What is the primary benefit of using a toner in skincare?

The primary benefit of using a toner in skincare is to balance the pH of the skin after cleansing. Many facial cleansers, especially those that are foaming or contain certain active ingredients, can disrupt the skin's natural pH balance. The skin typically maintains a slightly acidic pH, which is crucial for its barrier function and overall health. When the pH is disrupted, it can lead to issues such as irritation, dryness, or an increased susceptibility to infections.

Using a toner helps to restore this balance, ensuring that the skin is better prepared to absorb the subsequent products in your skincare routine, such as serums and moisturizers. This step is vital in promoting overall skin health and maintaining its natural defenses.

Regarding the other options, while toners can indeed help in removing makeup residues or impurities, this is not their primary benefit. Enhancing the scent of skincare products can also occur, but it is not a fundamental purpose of toners. Additionally, adding moisture to the skin can be an effect of certain hydrating toners, but it is not the core role of a traditional toner, whose main objective is pH balancing.