Pennsylvania Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is the primary function of a toner in a skincare routine?

1. Moisturization

2. pH balancing

3. Exfoliation

4. Protection

The correct answer is: pH balancing

The primary function of a toner in a skincare routine is pH balancing. After cleansing, the skin's natural pH can be disrupted, often becoming more alkaline due to the nature of many cleansers. Toners are formulated to help restore the skin's pH balance, bringing it back to a more acidic state, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin. This balancing act helps to prepare the skin for subsequent products, such as serums or moisturizers, and ensures better absorption and effectiveness. While moisturization, exfoliation, and protection are important aspects of skincare, they do not represent the primary role of a toner. Moisturizers are specifically designed to hydrate the skin, exfoliants help to remove dead skin cells, and protective products (like sunscreens) defend the skin from environmental damage. Therefore, the pH balancing function of a toner is crucial in maintaining skin health and enhancing the efficacy of other products in a skincare regimen.