You've heard all about it before - some of your friends and favorite Instagram gurus absolutely swear by it - but you still don't know exactly what the talk is all about: Toner, what exactly is it? Isn't it just fancy water?

And is the Obagi Nu-Derm Toner actually a necessary part of the Nu-Derm Skincare routine?

When it comes to figuring out exactly why and how to incorporate Toner into your skincare routine, the struggle is real. We're here to help. Read on as we demystify the toner - and reveal just why it's an absolute must for your skincare routine.

What is Toner and What Does it Do?

So what is Toner and what does it do exactly? Toner is a water-based solution containing key ingredients that hydrate, soothe and balance the pH of your skin, all while preparing it to absorb the rest of the products in your routine. Following your facial cleanser, oil and dirt can still remain on your skin and in your pores; Toner helps you get rid of all that while tightening your pores and regulating the oiliness of your skin.

Toner can be used as a stand-alone product but it's usually recommended to use as part of a multistep skincare routine - especially when we're talking about the Obagi Nu-Derm 6-step routine. Toner should come after your facial cleanser but before anything else as its properties help prepare the skin to receive other anti-aging treatments.

You wouldn't apply a cleaning liquid to a dry sponge and expect that to work; you have to moisten up the sponge so that it's ready to absorb! Your skin is that sponge and toner is the moisture. What do we get in the end? Hydrated, dewy and glowing skin.

A Water-Based Solution Your Faves Can Get Behind

It is true that in the past Toner was often used to aggressively combat acne using an alcohol-based formula that would sometimes leave skin too dry. Those days are long gone with most Toners primarily water-based and including key ingredients such as aloe and caldendula to soothe irritation and keep your skin fresh.

This is why your faves swear by it - it's time you get on board too!

Obagi Nu-Derm Toner & How to Use It:

Let's get down and technical with exactly how we should use the Obagi Nu-Derm Toner, though this advice is generally applicable to most toners in the market. Remember to apply Toner as a follow-up to your facial cleanser. Dampen a cotton pad or ball with a small amount and apply it to your face. We recommend you apply toner first to the area around your forehead and nose (usually, the oiliest parts) before moving on to the rest of your face.

Allow Toner to dry rather than washing it off. The powerful effects work best when toner is used as the "leave-on" part of your double cleanse, ensuring your face is thoroughly refreshed.

Please contact Dermavenue at 800.805.3752 or chat live! We have agents available 9-5pm Pacific Time to answer any questions. 

Use Code: BLOG20 to save 20% on your first order!