Toners have a terrible reputation. The toners of your youth, which typically contained high levels of alcohol, stripped oil from the skin while sucking out every last drop of moisture. But this is no longer the case. Today’s toners are designed to be softer. Still, you might be wondering what toners are for. With a boost of hydration and nutrients, today’s toners strive to nourish it. Some even have the ability to treat specific skin issues such as acne and sun damage.
Deep clean:
The benefits of double cleansing are now widely recognized. But did you know that toners could help you get the secondary cleanse you need? They will remove any remaining makeup that your regular cleanser hasn’t gotten rid of. Toners can also remove excess oil and dirt that has built up over the day or night.
It balances the complexion:
Toners do more than just cleanse your skin. They also work to replenish nutrients that regular cleansers might strip from the skin. The end result is usually softer, smoother skin. Even stubborn conditions like redness can be helped by using a well-formulated skin toner.
It balances pH levels:
With a pH of about 4.7, skin is inherently acidic. However, some soaps and cleansers are naturally alkaline. Using a product with a pH significantly different from your skin’s may cause dryness, greasy feeling, or irritation. Although your skin’s pH can recover within a few hours, you can apply a toner to restore balance quickly.
It promotes cell regeneration:
Laminin, found in toners, promotes the production of ceramide and collagen, making your skin look stronger and more resilient. Plus, it promotes cell renewal for youthful-looking skin.
It helps eliminate sebum and make-up:
When you use a cleanser, not all of your makeup is removed from your skin. Some may remain in your pores, which could irritate them and lead to acne. After cleansing, the facial toner can help remove any remaining makeup, leaving your skin feeling incredibly clean and fresh.
It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines:
The toner can help your skin feel and look firmer, which can reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles. We advise you to apply a facial toner twice a day if you want younger looking skin.
How to use toners
As long as your skin tolerates it, you can apply toner morning and night. Thomas recommends gradually incorporating a toner into your skincare routine and consulting a doctor, especially if you already have sensitive skin. Although some people choose to skip the morning application, it can wash away sweat and other evening debris. To help prevent breakouts, people with oily skin or acne should apply toner twice a day. Go back to once-daily application if your skin becomes dry or inflamed. If you are still having problems, you can try another product. Then you can continue with the rest of the skincare routine, from essentials like moisturizer and sunscreen to more targeted treatments like serums.
The toner can be applied in two ways: with a cotton ball or with the hands.
- If you choose the first option, soak a cotton ball in the toner and wipe it over your face. Start in the center and work outward, sparing sensitive areas such as the eyes.
- Apply a few drops to the palms and pat them gently on your face if using your hands.
- You can use the same techniques to apply toner to the neck and chest.
Choose a tonic
On the market today, there are three main types of toner:
- alcohol-based formulas
- glycol-based or glycerin-based
- it’s made of water
To avoid irritation, use a water-based toner free of alcohol, fragrance, and witch hazel.
For oily skin
Toners of all kinds can help you get rid of excess oil. However, for best effect, use a mattifier toner with exfoliating salicylic and glycolic acids. If you want to lessen the appearance of your pores, niacinamide is a fantastic substance to consider.
For acne-prone skin
Look for a light and gentle product if you are prone to blemishes or full-blown acne breakouts. Avoid using alcohol-based toners because the last thing you want to do is irritate your skin even more. To slough off dead skin and minimize oil that could clog pores, use a toner with an alpha hydroxy acid or two.
For dry skin
Those with dry skin should use a toner which includes humectants. Humectants are moisturizing compounds found in lotions and cleansers that act like a magnet to attract water molecules to the skin. Again, any harsh substances, such as alcohol, that could dry out your skin should be avoided. Instead, look for compounds such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and glycerin, which are calming and hydrating.
For combination skin
You want the best of all worlds if you have combination skin. For toners, this means a solution that removes excess oil while hydrating the face. Look for restorative antioxidants and moderate acids like hyaluronic, salicylic and lactic acid in other products.
Carry
Toners are clearly not what they used to be, so don’t be afraid to try one out. Consult a dermatologist and then use toner if you have an easily irritated skin condition, such as rosacea.
