Can I use face toner after a mask?

How should I apply toner?

1. 1Start with clean, dry skin. Toner belongs after cleansing, not in place of a cleanser.
2. 2Gently swipe toner over your face with a cotton pad, or mist it on if it comes as a spray. Do not scrub.
3. 3Leave the toner on rather than washing it off.
4. 4Finish with moisturizer, and use sunscreen in the morning.

Micellar water removes dirt, oil and most makeup; toner is a separate step used after cleansing. If you use micellar water to remove sunscreen or cosmetics, follow it with a gentle cleanser before continuing your routine.1

Which toner should I choose?

For hydration, look for ingredients such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid. An exfoliating toner containing glycolic, lactic or salicylic acid serves a different purpose: helping unclog pores and smooth texture. An astringent is different again, usually using alcohol to control oil, and can dry out skin.2

Toner can be used once or twice daily, but strong acid formulas should start every other day and increase only as tolerated. Using several products, especially multiple products targeting signs of aging, can irritate skin. Adding toner after a mask is not a reason to increase how often you use it.24

When should I skip toner?

If you have rosacea, skip toner and astringents. Choose fragrance free products, avoid exfoliation, and wash gently with your fingertips rather than rubbing or scrubbing. Apply prescribed rosacea medication before moisturizer. Let your face dry before moisturizing to reduce burning or stinging.5

Stop using a cosmetic that causes burning, itching, swelling or a rash rather than adding toner over the reaction. Irritation can appear within minutes or hours, or develop after repeated use over days or weeks. Allergic reactions can also be delayed, so comfortable skin immediately after application does not rule out a later reaction. A dermatologist can investigate suspected cosmetic allergy with patch testing.6

What if I mean a protective face mask?

After wearing a protective mask, inspect your skin for irritation and moisturize to support the skin barrier. Heat, humidity, friction and pressure under the mask can contribute to skin problems. Avoid toners and fragranced products when managing these reactions; a mild cleanser and a moisturizer that does not clog pores are the more useful choices.3