You may have heard skincare experts debate the pros and cons of using a facial toner. Some feel that they are an essential part of any good skincare routine, while others feel that they are unnecessary. For example, some dermatologists only recommend alcohol-based toners for oily skin and feel that all other skin types do not need them.
If you talk to most estheticians, they will tell you that toners are an essential part of any skincare routine. So where is the truth? Maybe somewhere in between. I firmly believe that a truly gentle, well-formulated toner can be an important step in your skincare routine. Does this mean you have to wear it religiously day and night? Not necessarily. However, regular use can provide great benefits, as I will discuss later.
Toners have evolved a lot from heavily alcohol-based ones, although many still exist. When I say alcohol, I mean drying alcohol such as SD Alcohol 40. In this sense, some dermatologists may suggest these types of formulations for oily / very oily skin thinking that the added alcohol will control the excessive production of oil.
However, in the long run, alcohol-based products can produce even more oil. Drying your skin with strong alcohol or even witch hazel can signal your sebaceous glands to pump out even more oil. In this case, you can end up with skin that is not only oilier, but can also be prone to breakouts. Ingredients that dry and peel the skin can negatively affect the acid mantle of the skin, which in turn can cause more problems such as pimples or breakouts; Slightly acidic skin can help prevent bacteria that can cause breakouts.
There also appears to be some confusion regarding the products that are marketed as “astringents” and those that are sold as “toners.” Is there a difference between the two? Experts appear to be divided on this issue. The term astringent generally describes products that contain alcohol, whereas tonics do not. However, if you look at the large number of products out there, you will still find many “tonics” that contain alcohol.
Astringents are intended to help control oil production by removing it from the surface layer of the skin. Some may or may not help reduce the appearance of large pores. However, most products labeled “astringent” often have ingredients other than alcohol that can further irritate or dry out. For example, many contain peppermint, menthol, or eucalyptus.
Instead, use natural ingredients with mild astringent properties like green tea and chamomile. So what are the potential benefits of using a well-formulated, mild, alcohol-free toner?
KEEPING YOUR SKIN TABLECLOTH HEALTHY
A well-formulated toner should always have a slightly acidic pH. This is close to the pH of your skin when it is balanced and healthy. A toner can help restore the skin’s pH after cleansing (if you used a more alkaline cleanser). PH can also be negatively affected by poor diet, stress, and environmental factors.
REMOVAL OF LAST MAKE-UP TRACES
A mild toner can remove any traces of makeup that may have remained. If you sometimes find a bit of makeup on your cotton pad, it doesn’t necessarily mean that your cleanser is ineffective. While very strong alkaline cleansers can make your face feel very clean, they will also dry out your face and strip the acid mantle from your skin. Make sure to also use a mild cleanser with a slightly acidic pH.
HYDRATION
A mild toner can provide your skin with oil-free hydration. Products with high amounts of ingredients like aloe vera or natural moisturizers can help instantly hydrate your skin after cleansing. In this case, you may not need as much moisturizer or, in the case of oily skin, none, especially at bedtime.
ANTI-AGING BENEFITS
Adding antioxidants with anti-aging ingredients like resveratrol, green tea, and spirulina can help keep skin looking younger. Additional ingredients that can help brighten the skin, such as cranberry and vitamin B 3, can also be very helpful. These types of ingredients are suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Toners can also help your moisturizer or any treatment product absorb better.
GO WITHOUT FRAGRANCES
Always use an unscented toner. Many people react to fragrances, usually due to some kind of allergic reaction. There is never a reason to use toners with synthetic fragrances or strong essential oils. Some ingredients, like organic aloe vera, provide a smooth, beautiful scent with no added fragrance.
KEEPING IT SIMPLE
If your skin is dry, using a toner in the morning may be all you need. After applying the toner, use a good moisturizer followed by a sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher.
SOOTHING BENEFITS
Using a super gentle and calming toner can be a great step after using scrubs like glycolic acid. Healing and nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and cucumber can provide moisturizing and healing properties.
Using a mild toner without alcohol, fragrances, and artificial colors can provide a wonderful step in your skincare regimen. Not only can it provide additional gentle cleansing benefits, it can also help keep skin looking more hydrated and younger.