Toners are often overlooked in skin care, but they are important because they remove any excess oils and residue on the skin's surface to allow for good absorption of moisturizers. It also helps with inflammation, which is very common in acne sufferers, and it tightens the pores for smoother skin.
Toner can be used day or night - morning if you're not applying other skin care products that morning, night if you are. It should go without saying that toner should always be used after cleansing.
Toners also help your moisturizer and topical treatments absorb better into the skin, while getting rid of anything that would stop them from doing their jobs properly.
What is a facial toner?
A toner is a cosmetic product that removes excess oil, dirt, and bacteria from the skin. Toners are often called astringents because they have astringent properties that dry out the skin. Toners are applied near the end of a cleansing routine to remove any final traces of make-up, sebum, sweat, or other impurities.
Some people confuse toners with exfoliators or facial cleansers. Technically, however, they are not the same thing.
The benefits of using a facial toner
Toning your face: Toner will help tighten your pores and leave your skin feeling fresh and clean. Toners also help close your pores which is good for acne-prone skin. Toning helps exfoliate the top layers of dead skin cells which gives you a nice healthy glow.
Helps rejuvenate dull skin: Toners will help add moisture back into your skin by balancing pH levels (aka acidity). If you have dry or normal skin, this step may not be necessary but if you have greasy or oily skin, this step will help get rid of the oil and help you feel refreshed.
Helps reduce acne: Toner can help remove excess dirt and debris that might be clogging your pores and leading to breakouts.
Reduces the appearance of fine lines: By tightening your pores, toners also give you a healthy glow which can make fine lines less visible.
Tones and tightens: Toners help tone and tighten your skin which can help give you a more youthful appearance.
If you have dry or normal skin, toner may not be necessary since these types of skin typically don't produce as much oil or sebum. However, if you have oily or combination skin, toner can be a great addition to your skincare routine.
How to use a facial toner
The first step is to wet your face with some water. Next, apply the facial toner by rubbing it on your skin. For best results, use a cotton ball or pad to thoroughly clean the surface of the skin. After you have removed all traces of makeup and dirt from your pores, apply moisturizer on top of the toner for some extra hydration.
When you should use a facial toner and how often
Toners are used to clean your skin and prepare it for moisturizing. Depending on your skin type, you may need to use the facial toner more or less often. For example, if you have oily skin, try using the facial toner once or twice a day, but if you have dry skin use it twice a week.
Facial toners are a great way to add an extra layer of skin care without adding too many steps in your routine. In this article, we've outlined the benefits of using a facial toner and how it can contribute to healthier-looking skin.