What do toners do for my skin?

Toners are used as the first step of your skincare routine after cleansing, to rebalance and boost the absorption of remaining skincare products that you will layer on top of it. They can also eliminate any remaining dirt or dead skin that is trapped within the pores, and shrink the appearance of enlarged pores.
Read our blog: Choosing the Best Korean Toner for Your Skincare Routine

Korean toners and conventional facial toners work in similar ways but nonetheless have some differences between them. While conventional toners are associated with having sebum control properties that only benefit those with oily or troubled skin, Korean toners are formulated with different ingredients to tap into the needs of those with different skin types and concerns - for example, those with dry, sensitive, dehydrated or aging skin.

Who will benefit from skin toners?

Everyone! Regardless of your skin type, toning your skin prior to applying the rest of your skincare products is a must. With various textures from watery to those that are slightly more viscous, different active ingredients like salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide or vitamin C, finding the best toner for your skin type and skin concern is easier than you think! In general, the best toner for oily or combination skin would be those that have a watery, lighter texture and contain sebum-controlling, refreshing and hydrating properties. Ingredients to look for would include AHA, BHA, aloe vera or green tea.

On the other hand, those with dry skin should look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, beta-glucans or herbal ingredients as these will help retain adequate moisture within the skin. If you are concerned about premature aging, opt for toners that contain firming and repairing ingredients like adenosine, peptides, collagen, ginseng or other Korean traditional herbs.

When should toners be used?

As part of any skincare routine, it is highly recommended to use toners as the first step after cleansing. This means after using a makeup remover of your choice and washing your face with a facial cleanser. Toners work by eliminating any residual impurities from your skin that your cleanser did not catch, and it also helps rebalance your skin’s pH after cleansing to help increase absorption of other skincare products that you will then layer.

How you apply your toner to make the most out of it will depend on your skin type and if you have any skin concerns. If you have oily or combination skin, it is recommended to use a cotton pad and gently sweep it around your face to pick up any excess oil and impurities. If you have normal to dry skin, you can use the palm of your hands and gently tap to promote absorption. For those with very dry skin, you can soak a sheet mask or a few pieces of a cotton pad in your toner, then apply and leave on your skin for 5-10 minutes.

With our extensive selection of Korean toners & toners in Australia, find the right toner in Australia for your skin at BONIIK from brands like SKIN1004,THE FACE SHOP, Dear Klairs, THE HISTORY OF WHOO, COSRX, I’M FROM, Some By Mi, Laneige, Sulwhasoo and more!