What is the primary purpose of toner in skincare?

Toner primarily serves to tighten pores, which can help to refine the skin's appearance and create a smoother surface. After cleansing, toner can provide a refreshing effect and help to remove any lingering residues from makeup or cleanser. While it may not physically shrink pores, using a toner can give the skin a temporarily tightened feel and improve the overall texture.

Additionally, toners often contain astringent properties that can assist with oil control, making them particularly beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin. This function contributes to the skin's visual aesthetics by reducing the appearance of pores.

In contrast, while moisturization, removal of impurities, and exfoliation are important aspects of a skincare regimen, they are not the primary functions of toner. Moisturizers are specifically formulated to hydrate the skin, cleansing products are designed to remove dirt and impurities, and exfoliants target the removal of dead skin cells. Toner's role is distinct in its ability to prepare the skin for subsequent products and enhance the overall effect of a skincare routine.