Do You Put Toner Before Putting On Sunscreen? A Complete Guide to Your Skincare Routine
Written by
May Willis
Published
Saturday, 9 Nov 2024
8 min. read
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1
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We stress a lot about towel choices at CottonNow as a crucial part of the everyday skincare routine. A topic that goes hand in hand is the order in which you apply products. For skincare beginners, this is a topic that is not talked about enough, and people are not getting the most out of their skincare products because of it. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the best practices for layering your skincare products, ensuring your skin stays healthy and radiant.
A toner is one of the best products in a skincare routine. They are cheap, have little to none side effects, and are usually seen as a staple in a simple but effective routine. However, for beginners, it might not be clear when to apply the toner.
The Importance of Product Order in Skincare
Applying skincare products in the correct order is crucial because it ensures that each product can penetrate the skin and perform its intended function. If applied incorrectly, some products may form a barrier that prevents others from being absorbed properly, rendering them ineffective.
The Basic Skincare Routine
Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the basic steps of a skincare routine. Here’s a quick overview from our previous blog on the best baseline skincare routine one can have:
1
Cleanser
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities.
2
Toner
Balances the skin’s pH and preps it for subsequent products.
3
Moisturizer
Hydrates and locks in moisture.
4
Sunscreen
Protects against harmful UV rays.
The Main Question: Do You Put Toner Before Putting On Sunscreen?
Heres the main question. According to skincare experts and dermatologists, the short answer is yes, you should apply toner before putting on sunscreen. Here’s why:
1
Toner Prepares the Skin
Toner is typically a water-based product that helps to remove any residual impurities and balance the skin’s pH after cleansing. It also preps the skin to better absorb the active ingredients in serums and moisturizers. Applying toner first ensures that your skin is clean and ready to receive the full benefits of the following products.
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Layering from Lightest to Heaviest
A general rule of thumb recommended by most experts in skincare is to apply products from the lightest to the heaviest consistency. Since toner is usually lightweight and watery, it should be applied immediately after cleansing. Sunscreen, on the other hand, is often thicker and should be applied last to form a protective barrier on the skin. If you do it in reverse order, the sunscreen will block the skin from absorbing the toner.
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Maximizing Sunscreen Efficacy
Sunscreen should always be the final step in your morning skincare routine. This is because any product applied on top of sunscreen can dilute its effectiveness, reducing its ability to protect your skin from UV rays. By applying toner and other skincare products before sunscreen, you ensure that your sunscreen can form an even, protective layer over your skin.
Because toners are wayy lighter than a moisturizer, serum , or a sunscreen, it should ALWAYS be applied before the later!
Tips for Layering Skincare Products
1
Wait Between Layers
Allow each product to absorb fully before applying the next one. This usually takes about 30 seconds to two minutes, depending on the product’s consistency (we talked about this before as well). In general, if you feel like the product has been absorbed completely and your skin is almost dry, then apply the next product.
2
Patch Test New Products
Before incorporating a new product into your routine, perform a patch test to ensure it doesn’t cause irritation or adverse reactions.
3
Customize Your Routine
Everyone’s skin is different, so it’s essential to customize your skincare routine based on your skin type and concerns. For example, if you have oily skin, you might opt for a lighter moisturizer instead of a cream.
PRO TIP: Applying Toner with PureNatura Towels
For maximum cleanliness and comfort, drizzle your toner onto a PureNatura towel and use it to apply the toner to your skin. This method not only ensures that your skin is clean but also allows for a more even application of the toner, enhancing its benefits.
Apply the toner to a PureNatura towel, then wipe your face with the towel to evenly apply the toner without irritation and bacteria.
Conclusion
In conclusion, applying toner before sunscreen is essential for an effective skincare routine. By following the correct order—cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen—you ensure that each product can perform its best, resulting in healthier, more radiant skin. Remember to use our PureNatura 100% cotton disposable towels in the routine to ensure cleanliness!
Q&A
Yes, you should put toner before putting on sunscreen even if you have sensitive skin. Using a gentle, alcohol-free toner can help soothe and prepare your skin, making it more receptive to the protective layer of sunscreen. Always choose products that are formulated for sensitive skin to avoid irritation.
You put toner before putting on sunscreen because toner helps to balance your skin’s pH and remove any residual impurities after cleansing. This step ensures that your skin is prepped and ready to absorb the active ingredients in your serums and moisturizers, allowing the sunscreen to form an effective protective barrier on top.
While you can skip toner and just put on sunscreen, it's not recommended. Toner plays a crucial role in preparing your skin for the subsequent steps in your skincare routine. By using toner before putting on sunscreen, you ensure that your skin is clean, balanced, and better able to absorb the protective benefits of your sunscreen.
