A good skin-care routine is an investment in many things. Time, effort and money spent on products are at the top of that list. While we love building regimens and having spa-like self-care days, finding products that work double duty and save time is always a treat. This is where serum toners come into play. You’re likely familiar with serums and toners as separate items, and your daily routine probably includes one of each. But the hybrid, known as a serum toner, is a little more obscure.
The unique product combines the targeting benefits of serums with the hydrating elements of toners to pack a powerful punch. Skin-care benefits aside, these products also save time, which is just as coveted as a youthful appearance. That said, it’s no surprise as to why they have been trending lately in the beauty space. For the inside scoop on serum toners, we chatted with three industry experts.
Featured Experts
- Trisha Khanna, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in Orlando, FL
- Hallie Font is the director of aesthetics at Hi, skin
- Kyoko Getz is the director of education at Shiko Beauty
What are Serum Toners?
As the name suggests, serum toners are a cross between the two common skin-care products. “Serum toners are usually liquids and are designed to provide corrective or preventive benefits while preparing the skin for the absorption of other skin-care products,” says Hallie Font, the director of aesthetics at Hi, skin. She explains that these products also help balance the skin, just as a traditional toner would. According to Orlando, Florida dermatologist Trisha Khanna, MD, serum toners also tend to be more easily absorbed and have a higher concentration of actives, such as antioxidants and anti-aging agents.
Who do Serum Toners Work For?
In general, serum toners can work for any skin type, including those with sensitive skin. Dr. Khanna also mentions, they can be especially useful for those with dry skin. Kyoko Getz, director of education at Shiko Beauty, echos this, noting that serum toners can provide an extra boost of hydration and nourishment to the skin.
But that doesn’t mean you can forgo testing. Dr. Khanna notes that, as with any skin-care product, formulation is key with serum toners, so you’ll need to find a blend that fits your skin’s needs. All three experts suggest looking for products that contain ingredients that will address your specific skin concerns.
Why are Serum Toners Suddenly Trendy?
In a skin-care routine, toners hydrate and rebalance the pH of the skin. They are often the second step after cleansing and are usually followed by a serum to address specific concerns—think anti-aging, dullness and dehydration. While incorporating the two steps into a routine is pretty rudimentary, a serum toner allows you to achieve both goals in one fell swoop.
According to the experts, this ease has increased the popularity of serum toners among a wide range of skin-care enthusiasts. “When it comes to skin care, most people are in search of multi-tasking products to simplify their routines,” says Dr. Khanna. “People tend to favor simplistic skin-care regimens because they allow you to focus on what truly works for you. Since serum toners provide multiple benefits in a single product, they can deliver an effective routine that feels curated and intentional,” says Getz.
How to Add a Serum Toner To Your Routine
Incorporating serum toners into your current skin-care routine is simple to do. If you’re already using a toner and serum in your daily and nightly routine, you can swap them out for a hybrid product. However, it’s important to take precautions. “Check the ingredients first to be sure it fits your needs,” says Getz. This quick scan will also allow you to assess how and when to use the product.
Once you’ve found a serum toner that works with your skin, Font recommends applying the product as normal. “Cotton rounds and fingertips work well to press the product into the skin,” she says. After applying, Font adds that you may still want to incorporate a serum or two, as they can have additional benefits.
Serum Toners to Try
