Michigan Cosmetology Licensing Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

Using a toner in skincare primarily serves to remove impurities and balance the skin's pH. After cleansing, the skin's natural barrier can be disrupted, leading to an altered pH level. A toner helps restore this balance, which can enhance the skin's ability to absorb subsequent skincare products, such as serums and moisturizers.

Additionally, toners often contain ingredients that assist in removing leftover makeup, dirt, and oil that may not have been completely removed during cleansing. This ongoing clarifying action helps to minimize the appearance of pores and prevent breakouts by keeping the skin clean and refreshed.

While hydration is an important aspect of skincare, and some toners do indeed provide hydration, that is not their primary function. Similarly, exfoliation might be a characteristic of certain toners, particularly those that contain acids, but it is not the key benefit intended for all toners. Lastly, sun protection is a critical part of skincare, yet a toner is not designed to fulfill that role, making it distinct from those products specifically formulated for UV defense.