Choosing between essence or toner can be a tough decision. Your skin may require one over the other, but there are some general guidelines that you should remember when making your choice.
First of all, if you have oily skin, then it is recommended to use an Essence because it will help balance your oil production and hydrate your skin.
Toners on the other hand work well for dry skin and balance the oil production. If this sounds like you, then a toner would be a better option than an essence!
Comparison Table of Essence vs Toner
Essence | Toner |
Medium Viscosity | Low Viscosity |
Contains Water and Essential Oils | Contains Active Ingredients |
Hydration, Exfoliation, and pH Balance | Hydration, Soothing, and Calming |
Suitable for any Skin type | Not Suited for normal & Dry Skin |
Free of parabens, phthalates, mineral oils, alcohol | Usually contains alcohol |
Acts as the first layer of hydration on the skin | Balances skins pH to relieve the skin for stress |
What Type of Skin Do I Have?
No matter what type of skin you have, it’s always best to consult your dermatologist for their professional opinion. However, if you’re unable to see one right now, here are some general guidelines that might be able to help!
If you tend to get oily or acne-prone then an essence would probably work better than a toner because they typically contain ingredients like glycolic acid and salicylic acid, which can unclog pores and reduce sebum production.
On the other hand, if your dry patches aren’t responding well with essences alone and extra hydration is needed, then it may be time for a good toner.
What is an Essence?
An essence is usually a watery serum that has smaller molecules than other beauty products. This allows for better penetration into the skin and promotes cell turnover, which helps with anti-aging concerns such as fine lines and wrinkles. The formula can also help reduce the excess oil production in oily skin or hydrate dry patches on dehydrated skin types.
Related articles –
How to Use an Essence?
You can use an essence daily by applying it after cleansing and toning your skin. It is important to apply the product evenly so that the active ingredients are able to absorb into the skin effectively. Using a cotton pad or ball, gently press over your entire face ensuring that you do not tuck or squish your skin. Pay attention to areas like around the eyes, because this delicate area requires special treatment!
What is a Toner?
A toner may seem similar to an essence because they’re both liquid solutions designed to be applied right after cleansing, but there are some differences between the two. Toners have larger molecules compared to essences, so it makes sense why they would work differently too! They typically contain ingredients like witch hazel extract (which is great for acne) and aloe vera leaf juice (which is a great moisturizer).
How to Use a Toner?
Toners are great for removing excess dirt, oil, dead cells, and other impurities from pores which helps reduce acne breakouts. After washing your face with a facial cleanser, saturate a cotton ball with toner right before swiping across your face. Be sure to use a new cotton ball for each swipe in order to avoid transferring the dirt and oil back onto your face.
What is the Difference Between an Essence and a Toner?
There are many differences between an essence and a toner. In general, toners have larger molecules than essences, so they would work better on dehydrated skin types. Toners also tend to contain ingredients that help balance oily skin or treat acne breakouts.
While essence formulas usually consist of smaller molecules that absorb into the skin more quickly. This allows them to deliver active ingredients like glycolic acid deeper into pores where they’re needed the most!
If this all sounds confusing, don’t worry! It’s actually pretty simple to figure out what type of product your skin needs. Just remember, essences work well for oilier skin types while toners are better suited for those who have dry patches and/or acne-prone concerns.
Conclusion
There are many differences between toner and essence, but the main difference is their function. Essence removes excess oils from skin while toner hydrates skin with a light moisturizing agent. It’s important to understand how these products work before you decide which one will be best for your needs!

I am Emma Smith a freelance beauty and wellness writer. I graduated from New York University, where I studied English Literature and Creative Writing. After working in the beauty industry for several years, I decided to pursue my passion for writing about things related to beauty and health – from skincare tips to makeup tutorials to interviews with leading experts on the field. I have also done dermatology course ‘Dermatology: Trip to skin’ from Novosibirsk State University (NSU).
I love staying healthy by doing working out and yoga. I am mother of a beautiful baby girl, I spend most of my time caring for her while still managing work obligations.