Toners were initially formulated to remove impurities left behind after cleansing. In earlier skincare routines, cleansers were harsher, disrupting skin's acid mantle - a protective barrier that keeps moisture in and impurities out, and leaving a residue on the skin. Toners were designed to act as a secondary cleansing step to balance the skin’s pH and clear away any remaining dirt or oil.

In addition, toners were used for:

• Oil Control and Astringency: In addition to pH balancing, toners often contained alcohol or astringents that helped control oil production. For those with oily or acne-prone skin, toners were prized for their drying and tightening effects.

• Refreshing the Skin: Beyond cleansing and oil control, toners were appreciated for their refreshing feel, which left the skin feeling clean and rejuvenated.

Then do we still absolutely need to use toners?

The answer is not quite, and here are the reasons:

• Advancements in Cleanser Formulations: Today’s cleansers are much milder and often pH-balanced, like our Mild Face Cleanser, making the need for a toner as a pH-balancing step largely obsolete. Modern cleansers effectively remove impurities without leaving harsh residues.

• Targeted Ingredients in Other Skincare Products: Many skincare formulations now contain targeted ingredients (such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C) that were once only accessible through toners. Other products, such as serums and essences, now provide these benefits in more potent and nourishing forms.

• Shift in Skincare Preferences: Many people today prioritize streamlined routines, favoring multifunctional products over numerous steps

But that does not mean that it is recommended that EVERYONE stops using toners because some may still benefit from using toners.

Specific Skin Concerns:

• Oily and Acne-Prone Skin: For those struggling with excess oil and breakouts, a toner containing salicylic acid or witch hazel can help control oil production and prevent clogged pores.
• High Pollution Environments: If you’re frequently exposed to highly polluted air, a toner may offer an additional layer of cleansing that supports your skin's defense. But often times, double cleansing (using a cream/oil-based cleanser, like our Exfoliating Cleansing Cream, first followed by gel-type, water-based cleanser, like our Mild Face Cleanser)

Hydration Boosts

Hydrating toners have also gained popularity, particularly for those with dry or dehydrated skin. Formulated with ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, these toners add a layer of moisture, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and soft. While these benefits can be achieved with other products, some people still find that the light, watery texture of a toner feels refreshing and prepares their skin for the steps that follow.

For those looking to streamline their skincare routine or replace toner with a product that offers even more benefits, our All-in-One Essence can be a powerful alternative.

Our All-in-One Essence combines the functions of a toner, serum, moisturizer, and face oil in a single product, hydrating and nourishing the skin without the need for multiple layers. This product is particularly appealing to those who prefer a minimalist routine, as it provides hydration, balance, and nourishment all in one.

Benefits of All-in-One Essence:

• Hydration & Balance: All-in-One Essence is a 4-in-1, multi-tasking product for both day and night, replacing toner, serum, moisturizer, and face oil. With just ONE product, you can lock in hydration and nourishment, ensuring your skin stays plump and refreshed, without the need for multiple products.

• Fast-Absorbing, High-Impact Formula: The unique, proprietary milky-liquid formula is designed to absorb quickly while brightening and hydrating the skin in seconds, making it a lifesaver for those who need an effective but streamlined routine.

• Multivitamin-Rich for 365-Day Care: Infused with Vitamins C, E, B2, Panthenol, hyaluronic acid, allantoin, and bisabol, All-in-One Essence provides antioxidant protection, deep nourishment, evens out skin tone for the perfect, makeup-free canvas, leaving skin hydrated and plump.

• EWG-Verified & Dermatologically Tested for Sensitive Skin: Our formula is EWG-Verified for safety and has been dermatologically tested on sensitive skin by an independent research institute in Germany, Dermatest, and received “Excellent” rating, ensuring it is safe and gentle for even the most sensitive skin. 

Complementing with Vitamin C Serum

If you’re aiming to maximize your skincare’s protective and brightening effects, pairing All-in-One Essence with Vitamin C Serum can be an effective choice. 

Our All-in-One Essence contains a slow-releasing form of vitamin C, which gradually delivers antioxidant protection throughout the day. When used in conjunction with our Vitamin C Serum, which uses L-ascorbic acid, known for its potency and rapid absorption, the two can work together to deliver a continuous boost of antioxidant power.

The reason this pairing works so well lies in the complementary effects of these two forms of vitamin C. The immediate potency of L-ascorbic acid provides a powerful defense against free radicals as soon as it’s applied, while the slow-releasing vitamin C in All-in-One Essence maintains that protection over time. This continuous antioxidant support can enhance the skin’s defenses against environmental stressors, supporting collagen production and reducing signs of aging.

Ultimately, whether you include a toner in your routine depends on your unique skin needs and preferences. 

For some, the added refreshment or oil control of a toner is beneficial; for others, a simplified routine with products like All-in-One Essence and a potent vitamin C serum, like our Vitamin C Serum, may be more effective.

Understanding your skin and selecting multifunctional products tailored to your concerns can help you build a routine that supports healthy, radiant skin.