Guide to Toning & Tonic Products

1. Why use a toner?

Toners and face tonics are liquid skincare products typically used after cleansing.
They are not essential for everyone, but some people find them helpful — particularly for refreshing the skin, adding light hydration, or preparing the skin for further products.

Modern toners are often alcohol-free and designed to support the skin gently. Older formulations were more astringent and could strip natural oils, but newer products tend to focus on hydration and barrier care.

2. What a good toner should do:

• Offer light hydration or calming ingredients without causing irritation

• Help the skin feel fresh and comfortable after cleansing

• Prepare the skin for moisturisers, serums, or sunscreen

• Be gentle and suited to your skin’s current condition (especially if dry or sensitive)

3. What a toner should not do:

• Sting, tighten, or leave the skin feeling dry or uncomfortable

• Be left on the skin if it contains surfactants (cleansing agents) — always check whether the product is designed to be rinsed or absorbed

• Contain high levels of alcohol or strong essential oils

• Leave redness or sensitivity with regular use

• Promise to “tone” the skin in a muscular or firming sense — this is a misleading term

4. What the label might not tell you:

• Fragrance-free does not always mean there is no scent — look for terms like “parfum” or essential oils

• Astringent toners are still sold but may damage the skin barrier over time

• pH matters — the ideal toner will be close to the skin’s natural pH, but this is rarely listed

• Some ingredients in toners (e.g. alcohol, menthol, citrus oils) can feel refreshing short-term but increase irritation long-term

• Some cleansing waters or multi-use liquids contain surfactants — ingredients that are meant to break down oil or makeup. These may feel gentle but can disrupt the skin barrier if not rinsed off properly

5. Final thought:

Toners are not necessary for every skin routine, but when chosen carefully, they can offer a gentle, supportive step — especially for dry, sensitive, or reactive skin types.
If you do use a toner, look for one that hydrates or soothes, without alcohol or added fragrance, and always listen to how your skin responds.