No, you do not strictly need a toner. A gentle cleanser, a moisturiser and daily sunscreen are the essentials. A toner is an optional extra that can help if you choose one with a purpose: a hydrating toner with glycerin or hyaluronic acid for dry or tight skin, or one with a mild acid such as salicylic or lactic acid for oily, congested skin. Avoid harsh, alcohol-heavy astringents, which can dry and irritate.
Toner used to mean a stinging, alcohol-based liquid swiped on to remove the last traces of oil. Today the word covers everything from soothing mists to exfoliating tonics and essences, which is why the advice is so confusing. Here is how to decide whether one earns a place in your skin care routine.
What a Modern Toner Actually Does
Removes the Last Traces
Lifts any leftover make-up or grime after cleansing, gently.
Adds Hydration
Mostly water, often with glycerin or hyaluronic acid, so it helps skin that feels tight after washing.
Helps Other Products Absorb
Applied straight after cleansing, it raises the water content of the outer layer of skin, a bit like dampening a sponge.
Smooths Texture
Toners with AHAs or BHAs can unclog pores and make them look a little smaller, though pore size is largely genetic.
These benefits come from dermatology resident Dr Angela Wei, writing for Cleveland Clinic, who also notes that it usually takes six weeks to three months to see any effect from a toner, and that the improvement can be subtle.
Toner, Astringent or Essence?
| Product | What it is | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrating toner | Water-based, with humectants such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid or aloe | Dry, normal and sensitive skin |
| Exfoliating toner | Contains a mild acid such as glycolic, lactic or salicylic acid | Oily, congested or uneven skin, used a few times a week to start |
| Astringent | Usually alcohol-based, designed to remove oil | Rarely needed; can be harsh and drying |
| Essence or mist | A light, hydrating liquid, sometimes sprayed on | Anyone who likes an extra layer of hydration |
Should You Use One? A Quick Guide
| Your skin | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Feels tight or dry after cleansing | A hydrating toner is worth trying |
| Oily, with blackheads or clogged pores | An exfoliating toner with salicylic acid can help; a small amount of alcohol may be fine for oily skin |
| Sensitive or prone to redness | Skip it, or choose a fragrance-free, dye-free hydrating formula and patch test |
| Already using retinol or acid serums | An exfoliating toner on top may be too much; stick to a hydrating one or none |
| Happy with your skin and short on time | You can happily skip it |
Not every dermatologist is a fan. Some point out that toners can irritate sensitive skin and that other treatments do more for pores. If you are on a budget, spend on sunscreen and a good moisturiser first.
How to Use a Toner
- Cleanse first. Toner always comes straight after cleansing.
- Apply to damp skin, pressing it in with clean hands, sweeping it on with a cotton pad, or misting it on if it is a spray.
- Follow with serum and moisturiser. Our guide to the order to apply skincare products shows where every step fits.
- Introduce acid toners slowly, two or three times a week, and stop if your skin stings or reddens.
A Gentle, Alcohol-Free Toner
Mild Toning Elixir by Cad b
An alcohol-free hydrating toner with witch hazel, soothing aloe vera and cucumber, antioxidant white tea, plus glycerin and panthenol for moisture. The brand describes it as suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and designed to prep the skin for serums and moisturiser.
View ProductFrequently Asked Questions
Is toner necessary after cleansing?
No. It is optional. A gentle cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen are the essentials. Add a toner only if it does a specific job for your skin.
Can toner shrink pores?
Not permanently. A toner with AHAs or BHAs can unclog pores so they look smaller, but pore size is largely genetic.
Is it bad to use toner every day?
A gentle hydrating toner can be used daily. Exfoliating toners are best started two or three times a week to avoid irritation.
Do I need toner if I use micellar water?
No. Micellar water is a cleanser. You can follow it with a toner if you like, but neither replaces moisturiser and sunscreen.
Sources: Cleveland Clinic, What Does Toner Do for Your Face? (Dr Angela Wei); Cleveland Clinic, The Correct Order for Skin Care Products (Dr Sean McGregor).