Toners

A toner (also known as a skin) is an essential step in the Korean skincare routine that follows cleansing. Unlike Western astringents, the purpose of K-beauty toners is not to dry out the skin, but the opposite – to provide the first layer of hydration, balance the skin's pH level after cleansing, and prepare the skin for better absorption of serums and creams.

Korean toners are often enriched with hydrating and soothing ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and various plant extracts. Some toners also contain gentle acids (AHA, BHA, PHA) that help to exfoliate dead skin cells and improve skin texture. Using a toner helps to restore the skin's moisture balance and makes the entire subsequent routine more effective.