Why Facial Toner is Essential
“Cleanse, tone, moisturize.”
That is a beauty mantra we’ve all been hearing for years. But who actually DOES this? Who tones their skin? I’m guessing an alarming amount of people don’t even know what toner is.
Coming from a professional esthetician’s standpoint, I can assure you, using a toner is the most underrated skincare step. It can be a step that we often forget or even wonder why we need it.
Let me explain.
What is facial toner?
Essentially – toner is a fast penetrating liquid that gives skin an added dose of hydration and helps remove left behind dirt & makeup while also exfoliating dead cells off the skin’s surface.
To put it simply, it looks like water and feels like water. But I swear it does sooo much more than water.
Toner is full of hydrogen and oxygen and depending on specific products; it also can contain acids, glycerin, antioxidants, anti-inflammatories and other nourishing botanicals or plant ingredients.
Some toners are humectants, which means they help to bind moisture to the skin.
Your secret weapon to healthy skin is facial toner!
Rene
Why we need facial toners
Toners help tighten and refine the pores. They add moisture where your skin needs it most, improving the texture of the skin and even reducing acne breakouts by balancing sebum levels.
The main purpose of facial toner is to bring the skin back to its natural pH level, as cleansing usually interrupts the chemical balance of your skin, which affects its ability to absorb product.
Another benefit of using toner is that it preps your pores.
A thorough cleansing helps clear away grime, makeup, and dead skin cells – but sometimes there are trace amounts of soap left behind.
This is where toner shines. It is like a security blanket for your face.
Toner is used as a targeted treatment based on the type of skin you have. Just like when you use a moisturizer, you would select a toner based on your particular skin need.
There are specific ingredients in each kind of toner that help reduce oil, calm inflammation or redness, provide extra hydration for dry skin or gently adjust your pH level for sensitive skin types.
On a makeup related note – toner is like a primer for the rest of your skincare routine like serums and moisturizer.
I like to explain how toners work with a dry sponge analogy. Think of your skin as a dry sponge. If you put soap on a dry sponge, the soap just pools on top. But if the sponge is wet, the soap soaks right in.
The purpose of toner is to saturate skin with moisture to help it retain moisture.
How to apply facial toner
The way you apply skincare product is just as important as choosing the right products.
Toner can be applied a few different ways.
- Use a 2×2 esthetic wipe following cleansing
- Pour some into your hands and splash it on your face when you want to add a big drink of water to your skin
- Spritz a moisturizing toner onto your face for added hydration throughout the day
PRO TIP: pre-dampen your cotton with water. Squeeze out the excess, and then apply your chosen toner. Wetting the cotton first stops it from absorbing your product and keeps the toner on the surface of the pad. You waste less product and gain maximum skincare benefits.
We also love to use 2×2 esthetic wipes to apply toner. They don’t soak up the product like a cotton ball or cotton round does, and you get so much more product on the skin with these fabulous wipes.
Our facial toners
We have a great lineup of toners for every skin type.
Skin Dew
Our most hydrating toner, Skin Dew Hydrating Facial Toner delivers intense moisture to the skin with heavy water, hyaluronic acid and borage oil. It’s a great choice for our anti-aging clients as well as dehydrated acne clients.
Stay Calm
Stay Calm Soothing Facial Toner is a very mild toner that is perfect for any skin type. With aloe and orange blossom distillate, this gentle toner is perfect for skin prone to sensitivity or dehydration.
Vita Tonic
Vita Tonic is exfoliating, anti-inflammatory, brightening and provides antioxidant support for the skin. It is recommended for skin prone to all types of acne and acne rosacea.
AHA Toner
AHA Clarifying Facial Toner combines two alpha hydroxy acid powerhouses into one amazing toner. This facial toner helps with exfoliation as well as reducing sebum.
A Final Note
Anyone can use toner – there are no adverse side effects to using toner but proceed with caution about what types you’re purchasing. Avoid toners that contain alcohol, menthols and fragrance as these ingredients can really mess with your skin’s natural pH and barrier.
Are you curious to know what toner is right for your skin type? Do you want a professional consultation? We’re here for all of your skincare questions and needs.
Book your appointment today & start getting clear tomorrow!
Cheers to clear!
Rene