What is the purpose of using a toner in skin care?

Using a toner in skin care serves several important purposes, with one of its primary functions being to balance the skin's pH. After cleansing, the skin can be left slightly alkaline due to the surfactants and cleansers used, which may disrupt the natural acid mantle of the skin. A toner helps restore the skin's natural pH balance, which is typically slightly acidic. This is crucial because maintaining the proper pH level supports the skin’s barrier function, allowing it to retain moisture effectively and protect against pathogens and irritants.

Furthermore, toners may also prepare the skin for subsequent treatments or products by enhancing absorption. While other options like reducing oiliness, adding moisture, or enhancing exfoliation can be attributes of specific toners, their primary role centers around pH balance which is essential for overall skin health.