Are Toners Necessary? What They Do (and Don’t) Do for Your Skin

Written By Emily Kollar

When most people hear the word toner, they picture a cotton pad soaked with something stinging, swiped across the skin to remove whatever was left behind after cleansing. For years, toners had a reputation for being harsh, drying, and sometimes unnecessary, but that’s not the full story.

In fact, toner is really an umbrella term. It doesn’t describe one single type of product, but rather a whole category of liquid formulas that prepare your skin for what’s next.

A Quick History of Toners

Back in the day, cleansers weren’t pH balanced. They stripped the skin and disrupted its acid mantle, leaving it alkaline and vulnerable. Toners were essential because they helped bring the skin’s pH back to its natural, healthy range.

Fast forward to today: most modern cleansers are already pH balanced. So do you still need a toner? Not in the old sense, but toners have evolved into something much more beneficial.

The Modern Role of Toners

Toners now deliver targeted benefits, almost like lightweight serums in liquid form. Depending on the formula, they can hydrate, soothe, exfoliate, or even support your skin’s microbiome.

Here are the main types you’ll see:

  • Hydrating Toners – Packed with hyaluronic acid or glycerin, these replenish water in the skin and leave it plump and refreshed.

  • Soothing Toners – Infused with chamomile, aloe, or centella, these are ideal for sensitive or reactive skin.

  • Nourishing Toners – Enriched with vitamins, minerals, or peptides, these act like a primer for healthy skin function.

  • Astringent Toners – Usually alcohol- or witch hazel–based, these tighten pores and reduce excess oil. Best for very oily skin, used in moderation.

  • Exfoliant Toners – Made with AHAs, BHAs, or PHAs, these slough off dead skin cells and smooth texture for a brighter glow.

  • Hypochlorous Acid Toners – Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, these are amazing for calming irritation or acne flare-ups.

Toners as Mists

Many people like to use toners as refreshing face mists throughout the day. If you do, make sure your toner has a little oil in the formula. Why? Because water-only mists can evaporate quickly, pulling moisture out of your skin. A touch of oil helps the beneficial ingredients stick to the skin and hydrate instead of dehydrate.

Common Mistakes with Toners

Even though toners are versatile and helpful, here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

  • Overdoing exfoliating toners – Using them daily on top of other actives can cause irritation and barrier damage.

  • Misting without sealing in moisture – Always follow up with a moisturizer so your skin doesn’t lose hydration as the mist evaporates.

  • Avoiding toner altogether – Some skip toners because of old myths, but hydrating or soothing formulas can be the missing step for healthier skin.

  • Relying on astringents for acne – Harsh toners may feel effective short-term but won’t address the root causes of breakouts.

Do You Need a Toner?

Not everyone needs a toner, but many skin types benefit from one. Think of it as the bridge between cleansing and treating. It’s an easy way to layer hydration, calm the skin, and prep for serums to absorb more effectively.

My professional take: instead of thinking, “Do I need a toner?” try asking, “What would I like my toner to do for me?” When chosen wisely, toners can be a quiet powerhouse in your routine.

My Top Recommended Toners

Emily Kollar
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