The Need-To-Know Skincare Step The Beauty Team Swears By

What Is It? 

“A milky toner is essentially a lightweight, lotion-like liquid applied after cleansing that combines the refreshing feel of a toner with the comfort of a moisturiser. Unlike traditional alcohol-based toners – historically designed to remove excess oil and leave skin feeling tight – milky toners focus on replenishing hydration and supporting the skin barrier. Compared to an essence which is usually more watery and treatment-focused, a milky toner leans more towards cushioning hydration rather than delivering high concentrations of active ingredients.” – Dr Jinah Yoo, consultant dermatologist

Why Is It So Popular? 

“The trend is a direct export from Korean skincare philosophy, which prioritises a healthy skin barrier over harsh, quick fixes. It’s popular now because consumers are moving away from over-exfoliating with acids and toward barrier-focused routines. It also fits into the ‘Skipcare’ movement, involving simplifying your routine by combining the hydration of a toner and the nourishment of an essence into one step.” – Dr Christine Hall, aesthetic doctor  

The Benefits, Explained  

“The main benefits are hydration and barrier repair. It calms redness, reduces sensitivity and provides a subtle luminosity without clogging pores. While it’s a hero for dry or sensitive skin, it’s actually excellent for oily and combination types because it provides essential lipids without the heavy weight of a traditional cream.” – Dr Christine Hall, aesthetic doctor 

How To Incorporate It Into Your Routine  

Dr Hall advises looking out for ingredients that mimic the skin’s natural lipid structure – think ceramides, squalane and glycerin – as well as soothing agents such as panthenol, centella asiatica and fermented rice water to calm sensitivity. To get the best results out of your milky toner, pat it directly onto damp skin immediately after cleansing to maximise absorption and create a plump, glowy base. 

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