What comes first, toner or exfoliator? This is a common skincare question that many people have. Some people swear by using toner first, while others believe that exfoliating should come before toning. In this article, I’ll break down the differences between toner and exfoliator, as well as help you determine which one should come first in your skincare routine.
Understanding Toner
Let’s start by understanding what toner is and what it does for your skin. Toner is a liquid skincare product that is designed to help balance the pH of your skin, remove any remaining dirt or makeup after cleansing, and hydrate your skin. It usually comes in a water-like consistency and is applied to the skin using a cotton pad or your hands.
Toner is a great addition to your skincare routine if you have oily or acne-prone skin, as it can help control excess oil production and prevent breakouts. It can also help reduce the appearance of pores and improve the overall texture of your skin.
How to Use Toner
When using toner, it’s important to apply it to clean, dry skin. After cleansing your face, pour a small amount of toner onto a cotton pad and gently sweep it across your skin, avoiding the eye area. You can also pour a small amount of toner into your hands and pat it onto your skin.
Using toner should be the second step in your skincare routine, following cleansing. By using toner after cleansing, you can remove any leftover dirt or makeup that your cleanser may have missed, as well as prepare your skin for the next steps in your routine.
Understanding Exfoliator
Now, let’s take a look at what an exfoliator is and why it’s an important step in your skincare routine. An exfoliator is a skincare product that is designed to help remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath. There are two main types of exfoliators: chemical and physical.
Chemical exfoliators use acids, enzymes, or other chemicals to break down and dissolve dead skin cells. Physical exfoliators, on the other hand, use small grains or particles to physically scrub away dead skin cells. Both types of exfoliators can be beneficial for your skin, but it’s important to choose the right one for your skin type.
How to Use Exfoliator
When using an exfoliator, it’s important to be gentle with your skin. Over-exfoliating can lead to irritation, redness, and even damage to your skin barrier. If you’re using a chemical exfoliator, follow the instructions on the product packaging and start by using it once or twice a week to see how your skin reacts.
If you’re using a physical exfoliator, choose one with small, gentle grains or particles. Apply the exfoliator to damp skin and gently massage it in circular motions, focusing on areas that are prone to dryness or roughness. Rinse your skin thoroughly with warm water and follow up with the rest of your skincare routine.
Which Should Come First?
Now that we’ve covered the basics of toner and exfoliator, let’s address the burning question: which should come first in your skincare routine? The answer may vary depending on your skin type and concerns, but here are some general guidelines to help you decide.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may benefit from using toner first in your skincare routine. Toner can help control excess oil production and prevent breakouts, making it an ideal first step for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Using toner first can also help prepare your skin for the rest of your skincare routine, allowing your other products to penetrate more effectively.
On the other hand, if you have dry or sensitive skin, you may want to consider using exfoliator first in your skincare routine. Exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother, brighter skin, making it a great first step for those with dry or sensitive skin. By using exfoliator first, you can help improve the texture and appearance of your skin, as well as prepare it for the rest of your skincare routine.
Sample Skincare Routine
To help you better understand how to incorporate toner and exfoliator into your skincare routine, here’s a sample routine that you can follow:
| Step | Product | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cleanser | Remove dirt and makeup |
| 2 | Exfoliator | Remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother skin |
| 3 | Toner | Balance pH, remove leftover impurities, and hydrate skin |
| 4 | Serum | Target specific skin concerns |
| 5 | Moisturizer | Hydrate and protect the skin |
| 6 | Sunscreen | Protect the skin from sun damage |
By following this sample routine, you can create a skincare routine that works best for your skin type and concerns. Remember to listen to your skin and adjust your routine as needed to achieve the best results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question “what comes first, toner or exfoliator?” depends on your skin type and concerns. For those with oily or acne-prone skin, toner may be the best first step in your skincare routine. For those with dry or sensitive skin, exfoliator may be a better choice as the first step.
Regardless of which product you choose to use first, both toner and exfoliator can be beneficial for your skin when used correctly. Remember to be gentle with your skin, listen to its needs, and adjust your routine as needed to achieve healthy, glowing skin. Skincare is not one-size-fits-all, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.