Expert-Verified
Regular face cleansing is imperative, even if you don’t wear makeup. Over time, various pollutants, including dirt and dead skin cells, build up on your skin.
The good news is you can protect your skin with two skincare products: cleansers and toners. You can use these products daily.
The key difference between a toner and a cleanser is that a cleanser cleanses your skin and a toner balances your skin’s pH by controlling acne and dryness. Face cleansing is crucial before using a toner.
Continue reading to learn more about the differences between face toners and cleansers.
Article Contents
What Is a Face Cleanser?
A face cleanser is formulated to remove impurities from the skin, including oil, dirt, dead skin, and makeup.
It keeps your face clean, radiant, and refreshed by eliminating dirt from the pores, significantly reducing skin issues such as acne.
What Is a Toner?
A face toner is an effective liquid substance that removes leftover dirt and impurities from your skin that cleansers can’t remove.
A toner is also helpful in minimizing the appearance of pores and preparing your skin for further skincare or makeup products.
Difference Between a Face Cleanser and Toner
The following are the differences between a face toner and cleanser.
Purpose
Face cleansers contain active cleansing agents or surfactants that help break down and remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin’s surface. They cleanse the skin, removing impurities and ensuring a clean and fresh feel.
Toners help restore the skin’s natural pH balance, which is crucial for a healthy skin barrier and optimal skin functioning, especially after using a slightly alkaline cleanser.
Order of Use
Cleansers are used twice daily to keep the skin clean, and they are essential to a skincare routine. They are used twice daily to keep the skin clean.
Toners are used daily after cleansing and before applying serums, moisturizers, or other treatment products. They can also be used to refresh the skin throughout the day.
Formulations
Cleansers are available in gels, creams, foams, oils, or micellar water to cater to different skin types and preferences. They contain cleansing agents or surfactants that break down and eliminate impurities.
Toners come in liquid form and are usually water based. They may contain antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, or exfoliating agents.
Types
Cleansers
- Gel cleansers are a popular choice for people with oily or acne-prone skin. They provide a thorough cleanse without causing over drying.
- Cream or lotion cleansers are suitable for dry or sensitive skin as they provide hydration while effectively cleansing it.
- Micellar water is a gentle option that uses micelles to attract and remove impurities without rinsing.
Toners
- Balancing toners prepares the skin for the next skin care steps by restoring the skin’s pH balance.
- Hydrating toners focus on providing the skin with moisture and can be especially helpful for people with dry skin.
- Exfoliating toners contain glycolic or salicylic acid ingredients that help mildly exfoliate the skin.
General Queries
Which is better: cleanser or toner?
Both products are great with unique qualities. However, their usage depends on individual needs.
If you have dry skin, you can benefit from a cleanser and toner. However, you can only use a cleanser if your skin is oily.
Can I use a toner as a cleanser?
The primary function of a cleanser is to cleanse your skin. A toner is used after a cleanser to remove the leftover dirt from the pores to prepare your skin for other products such as serums and moisturizers.
Final Word
Face cleansers and toners are two essential skincare products with unique functions and properties. A good skincare routine includes both of these products for best results.
However, depending on your skin type and needs, you may need both or just one.
