If you’re someone who loves skincare, then you’ve probably heard of skin toners. However, if you’re new to the world of skincare, you may be wondering what a toner is and whether or not you actually need one. In this article, we’ll answer those questions and dive deeper into the benefits of using a toner.
What is a Skin Toner?
A toner is a skincare product that’s applied after cleansing your face but before using a moisturizer. The main function of a toner is to remove any leftover traces of dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin that may not have been removed during the cleansing process. Toners also help to restore the skin’s pH balance, which can be disrupted by the use of harsh cleansers.
Toners come in many different forms, such as liquid, gel, and even sprays. They’re typically made up of a combination of water and other ingredients such as plant extracts, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, rose, licorice, witch hazel, betaine, antioxidants, and the like. Some toners may also contain exfoliating ingredients such as Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) or Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHAs).
Do You Really Need a Skin Toner?
Now that you know what a toner is, you may be wondering if you really need one. The answer is that it depends on your skin type and the specific concerns you have.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, using a toner can be particularly beneficial. Toners help to remove excess oil from the skin and can also unclog pores, which can lead to fewer breakouts. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may want to look for a toner that’s alcohol free and contains soothing ingredients such as centella asiatica (cica), rose, aloe vera or licorice.
Another benefit of using a toner is that it can help to improve the absorption of other skincare products. When you apply a toner, it helps to remove any leftover debris from your skin, which can make it easier for your moisturizer or serum to penetrate deeper into the skin.
Overall, a toner can be a helpful addition to your skincare routine if you’re looking to address specific concerns or improve the overall health and appearance of your skin.
Benefits of Using a Skin Toner
Now that you know what a toner is and whether or not you need one, let’s take a look at some of the specific benefits of using a toner.
Helps to restore the skin’s pH balance
As mentioned earlier, using a toner can help to restore the skin’s pH balance. The skin’s natural pH is slightly acidic, with a pH level of around 5.5. However, many cleansers are alkaline, with a pH level of around 8 or 9. This can disrupt the skin’s natural pH balance, making it more susceptible to irritation and breakouts.
Using a toner after cleansing can help to restore the skin’s natural pH balance, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote a healthier complexion.
Removes residual dirt and oil
Even if you’re diligent about cleansing your face, there may still be leftover traces of dirt, oil, and makeup on your skin. Using a toner can help to remove these residual impurities, which can lead to clearer, healthier-looking skin.
Helps to unclog pores
If you’re prone to acne or breakouts, using a toner can be particularly beneficial. Toners can help to unclog pores by removing any leftover debris from the skin. This can lead to fewer breakouts and a clearer complexion.
Improves the absorption of other skincare products
As mentioned earlier, using a toner can help to improve the absorption of other skincare products, as toner removes any buildup from your skin.
To conclude, skin toning is a very small yet effective step in your daily skincare routine. To achieve desired results, choose a toner based on your skin type and/or any skin concerns you may wish to address.