North Carolina Cosmetic Arts Practice Exam

What is the main purpose of using toner in a skin care routine?

1. To increase skin elasticity

2. To balance skin’s pH and remove any remaining impurities after cleansing

3. To provide deep hydration

4. To enhance the effectiveness of other products

The correct answer is: To balance skin’s pH and remove any remaining impurities after cleansing

The primary purpose of using toner in a skin care routine is to balance the skin’s pH and remove any remaining impurities after cleansing. After washing the face, the skin can sometimes become stripped of its natural oils, leading to an altered pH level. Toners are formulated to restore the skin’s pH to its normal range, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Additionally, toners help remove any residual makeup, dirt, or cleanser that may remain on the skin after washing, ensuring that the complexion is thoroughly cleaned and prepared for subsequent skin care products. While increasing skin elasticity and providing deep hydration are important aspects of skin care, these functions are typically more aligned with serums or moisturizers rather than toners. Similarly, while toners can enhance the skin's receptiveness to other products, their primary role is to balance and purify the skin after cleansing.