What is the benefit of using a skin toner after cleansing?

Using a skin toner after cleansing helps to balance the pH of the skin, which is crucial for maintaining its overall health. When facial cleansers are used, they can disrupt the skin's natural pH levels, often making it more alkaline. A toner can help restore the skin to its optimal acidic state, usually around a pH of 4.5 to 5.5. This balanced environment is essential for the skin's barrier function, which protects against environmental stressors and irritants, while also allowing for better absorption of subsequent skincare products.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the primary function of a toner. While some toners may provide a degree of moisturization, their main role is not to act as a moisturizer. Additionally, toners do not increase oil production or directly prevent sun damage. Instead, their primary benefit lies in restoring and maintaining pH balance, which is critical for healthy skin function.