The benefits of using face toner in your skincare routine

The application of toner is the skincare step most people skip. It may look like there is no difference or no benefit from the toner, but that is wrong. In this post, I am going to discuss the benefits of using face toner in the skincare routine.

What is face toner?

In a very simple way, the toner is the product which goes after cleansing the skin and before the application of serums and creams.

I mentioned in previous posts how important is to keep clean skin. However, when cleansing the skin we are modifying its natural pH, which can bring different negative effects.

The toner is a completely liquid product, though sometimes it looks like water, which we apply after cleansing the skin to re-balance the natural skin pH and strengths the skin’s natural barrier. All the toners leave the skin ready for the application of other products.

Benefits of using a face toner

The use of toner has lots of beneficial properties for the skin, like:

When and how should I apply the face toner?

The best step to apply the toner is just after cleansing the skin if you are not exfoliating or using a face mask. In this case, apply the toner just before the serum and cream application, just after the scrub and mask.

About how to apply the toner, you can do it mainly in three different ways.

Apply the toner using cotton or a reusable pad. Firstly wet the pad with toner and then apply it all over the face by tapping or in circular movements.

The problem with this way of application is that you waste a lot of product in the pad. However, the application with the pad helps to remove the last excess of makeup, dirt and soap.

Apply the toner using your hands. Drop first a few drops of the toner on the palm of the hands and then apply all over the face pressing the palms against the skin.

Apply the toner as a mist. That is how I apply it normally as it is very refreshing. First, transfer the toner to a spray bottle and then apply a few sprays on the face. The effect of the mist on the face is lovely.

Whatever the application you use, let the toner sit on the skin for at least 30 seconds before applying the next product.

Different types of face toner

The main function of the toner is to equilibrate the skin pH after the use of cleansers. However, most toners nowadays contain other types of ingredients which allow them to bring other benefits to the skin. The most frequent types of toner are:

Main ingredients in the face toners.

The main ingredients you will find in toner are obviously water and alcohol. However, it is very frequent to see toners claiming to be alcohol-free, as alcohol may irritate the skin.

Alcohol and water are the main but not the unique ingredients in a toner. Toners may contain other ingredients in small amounts such as salicylic acid, hamamelis, panthenol or benzoyl peroxide among others.

Some toners are rich in minerals and natural ingredients, which bring a refreshing feeling to the skin or even may contain thermal water (these toners are indicated for people with sensitive skin). They can also contain micellar water, marigold extract, chamomile, anti-oxidant ingredients and many others.

Always read the ingredient list and product claims to know what a toner can bring to your skin.

What toner shall I use if my skin is……?

It may not be easy to choose the right toner for your skin type with all the options available. As with other skincare products, you should consider different aspects before buying a toner, such as your skin type, skin concerns you may have, when you want to use the toner, etc.

I am going to give you some tips to help you choose the right toner for your skin type. So what toner shall I use if my skin is….

….Oily?

Most toners fight sebum excess but if your skin is oily you will find especially beneficial toners with mattifying ingredients such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid. Niacinamide is also a good ingredient for people with oily skin.

…. Acne-prone?

If your skin is prone to blemishes or acne breakouts try to use a toner with a lightweight formula. Avoid toners containing alcohol and go for toners with alpha or beta-hydroxy acids to unclog your pores.

…. Dry?

That is my skin type and I love toners containing hyaluronic acid and collagen. This type of toner will improve the moisturiser effects. Other good ingredients for people with dry skin are allantoin, almond oil, glycerine or vitamin E.

…. Sensitive?

The best toners for people with this skin type are soothing toners or toners with thermal water in the formula. Aloe vera and hamamelis are also good options for people with sensitive skin. Avoid toners containing alcohol.

…. Combination?

People with combination skin are lucky as they have the best characteristics of oily and dry skin types. People with this skin type need a toner which removes the excess oil while keeping your skin hydrated. Therefore, go for nourishing and anti-oxidant ingredients, like hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid or lactic acid.

…. Dull Skin?

Most of the time, dull skin is a consequence of environmental pollution and, therefore, a revitalising toner may help. Try to get a toner containing green tea extracts or vitamin C. Both ingredients are very good at fighting free radicals.

…. Sun-damaged or mature skin?

If that is your case you should look for anti-oxidant and moisturising toners. Ingredients like vitamin C or E are good anti-oxidants which will improve the skin tone, texture and, therefore, appearance. The presence of hyaluronic acid will help to keep skin hydrated while glycolic acid will encourage collagen production.

Which are my favourite toners?

I have dry and mature skin with hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage. I like toners containing hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid for nighttime application and rose water. My top five toners, all of them available at Lookfantastic, are:

Do you regularly use toner? Which one is your favourite? Let me know in the comments and see you in the next post.