When is it most beneficial to use a toner in a skincare routine?

Using toner after cleansing is most beneficial in a skincare routine because its primary function is to balance the skin's pH and remove any remaining impurities or traces of cleanser after washing the face. Cleansing can sometimes strip the skin of its natural oils, potentially disrupting its pH balance. By applying toner immediately afterward, you can help restore that balance, improve hydration, and prepare the skin for subsequent products such as moisturizers or serums.

Additionally, toners can provide extra ingredients like antioxidants or exfoliants that enhance the overall effectiveness of the skincare regimen. This makes it a crucial step to ensure the skin is well-prepared to receive additional treatments that follow.

In contrast, using toner before cleansing would not be effective, as it would only add a layer of product that needs to be cleansed off afterward. Applying toner before moisturizer or after sunscreen does not utilize its intended purpose effectively, as the toner is designed to be used on freshly cleansed skin to optimize its benefits.