
Toner is not just a fancy step in your skincare routine, it's a crucial one. According to research, toners can help restore the skin's pH balance, which can be disrupted by harsh cleansers.
Using a toner can also help remove any remaining dirt or makeup that your cleanser may have missed. This is especially important for people with oily skin, as it can help control sebum production.
Toner can also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated skin. Some toners even contain antioxidants that can help protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Applying toner can be as simple as swiping it across your face with a cotton pad, making it a quick and easy addition to your skincare routine.
What
Toner is a liquid or gel-like product that helps to balance the skin's pH after cleansing, removing any remaining residue and preparing it for further products.
It can be used to treat specific skin concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and dryness.
Using a toner can help to reduce the appearance of pores and leave the skin feeling smoother.
Toners can be made from a variety of ingredients, including witch hazel, rosewater, and aloe vera.
Some toners are specifically designed to help control oil production, while others are meant to soothe and calm the skin.
A well-formulated toner can make a big difference in the effectiveness of your skincare routine.
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Benefits and Uses
Toner is a water-based product that helps remove whatever's left of makeup, dirt, and oil after cleansing and before any serum or moisturizer. It's essential to apply toner after cleansing, in the morning and at night, to help balance the skin's pH and remove excess dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities.
Toners come in various types, each designed for specific skin types and concerns. There are astringent toners and balancing toners, and formulas that target enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, and more.
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A well-formulated toner can help your complexion appear fresher, smoother, and more balanced. It can also help rebalance your skin after cleansing and create the ideal "base" upon which the rest of your skincare routine lies.
If you're looking for a toner, consider one with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. These ingredients can help lock moisture in and seal out impurities, leaving your skin feeling soft and supple.
Here are some key benefits of using a toner:
- Removes impurities and excess dirt, oil, and makeup
- Replenishes the skin with moisturizing, brightening, or exfoliating ingredients
- Helps balance the skin's pH
- Closes pores
- Brightens skin
Types and Differences
Toner is not one-size-fits-all, and different types cater to various skin concerns. There are toners for acne-prone skin, dry skin, and even sensitive skin. Some toners are specifically designed to balance the skin's pH level.
Astringent toners contain ingredients like witch hazel that help reduce the appearance of pores and tighten the skin. They're great for oily skin, but can be drying for dry skin.
Exfoliating toners, on the other hand, contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) that gently remove dead skin cells and smooth out skin texture.
What to Look for in Ingredients
When choosing a toner, it's essential to consider the ingredients and how they'll interact with your skin. Here are some key ingredients to look for:
Witch Hazel is a great option for those with acne-prone skin, as it contains anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties that help remove lingering makeup and grime.
Hyaluronic Acid is perfect for replenishing skin's hydration levels while purifying it of built-up debris. Look for a formula with HA for optimal results.
Salicylic Acid is a popular choice for acne-prone skin, as it sloughs off dead skin cells and helps prevent future breakouts.
Honey Extract is a natural emollient that's great for dry skin, providing moisturizing and soothing properties.
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) help speed up skin cell turnover, leaving your skin looking smooth and bright.
Some ingredients to avoid include alcohol, fragrance, and harsh astringents, as they can dry out your skin.
Astringent Types and Differences
Astringents can be quite harsh on the skin, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin, as they're often alcohol-based and can dry out your skin.
Some astringents are specifically designed for oily and acne-prone skin, making them a good option if you're prone to breakouts.
Astringents are generally considered the more potent of these two skincare products, so use them sparingly and be cautious of their strength.
Toners, on the other hand, are often gentler and suitable for all skin types, thanks to their hydrating and nourishing ingredients.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may want to steer clear of astringents and opt for a toner instead, for a more gentle skincare experience.
Suitable for All Skin Types
Toner is suitable for all skin types, but it's essential to choose the right one for your skin. Modern toners are often gentler and more adaptable to individual skin needs.
For dry skin, look for toners with ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, rosewater, or aloe, which add moisture and balance skin tone. These ingredients are especially helpful for those with dry skin who should avoid toners with alcohol.
Astringent toners, on the other hand, are designed for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin. They contain ingredients like hydroxy acids or sulfur that clear pores, reduce oil production, and chemically exfoliate.
To ensure your toner is suitable for your skin type, check the ingredient label for alcohol and look for calming ingredients like niacinamide, aloe vera, and vitamin C that reduce inflammation and prevent dryness.
Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right toner for your skin type:
Remember, always patch test a new toner on a small area of your skin before adding it to your routine to ensure it doesn't cause any irritation.
How to Use Toner
Using toner can seem intimidating, but it's actually quite straightforward. First, start by cleansing your face thoroughly with a gentle face wash, such as CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser.
You can apply toner using a cotton ball or pad, or simply pat it into your skin with clean hands. Dr. Portela suggests gently wiping over your skin until it feels completely free of dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities.
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It's best to apply toner after cleansing, both in the morning and at night, or as directed by your dermatologist. This helps to remove any remaining impurities and prepare your skin for the next steps in your skincare routine.
Leave the toner on the skin after application, as it's a leave-on formula. This allows it to work its magic and provide the benefits you're looking for.
Incorporate toner into your existing skincare routine, such as following up with a non-comedogenic facial moisturizer with sunscreen in the morning, or a lightweight, hydrating night cream before bed.
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Alternatives and Options
If you're not sold on the idea of using a toner, there are some great alternatives to consider. Essences can offer similar benefits to toners, helping to further cleanse the skin and deliver additional ingredients to benefit the skin.
Micellar water is another option that can help remove residual makeup, dirt, or grime, making it a great second cleansing step. Facial mists can also be a simple way to refresh skin by hydrating in an instant, often infused with moisturizing and nourishing ingredients.
If you're looking for a toner that's gentle enough for all skin types, consider a pH-balanced toner that's developed with dermatologists and free from harsh astringents, drying alcohol, and fragrance. This will help ensure that you're getting a toner that's suitable for your skin.
Some popular toner products include Versed Baby Cheeks Hydrating Milk Toner, which doubles as a cleanser and makeup remover, and Rose Hydrosol, which is astringent and anti-inflammatory. If you have oily skin, look for toners that contain lactic acid and vitamin C, such as AlumierMD Bright & Clear Solution.
Here are some key things to look for in a toner:
- pH-balanced
- Developed with dermatologists
- Non-comedogenic
- Free from harsh astringents, drying alcohol, and fragrance
By considering these alternatives and options, you can find a skincare routine that works for you and your skin type.
Product Reviews and Recommendations
If you're looking for a toner that can also double as a cleanser and makeup remover, try the Versed Baby Cheeks Hydrating Milk Toner, which contains coconut water and algae to provide hydration.
Koestline's go-to toner is Rose Hydrosol, a natural astringent and anti-inflammatory agent with a lovely scent.
Hartman recommends the AlumierMD Bright & Clear Solution for its ability to gently exfoliate and improve skin texture, making it a great option for oily skin.
Vichy Pureté Thermale Toner is another affordable option that effectively removes residue without stripping essential oils.
For those with sensitive skin, Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner is a great choice, as it's alcohol-free and packed with niacinamide to calm irritation and remove dead skin cells.
Best Products
If you're looking for a hydrating toner for severely dry skin, consider Versed Baby Cheeks Hydrating Milk Toner, which contains coconut water and algae to provide more hydration than most toners.
This toner doubles as a cleanser and makeup remover, making it a convenient addition to your skincare routine.
For oily skin, AlumierMD Bright & Clear Solution is a great option, containing lactic acid and vitamin C to gently exfoliate environmental debris and improve skin texture.
Fenty Skin Fat Water Pore-Refining Toner Serum is a cult favorite that combines toner and serum to deliver a brightening and toning effect without stripping away too much oil.
CeraVe's new hydrating toner is a lightweight, leave-on formula that leaves your skin feeling smooth and refined, while also locking in moisture for refreshed and healthy-looking skin.
This toner is alcohol-free, astringent-free, and fragrance-free, making it suitable for all skin types, including those with dry or oily skin.
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New CeraVe Hydrating
CeraVe's new hydrating toner is a game-changer for anyone looking to improve the health and appearance of their skin. This lightweight, leave-on toner is designed to support the skin barrier after cleansing, using hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to calm and soothe the skin.
The CeraVe Hydrating Toner is pH-balanced and contains three essential ceramides (1, 3, and 6-II) that help your skin retain its natural moisture. This toner is also formulated to be gentle and non-irritating, making it suitable for all skin types.
One of the standout features of this toner is its ability to remove leftover residue without disrupting the skin's natural barrier. This is especially important after cleansing, as many facial cleansers can be more alkaline than the skin's natural pH level.
Here are some key benefits of the CeraVe Hydrating Toner:
- Leaves skin feeling smooth and refined
- Locks in moisture for refreshed and healthy-looking skin
- Instantly removes leftover residue without disrupting the skin's natural barrier
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores
- Suitable for all skin types, including dry and oily skin
Overall, the CeraVe Hydrating Toner is a great addition to any skincare routine, and its benefits are backed by dermatologists who specialize in helping patients maintain optimal skin health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK if I don't use a toner?
You can skip toner in your skincare routine if you're already using products with exfoliating or retinoid properties, such as glycolic acid or retinoid serums. However, using a toner can still provide additional benefits, so it's worth considering your individual skin needs.
Is toner good for skin every day?
Using toner daily can be beneficial for some skin types, but overusing it can lead to dryness and imbalance. Balancing toners can be used twice daily, while astringent toners should be limited to 1-2 times a week, and even less for dry skin
Sources
- https://www.byrdie.com/is-toner-necessary-347122
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/nomanazish/2021/03/31/do-you-really-need-a-face-toner-heres-what-the-derms-say/
- https://www.byrdie.com/what-does-toner-do
- https://www.cerave.com/skin-smarts/skincare-tips-advice/tips-for-including-toner-in-your-skincare-routine
- https://www.nikelcosmetics.com/what-is-toner-and-why-is-it-important-in-skin-care-n254
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