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What is Toner Lotion?

Mandi R. Hall
Mandi R. Hall

Applying toner is a step in most common skincare routines. A toner lotion is similar to a toner gel or toner liquid, though it is typically more moisturizing. Minor factors differ from toner to toner, though its essential function remains the same. Although technically not a face wash, toner removes impurities and cleanses pores on the face. A lotion is typically more viscous than a liquid and less thick than a cream.

Toner lotion is a creamy topical solution. Most toners are applied with a cotton ball or cotton square. Some toners are sprayed onto the face using a spritzing bottle. A toner lotion is generally rubbed onto the face using one’s fingers.

Toner lotion is applied with cotton balls.
Toner lotion is applied with cotton balls.

Numerous cosmetics and beauty product companies manufacture toner lotion. It is also manufactured by medical niche skincare companies. It comes in a variety of packaging, though it generally is sold in a plastic bottle. It may be a squeeze bottle or a firm bottle with a nozzle.

Generally, toner is applied after washing the face and before moisturizing. When using a toner lotion, the consumer can combine two steps into one. Utilizing a toner lotion typically means eliminating the additional moisturizing step once the liquid toner has dried from the face.

A toner lotion is moisturizing.
A toner lotion is moisturizing.

A typical face-cleansing routine occurs either in the morning or evening or both. First, eye makeup, including mascara, is removed using a makeup remover. Afterward, the face is moistened with lukewarm water before washing with a mild facial cleanser. Fingers or a washcloth should gently be used in a circular motion, for 15 to 60 seconds. Users should be careful to be extra gentle around the eye region.

Some toners use witch hazel instead of alcohol.
Some toners use witch hazel instead of alcohol.

After the face is fully cleansed, toner gel, liquid, or lotion may be used. Toner lotions further remove any remaining traces of dirt, makeup, or cleanser. Using the fingers, a person should be careful to include the jaw line and oft-forgotten areas such as nose crevices. If a toner lotion is being used, the final moisturizing step can most likely be skipped. Such lotion leaves a very thin layer of moisture on the skin, much less than that of a cream.

Toner lotions create firmer, healthier-looking skin.
Toner lotions create firmer, healthier-looking skin.

Toner is known to cleanse and tighten pores. Pores and hair follicles trap dirt and oils beneath the skin’s surface, causing blemishes. Toner’s alcoholic content and other drying agents combat these blockages, resulting in firmer, healthier-looking skin. It is important to note that various toners have varying alcohol contents, and a toner with lower alcohol content should be used on dryer skin.

Many companies produce toner lotion in bulk for salons and spas. Travel toning lotions are also available for those who must adhere to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines when traveling. In these cases, because it is considered a liquid, the toner lotion bottle must be less than 3.4 ounces in volume.

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    • Toner lotion is applied with cotton balls.
      By: Vibe Images
      Toner lotion is applied with cotton balls.
    • A toner lotion is moisturizing.
      By: mordeccy
      A toner lotion is moisturizing.
    • Some toners use witch hazel instead of alcohol.
      By: dianamower
      Some toners use witch hazel instead of alcohol.
    • Toner lotions create firmer, healthier-looking skin.
      By: migfoto
      Toner lotions create firmer, healthier-looking skin.