🧐 Where Did the "Mandatory" Toner Come From? A Brief History Lesson
Toner used to be a necessity. Why?
* Neutralizing Soap: Historically, the soaps used were very alkaline (pH 9–10). Toner was meant to quickly restore the skin to its natural, slightly acidic pH (around 5.5).
* Removing Residue: Soaps and hard water left behind "soap scum" on the skin, which the toner removed.
This was the era where toner served as the balance guardian. But times have changed!
🔬 Today's Cleansing vs. The Old Ritual
Today, almost all good face washes and foams are what we call syndets (synthetic detergents) with a pH of 4.5–5.5.
> 💡 Key Difference: After washing with a gentle syndet, the skin independently and quickly returns to its natural pH. Toner is no longer a neutralizer!

❌ Myths vs. Facts: When Is Toner REDUNDANT?
Most dermatologists and leading institutions (such as the American Academy of Dermatology - AAD and Harvard Health) consistently say: Toner is an OPTIONAL step, not a foundation.

Dermatologist's Conclusion (Verdict) 
💫You use a gentle pH approx 5 cleanser and don't wear heavy makeup. Redundant. You are adding an extra dose of preservatives and surfactants without benefit. 
💫Your skin is sensitive or you have rosacea.  Avoid! Classic toners (especially those with alcohol denat., menthol, strong perfumes) often cause harm, irritation, and increase the risk of flare-ups! 
💫Your routine already includes a good serum and moisturizer. Redundant. You can deliver the same hydration and active ingredients in the subsequent steps. 
💫The toner promises to "close pores." Myth! Pores do not have "doors" to close. This is just marketing. 
✅ When Does Toner MAKE SENSE? 4 Justified Exceptions
Toner is not mandatory, but it can be a great functional addition in specific situations. It stops being toning and becomes a liquid serum or hydrating essence:
* 💧 You have hard water or occasionally use an alkaline soap.
* What to choose: A slightly acidic hydrating toner pH 🧡(approx 4.5–5.5) with humectants (glycerin, HA,  panthenol). It will help restore comfort faster.
* ✨ You have oily/acne-prone skin and need support.
* What to choose: A "toner" with active ingredients (e.g., low concentrations of AHA/BHA/PHA acids, niacinamide, zinc). This is essentially a light keratolytic/treatment preparation—a purposeful action, not just "toning."
* 🌜 You use retinoids in the evening.
* What to choose: A hydrating essence/toner with glycerin or beta-glucan. It will help hydrate, reduce stinging, and prep the skin for an emollient (barrier cream).
* 😩 You feel an unpleasant tightness after washing.
* What to choose: An essence-toner with a high concentration of humectants glycerin, HA. It will add moisture, but always lock it in with a barrier cream to prevent water loss!
📢 The Beauty Blogger's Verdict
Marketing loves toners because an extra step means extra sales. But the truth is:
> Toner is an add-on, not a pillar. The pillars are: Gentle Cleansing , Moisturiser, Barrier Protection SPF(in the morning).

If your face wash is gentle and pH-balanced, you don't need to reach for a toner. However, if you want to use one, treat it like a liquid serum or an extra dose of hydration—choose one with a clear, functional composition (humectants or actives), rather than one that only promises "balance" without stating the pH.
Always be wary of irritating ingredients, especially if you have reactive skin!
And you, do you use a toner? Will you change your approach to this step now?