Facial Lotions and Toners

Face serum Day cream Night cream Eyecare Lip care Cleansers Scrubs Masks Micellar water

Facial Lotions and Toners: Complete your cleansing routine and prepare your skin


The facial toner is used after cleansing to add an extra step in your skincare routine before applying serum and moisturizer. Depending on the product, it can refresh, soothe, gently exfoliate, or help visibly improve the skin’s radiance and texture. On MyOrigines, discover a selection of facial lotions and toners that are easy to incorporate into your daily routine.


The main types of lotions and toners


Type of Skincare Product Common Assets Primary need
Moisturizing Lotion Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera Comfort and suppleness
Soothing Toner Thermal waters, plant extracts Sensitive or Irritated Skin
Exfoliating toner AHA, BHA, or PHA Texture, Radiance, and Skin Imperfections
Mists or treatment waters Thermal waters, soothing agents Freshness and comfort

Lotions to Hydrate and Soften the Skin


Moisturizing lotions are beneficial when the skin feels tight or lacks suppleness after cleansing. They provide an initial layer of comfort thanks to humectants such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin.  


Comfort Toner, Lancôme


The Comfort Toner by Lancôme is designed to leave the skin supple and comfortable after cleansing. Its formula combines hyaluronic acid, squalane, and  rose, depending on the product, to complete a hydration-focused skincare routine.


Moisturizing Toner, Clarins


The Clarins Hydrating Toner is used after cleansing to refresh and soften the skin. It contains plant extracts such as fig and aloe vera, depending on the formula, and is ideal for those looking for a gentle step in their skincare routine before applying serum or cream.


Exfoliating toners to smooth skin texture


Exfoliating toners generally contain acids such as AHAs, BHAs, or PHAs. They don’t just refresh the skin—they also help remove dead skin cells and can visibly improve radiance and texture.  


7% Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Toner, The Ordinary


The 7% Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Toner by The Ordinary contains glycolic acid, an AHA used to exfoliate the skin’s surface. It can help gradually improve the appearance of skin texture and complexion. As with any exfoliating product, the frequency of use should be adjusted according to your skin’s tolerance, and sunscreen is recommended during the day.


Lotions with rose water and plant extracts


 rose is frequently used to provide a refreshing sensation and complete the cleansing step. It can be combined with moisturizing or soothing ingredients.


Vinoclean Hydrating Toner, Caudalie


The Vinoclean Hydrating Toner by Caudalie uses  rose to complete the makeup removal process and provide a refreshing sensation.  


Thermal waters and soothing mists


Thermal waters do not play exactly the same role as an exfoliating lotion or a toner rich in active ingredients. They are mainly used to refresh the skin and provide comfort throughout the day or after cleansing.


Avène Thermal Spring Water


The Avène Thermal Spring Water Spray can be used on sensitive or uncomfortable skin to provide a refreshing sensation. It can be incorporated into your routine after cleansing or sprayed as needed throughout the day.


Incorporating a toner into your routine


Toner is generally used after cleansing the face and before applying serum. It can be applied with clean hands or using a cotton pad, depending on the product’s texture and recommendations. Applying it directly with your hands helps avoid repeated rubbing on sensitive skin.


FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Facial Lotions and Toners


What Is a Facial Toner Used For?


It completes your skincare routine after cleansing and, depending on its formulation, can provide a refreshing sensation, comfort, hydration, radiance, or gentle exfoliation.


What’s the difference between a facial toner and micellar water?


Micellar water is primarily used for cleansing or removing makeup. Facial toner, on the other hand, is applied after cleansing to provide additional skincare benefits.


Which toner should you choose for sensitive skin?


Look for a gentle product with few exfoliating ingredients that is suitable for your sensitive skin. Thermal water or a soothing lotion may also be appropriate.


Should you use a toner morning and night?


Not necessarily. A gentle lotion can be used twice a day, but an exfoliating toner often requires less frequent use.


At what age should you start using a toner?


There’s no set age. A toner can be incorporated as soon as the need arises—for example, to provide comfort, complement a blemish-fighting routine, or use a suitable exfoliant.


Lotions and Toners on MyOrigines


On MyOrigines, discover a special selection of lotions and toners: soothing treatments, skincare waters, exfoliating toners, or lotions designed to provide greater comfort and radiance. Then complete your skincare routine with a serum, a day cream, a eye contour treatment or a makeup remover and facial cleanser.