When searching for the best products to care for your skin, it can be difficult to know exactly what to use. You’ve probably heard of toner before, but you may be wondering if it’s something you really need.
Toner is an important step in any skincare regimen. Not only does it keep skin clean and balanced, but toner can help treat a wide variety of skincare concerns. Read on to learn more about the purpose of toner and why you should add it to your daily routine.
What is Toner?
Toner is the step that comes between cleansing and moisturizing. Just apply toner to a cotton ball or pad, swipe over your face, and allow it to dry before applying your serum and moisturizer.
Most toners on the market today are water-based, making them hydrating and gentle enough for daily use. Many toners of the past had a high alcohol content, making them drying and uncomfortable to use.
While alcohol in small doses can be helpful for combating acne and oily skin, you should generally avoid high-alcohol toners in favor of water-based, natural options.
What is the Purpose of Toner?
Besides cleansing and refreshing, toner can help address an array of skin concerns while helping to support the rest of your skincare regimen. Here are six reasons you should add a facial toner to your routine.
1. Provides Extra Cleansing Power
Toner helps remove oil, dirt, and makeup that your cleanser may have missed. This makes toner essential for anyone who has an oily complexion or wears heavy makeup on a daily basis.
2. Balances pH
Toner helps to correct your skin’s pH balance after cleansing. Some cleansers affect your skin’s natural pH, which can result in increased oil production, dryness, and uneven skin.
3. Refreshes Skin
Toner acts as a gentle exfoliant to remove built-up dead cells from your skin’s surface. This helps your skin look extra fresh and glowing. It also allows other skin treatments to more fully absorb.
4. Helps Prevent Acne
Toner unclogs pores and supports balanced oil production. This prevents acne breakouts and helps skin look less shiny.
5. Minimizes Pores
Pores look smaller after using toner. This is because toner removes dirt and closes pores. Besides making your skin look smoother, closed pores can help prevent contaminants from penetrating your skin.
6. Treats Skin Concerns
Toner is available in many formulas to target specific skin issues. These issues range from oily skin and acne to dryness and aging. Look for toners with specific ingredients to treat your skin type.
Toner also helps make your serums and moisturizers more effective. It primes the surface of your skin to better absorb them. Use a toner before applying a specialized face serum to treat even the toughest skin issues.
Finding Your Best Skincare Products
Toner has a ton of skincare benefits and is very simple to use. People with all skin types can benefit from adding a good toner to their daily routine. Knowing the purpose of toner and other skincare products will help you make the best choices for your unique skin.
Want some help finding the right skincare for you? Check out more information and tips from our blog.