Toners

Shop face toners at Rover Island. A toner adds the first layer of hydration after cleansing and helps the serums and creams that follow spread evenly. Choose hydrating toners, ready-to-use toner pads or exfoliating toners with AHA, BHA or PHA, from ranges such as medicube Red and Zero Pore, TIRTIR Milk Skin and COSRX.

What a Toner Does

Today's toners are not the stinging astringents of the past. Most add hydration and prepare the skin for the next steps, and some gently exfoliate.

Hydrating and Soothing Toners

They suit every skin type, especially dry or dehydrated skin. Look for hyaluronic acid, panthenol, centella, heartleaf, oat or ceramides, and pat the toner in with your hands. Korean routines often layer two or three thin coats. Ranges include TIRTIR Milk Skin, COSRX Hydrium, Isntree Hyaluronic Acid, TOCOBO Cica and PURITO Oat.

Toner Pads

Pads hold a measured amount of toner, so they are quick and travel well. Many have a textured side for swiping and a soft side that can sit on the skin like a mini mask. Ranges include medicube Zero Pore, numbuzin No.5, EQQUALBERRY Swimming Pool and Anua Azelaic.

Exfoliating Toners

AHAs such as glycolic and lactic acid smooth rough, dull-looking skin. BHA (salicylic acid) suits oily skin and the look of blackheads, and PHA is a gentler option. Start two or three evenings a week. Ranges include COSRX Power Liquid, TOCOBO AHA BHA and Clinique Clarifying Lotion. More in AHA & BHA.

Where Toner Fits in a Routine

Cleanser, then toner, then serum, then moisturizer, and sunscreen in the morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a toner?

It is not essential, but it is an easy way to add hydration, which helps in air-conditioned rooms that dry the skin.

Can I use an exfoliating toner every day?

It depends on the formula and your skin. Start a few times a week and follow the directions on the pack.

Are toner pads better than liquid toner?

Pads are quicker and less messy. Liquid toners let you layer as much as your skin needs.