Navigating the world of skincare can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to products like toners, tonics, and lotions. While these products may seem similar, each serves a distinct purpose in a skincare routine. This article explores their differences, uses, benefits, and whether they can substitute for one another.
UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TONER, TONIC, AND LOTION: USES, BENEFITS, AND HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT ONE FOR YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE
TONER: PREPARING THE SKIN
Definition and Purpose:
Toners are liquid products designed to balance the skin’s pH and remove residual impurities after cleansing. They play a crucial role in skincare by helping balance the skin's pH level, which is key to maintaining its protective barrier function. The natural pH of skin typically ranges between 4 and 6, preserving the acid mantle that prevents the proliferation of harmful bacteria. However, using products with a high pH can disrupt this balance, raising the skin's pH and weakening its barrier. This disruption can lead to inflammation, dryness, and increased sensitivity. Toner prepare the skin to absorb serums and moisturisers more effectively [1].
How to Use:
- Apply toner immediately after cleansing using a cotton pad or by patting it directly onto the skin.
- Choose formulas based on skin type: hydrating toners for dry skin, or astringent toners (with ingredients like witch hazel or salicylic acid) for oily or acne-prone skin.
Toners formulated with beneficial active ingredients, such as humectants or mild acids, can help restore the skin's natural acidity. This, in turn, supports hydration by allowing the outermost layer of the skin to retain moisture effectively. Properly chosen toners can thus play a dual role: maintaining the skin's protective mechanisms while also enhancing hydration, especially for those with dry or sensitive skin types [2].
TONIC: REVITALISING THE SKIN
Definition and Purpose:
Often confused with toners, tonics are designed to refresh and energise the skin. They are less about pH balancing and more about adding specific benefits, such as soothing inflammation or brightening the complexion.
How to Use:
- Use tonics as a midday refresher or an additional step in your routine after toner but before serums.
- Common ingredients include herbal extracts, aloe vera, and glycerin for hydration.
For example, a study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that toners containing glycerin significantly improved skin hydration levels and skin smoothness after regular use [3]. Another study in Phytomedicine highlighted the soothing properties of chamomile extract in toners, demonstrating its ability to reduce skin irritation and enhance skin barrier function [4].
Can It Replace Toner?
While tonics can complement a skincare routine, they lack the cleansing properties of toners and are better used as an add-on than a substitute.
LOTION: MOISTURISING AND PROTECTING
Definition and Purpose:
Skincare lotions are lightweight moisturisers that provide hydration and protect the skin barrier. Unlike traditional creams, lotions absorb quickly, making them ideal for layering in a routine.
How to Use:
- Apply after toner or tonic to lock in hydration.
- Opt for formulas with humectants like hyaluronic acid for deep hydration or ceramides for barrier repair.
A study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology demonstrated that a lotion with prebiotic yeast extract supports skin microbiome health. The formulation enhanced microbial diversity, especially benefiting protective species like Staphylococcus epidermidis, while shielding the skin from environmental stressors such as pollution and oxidative damage [5].
KEY DIFFERENCES AT A GLANCE
| FEATURE | TONER | TONIC | LOTION |
| Primary use |
Cleansing and pH balancing |
Revitalising and refreshing |
Hydration and barrier protection |
| Texture | Watery |
Light, slightly viscous |
Creamy, lightweight |
| When to use |
After cleansing |
Post-toner or as a refresher |
After toner/serum |
CAN THEY BE SUBSTITUTED?
While some overlap exists, these products are not universally interchangeable. Toners cleanse and balance, tonics refresh and add targeted benefits, and lotions provide essential hydration. For a minimal routine, a toner, and lotion may suffice, but including a tonic can enhance results.
CONCLUSION
Understanding the unique roles of toners, tonics, and lotions allows for a more tailored and effective skincare routine. By selecting the right products for your skin type and concerns, you can maximise their benefits, ensuring healthier, glowing skin.
REFERENCES
1. Jung SW, Park GH, Kim E, Yoo KM, Kim HW, Lee JS, Chang MY, Shin KO, Park K, Choi EH. Rosmarinic Acid, as an NHE1 Activator, Decreases Skin Surface pH and Improves the Skin Barrier Function. Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Mar 31;23(7):3910. doi: 10.3390/ijms23073910. PMID: 35409270; PMCID: PMC8999067.
2. EMJ Dermatol. 2014;2[1]:86-94. DOI/10.33590/emjdermatol/10314990. https://doi.org/10.33590/emjdermatol/10314990
3. Schnell E, Touraud D, Gick R, Kunz W. Properties of a new hydrotrope hydrophobic molecule and its potential applications. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2008 Oct;30(5):347-51. doi: 10.1111/j.1468-2494.2008.00460.x. PMID: 18822040.
4. Herrera-Ruiz M, Zamilpa A, González-Cortazar M, Reyes-Chilpa R, León E, García MP, Tortoriello J, Huerta-Reyes M. Antidepressant effect and pharmacological evaluation of standardized extract of flavonoids from Byrsonima crassifolia. Phytomedicine. 2011 Nov 15;18(14):1255-61. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2011.06.018. Epub 2011 Jul 23. PMID: 21788126.
5. Li C., Jiang Y., Wang D. Q. 28140 How a lotion with prebiotic yeast extract regulates the environmental aggressors impact on the skin microbiome //Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. – 2021. – Т. 85. – №. 3. – С. AB175.