Difference Between Toners, Serums, and Moisturizers

Developing a skincare routine can be daunting. When I first started looking into a facial routine, I started to realize there is a difference between moisturizers, serums, and toners.

Say What!?

I know, some people may roll their eyes at that statement. Seriously though, for a very long time, I only used a face lotion/moisturizer.

The first product that introduced me to toners and serums was the BareMinerals Skinlongevity Long Life Herb Serum. This serum came in a test-size bottle in the 24 Days of Clean Beauty Advent Calendar.

I’m not going to lie, but this advent calendar was one of my favorite purchases due to getting to test so many different BareMinerals products.

What is the difference between toners, serums, and moisturizers? Is it best to use all three products together?

I had so many questions as a newbie. The only way to figure out these answers was to research and test out products. 

Difference Between Serums, Toners, and Moisturizers

Understanding the difference and the benefits that each product has to offer is key for knowing what you need to use in your own life.

Toner

After cleaning your face, the next step would be to put on toner.

Generally, toners removes dirt and other impurities on your skin that your cleanser may have missed. This will restore your skin back to its natural pH levels and prepare your skin for the product that you will be putting on.

Also, another benefit of using a toner is that it minimizes your pores and temporarily tightens your skin.

Serums

Serums and toners can appear to look the same.

The difference is that a serum is typically thicker than a toner. Serums are designed to give our skin high concentrations of powerful ingredients. When you start looking at all the different serums available, it can be daunting. They can vary from vitamins to specific treatments for your skin.

Some places say that you can use a serum in place of a moisturizer if your skin does not need the extra hydration that a moisturizer gives.

Moisturizer

Keeping your skin hydrated is the main goal of a moisturizer.

This product looks more like a thick cream. Unlike face lotions, it is meant to go into the skin and not just on top of it. This helps prevent dry skin throughout the day.

Your skin craves to be hydrated. It is like a grape. If you let it dry up, it will turn into a raisin. The more you hydrate and moisturize your skin it will become plump and full like a grape.

Which One is for You?

The simple answer is that all three can be used together because each has its own unique and wonderful benefits for your skin. It matters what you want your products to do and what skin type you have.

You know your skin better than anyone else because you live in it every single day. 

Some people have a couple of different options for each product, and they rotate through them. 

While looking for my toner, serum, and moisturizer, I focused on what I wanted for my skin, the ingredients, and the reviews on each product. Reading and understanding ingredients was an adjustment, but it is a major part of choosing a healthy, natural skin care product.

My Routine

Starting with the toner, I use 100% Pure Restorative Sea Culture Hydrating Toner. It is made for normal to dry skin types. It is very hydrating and has so many great reviews.

Next, I apply my serum which is 100% Pure Vitamin C Serum. I wanted a serum that would brighten my skin. I also liked the idea of applying a vitamin to my face.

In the beginning, I stated that I was using the BareMinerals Skinlongevity Long Life Herb Serum. I did not continue to use this product due to reading the ingredients list compared to 100% Pure Vitamin C Serum. I like knowing at a glance what is in the products I am putting on my face. 

Finally, I go between the BareMinerals Smoothness Bare Haven Soft Moisturizer and BareMinerals Ageless Phyto-retinol Face Cream.

These two products I got when I was starting my skincare journey. Smoothness Bare Haven was recommended to me by the BareMinerals skin quiz. As for the Ageless Face Cream, I got that because of advertising, and I was able to get a free moisturizer with an order.

I’m sure that as I continue to learn more about the different natural products that are offered, what I use in my skin routine will change. Life is all about constantly learning and discovering new ways to improve your lifestyle.

Now, I hope that you understand the difference between serums, toners, and moisturizers, so you can incorporate all three into your natural skincare routine.