There appears to be some mystery surrounding toners, so we did a quick poll to find out what people’s concerns are. The general consensus was that, while people felt that they should be using a toner, they were unsure about their actual function and benefit. We’re here to clear up the confusion and we want to help you design the best regime for your skincare. If you’ve got questions about toners you should find the answers here. If not, please do get in touch
What Are Toners?
Toners are usually water-based liquids that contain active ingredients such as essential oils, plant extracts and acids that are designed to suit a variety of skin types. The main functions of toners are to:
- Rebalance the pH level of skin (which can be disrupted by cleansing with the wrong type of product for your skin type)
- Hydrate
- Calm
- Soothe
- Exfoliate
- Aid the penetration of subsequent products in your routine.
- Remove any last traces of cleanser
Why Use a Toner?
Toners help to facilitate and add value to the rest of your routine. Many people choose to skip this step in their skincare regime, but using a toner can really enhance the effectiveness of the other products you use.
A good skin care routine doesn’t need to be time consuming or complicated, but it should contain products that are right for you and that work hard for your skin type. Toners can be seen as the dressing on a salad; they enhance the rest of your routine and improve your complexion. They help to rebalance, refine, refresh, hydrate, smooth, soothe and calm skin.
What Should I Look for in a Toner?
Toners are multitasking products that can address numerous skin issues:
- If you have dry skin, look for hyaluronic acid, hydrating botanicals extracts or glycerin
- Those who want to soothe and calm skin should opt for toner with ingredients such as aloe vera, lavender or chamomile
- Acid toners are great to keep skin exfoliated and fresh without having to use a grainy formula, look for glycolic acid, lactic acid or amino fruit acids.
Regardless of the formula you opt for, a toner should leave skin fresh and prepped for the next stage of your routine.
How Should I Apply Toner?
Toners should be applied to skin while it is still moist, as damp skin aids the absorption of products. Apply a couple of sprays onto a cotton wool pad and wipe over your face. Follow with your serum of choice - again, while the skin is still moist.
Toners can also be used after a mask to refine and tone skin while removing any last traces too. In the summer, a toner can help to freshen and balance skin. We love the idea of keeping your toner in the fridge when the weather is hot for an extra cooling and skin hydrating refresh.