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What is toner? Is it really necessary? These questions often pop into our heads while we perform our skincare routine. Almost all celebrities include toner in their routine and recommend adding it to ours. Its purpose is not understood by many.
At one point, toners were the go-to recommendation for anyone with oily skin but their popularity saw a red line as they contained a high level of alcohol which made the skin dry. According to experts, toners do deserve a second chance but this time use their care. Make sure that the toner you are purchasing is a fit for you as the one size fits all does not work in toners.
You can find a variety of toners for different skin types. Now some toners even nourish the skin during the drying winter months. Toners have made a comeback after being seen in the Korean skincare regimens.
Toner is a must-have product in your daily life even if you don’t have a 10-step skincare routine.
What is toner?
Face toner is an in-between skincare step that is to be applied after washing the face and before applying serum or moisturizer. It is a water-based product that comprises plant extracts and essential oils, customized to address different skin types.
Earlier, the toners used to be alcohol-based but due to the backlash faced, water-based toners came into existence and became an integral part of the routine.
Who can use a toner?
Everyone should use a toner. It all depends on the toner that you choose, and the benefits it will provide.
What ingredients to look for in a toner?
Look for ingredients that help in solving issues of your skin like –
- Rosewater for hydration
- Chamomile for soothing
- Tea tree oil to fight bacteria and excess oil production
- Vitamin E for hydration
- Plant stem cells which contain antioxidants and anti-aging properties
How does a skin toner benefit your skin?
- Toner helps in restoring the optimum pH level of skin
Some cleansers are harsh on the skin and dry out your skin. They may contain ingredients that affect the pH level of the skin, making it more open to bacteria, inflammation, and dryness.
The ideal pH level of skin is around 5.5. When toner is applied regularly, the correct pH level is maintained and this acts as a barrier to germs and bacteria while keeping the skin nourished and moisturized.
- Tightening of the pores of the skin
More oil and dirt tend to enter the skin when the pores are large. This makes the skin more prone to acne and pimples. Using toner regularly tightens the pores and shrinks their size.
This gives the toxins less space to enter the skin, giving it a cleaner and fresher look. After toning, the skin becomes smooth, making it hard for debris to enter it.
- Prevents breaking of skin
Trapped oil, dirt, and sweat in the pores lead to skin breakouts. This is the reason why oily skin is more prone to acne and breakouts. Toners help in this situation by removing the oil build-up, residue, and dead skin cells.
- Hydration and nourishment
The reason why toner is done right after cleansing and before moisturizing is due to the ingredients present in it. These ingredients help in preparing the skin for better absorption of moisture. It acts as the best exfoliator for sensitive skin given that the alcohol content is near zero and the toner is water-based.
The skin becomes tight and dry after cleansing. Moist skin can absorb topical products better than dry ones. Hence toning your skin ensures that the moisture that you are using on your skin is better absorbed in your skin.
- Complete cleanser
No matter how hard you rub your skin, which you shouldn’t, there are some impurities left on your skin. These impurities can be anything from residual makeup to the oil left behind by the cleanser. Toner helps in getting rid of these impurities and cleans the pores from deep within.
They remove any chemical toxins present on your skin and reveal brighter and glowing skin.
How to use a toner?
Using a toner is not a difficult task. As mentioned above, a toner is applied after washing your face with a cleanser and before the moisturization process.
Soak a cotton pad with the toner of your choice that is suitable for your skin like a face toner for sensitive skin and swipe it over your face, neck, and chest. If you are not comfortable with a cotton pad, you can always clean your palms. Put a few drops of toner in it and press them gently over your face.
To get results in a short time, use it every morning and night. But if your skin tends to dry out easily or gets irritated then try using it once a day.
Skin toner varies for different skin types.
- Oily skin
For people having oily skin that is more prone to acne and breakouts, a toner that relieves the skin from the stickiness of the oil without leaving any residues stuck in your pores is beneficial. Lavender can be a helping ingredient as it is naturally anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial.
It cools down your skin and refreshes it in hot and humid weather.
Stay away from toners that have alcohol as an ingredient, they may feel good in the start but can dry and damage the skin. Use hydrating toners.
- Dry skin
The best face toner for sensitive skin is the one that contains jasmine. Jasmine provides natural moisture without clogging pores. It rejuvenates the skin by restoring lost moisture and radiance, making your skin smooth and reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
Wrapping Up
Toners have become an integral part of the skincare routine, whether men or women. Every skin differs and every skin has different requirements. You must acknowledge your skin’s needs, so you purchase a toner that is fit for your skin.
Make sure that you choose toners that do not contain any harmful chemicals.
