Should You Be Using a Facial Toner?
What is a Facial Toner?
Toners are hydrating products used after cleansing but before moisturizing. They shrink your pores and cleanse your skin to remove any makeup or debris the previous product didn’t pick up. Essentially, it’s a second more thorough cleanse. It scares many people to use toners and they are often confused with astringents. However, the two are very different.
What’s the Difference Between Toners and Astringents?
Astringents are powerful solutions, tailored for acne and clogged pores. They contain ingredients that pack a big punch including salicylic acid and alcohol. Don’t take astringents lightly, they tighten your skin and can unbalance its PH level. Toners are gentler products and made to suit all skin types. You must check the ingredients if you choose to purchase a toner as many astringents are marketed as toners.
The Benefits of Using a Toner
So, it’s clear that those in the beauty industry can’t speak highly enough about toner. They say it’s a vital part of your daily routine and essential to having great skin. So what benefits does toner offer?
They balance your skin's PH levels.
They contain many ingredients that help problem skin.
They keep your skin fresh and hydrated.
They prevent your skin from signs of aging.
They clear your skin so it can absorb creams and moisturizers properly.
They soothe your skin and reduce irritation.
They protect your skin from harsh conditions and irritants.
The most important thing toner does for your skin is to balance its PH levels. We seek a balance in our work and home life, our rest and exercise and our diet. However, we often forget that the key to perfect skin is also in achieving the right balance.
Why Must Our Skin Be Balanced?
The term “PH†means potential hydrogen, and it refers to the acid-alkali ratio of substances. Your skin has a barrier that protects it from bacteria, pollution and toxins and keeps in moisture. It’s called the acid mantle and experts say your skin should be slightly more acidic and have a 5.5PH level.
If you have too much alkaline in your skin, then you’ll be more susceptible to sun damage, lines, and wrinkles. An excess amount of acid is directly linked to acne and sore skin. The products you put on your face affect the balance, but toner restores the natural acid-alkali ratio.
Is Toner Necessary?
So, should you be using a toner? Absolutely. Just washing your face can disrupt your skin's PH balance, and the effects can be disastrous. Toners have been given an unfair reputation, but the fact is, they’re key to achieving a glowing complexion. There are so many products to choose from, so consider your skin type and get ready for that complexion you’ve been dreaming of.