Cleanser vs Toner: What’s the Difference & Which One Should You Use?

When it comes to skincare, understanding the basics can make all the difference. Two of the most commonly used products, cleanser vs toner, form the foundation of a healthy skincare routine. Yet, many people are unsure about the difference between the two or whether both are necessary. If you’re building or refining your skincare routine, this guide will help you understand what a cleanser and toner do, when to use them, and how to choose the right products based on your skin type.

Cleanser vs toner isn’t a battle of one versus the other—it’s about using each correctly to support your skin’s needs. With the right knowledge and products, you can create a routine that not only works but delivers lasting results.

What is a Face Cleanser?

A face cleanser is the first step in your daily skincare routine. Its job is simple but essential: to remove dirt, oil, sweat, make-up, sunscreen, and other impurities that accumulate on the skin. Cleansing helps prevent clogged pores, dullness, and breakouts, and it prepares the skin to better absorb other products such as serums or moisturisers.

Cleansers come in various formulations to suit different skin types and concerns. Common types include:

• Foaming cleansers, which lather and remove excess oil. These are ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.

• Cream cleansers, which have a thicker texture and are more hydrating. These are suitable for dry or sensitive skin.

• Gel cleansers, which are lightweight and often infused with soothing ingredients. These work well for combination skin.

• Micellar water, a water-based cleanser that lifts dirt and makeup using micelle molecules, without the need for rinsing. It’s gentle and effective for all skin types, especially sensitive skin.

For instance, the Simple Micellar Cleansing Water available at Direct Care is a great everyday option that requires no rinsing, making it ideal for those with sensitive or reactive skin. Other suitable options include Clean & Clear Deep Cleansing Lotion and Clearasil Blackhead Clearing Cleanser for more targeted oil and blemish control.

Cleansers should be used twice daily—morning and night. Apply a small amount to damp skin, massage gently, and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water unless using a no-rinse product like micellar water.

What is a Toner for Face?

Toner is a water-based skincare product applied after cleansing and before moisturising. It is designed to remove residual impurities left behind by the cleanser, rebalance the skin’s natural pH, and prepare the skin for better absorption of serums or moisturisers. A toner can also help address specific concerns like oiliness, dehydration, or sensitivity depending on its ingredients.

There are several types of toners available:

• Hydrating toners, which contain humectants like hyaluronic acid to retain moisture.

• Exfoliating toners, which include acids like glycolic acid (AHA) or salicylic acid (BHA) to remove dead skin cells and improve texture.

• Balancing toners, which help regulate sebum production and minimise the appearance of pores.

• Soothing toners, which contain ingredients such as rose water, aloe vera or chamomile to calm irritation and reduce redness.

To apply a toner, either pour a small amount onto a cotton pad and swipe it across the face or dispense a few drops into your palms and press gently into the skin. Toner should be used immediately after cleansing, while the skin is still slightly damp.

Popular and gentle options include Garnier Rose Water Soothing Toner, which is available at Direct Care and is ideal for calming dry or reactive skin. For those with oil-prone or acne-prone skin, Clearasil Deep Cleansing Toner helps refine pores and maintain balance.

Difference Between Cleanser and Toner

The core difference between a cleanser and a toner lies in their purpose within the skincare routine. A cleanser is used to clean the skin by removing external pollutants and built-up residue. A toner, on the other hand, refines the skin, bringing it back to its natural pH level, tightening pores, and preparing it for treatment steps.

Think of cleansing as the reset button that removes the day’s build-up and toner as the second step that refines, balances, and supports your skin’s transition into the rest of the skincare routine.

While a cleanser is essential for all skin types and should never be skipped, a toner can be added based on individual skin needs. For many people, the right toner can make a noticeable improvement in hydration, clarity, and overall skin comfort.

Do You Need Both a Cleanser and Toner?

Yes, in most cases. A cleanser is necessary to clean the skin and maintain its overall health. Without proper cleansing, dirt and oil can build up, leading to blocked pores and breakouts. A toner is often considered optional but can provide targeted benefits depending on your skin type or concerns.

For example, someone with oily skin might benefit from a toner that contains salicylic acid, which helps reduce breakouts and balance sebum production. A person with dry skin could use a hydrating toner to add an extra layer of moisture before applying their moisturiser.

If you wear makeup daily, live in a city with high pollution, or have active breakouts or irritation, adding a toner can help restore balance and improve skin clarity.

Choosing the Right Products Based on Skin Type

When selecting a cleanser and toner, consider your skin type and any specific skin conditions you want to address. Here’s a brief guide:

• Oily or acne-prone skin: Choose a foaming or gel cleanser that removes excess oil, paired with a toner containing salicylic acid or witch hazel to reduce shine and clear pores. Clean & Clear Blackhead Clearing Cleanser is a good match, as is Clearasil Deep Cleansing Toner.

• Dry or sensitive skin: Opt for cream or micellar cleansers that are free from alcohol and fragrance. Follow with a soothing toner like Garnier Rose Toner or aloe-based formulas.

• Combination skin: A gentle gel cleanser and a balancing toner help manage oiliness in the T-zone while hydrating drier areas.

• Normal skin: Choose a mild cleanser and toner that maintain hydration and barrier health without overloading the skin with active ingredients.

Using products suited to your skin type ensures that your routine supports your skin rather than disrupting it. All the products mentioned here are readily available on Direct Care’s cleanser and toner page.

Build a Simple Skincare Routine

Establishing a consistent skincare routine doesn’t require ten steps or expensive products. The key is choosing products that work for your skin and applying them in the right order:

1. Cleanser – to remove impurities and prepare your skin.

2. Toner – to rebalance and refine.

3. Serum or treatment – optional, depending on concerns.

4. Moisturiser – to lock in hydration.

5. Sunscreen – during the daytime to protect against UV damage.

This core routine can be adjusted seasonally or as your skin changes, but cleansing and toning should always be part of the process.

Shop Cleansers and Toners at Direct Care

Looking to update your skincare routine with trusted and affordable products? At Direct Care, we stock a wide range of face cleansers and toners suited to all skin types—from gentle micellar water and hydrating rose toner to targeted cleansers for oily or acne-prone skin.

Visit our Cleanser and Toner collection to find effective, dermatologist-recommended skincare essentials. Whether you’re just starting a routine or looking to improve results, our products offer reliable, results-driven care at great value.