What is the Difference Between Toners and Serums?

There are many products in the market that enhances skin tone. With a myriad of options to choose from, beginners are often confused between what product to choose from. That being said, let us address the similarity and difference between toners and serums. How will you know and understand which one of these two similar products will best suit your needs? Let’s find that out by comparing serums and toners and how to best use them for your skin.

What is a Serum?

Serum is a liquid based formula that is crafted with active ingredients that benefit your skin in many ways. It is usually applied after cleansing the face but before moisturizing so that you get the full benefit of the powerful ingredients.

A serum is effective in boosting anti-aging properties of the skin by keeping the skin looking radiant and bright while reducing the occurrence of pores. The ingredients in a serum are able to penetrate the skin in a way a toner or other products don’t.

• A serum targets specific skin conditions like pigmentation, wrinkles or dryness.
• Provides visible results owing to formulation of active ingredients like vitamins, humectants, herbal extracts and minerals.
• Gives deep conditioning and hydration.

Choosing a Serum:

With many skin serums available on the market, choosing the right one matters. Ensure that you read the label before buying a serum.

• Brightening serum: Suitable for people with hyperpigmentation, dull skin and dark spots.
• Clarifying serums: Good for acne prone skin, oily skin or clogged pores.
• Hydrating serums: Perfect for all types of skin.
• Firming serums: Ideal for all skin types.
• Calming serums: Good for sensitive skin types and for redness.

What is a Toner?

A toner is usually a spray formula that removes any trace of dirt, grime and other impurities that get stuck in the pores after a face wash. A toner helps the skin prepare for other skincare products to be applied. A toner refreshes your skin can be used at night and day.

They are great at conditioning and establishing a neutral environment for the skin to be nourished. A toner helps the skin in creating a natural and younger look throughout the day. A toner benefits the skin in many ways,

• It balances the pH of the skin
• Refreshes the skin
• Moisturizes
• Acts as a base that absorbs products that are applied after

Choosing a Toner:

Your choice of a toner is based on the type of skin you have. Choosing an alcohol-free toner guarantees that your natural oils are not striped off and that your skin is not left dry. While considering a toner, here’s what you can keep in mind.

• Dry skin: Toners that hydrate the skin and contain hyaluronic acid, glycerine or vitamin E are good choices for dry skin types.
• Oily skin: Choose oil-free toners that contain tea tree oil, AHAs or lavender hydrosol.
• Acne -prone skin: Oil free toners will suit this skin type which has salicylic acid and are beneficial to acne prone skin.
• Sensitive skin: These skin types should go for soothing toners that contain aloe vera, rose water and chamomile. Steer clear of toners containing harsh chemicals, alcohol, paraben and fragrances.
• Combination skin: If your face has a combination skin type, then you need to look for a toner that combats oil while also hydrating your skin. These toners contain vitamin E, vitamin C and rose water.

Difference Between Toner and Serum:

The visual difference between a serum and toner is consistency. Serum has a thick gel or oil-like consistency while toner is a liquid.

• A toner exfoliates and contains skin balancing ingredients while a serum is made up of highly concentrated active ingredients.
• A serum helps supports skin conditions like fine lines or dry patches while a toner balances the pH.
• Toners are usually sold in large bottles whereas serum can be found in smaller ones.

Can we use Both Serum and Toner?

It’s a definitive yes. You can use a serum and a toner at the same time since they are both skincare products that have different purposes.

If you have any specific skin conditions which you need to address, like wrinkles or fine lines, dull skin, acne or dark spots, then introducing a serum is a good idea for your skin care routine. The same goes for a toner.

Bottom Line:

A serum and toner are valuable skincare products that serves the skin in different ways. Toner cleanses and exfoliates while a serum has active ingredients that penetrate the skin to enhance skin conditions.