There was a time when toners were the most questioned step in one’s skincare routine. Their purpose, effectiveness, and even necessity were hotly debated. While some swore by their pH-balancing and pore-refining benefits, others dismissed them as an unnecessary extra in an already elaborate skincare regimen. But now, toners are experiencing a much-deserved rebranding. With the rise of milky toners, this time, it seems like they’re here to stay.
“Milky toners, as the name suggests, have an opaque, lotion-like consistency that distinguishes them from the typically clear and lightweight textures of traditional watery toners and essences. They often include a higher concentration of moisturising ingredients such as plant-based oils, butters, and sometimes even finely dispersed emulsions,” says board-certified dermatologist, Dr Dr Sravya Tipirneni. In regions like Japan and South Korea, they’ve long been staples in multi-step skincare routines.
The hype around milky toners is very real. Social media is flooded with glowing reviews praising their ability to lock in hydration while leaving skin supple, radiant, and luminous. “Consumers are increasingly seeking skincare products that deliver multiple benefits,” explains Dr. Sravya. “Milky toners often combine the hydrating and prepping functions of a traditional toner with the nourishing and softening effects of a light moisturiser or serum. They’re deeply hydrating yet lightweight, making them suitable for a wider range of skin types than richer creams or lotions might be. They offer a boost of moisture and help to prevent water loss, which is crucial for maintaining a strong barrier.”
But is the hype just about hydration and boosting moisture? Depending on their formulation, expect these toners to offer long-term skin benefits. “They help strengthen the skin barrier with ingredients like ceramides and fatty acids, reduce sensitivity and inflammation with soothing extracts such as cica or colloidal…
