Is Toner Necessary In A Skincare Routine? We Answered Google’s Most Searched Question!

Back in the day, toners were mostly alcohol-based liquids used to strip away oil and cleanse the skin!

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at the long list of skincare products on your shelf and wondering whether toner is even doing anything, trust us, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most searched skincare questions on the internet: Is toner really necessary? The short answer? It depends. But let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.

What is a toner, really?

Back in the day, toners were mostly alcohol-based liquids used to strip away oil and cleanse the skin, especially for acne-prone types. The result? Tight, dry, and irritated skin. Not great. But fast forward to today, and toners have gone through a serious glow-up. Modern toners are gentler, hydrating, and often packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, rose water, niacinamide, or soothing botanicals.

So, do you need a toner?

Here’s the truth: no skincare product is universally necessary (except sunscreen!). Whether or not you need a toner depends on your skin type, concerns, and what the rest of your routine looks like.

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, a toner with salicylic acid or witch hazel can help balance excess oil and tighten pores. If you have dry or sensitive skin, a hydrating toner with glycerin or aloe vera can calm and prep your skin for better product absorption. If you already use an effective cleanser and serum, you may not need a toner, but using one could still boost hydration or add an extra layer of treatment.

What does toner actually do?

Think of toner as the in-between step, right after cleansing and before serums or moisturizers. It helps:

Rebalance your skin’s pH after cleansing

Remove leftover makeup or impurities

Add hydration or active ingredients

Prep your skin so it absorbs serums more effectively

Some toners even function like mini treatments. Exfoliating toners can brighten dull skin, while hydrating ones can plump up your moisture levels instantly.

Also Read: Why Is Everyone Obsessed With Toner Pads And How To Use Them?

What happens if you skip toner?

Nothing bad, necessarily. If your skincare routine is already working well, skipping toner won’t ruin your skin. But if you’re looking to level up your glow or have specific concerns like dullness, clogged pores, or irritation, the right toner can help bridge the gap between cleansing and treatment.

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at the long list of skincare products on your shelf and wondering whether toner is even doing anything, trust us, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most searched skincare questions on the internet: Is toner really necessary? The short answer? It depends. But let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.

Toner isn’t a must-have for everyone, but it can be a game-changer for many. The key is choosing the right formula for your skin type and goals. If your cleanser is doing a great job and your skin feels happy, you can totally skip it. But if you’re looking for a boost, whether it’s hydration, brightness, or clarity, a toner might just be your new favorite step.

Skincare isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what works for you. So, is toner necessary? Not always. But can it make a visible difference? Absolutely.

Also Read: I Tried And Tested Cica And Hydrating Toners On My Acne Prone Skin And Here’s What Happened Next

First Published: April 04, 2025 2:47 PM