Using a facial toner: what it is for and how to apply it

The facial toner is perhaps the most misunderstood step in a skincare routine. Toners used to have a reputation for being harsh and drying, but the modern generation is very different: gentle, caring and refreshing. But what exactly does a toner do, and do you actually need one? This guide explains it.

What is a facial toner?

A facial toner is a light, liquid step you use after cleansing and before your serum or cream. Where a cleanser takes the day off your skin, a toner gives a fresh finish and prepares your skin for the next steps in your routine. Modern toners are often enriched with caring ingredients rather than alcohol.

What does a facial toner do?

A good toner does three things:

• Refreshes — it gives the skin a fresh, clean feeling after cleansing.
• Prepares — slightly damp skin takes up your serum and cream more pleasantly afterwards.
• Cares — depending on the ingredients (such as mild fruit acids or plant extracts), it helps care for the skin.

Our cleansing facial toner by Berrichi, for example, contains natural AHA (fruit acids) and algae extract, for a refreshed, cared-for and even-looking complexion.

Do you need a toner?

Honest answer: a toner is not a mandatory step. Your routine works perfectly well without one. But it is a lovely addition if your skin feels a little tight or dull after cleansing, or if you enjoy that extra fresh in-between step. A toner is a small moment of care — not a must, but a pleasure.

How do you use a facial toner?

The order is simple. Work from thin to thick:

• Cleanse — start with clean skin.
• Toner — apply with a cotton pad or mist lightly over the face. Avoid the eye area.
• Serum — a hydrating serum on slightly damp skin.
• Care — finish with a day cream to hold everything in.

What to look out for when choosing a facial toner?

• Alcohol-free — modern, gentle toners contain no drying alcohol.
• Caring ingredients — fruit acids (AHA), algae or plant extracts give more than just freshness.
• Suited to your skin — a mild, fragrance-free formula is often comfortable for sensitive skin.
• Certification — a label such as COSMOS Organic shows that it meets strict natural standards.

In short

A facial toner is a light, refreshing in-between step between cleansing and caring. Not a mandatory step, but a lovely addition for a fresh, prepared complexion. Choose a gentle, alcohol-free formula and apply it to clean skin, before your serum and cream.

Discover our facial toners and skincare — carefully selected, natural European brands.