Should you use a toner? Most people know about cleansers and moisturizers and what they do for the face. However, toners don’t receive much attention. Many people assume toners are used to cleanse the skin a second time after washing the face. This is partly true. Toners do provide some additional cleaning, but toners also do so much more. Toners shrink pores, restore the skin’s natural pH balance, moisturizes, and protects the skin.
What skin types need toner the most?
Every skin type can benefit from toner, even those with normal skin. Toners can be particularly helpful for people with acne-prone/oily skin. Toners remove excess oil from the face and shrinks pores preventing the spread of oil on the skin. Additionally, toners prevent impurities like dirt and bacteria from entering the pores.
What’s the difference between a toner and an astringent?
Like toners, astringents are used to shrink pores. But, these products contain one ingredient that may be too harsh for certain skin types-isopropyl alcohol. This alcohol strips skin of its natural oils which can upset the natural pH balance. Some toners contain isopropyl alcohol, but many do not. Instead, these toners use witch hazel or rosewater to dissolve dirt. People with sensitive skin should look for alcohol-free toners and those with oily skin should use alcohol-based toners sparingly.
What ingredients should I look for in a toner?
The best toner ingredients are the natural ones like witch hazel, rosewater, and aloe vera. All these ingredients have naturally soothing properties that refresh the skin. Certified organic toners bear a seal of approval to show that these toners contain certified all-natural ingredients. These products are also great for people with sensitive skin.
Before toning, it’s important to use a cleanser to rid the skin of impurities and provide a clean canvas for moisturizers and serums. Natural cleansers are great because they don’t have any additives that can clog the pores.
What toners are available for my skin type?
For people with normal to dry skin, the Nourish Organic Refreshing Toner provides much-needed relief. Enriched with rosewater and aloe vera, this toner calms the skin and wipes away impurities without over-drying the skin.
Those with acne-prone skin should try the Thayers Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner. This toner contains no alcohol so it’s safe for all skin types and the rosewater reduces inflammation associated with acne breakouts.
This astringent by Earthwise contains pure Canadian witch hazel distillate. Earthwise used an alcohol and fragrance-free formula to accommodate those with easily irritated skin. The product contains natural trace amounts of benzoic acid as well to further purify the skin. This product can be used to treat mild sunburns and insect bites.
If you’re looking for a scientifically tested advanced toner, then the Andalou Naturals Cannacell Hydrating Toner may be the product for you. Formulated with hemp stem cells, this toner has vitamins C, E, and B6 along with Omega-3 fatty acids to infuse the skin with nutrients.
