Step 2: Toning

In recent years, toner has gained a reputation as being an unnecessary step. This could not be more true! The purpose of toning after cleansing is to rid your skin of minerals that remain on skin from tap water. When you get out of the shower, or finish washing your face, you should use toner as soon as possible while skin is still damp — that way, minerals from water aren't left with much time to damage your skin. Moisten a 100-percent cotton puff with toner, then apply it to every inch of your face. Though many toner formulations on the market contain alcohol, it's really important not to use them… because what dries out your skin worse than alcohol? These picks are, of course, alcohol-free.

• Face Secrets Triple-Size 100% Cotton Balls, $1.99, Vitacost