. Be gentle and work upward and outward for better absorption.

Step 4: Wait For A Few Seconds

Give your skin a little time to soak up the toner before moving on.

• Wait 30 to 60 seconds.
• Your skin should feel soft, fresh, and a little hydrated.

Step 5: Continue With Your Skincare Routine

Now that your skin is prepped, follow up with the rest of your routine.

• Apply your serum and let it absorb.
• Lock everything in with a moisturiser.
• If it is daytime, do not forget sunscreen as your final step.

How to Pick The Best Face Toner For Your Skin Type?

If you have normal skin, you are in luck! You may use any toner you like. Just ensure it has skin-safe ingredients and is dermatologist-tested. However, if you have skin concerns like dryness or acne, you may need different toners. Here is a detailed guide to help you select the perfect toner based on your skin type.

Oily Or Acne-Prone Skin

If you have this skin type, you probably have:

• Shiny skin appearance
• Enlarged pores
• Frequent breakouts
• Blackheads
• Excess sebum production.

In such a case, it is best to look for toners with the following oil-controlling and acne-fighting ingredients:

• Salicylic Acid: This is a type of beta-hydroxy acid that goes deep into the pores to remove built-up oil and dead skin cells. It helps prevent clogged pores and reduces breakouts.⁷
• Witch Hazel: It is a natural astringent that tightens pores and reduces inflammation. It may also help reduce oil production.⁸
• Tea Tree Oil: It has antibacterial properties that may help fight acne-causing bacteria.⁹

Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, you may notice: 

• Flakiness
• Rough patches
• Tightness after cleansing
• Dull or lacklustre appearance.

In this case, you should choose a toner that is hydrating and alcohol-free. Here are some ingredients you can look out for:

• Hyaluronic Acid: It is a powerful ingredient that attracts water to the skin. This helps hydrate it deeply and gives it a plump appearance.¹⁰
• Glycerin: It is a soothing humectant that draws moisture into the skin and keeps it soft and smooth throughout the day.³
• Rose Water: It is a natural ingredient with anti‐inflammatory properties. It lightly hydrates while soothing irritation and adding a refreshing feel to the skin.¹¹

Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, you may notice the following, especially after using new products:

• Redness
• Itchiness
• Stinging 

In such a case, it is best to look for toners with these gentle ingredients:

• Aloe Vera: It is a soothing ingredient that helps reduce redness and inflammation while keeping the skin hydrated.¹²
• Chamomile: It has calming properties that may help reduce skin sensitivity and irritation.¹³
• Centella: It is a gentle, plant-based ingredient that hydrates the skin and promotes healing.¹⁴

Note: Before using any new toner, always perform a patch test. Apply a small amount to a small area of your skin and wait for 24 hours. If there is no redness or irritation, you may continue using the product.

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When To Use A Toner?

Ideally, you should use toner for your skin twice daily, once in the morning and once at night after cleansing. Apart from this, here are some additional moments when using toner may be beneficial:

• After Workout: Use a toner after exercising to remove sweat and oil that may clog pores, especially if you can not cleanse your face immediately. 
• As A Midday Refresher: Use a toner mist to rehydrate and revive your skin during the day, especially in dry environments.
• For Skin Relaxation: Use a soothing toner after sun exposure, pollution, or shaving to reduce redness and irritation.
• Before A Special Event: Use a hydrating toner before makeup to give your skin a healthy glow.
• During Seasonal Changes: Use a hydrating toner in winter and a balancing, oil-controlling toner during summer to stay in sync with the changing seasons.
• Before Applying Sheet Mask: Use a toner before a sheet mask to add an extra layer of hydration to your skin.

How To Apply Toner On Face: Different Methods For Different Needs

Apart from using a cotton pad or your hands, there are various other ways to apply toner. Here is everything you need to know about how to use toner for skin using these methods.

7-Skin Method

This is a popular Korean skincare technique that you may use for intense hydration.

• Take a small amount of any hydrating toner.
• Use your hands to pat it gently into your skin.
• Repeat this process up to 7 times.
• Wait for a few seconds before applying each layer for better absorption.

Spritzing

This method is ideal if you need a quick refresh throughout the day.

• Add your toner to a spray bottle.
• Hold it 6-8 inches away from your face.
• Close your eyes and spray evenly across your skin.
• Let it air dry or lightly pat it in. 

Cotton Pad Mask

This is a quick and easy way to treat specific areas of your face that need calming or extra hydration.

• Soak a few cotton pads with toner.
• Place them on areas like the cheeks, forehead, or chin.
• Leave them on for 5-10 minutes.
• Remove and pat in any remaining toner.
• If your entire face needs extra hydration, use a compressed sheet mask instead of a cotton pad.

Conclusion

Now, you know how to use toner the right way. It is a simple step, but it can change how your skin feels and looks. Add it to your routine and see the difference. Before you use your toner, do not forget to wash your face with Areoveda’s Cardamom Foam Face Wash. Follow up with a moisturising spray lotion, and your skin will feel fresher, cleaner, and more balanced.

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