· By Sara M, Founder
The Real Difference Between Toners vs Serums: Your Ultimate Guide
Remember the days when a line of cleansers, toners, and moisturizers appeared as the only way to nurture our skin?
But time and science collectively have brought a new dimension to skincare.
Suddenly, everyone is talking about serums like vitamin C, retinol, and hyaluronic acid.
These days, the serum found beneath Sephora counters resembles a research lab at an academic institution, boasting many active ingredients with miraculous properties, very much displayed in bold lettering.
This question is posed to those who often cast doubt - what exactly is the difference between a toner vs a serum? Ask yourself which one you want. And...what...it...is their function, then?
Well, my skin-believing comrades, you have found a good spot for yourselves!
Hold on and tighten up your skincare bottles as we geek down on the real difference between toners and serums. Let's dive in!
Quick list of the differences between Toners versus Serums
Toners
- The final step before applying the moisturizer is rinsing away impurities that may have been missed during the previous.
- They can avert imbalance in the skin pH.
- Most of their variants usually include low abrasives such as glycolic acid to improve the skin's texture.
- In turn, this consistency is usually liquid-like.
Serums
- Instead of treating the general skin condition, serums aim at particular skin problems.
- They all contain high amounts of active factors, like vitamin C, retinol, hyaluronic acid, etc.
- It has a very light formula and deeper penetration into the skin, clearing all dead skin cells, etc.
- Set focus on those issues such as smoothening the wrinkles, diminishing the dark spots, and adding more moisture.
- The serum goes on after toning and before moisturizing.
What is a Toner?
Toners, previously criticized as too strong, are now considered an important part of the skincare regimen for people who wish to make their cleansing process effective.
Designed to eliminate the last bits of dirt and makeup after cleaning, toners are usually quite watery and are alcohol-free, so they do not overdry the skin.
The Three Main Types of Toners
Modern toners fall within three main categories:
- Hydrating Toners: These are formulated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture, which is ideal for those with dry, sensitive skin types or even combination skin.
- Astringent Toners: Best suited for those with oily skin or acne-prone skin, these toners often contain salicylic acid or witch hazel to tighten pores and control oil.
- pH Balancing Toners: Designed to balance the skin's pH levels, which is essential to maintain healthy skin and prevent breakouts.
What is a Serum?
Serum is a light moisturizer that penetrates deep within the skin to provide deep hydration, natural vitamins, and other beneficial ingredients to your skin.
Many people get curious as to why they cannot just use a moisturizer or face cream on their skin instead of a serum. Although no strict rule exists, a 2011 research study suggests using both and layer accordingly.
One of the significant differences between a serum and a lotion is that the serum contains active ingredients such as retinol or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that help improve the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, uneven pigmentation, and others. Conversely, a lotion is typically used for daily moisturizing and does not contain as many active ingredients.
Your serum can be used in the morning or at night. It is perfect in the morning with make-up or sunscreen. During the night, use it after your toner and before any other serums or treatment products.
Also, using a hydrating serum is an effortless way of adding more hydration to your skin care.
Toners vs Serums: What's the Difference?
Serums are meant for specific skin concerns
The function of toner and serum is to help the skin look healthier.
Pore-toners, after cleansing, work in the direction of restoring balance and pH levels. Residual dirt is removed, and the skin's surface is prepped for other care routines.
Serums selectively address issues like lines versus acne by concentrating a high dose of the active ingredients on point.
Serums Are Stronger than Toners
Serums win the debate regarding which is stronger between serum and toner.
Serums are more concentrated by providing specialized formulas to address key skin issues. This enhancement in active ingredients per ounce supersedes toners' hydrating and balancing properties, which contain more water than serums.
Indeed, serums can be the biggest product eyed, if they can penetrate deeper to intensively nourish skin, while toners take a more superficial approach. Toners, being more lightweight than serums, can be conveniently applied as a mist or spray every day. This contrasts with serums that typically require a gentle massage over the face using fingers, or application with a cotton pad or ball.
Toners can be used daily. Serums? Not always!
Contrary to toners that are used daily, serums are used according to the skin type.
The fact that serums have a higher essence level than toners allows them to provide some specific nourishment, and if you use them too often, this can dry your skin or irritate it.
Toners gently wipe and normalize the skin, which is the reason they are safe enough to be used every day. Contrary to the case with the richness of nourishment serums, which target a specific skin concern, e.g., dullness and dryness, than in places that also need beautification.
While serums are ready-made solutions that should be applied carefully, toners, on the other hand, can be included in your daily skincare routine, safe for your skin. They become essential for the routine and they are the tools for maintenance on the one side and caring on the other.
With them, it is imperative to use them cautiously and follow one's skin needs.
The takeaway? Toners will bring back equilibrium and, therefore, cease to be used. Serums treat specific issues.
The toners with a gentler tonal range can be used twice daily, and serums that are more active can be applied in a targeted way, i.e., 2-3 times per week to begin with. Use toner to cleanse the skin first, and then serum, before jarring moisturizer.
This pair of products work synchronizes to turn your skin into a healthy and glowing one!
How to Choose Between a Toner and a Serum?
The choice between a toner and a serum is not really about replacement but fusion.
Depending on your individual skin needs, you may require one or both in your daily routine. Toners are pivotal, especially for people with oily skin types or acne-prone skin, as they provide additional cleansing and controlled skin tone.
Conversely, if you are dealing with targeted issues like pigmentation, dryness, or aging, a serum will be more beneficial due to its high-efficiency action.
When in doubt, consider the texture of your skin and the climate you live in. Individuals with dry skin might find hyaluronic acid-based serums a fitting supplement to their moisturizing routine. For those residing in humid climates, a mattifying toner could be the perfect ally in combatting excess sebum production.
Toners and serums are not adversaries but allies in your skincare mission. Understanding their nuances and complementary roles is crucial for tailoring a regimen that sings to the specific needs of your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to use toner or serum?
Whether to use toner or serum depends on your skin's needs. Toner helps remove any leftover dirt and balances the skin's pH, making it ideal for cleansing and refreshing. Serum, on the other hand, is designed to deliver powerful ingredients directly into the skin, targeting specific concerns like aging or hydration. Ideally, both can be used in your skincare routine for optimal results.
Are serums more potent than toners?
Yes, serums are generally more potent than toners.
What is the difference between serum and toning solution?
Serums are concentrated formulations designed to target specific skin concerns like aging or hydration, delivering active ingredients deep into the skin. Toning solutions, on the other hand, are used after cleansing to balance the skin's pH and remove any residual impurities, prepping the skin for the next steps in your skincare routine.
Which is better serum or toner?
Choosing between serum and toner depends on your skincare goals. Serums are formulated to target specific skin concerns like aging or hydration with concentrated active ingredients. Toners, on the other hand, are designed to cleanse the skin, remove residual impurities, and prepare it for the next steps in your skincare routine. For optimal results, many incorporate both into their regimen, using toner first to prime the skin, followed by serum for targeted treatment.
Should you use a toner everyday?
Toners will be applied before cleansing, both morning and night. It can benefit anyone who uses toner every single day.