When it comes to skincare enthusiasts, there are usually two types of people. On the one hand, some swear by using a toner and rave about the endless benefits it offers. On the other hand, some think it is a hyped-up product and don’t include it in their skincare routine.
If you belong to the second category, then this article is just for you. Hang in there ‘cause we’re about to change your mind and convince you as to why toner is an excellent and irreplaceable hero of just about any skincare routine.
- 01. Balances pH levels
- 02. Shrinks pores
- 03. Hydrates the skin
- 04. Improves product absorption
- 05. Prevents environmental damage
01. Balances pH levels

Using the wrong type of cleanser can strip your skin of moisture and throw the pH levels off balance. But following up your cleansing routine with a toner helps in regulating the pH level of your skin. When your skin’s pH is perfectly balanced, you will notice that your skin produces lesser amount of sebum (which means a marked reduction in acne, too, BTW) and look way more healthy and moisturised.
BB picks: Lakme 9to5 Matte Moist Mattifying Face Toner
02. Shrinks pores

Since a toner helps balance out the pH levels and control excess sebum production, your pores don’t clog as often. And if your pores are clear of dirt, oil, sweat and other impurities, they automatically appear smaller. This makes your skin appear super clear, soft and glowing at all times.
BB picks: Lakme Absolute Pore Fix Toner
03. Hydrates the skin

While the toner is a must-have for oily skin babes, it’s also a saviour for those with dry skin type. Packed with skin-loving ingredients, toners not only keep excess oiliness in check but also delivers intense moisture to dry skin types. To hydrate your dry skin, apply a toner while your skin is still slightly damp post-cleansing. This allows your skin to soak in a lot more moisture and keep it super soft and supple.
BB picks: Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner
04. Improves product absorption

The fact that you aren’t using a toner could be one reason why your serum and moisturiser don’t deliver great results. As seen earlier, toners help in hydrating your skin and any skincare product works better when applied to well-hydrated skin. This also helps the active ingredients from the skincare products to sink deeper into your skin and show better results.
05. Prevents environmental damage

Constant exposure to harmful environmental aggressors can leave your skin really dull and damaged. But since toners are brimming with a lot of active ingredients, they actually deliver your skin with excess moisture that helps in forming an extra layer of protection on your skin. This improves skin sensitivity against oxidative damage for healthier and more supple-looking skin.
BB picks: Dermalogica Antioxidant Mini Hydramist
Written by Urvi Dalal on Feb 22, 2021
Writer, avid reader and hardcore beauty enthusiast is the best way to describe Urvi Dalal. With over 5 years of writing experience in the beauty industry, you can trust her to have the latest skin, hair and makeup tidbits on her fingertips. In her time working as a beauty writer, she has had the opportunity to interact and work closely with a string of dermatologists, makeup artists and hairstylists. All that knowledge exchange, coupled with her flair and love for writing make it possible for her to bring you some authentic yet fun beauty content. When Urvi isn’t working, you’d usually catch her curled up with a big, fat book, drinking a cup of tea or practising her makeup skills; there is no in-between!