Understanding the Difference: Serum vs Toner

Table of Contents

• What does a Serum do?
• What does a Toner do?
• Key Differences Between Toner and Serum
• Does toner make your skin tighter?
• Does serum make your skin tighter?
• Should I use Toner or Serum First?
• Takeaway,
• FAQ’s

A skincare routine can have multiple steps that can keep going on and on… You can make your everyday routine as difficult as it can be or  as simple as you want. This requires you to know and understand what is the difference between products and how well they work for you.

Serums and Toners are two skincare products that are a critical part of any skincare regime. But not all contain both. So if you want to find out Serum vs Toner, which one takes priority in your routine, scroll down because we’ll dive into the key difference between serum and toner, and the correct way to incorporate them.

What does a Serum do?

Serum is a skincare product that has a high concentration of potent ingredients. It is made to target specific skin concerns. It is lightweight, fast-absorbing and delivers active ingredients deep into the skin. Serums often come with a dropper and a few drops are enough to provide benefits. The ingredients in a serum penetrate the skin, hydrate it and make it supple.

There are different serums that benefit specific skin concerns. Hydrating serums boost the skin's moisture level and make it plump. Anti-aging serums reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Brightening serums even out skin tone and reduce pigmentation. Acne-fighting serums prevent breakouts and clear the skin. There are also serums that offer all-in-one benefits.

What does a Toner do?

Toner is a skincare product which comes in liquid form. It is supposed to be used after you have cleansed your face. It removes remaining impurities and maintains the skin's pH level. You can either pour it on a cotton pad and wipe it on your face or you can spray it directly on your face.

There are toners with different formulations serving different results. Hydrating toners contain hyaluronic acid which adds moisture to the skin. Exfoliating toners contain mild acids that remove dead skin cells and smoothen skin. Clarifying toners contain salicylic acid that clean out pores and soothing toners reduce redness and irritation. 

Key Differences Between Toner and Serum

Does toner make your skin tighter?

Yes! Some types of toners do make your skin feel tighter. Astringent or clarifying toners contain ingredients like alcohol, witch hazel or salicylic acid that reduce excess oil and temporarily shrink the appearance of pores. This causes the sensation of tight skin. Hydrating toners on the other hand moisturize the skin leaving it feeling smooth and refreshed rather than tight. The tightness in the skin is usually a temporary effect and may not be suitable for dry and sensitive skin.

Does serum make your skin tighter?

Yes! Some serums are designed to firm or tighten your skin. They typically contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, retinol, peptides, vitamin C, or exfoliating acids. These ingredients draw moisture, stimulate cell turnover and collagen production making your skin look firm, plump and smooth. The tightening effect becomes noticeable gradually. With consistent use over time serums can contribute to firmer skin. For immediate skin tightening you can use instant-lift serums that temporarily make the skin feel firm.

Should I use Toner or Serum First?

Between both, a toner is used first followed by a serum in a perfect skin care routine.

Toner is applied after cleansing to remove any remaining impurities, balance the skin and prep it for the next products in your skincare.

Serum is applied after cleansing and toning which ensures your skin is thoroughly cleaned to effectively absorb the serum. It is designed to target skin concerns like wrinkles, dark spots and acne.

The Correct Order of Skincare

1. Cleanser to remove face impurities

1. Toner to gently exfoliate and prep the skin

1. Serum for specific skin treatment

1. Moisturizer for hydrating the skin and locking in everything

1. SPF during daytime to protect the skin

Takeaway,

In this blog, we understand what serums and toners can provide for your skin, their key differences and order of application.

Both serums and toners are valuable in their own ways and one cannot substitute for the other. However the decision to use one or both depends on what you're looking to fix. The benefits of these two products can enhance a skincare routine and help achieve long term healthy glowing skin. 

FAQ’s

Which is better, serum or toner?

A serum and a toner serve different purposes. A toner balances the skin's pH and prepares it for other products while a serum has concentrated ingredients for skin concerns. Both should be used in an ideal routine but you can choose one according to your needs.

Can I use serum without toner?

Yes, you can use a serum without using a toner. Toner helps prep the skin to absorb the serum more effectively but you can skip a toner if your skin is clean.

Can I use toner without serum?

Yes, you can use a toner without a serum. Toner hydrates and balances the skin and is a standalone product. Serums treat specific skin concerns and are great when paired with a toner.

Do you wash toner off?

No, you do not wash off a toner because they are meant to be left on to hydrate and balance the skin. You apply and toner and move on to the next skincare step.

How long do you leave serum on your skin?

There is no specific amount of time you need to leave a serum on for. Serums are applied and left to absorb. They absorb quickly and work throughout the day or night.