3 Reasons Why Your Skin Toner Isn't Working

So you've jumped on the toner bandwagon, but you're not seeing the results you were hoping for? Read on to find out why your toner may not be living up to your expectations!

1. You're using the wrong toner for your skin

While toners from Western brands are known for being drying and harsh, toners in Korea are a vital step in balancing and hydrating skin. There are lots of options out there, so make sure you're picking the right toner that will target your specific skin type or concerns. Find your perfect match below!

Dry or flaky skin: Look for a hydrating toner with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or beta glucan. You can find both of these ingredients in our best-selling Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner! This toner also has a slightly thicker-than-water consistency which is great for dry skin.

Oily or acne-prone skin: Look for an exfoliating or acid toner that helps unclog pores. We love Benton's Aloe BHA Skin Toner, which contains salicylic acid and aloe vera to gently exfoliate pores, keep oil at bay, all while soothing and hydrating the skin. 

 

Combination skin: Try Son & Park's Beauty Water, which helps gently exfoliate with willow bark and papaya extract, while rose water, lavender water and orange fruit extract hydrates and preps your skin for the next skin care steps.

 

Dull or hyperpigmentation-prone skin: If you're looking to treat acne scars or dark spots, look for a toner that contains brightening ingredients such as vitamin C, rice or licorice extract. These ingredients will also help you achieve a more radiant and even complexion.

Related article: 6 Best K-Beauty Toner to Brighten, Treat Hyperpigmentation and for Glowing Skin!

2. You're applying it wrongly

There are two ways to apply a toner, so it's important to take your skin concerns and the formula you're using into consideration. Here's a mini-guide you can follow:

If you have sensitive or dry skin that's in need of hydration, we would recommend pouring or spraying the hydrating toner onto your hands, and gently patting or "pressing" it into your skin to allow it to be completely absorbed. 

However, if you have oilier or acne-prone skin, or if you're using an exfoliating toner, the best way to apply your toner is by pouring or spraying it onto a cotton pad and gently wiping it across the face to help remove any leftover pore-clogging impurities.

3. Your expectations are too high

Don't expect magical results from just relying on a toner! A toner is just a small part of your whole skin care routine. Its main job is to remove impurities from the face, while maintaining the pH balance of the skin. Sometimes, they might contain active ingredients to help you battle any specific skin concerns. However, you cannot make skin toners carry the entire team!