Toner vs Cleanser: Differences and How to Use Them

Written By Sheila

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the number of skincare products available? If you've ever wondered why your routine needs both a toner and a cleanser, you're not alone.

I've been there, staring at my bathroom counter, asking myself if these products are doing anything different. The confusion is real, especially when it feels like you're layering on product after product.

So, I'll break down what each of these items does and how they fit into your skincare routine. Whether you're already well-versed in the basics or just looking to streamline your regimen, I promise we'll sort out this toner-versus-cleanser debate.

Understanding Toners and Cleansers: A Visual Guide

What is a Cleanser?

Cleansers are the starting point for any skincare routine. Think of them as the front line of defence against the dirt, makeup, and excess oil that build up throughout the day.

A good cleanser's job like (Pink Cloud Jelly Cleanser) from Amazon.com, is to clear all that gunk off your skin, leaving you with a fresh canvas for whatever comes next.

Toners and cleansers have different roles in a skincare routine. After cleansing, you might also benefit from adding a serum or choosing the right type of face mask to enhance your skincare results.

Why Cleansing is Crucial

Ever noticed a breakout after skipping a face wash? That’s because not cleansing properly can lead to clogged pores, which then invites breakouts and leaves your skin looking dull. Trust me I've been a victim on more than a few occasions.

Cleansers also help keep your skin barrier healthy, which is super important for preventing issues like acne, dryness, and irritation.

Plus, if you're like me and wear sunscreen (which, seriously, everyone should!), a cleanser is non-negotiable for getting rid of those lingering SPF particles that can stick around even after your shower.

Types of Cleansers

Now, not all cleansers are created equal. Here’s a quick breakdown of different types and who they work best for:

Gel Cleansers: Perfect if your skin gets oily. These are often lightweight and rinse away clean.
Cream Cleansers: If your skin tends to be on the drier side, cream cleansers add a bit of moisture while still cleaning off impurities.
Foam Cleansers: Great if you’re battling oily skin but want that satisfying lather. Just be cautious—they can sometimes be drying.
Oil Cleansers: These are surprisingly effective at removing makeup and sunscreen. They sound counterintuitive, but they’re great for most skin types, especially if you double cleanse.
Balm Cleansers: Think of these as rich and luxurious. They melt into the skin and are perfect for removing stubborn makeup while keeping your skin soft.

If you have sensitive skin, look for cleansers labeled gentle, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic to avoid irritation.

Ingredients to Look For & Avoid

When shopping for cleansers, I always check the label. Here’s what you should aim for:

Good Stuff: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin. These keep your skin hydrated while cleansing.
Skip These: Harsh sulfates, drying alcohols, and added fragrances. They can strip your skin, leaving it feeling tight and uncomfortable.

How to Use a Cleanser

Here's what I found to be the best way to cleanse? It's simpler than you might think:

Start with lukewarm water (not hot—it’s gentler on your skin).
Apply your cleanser to damp skin and massage gently in circular motions.
Rinse thoroughly and pat your skin dry with a soft towel. If you're wearing heavy makeup, consider double cleansing—starting with an oil-based cleanser, then following up with your usual cleanser.

What is a Toner?

Now, onto toners. If you’ve ever wondered why people swear by them, it’s because toners are like the unsung heroes of skincare.

I discovered that quick-absorbing liquids did more than just “refresh” your face. Toners help prep your skin, making it more receptive to the serums and moisturizers that come next.

Benefits of Toners

Here’s why I love using a toner:

Shrinks the appearance of pores: Though it doesn’t permanently change their size, a good toner can tighten things up temporarily.
Restores pH balance: Cleansing can sometimes throw your skin’s pH off-kilter, but toners bring it back to where it needs to be.
Hydration: Some toners are packed with humectants like glycerin, which help draw moisture into your skin.
Antioxidants and extra protection: Think of toners as an extra layer of good stuff that can help fight free radicals and keep your skin happy.

Types of Toners

Toners aren’t one-size-fits-all. Here are some common types that I've come across:

Hydrating Toners: Best for dry skin. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera.
Exfoliating Toners: These contain AHAs or BHAs to slough off dead skin cells. Use with caution if your skin is sensitive.
Astringent Toners: These are usually alcohol-based and more intense. Good for very oily skin but can be drying.

If your skin is sensitive, I recommend sticking to alcohol-free toners with soothing ingredients like calendula such as (Kiehl's Calendula Herbal Extract Toner) from Amazon.com or aloe.

How to Use a Toner

There are two popular ways to use a toner:

If you're like me, pour some onto a cotton pad and swipe it gently across your face.
Or, if you prefer to waste less product, pour a little into your hands and press it directly into your skin.

Toner vs. Cleanser: Key Differences

Let’s settle this once and for all—what’s the difference between a toner and a cleanser?

Uses

Cleansers and toners have different primary functions. A cleanser is designed to remove impurities like dirt, excess oil, makeup, and pollutants from your skin, giving you a fresh base to work with.

On the other hand, a toner’s job is to restore your skin's natural pH balance after cleansing and to prep your skin for the products that follow. It also delivers a quick boost of hydration and, in some cases, provides gentle exfoliation.

Order

When it comes to the order of application, always remember to start with a cleanser first. Cleansing is the first step to ensure your skin is free of any impurities that can block your pores.

After you've thoroughly cleansed and dried your face, that’s when you reach for your toner.

Applying a toner after cleansing helps to hydrate and prep your skin, making it more receptive to serums and moisturizers.

Form

Cleansers come in various forms to suit different skin types and preferences. Whether you prefer a gel, cream, foam, oil, or balm, there's a cleanser out there to match your needs.

Toners, on the other hand, are usually in liquid form, designed to be lightweight and easily absorbed by the skin.

Application

The way you apply these products also differs. Cleansers are typically used on wet skin and need to be rinsed off thoroughly to remove impurities. Toners, however, are applied to dry skin.

You can either use a cotton pad to swipe it across your face or do as I like to do and pour a small amount into your hands and gently pat it in. Toners are not rinsed off, allowing the ingredients to stay on your skin and work their magic.

Benefits

While both products are beneficial, they each offer different advantages. Cleansers are essential for removing dirt, unclogging pores, and ensuring that your skin is ready to absorb the products that follow.

They keep your skin clean and prevent breakouts. Toners, meanwhile, help restore the pH balance of your skin, provide a boost of hydration, and can even minimize the appearance of pores.

They also improve the absorption of the products you apply afterward, like serums and moisturizers, making them more effective.

Optional vs. Essential

In terms of necessity, cleansers are a non-negotiable part of any skincare routine—you simply can’t skip cleansing if you want healthy, clear skin. Toners, on the other hand, are more of an optional step.

While they can enhance your skincare routine, especially if you have specific concerns like dryness or large pores, they’re not as crucial as a good cleanser. Whether or not you include a toner depends on your skin’s needs and your personal skincare goals.

Toner vs Cleanser: Comparison Table

Feature	Cleanser	Toner
Function	Removes dirt and impurities	Balances pH, hydrates, preps
Form	Gel, cream, oil, foam	Liquid
Application	Wet skin, rinse off	Dry skin, leave on
Essential?	Yes	Optional, but helpful

How to Choose the Right Toner and Cleanser for Your Skin Type

Everyone’s skin is different, so here’s a quick guide:

Oily Skin: Use a foaming or gel cleanser and a toner with salicylic acid.
Dry Skin: Go for a creamy cleanser and a hydrating toner with hyaluronic acid.
Sensitive Skin: Stick to gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and toners with soothing ingredients like chamomile.
Combination Skin: You might need a different product for your T-zone versus your cheeks.
Mature Skin: Choose creamy cleansers and toners loaded with antioxidants.
Acne-Prone Skin: Look for cleansers with benzoyl peroxide and toners with tea tree oil.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, both cleansers and toners have their place in a solid skincare routine.

While a cleanser is a must-have, a toner is more like the cherry on top. It’s not strictly necessary, but it can add that extra boost of hydration and prep your skin for the rest of your routine.

If you’re ready to experiment, go ahead and explore our selection of cleansers and toners to find the perfect match for your skin. Trust me, once you find what works, your skin will thank you.