A toner is an optional step that goes after cleansing and before any serum or moisturiser. The AAD's routine order starts with a gentle cleanser and ends with moisturiser and/or sunscreen (AAD). Add the products on your shelf to Oleah and you have one list of what you already own, including two products doing the same job.
A toner is a thin, watery liquid you put on after washing your face. Toners vary, so the label tells you what yours contains. The AAD's own routine order does not include a toner step at all: wash, apply any medicine you use on your skin, then moisturiser and/or sunscreen (AAD).
Do you need a toner?
No. A routine of cleanser, moisturiser and, in the morning, sunscreen is complete without one. If you already own a toner and like it, it can stay.
Where does toner go in your routine?
| Step | What goes on |
|---|---|
| 1 | Cleanser |
| 2 | Toner, if you use one |
| 3 | Serum, if you use one |
| 4 | Moisturiser |
| 5 | Sunscreen, in the morning |
That keeps the AAD order and slips the toner in right after washing (AAD). For the full order, read what order should you apply skincare.
How do you check what kind of toner you have?
Read the ingredient list. If it contains glycolic acid or lactic acid, it is an AHA product, and the FDA says those cause exfoliation and advises sun protection while using it and for a week afterwards (FDA). If alcohol sits near the top of the list, keep in mind that the AAD suggests a cleanser that does not contain alcohol for washing your face (AAD).
How do you fit a toner you already own?
- Find it. Look for toners, essences or "tonics" on your shelf.
- Add it to Oleah. Add the products on your shelf to Oleah and you have one list of what you already own, including two products doing the same job.
- Check the label. Note whether it contains an acid.
- Patch test it if it is new to you. The AAD suggests a quarter-sized spot twice a day for seven to 10 days (AAD).
- Put it after cleanser. Pat it on with clean fingertips.
- Leave everything else the same. Add only the toner, so you know what your skin is reacting to.
Can you use a toner morning and night?
You can, if your skin is comfortable. If your toner contains an acid, the FDA's sunburn alert applies: use sunscreen, wear protective clothing and limit sun while using it and for a week afterwards (FDA). Do not stack an acid toner with another acid without testing first.
When should you stop?
If a product stings, burns or makes your skin red, wash it off and stop using it. If a doctor prescribed it, ask them first. If your skin stays sore, see a pharmacist or doctor. If it blisters or swells, see a doctor today. If your lips, tongue or throat swell, or you have trouble breathing, call emergency services now. Oleah is not a doctor and does not give medical advice.
If you want to keep the basics simple, read about choosing a cleanser for morning and night.
Where Oleah fits
Add the products on your shelf to Oleah and you have one list of what you already own, including two products doing the same job.
Oleah is an iPhone app for the skincare you already own. You add the products on your shelf or in your routine, take quick face scans to follow visible changes over time, and ask questions along the way. Oleah can flag products on your shelf that may not belong together. There is a check-in on day 3, a first report on day 7 and the next report on day 14. Oleah is not a doctor and does not give medical advice. It does not sell skincare.
Download the free iPhone beta. Add the products on your shelf, then take a quick face scan in the morning.
Questions people ask
Do I need a toner in my skincare routine? No. Cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen make a complete routine. A toner is optional.
When do you apply toner? After cleansing and before any serum or moisturiser.
Can I use toner every day? If your skin is comfortable, you can. If it contains an acid, use sun protection as the FDA advises.
Is toner the same as an essence? Both are thin liquids used after cleansing. Read the label to see what each one contains.
Sources
- AAD: Should I apply my skin care products in a certain order?
- AAD: Face washing 101
- AAD: How to test skin care products
- FDA: Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Oleah tracks how your skin looks. It is not a medical device. See a doctor about skin conditions.
