“Is face toner supposed to burn?” – if this is something you’re concerned about when you apply a toner during your skincare routine, you are not alone.
Skincare brands often mislead with their advertisements that skincare products should feel like it’s practically working on your skin. But anything that irritates the skin is a no-go.
A toner may cause a burning or stinging sensation if it’s not rightly suited to your skin type. So if you are using a harsh toner when you have sensitive skin, you know where the problem lies.
Read on to find out how to use facial toners to attain optimal benefits without unnecessary toner damage or that unpleasant stinging sensation.
What Is A Toner?
A toner is a liquid, commonly used after the cleansing step in a usual skincare routine.
It can help prep the skin for absorbing the upcoming serum or moisturizer while maintaining the skin’s pH balance, leaving the skin hydrated and supple (read more about: what does a toner do here).
Back in the day, toners were formulated to balance the drying effects of harsh cleansers, in an effort to restore the normal skin pH (around 5)1.
Initially, the word toner would strike as something with harsh chemicals such as alcohol that strip your skin’s moisture, but with the modern toners available today that are gentle on the skin, you can choose from a range of toners according to your skin type.
My favorite toners are the K-beauty ones and here is my list of the best Korean toners available in 2023!
Is It Normal To Feel Burning After Using Toner?
This depends on your skin type and the kind of skin toner you are using.
Generally, skin toners can be classified as:
- Hydrating toners
These are humectants with little to zero alcohol. Gentle on the skin, a hydrating toner is a perfect choice for someone with a sensitive skin type, since it does not cause any burning sensation. Examples are rose water, hyaluronic acid, etc.
- Mild toners
These are slightly stronger containing up to 20% of alcohol. They can cause slight tingling when applied. Mild skin toners are best suited to normal and oily skin types.
- Acid toners
Commonly known as AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) and BHA (beta hydroxy acid), these skin toners chemically exfoliate the skin. Glycolic acid (AHA) and salicylic acid (BHA) are cult favorites.
Since they do contain alcohol, they can cause mild tingling upon application in some individuals.
Now back to our question: “Should toner burn?”.
No, a facial toner that is in accordance with your skin type should never burn or sting, even if you have sensitive skin. In general, it is not normal to feel burning sensations after using toner2.
Some individuals experience mild tingling or stinging after they apply toner, but it fades away instantly. It all pans down to the active ingredients.
The greater the ratio of alcohol or acidic content (like glycolic and salicylic acid), the greater the chances that this particular skin toner will sting and burn.
Hence people with a highly sensitive skin condition should steer clear of harsh toners.
If you’re using toner that is not suitable for your skin, it may give you that awful burning sensation.
Is Toner Supposed To Make Your Face Red?
No, despite the usual tingling that subsides soon after application, facial toner is NOT supposed to make your face red.
Our facial skin is quite delicate, with blood vessels closer to the surface than in other body parts. Applying harsh chemicals can trigger an inflammatory reaction which causes redness of the skin.
If you are left with reddened skin after applying toner, it shows this toner is burning your skin, hence discard it and switch to a gentle one, because a toner is not supposed to burn3.
Why Does Toner Burn Or Sting Your Skin?
Whenever your skin stings after applying toner, you probably wonder, is toner supposed to burn? This sensation is due to one of the following reasons:
Damaged Skin Barrier
Our skin barrier protects the skin from the harsh effects of the environment while maintaining the hydration of our skin. Damaged or broken skin is more prone to toner burn/sting leading to skin irritation.
Irritating Ingredients
One of the major causes why your toner burns are the toner ingredients.
Often, the alcohol content of the toner has a lot to do with the burning sensation. Some toners have other irritating active ingredients such as acidic content, menthol, essential oils, fragrance, etc. that can lead to red skin and stinging.
Over Exfoliation
Over-exfoliating your skin can disrupt the skin barrier, leading to increased exposure to environmental pollutants and risk of infection. If you use chemical exfoliators like AHA or BHA, applying them on a daily basis can do more harm than good.
Too Harsh For Your Sensitive Skin
Sometimes, the formulation is too strong, which can sting sensitive skin and cause skin problems.
Glycolic acid, a regularly used acid toner to chemically exfoliate the skin, may lead to skin irritation and burning if you have sensitive skin.
Try investing in soothing or gentle skin care products, such as naturally produced rose aloe vera or rose water. This will help you to avoid skin redness and persistent unpleasant stinging.
You Could Be Allergic To The Active Ingredient
If a certain toner or skincare product does not suit you, you might be allergic to the active ingredients, which can be the reason behind the burning and other skin reactions4.
Always remember to do an elbow patch test before using new skincare products.
What To Do If Toner Burns Your Face
If your toner burns your face, here is a list of important tips:
1. Stop using the toner immediately
Discontinue using your toner (and any other skincare product that burns your face).
2. Immediately rinse your face
Whenever you experience burning or redness, immediately rinse your face with water and wash off the toner completely. Use a cleanser if you need to.
3. Check the ingredients
Maybe one or more of the ingredients are not suitable for your skin. Check the label for irritating ingredients and avoid using skincare products with that particular ingredient.
4. Use toner on alternate days
Instead of using toner on a daily basis, try spacing up so you can see if the product works for you.
5. Check for allergies
Always perform a patch test before including a new product in your skincare routine to rule out any allergic reaction.
6. Soothe your skin
Apply a soothing gel like aloe vera or a calming mask to stop the discomfort.
7. Applying toners on dry skin
When we apply toner on damp skin, it causes deeper penetration, so avoid applying toner when your face is wet to avoid stinging sensation.
How Should Your Skin Feel After Toner?
After using toner, your skin should feel fresh, clean, and ready for the next product (in most cases: moisturizer).
With regular usage, toner supposed to make your skin feel hydrated, supple and smoother.
How Do You Know If Toner Is Bad For Your Skin?
If you notice the following, it is evident that your toner is bad for your skin:
- Skin irritation: Your skin appears red/irritated.
- Burning sensation: As soon as you apply the toner, you experience stinging or burning.
- Skin dries out: Dry skin is a common complaint associated with toners such as witch hazel.
- Inflammation: Your skin experiences inflammatory changes such as pain, redness, etc.
Choosing The Right Toner For Your Face – What To Look Out For
You can choose the right toner by addressing your skin concerns:
- Dry skin: Hyaluronic acid can rehydrate the skin by enabling the skin cells to retain moisture. Vitamin E toner can prevent dehydration of the skin.
- Oily / acne-prone skin: If you have oily skin, you can use glycolic acid (AHA) which has brightening, exfoliative, and anti-aging properties. Niacinamide toner can be used to control the overproduction of oil, hence reducing acne.
- Sensitive skin: You can use chamomile, aloe vera, rose water, etc. to reap the benefits without any damage to the skin. Look for products with short ingredients list. Here is my list of the best Korean toners for sensitive and reactive skin (free from alcohol and nasty chemicals).
How To Apply Facial Toner To Avoid Burning Sensation?
1. Wash your face with a cleanser to remove dirt.
2. After your face is dry, apply the toner with a cotton pad on the entire face, so you remove the remaining impurities.
3. Apply serum or moisturizer after toning your skin.
Other than applying with a cotton pad, you can spray the toner on your skin, or even use a sheet mask to gain maximum benefits of your toner.
Using Facial Toner In A Safe Way – Answers To Your Questions
Toners are an important part of a good skincare routine, and with the right knowledge, you can facial toners in a safe way.
What Are The Benefits Of Using A Toner?
- It cleanses stubborn impurities that your cleanser didn’t remove.
- It preps your skin for optimal absorption of upcoming products (serum/moisturizer).
- It balances your skin’s pH.
- Facial toners tighten pores.
- Toners keep oil production under control, reducing the risk of acne and infection.
When To Use Face Toner?
Toner should always be used after cleansing your face with a good cleanser, followed by a moisturizer/serum.
Should I Use Toner Every Day?
You can use it every day if it is a gentle toner without alcohol. If using an exfoliant toner, use it two to three times a week to avoid irritating your skin.
Can I Use Toner Before Exposure To Sunlight?
Yes, but if it contains glycolic acid, it can lead to increased sun damage. Hence it is advisable to use a good SPF to avoid sunburn. Also, it’s best to use AHA toners in night time skin care routine.
The purpose of this article is informative and entertaining. It’s not a substitute for medical consultation or medical care. The author of this article does not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here. Safety should be your priority.
Resources:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
- https://weheartthis.com/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/
- https://reviewed.usatoday.com/
- https://www.thebodyshop.com/
- https://www.adorebeauty.co.nz/
