Do You Need a Toner? Let’s Talk About It

Toners: some people swear by them, others have no idea what they’re for. And then there are those of us just wondering if we really need to add yet another step to our already overflowing skincare shelf.

Let’s clear the mist (literally) and figure out once and for all if a toner deserves a spot in your routine.

So… What Is a Toner, Really?

Back in the day, toners were harsh, alcohol-heavy products designed to strip your skin of every last trace of oil. Great for teenage acne, less great for… well, healthy skin.

Fast forward to now: toners have had a glow-up. Today’s formulas are more like skin-soothing, hydrating, and prep-boosting elixirs. Think of them as your skincare’s opening act, setting the stage for everything that comes after.

Do You Need a Toner?

Let’s be honest: toners aren’t a must. Your skin won’t stage a protest if you skip them. BUT the right toner can:

• Hydrate thirsty skin
• Balance your skin’s pH after cleansing
• Gently exfoliate (if it contains acids like glycolic or lactic)
• Calm irritation or redness
• Prep your skin to better absorb serums and moisturiser

So no, it’s not essential. But can it make your routine better? 100%.

Choosing the Right Toner for Your Skin Type

Let’s match you with your toner soulmate:

For Dry or Dehydrated Skin

Look for words like: “hydrating”, “soothing”, “essence”

Top picks:

• Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner – Lightweight and super soothing
• Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner – Minimal ingredients, maximum hydration

For Sensitive or Reactive Skin

Avoid fragrance and alcohol. Think calming ingredients.

Top picks:

• La Roche-Posay Serozinc – Zinc-based mist for calm, balanced skin
• Aveeno Calm + Restore Toner – Made with oat to reduce redness

For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

You want something balancing or mildly exfoliating.

Top picks:

• Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant – The cult classic, can be used as a toner
• COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner – Gentle enough for daily use

For Dull or Uneven Skin

Brightening and exfoliating ingredients are your BFF.

Top picks:

• Pixi Glow Tonic – With 5% glycolic acid for that fresh glow
• REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic – Gentle but effective

How (and When) to Use It

Simple! After cleansing, soak a cotton pad or pour a few drops into your hands, and gently press it into your face and neck. Follow with your serum, moisturiser, and SPF (if it’s daytime).

Pro tip: Some toners are perfect for the “7-skin method” (applying multiple thin layers for deep hydration). Your skin will drink it up.

Final Thoughts

Do you need a toner? Nah.

But is it a nice addition that can seriously boost your routine? Absolutely. Especially if your skin is feeling dull, dry, or just a little meh.

The trick is choosing one that actually helps your skin type, not just whatever looks cute on TikTok.

Heads up!

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means if you decide to purchase something through them, I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I truly love or would use myself, and every suggestion is made with care (and a lot of testing in my bathroom