A 10-step skin care routine isn't for everyone, but even the most novice beauty lover knows that toner is a staple in any regimen. However, as K-beauty continues to rise, another step has made its way to our social media feeds and our cabinets: Essence.
The two products seemingly look similar and are meant to be used after cleansing, but are they just the same step disguised in different packaging? We asked dermatologists to break down each type and explain the differences between a toner and an essence.
Best toner pads, editor-pick$undefined$28.00
What is the difference between a toner and essence?
What distinguishes the two types is that a toner "preps and further cleanses" the skin, and essences are "concentrated treatments" used to target specific skin concerns, says dermatologist Dr. Morayo Adisa.
Toner
Going into detail, dermatologist Dr. Purvisha Patel says toners will be more watery in texture than an essence, and they're ideally used as a second step in a skin care routine (after cleansing) to remove remaining impurities and balance the skin's pH."It used to be that we used soap to wash our faces, and it was too basic (as in pH, not boring). They are used to prepare the skin for other products and can be hydrating — or astringent, if you have oily skin," says Patel.
Along with the cleansing benefits and astringent and exfoliating ingredients, she explains that they can also help reduce the appearance of pores and control oil production.
Essence
An essence, which has gained its popularity in Asian beauty care, will typically be made of botanical extracts and provide a specific function, such as hydration or repair, says Adisa.
Patel mentions that you can also expect essences to contain active ingredients, such as antioxidants and vitamins. "They hydrate and improve skin texture and enhance absorption of other skin care. They can also help with specific skin concerns," she adds.
How should you apply a toner or essence?
Should you use one or the other? Both dermatologists tell us: Yes! Typically, you'll use a toner after cleansing, says Patel. And if you're adding an essence to your routine, you'll want to use the essence after the toner, followed by a moisturizer, or your other serums if you have an advanced skin care routine.
Best toners to shop
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Carmen Castilla previously told Shop TODAY that she recommends this affordable toner for its gentle ingredients, which are great for sensitive skin.
Adisa says this "toner refreshes and enhances glow while gently balancing skin’s pH, preparing the skin for a more effective absorption of the rest of your skincare routine."
Deputy editorial manager Jess Bender says this "no-frills toner" has helped even out reddness, as well as waking up with smoother skin.
If you have acne-prone skin, dermatologists say a witch hazel toner targets acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation and controls oil.
Reviewers say they love this toner for its refreshing and hydrating effects, noting it dries quickly and doesn't leave a sticky residue.
I [Garlin] recently added this toner to my regimen, and I didn't realize how much makeup was still on my skin even after double cleansing. It helps get rid of extra residue, leaving a fully fresh and prepped face for the rest of my skin care routine.
This Shop TODAY Beauty Awards winner for "best overall toner" from this trendy skin care brand is formulated with peptides and niacinamide for more hydrated and glowing skin.
With consistent use, commerce writer Danielle Murphy has seen a significant improvement in her skin with this beauty award winner. "My spots have actually started to fade, revealing a bright complexion I haven’t seen since my late high school, early college days," she wrote in a review article.
Multiple dermatologists have recommended Paula's Choice to Shop TODAY and this toner contains humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin that "can immediately replenish moisture and provide that plump, supple feeling," dermatologist Dr. Paula Brezavscek previously told us.
"Obagi Nu-derm Toner is a very mild toner for use after cleansing to remove residue, restore the skin’s pH, soothe and prep the skin for the rest of the skin care regimen," says Adisa.
Best essences to shop
The brand notes you can customize your skin care routine with this product; use it as a morning toner or as a first step in your nightly regimen.
Snail mucin has been a trending ingredient in Korean beauty for its hydrating benefits, and this essence is expert-approved. A dermatologist previously said this pick is a great product for moisturizing and healing.
“This essence feels really nice! It’s surprisingly thick but feels good on the skin. The brand says it’s supposed to gently exfoliate, but I think I’d rely on it more to moisturize. I also like that it has no smell,” raves Murphy.
"I've incorporated this into my morning routine for a couple of weeks and I love the hydrated, dewy look it gives my skin," says Bender. "It has a different, gel-like texture than other toners I've used."
Editorial assistant Madison San Miguel says her skin feels hydrated and soothed after using this essence from Rhode. "I’ve noticed less redness and irritation with daily use," she adds.
I [Garlin] have a sample size of this essence, and a little goes a long way. If my skin is feeling dry, I love spritzing this after cleansing my skin; it adds additional hydration, which I find boosts my serums and moisturizers.
This Japanese brand is known for its high-quality ingredients and use of rice water. Editors love the moisturizer, and the essence looks just as enticing. The brand says it can help firm fine lines and improve the performance of your other serums and moisturizers when used together.
Meet the experts
- Dr. Morayo Adisa, MD, FAAD, is the Medical Director at Dermatology Physicians based in Chicago and Kenilworth, Illinois.
- Dr. Purvisha Patel, MD, is the MOHs Surgeon and dermatologist at Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates in Memphis, Tennessee.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products and sales out there. We use our own personal experiences with products and brands to make shopping easier for our readers.
We selected the best toners and essences based on insights and recommendations from board-certified dermatologists. We also include approved picks from Shop TODAY editors and staffers. Other products were sourced through verified shopper reviews.
