Toner is one of those steps everyone assumes they're supposed to use — sandwiched between cleanser and serum in every routine chart — without ever really knowing why. So here's the honest answer to a question a lot of people are too embarrassed to ask: do you actually need a toner? For most people, no. Here's what toner does, who genuinely benefits, and who can skip it.
Quick Answer
Do you need a toner? For most people, no — it is not an essential step. Modern cleansers already do the job old toners were invented for, so most people don't need one. Cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen are the real essentials; a serum is the useful add-on. Toner is optional — it can help if you want a specific benefit like gentle exfoliation or extra soothing, but skipping it won't hurt your skin.
Why toner exists (and why it's often skipped now)
Toners were originally made to rebalance the skin's pH after harsh, stripping soaps. Today's gentle, pH-balanced cleansers already leave skin balanced, so that original job is largely done for you. That's why many dermatologists now say toner isn't necessary — it's a nice-to-have, not a need-to-have. The four steps that genuinely matter are cleanse, treat (serum), moisturise and protect.
Who might actually want one
Toner still has a place if it's doing a specific job for your skin:
- Very oily skin — a gentle toner can help remove leftover residue and control shine.
- Gentle exfoliation — some toners contain mild acids that lightly exfoliate (use sparingly).
- Soothing — calming ingredients can help sensitive or reactive skin feel comfortable.
Notice these are targeted benefits, not universal needs. If none apply to you, a toner is an extra step and an extra cost you don't need.
Who can happily skip it
If your skin is normal, dry, or you're keeping things simple, you can skip toner entirely and lose nothing. Your money is far better spent on the steps that actually move the needle — a good serum for your concern, a comfortable moisturiser, and daily sunscreen. Our guide on serum vs moisturiser covers the two steps that genuinely earn their place.
What to spend on instead
If you're deciding where to put your budget, prioritise in this order: sunscreen first (the highest-value step in any routine), then a serum for your main concern, then hydration. A daily SPF 50 and a targeted brightening serum will do far more for your skin than any toner. For the full picture, see the complete skincare routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you really need a toner?
No, for most people. Modern pH-balanced cleansers do what toners were made for. Cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen are the essentials; toner is optional.
What does toner actually do?
Depending on its ingredients, it can remove leftover residue, lightly exfoliate, or soothe. These are targeted benefits, not something every skin type needs.
Is it bad to skip toner?
Not at all. Skipping toner won't harm your skin. Your budget is better spent on sunscreen and a serum.
Where does toner go in a routine?
If you use one, it goes after cleansing and before serum. But it's an optional step, not a required one.
Explore BiBiJoon
Products mentioned: Solv Care SPF 50 · Faze Brightening Serum. Browse the serums collection for the steps that matter.
Related reading: Serum vs Moisturiser · An Affordable Skincare Routine
Last updated: August 2026. This article is general skincare education, not medical advice. For persistent or concerning skin conditions, consult a qualified dermatologist.
