Face Toners Have Gotten Better. Here's The Right Way To Use Them. (2025)

At one point in time, toner was overwhelmingly associated with oily-skinned teens who needed to zap the different types of breakouts. Because of that, it became relegated to the beauty back burner for anyone over the age of 30—drying, stingy, smelly were all words used to describe the alcohol-rich astringents that ultimately left skin as parched as the Sahara.

But experts say toners have come a long way—and deserve a second look.

No longer one-size-fits-all, you can find a variety of formulas designed for a variety of skin types for more targeted application. You can even invest in a toner that can assist your cleanser in removing layers of makeup and sunscreen in the sweaty summer months. “Facial toners have made a comeback thanks to the widespread popularity of Korean skincare brands, which tend to espouse a highly-involved, multi-step regimen,” says Christine Choi Kim, MD, a dermatologist based in Los Angeles.

Meet the experts: Christine Choi Kim, MD is a dermatologist based in Los Angeles. Rebecca Kazin, MD, is a dermatologist in Washington, DC. Estee Williams, MD is a dermatologist in New York City.

But if you aren't interested in cultivating a ten-step skincare routine, toner still has some major benefits for your complexion no matter your skin type or tone. Curious to know more? Keep reading for exactly how to use facial toner, according to experts.

What exactly is a toner?

Facial toner is basically the in-between skincare step. It's meant to be used after washing your face but before applying your serum or moisturizer. "Historically toners were used as a way to balance the pH of the skin after using an alkaline soap product for cleansing," says Rebecca Kazin, MD, a dermatologist in Washington, DC. Now, as our cleansers tend to be more pH balanced and gentle, toners have evolved to a skincare category all their own.

Dr. Kazin adds: "The thought process has changed from just a typically astringent product. There are now more types of toners that provide different benefits." As for their alcohol content? Today's toners are typically pretty water-based.

What are the benefits of using a toner?

Face toners prep the skin for moisturizers and serum while getting rid of excess oil and stubborn dirt or makeup leftover on your face after you wash it, says Dr. Kim. But they're not a replacement for washing your face. Just think of facial toners as the extra credit rather than the shortcut of your skin-care routine.

The reformulated toners of today are used to target a varying array of skin concerns—from acne to dryness to aging, says Dr. Kim. Like their predecessors, some toners are formulated for oily skin. "A toner with a combination of glycolic and salicylic acids can keep oily skin matte throughout the day," says Estee Williams, MD, a dermatologist in NYC. Other toners are for drier skin types and contain hydrating ingredients. "Some newer formulations are even toner-serum hybrids with more substantial gel or lotion textures,” Dr. Kim explains.

How do you use toner?

Thankfully, using toner is really straightforward. You should use toner after washing your face, and before using serum or moisturizer. Personally, I like to soak a cotton pad with the formula of my choice (the Pixi Antioxidant Tonic is my current go-to—and a 2024 Women's Health Beauty Award winner), then swipe it over my entire face, neck, and chest starting at the center and swiping outward. I usually use about three to five cotton pads and swap out as I go through each section as to not transfer any dirt or impurities to other areas of my face, neck, or chest. For a more green alternative, skip the cotton pad and put a few drops of toner into the palms of your hands and then press them into your face.

I find that to get the best results, using a toner both morning and night is important. But if your skin gets dry or irritated easily, try once a day or every other day. Remember: These toners contain potent ingredients. And for more astringent formulas (designed for oily or acne-prone skin), use it every two days before gradually ramping up.

Who should use a toner?

"Really anyone," says Dr. Kazin. "It is just based on the benefits of a particular toner." And since the benefits of facial toners are as vast as the benefits of serums, it's all about finding the right one for your skin type or concerns.

What should I look for in my facial toner?

Dr. Kim suggests looking for ingredients specific to your concerns. Here are some examples:

• Rosewater for hydration
• Chamomile for soothing
• Tea tree oil to fight oil and bacteria
• Aloe vera to calm inflammation and redness
• Vitamin E for hydration
• Plant stem cells for antioxidants and anti-aging properties

Additional reporting by Celia Shatzman.