What is the main purpose of using toner in skincare?

The main purpose of using toner in skincare is to bring the pH level back to normal and clean any remaining debris from the skin. After cleansing, the skin's natural pH can be disrupted, often becoming slightly more alkaline; toner helps restore this balance, which is crucial for the skin’s overall health and function. Additionally, toner can remove any residual makeup or cleanser that may still be on the skin, ensuring that the skin is thoroughly cleaned before applying serums, moisturizers, or other treatments. This step is particularly beneficial for preparing the skin to better absorb subsequent products.

While exfoliation is important for skin renewal, it is not the primary function of toners, which do not typically contain the active ingredients required for effective exfoliation. Similarly, while moisturizers are designed to hydrate and protect the skin barrier, toners are not meant for this purpose. Lastly, sun protection is provided by specific sunscreen products rather than toners, which do not offer adequate UV defense. Thus, the role of a toner is distinctly focused on balancing pH levels and removing impurities, making it a vital step in many skincare routines.