Deciding which skincare products to invest in can be overwhelming. There are many skin care routines to choose from, some simple and others involving 10 steps.
Even the most basic skin care routine usually includes a cleanser, toner, serum, sunscreen, and moisturizer. While the functions of a moisturizer or cleanser are obvious, a toner is a bit more complicated. A toner cleanses your skin of any extra oil or build-up and can help with hydration, acne and skin pH.
A toner is a light, thinned liquid that is applied after a facial cleanser. Its task is to gently refresh your skin without stripping it of its natural moisture. It can act as a second cleanser while soothing your skin.
Washing your skin with face wash can disrupt the pH balance of your skin, which can cause irritation. A toner can contain different acids that can help balance your skin’s pH – ultimately reducing that irritation.
The acids in the toner can also act as chemical exfoliants, removing any extra dead skin cells or other debris that may build up. The toner also has moisturizing ingredients, making it a good second step in your skin care routine.
While a toner isn’t a necessary part of every skin care routine, using one can offer several benefits, especially if you’re dealing with dry skin or other skin care concerns like acne.
Hydrates the skin
A toner can help cleanse your skin without drying it out. Many toners offer the first burst of hydration your skin gets after you wash your face. One study found that participants who used a five-step skin care routine, including a toner, had significantly more hydrated skin after four weeks than those who followed a simpler routine.
Toners can include ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, among other moisturizing ingredients. Glycerin is known to help skin retain moisture, especially in high concentrations.
It balances the pH balance of your skin
The skin on your face is very delicate. Washing with soap or even just water can easily increase its pH, which can have negative effects. A toner can help lower your skin’s pH to a healthier level, ensuring you have a fairer complexion.
It can help clear up acne
Using a toner after washing your face can help remove excess oil that your face wash may not have picked up. This is especially beneficial for people with oilier skin, as excess oil can cause breakouts.
Toners usually include hydroxy acids, such as salicylic, glycolic or lactic acid. These acids can act as chemical exfoliants and help remove dead skin, restore the skin barrier, reduce acne and prevent breakouts.
Many toners also contain anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as witch hazel. Using a toner with anti-inflammatory products can help get rid of existing acne and prevent acne breakouts.
Anyone can use toner. To make sure you get the right toner, you should identify your specific needs when looking for a product. The toner has benefits for people dealing with various skin problems.
The anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties of the toner may benefit people with oily, easily irritated skin.
It can also offer extra moisture, making it a great option for people with dry skin. In general, a multi-step skin care routine that includes a toner can be helpful for anyone looking to improve the appearance of their skin.
You should apply toner after washing your face and before applying moisturizers, eye creams or sunscreen. If you have a multi-step skin care routine, check for interactions with ingredients in your products before applying.
You can apply a thin layer of toner in the morning and evening. Be sure to test what works for you.
If you’re looking to add a toner to your skincare routine, look for products made for your skin type, whether it’s oily, dry or combination. You can narrow your search even further by understanding what you’re trying to achieve, whether it’s hydration or acne control.
If you want to brighten your complexion, try a toner that contains ingredients like licorice root or vitamin C.
Botanical ingredients are also becoming increasingly popular in the skin care industry. Products containing witch hazel may have beneficial anti-inflammatory or anti-acne properties.
People with sensitive skin or conditions such as rosacea may want to avoid toner as it can potentially irritate their skin. Potential side effects due to irritation include increased redness and itching.
Toner is a versatile product that you can incorporate into your skin care routine. It offers a range of benefits, from acne control to complexion brightening.
If you decide to use a toner, it’s best to apply it after washing your face as it helps rebalance your skin’s pH and offers a great base for any other products you decide to use.