What is the Difference Between Cleanser and Toner

The main difference between cleanser and toner is that cleansers clean your skin while toners will help to balance the pH of your skin and control acne and dry skin in addition to cleansing. Before using a toner, you have to cleanse the skin with a cleanser.

Cleansing your face every day is a must, even if you don’t you use makeup. There are many accumulated pollutants on your skin, including dirt and dead skin cells. Cleanser and toner are two skincare products that help you to clean and protect your skin. Both of these can be used daily.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Cleanser 
     – Definition, Features, Benefits
2. What is a Toner
     – Definition, Features, Benefits
3. What is the Difference Between Cleanser and Toner
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Cleanser, Cleaning, TonerDifference Between Cleanser and Toner - Comparison Summary

What is a Cleanser

A cleanser is a skincare product that removes dirt, oil, makeup, dead skin cells and other pollutants from the skin. Cleansers can unclog pores in the skin and help to exfoliate the top skin cells. They can be used daily to clean your face. It’s important to cleanse your skin in the morning as well as in the evening.

Difference Between Cleanser and Toner

Cleansers come in different forms; there is a difference in their consistencies and even the way to use them. Some types of cleansers have to be rinsed while others can be used with a cotton pad. Moreover, they can be creams, foaming gels, balms, and micellar waters.  It’s important to choose the type of cleanser that best suits your skin type. Gel cleansers, which have a gel-like consistency, usually have deep-cleaning and exfoliating properties, and they are good for oily, acne-prone skin. Cream cleansers, on the other hand, are typically thicker and have the ability to moisturize the skin; they are perfect for dry or sensitive skin. Moreover, foam cleansers are lightweight solutions having a foamy lather. They are effective as gel cleansers in removing excessive oil and are also pleasant to use. Foam cleansers are good for combination skin.

What is a Toner

Toner is a liquid cosmetic for cleansing the skin and contracting the pores. It’s usually applied on the face after cleansing to make the skin feel firm. Toners are especially useful for people with oily or acne-prone skin or those who need extra cleansing after wearing makeup. They also have the ability to moisturize, refresh and protect the skin.

Main Difference - Cleanser vs Toner

There are three main ways to apply toner on the skin: on a cotton round, spraying on the face, or using a tonic gauze facial mask. Moreover, there are different types of toners like skin toners, acid toners, skin bracers/fresheners, and astringents.

Benefits of a Toner

  • Shrinks pores on the skin
  • Restores the skin’s pH balance
  • Acts as a moisturizer
  • Adds a layer of protection to the skin
  • Refreshes the skin
  • Prevent ingrown hairs

Difference Between Cleanser and Toner

Definition

A cleanser is a skincare product that removes dirt, oil, makeup, dead skin cells and other pollutants from the skin while a toner is a liquid cosmetic for cleansing the skin and contracting the pores.

Function

Cleansers remove dirt, oil, makeup, dead skin cells and other pollutants from the skin while toners clean the skin, close pores, moisturize and balance the pH of the skin.

Order of Use

Toner should be used after cleansing the skin, but before using face serum or moisturizers.

Conclusion

Cleanser and toner are two skincare products that help you to clean and protect your skin. The main difference between cleanser and toner is that cleansers clean your skin while toners will help to balance the pH of your skin and control acne and dry skin in addition to cleansing. Before using a toner, you have to clean the skin with a cleanser.

Reference:

1. “What Is A Facial Cleanser & Its Benefits.” NEOSTRATA®, Available here.
2. Usigan, Ysolt. “6 Reasons Why You Should Add Face Toner to Your Beauty Routine.” TODAY.com, 2 Aug. 2019, Available here.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Proactiv three-step kit, June 2013” By Lisa Brown Sami Lee – (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Mamonde Rose Water Toner” By Mamonde – Mamonde (CC BY 2.5) via Commons Wikimedia

About the Author: Hasa

Hasanthi is a seasoned content writer and editor with over 8 years of experience. Armed with a BA degree in English and a knack for digital marketing, she explores her passions for literature, history, culture, and food through her engaging and informative writing.

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