Some experts routinely recommend using toner, while others say it’s simply unnecessary. However, toner does have many benefits. And toners have come a long way from the harsh astringents of long ago. Find out what toner can do for your skin and which one you should use.
What toner does
A jack-of-all-trades, toner offers the following benefits:
- It can remove residue.
Cleansers — particularly thick creamy ones — can leave behind a slight film or residue on the skin. On dry skin, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, for oily or combination complexions, residue can lead to more oiliness and acne. Toner gets rid of this residue.
- It can balance the skin.
Because cleansers momentarily change the pH balance of the skin, restoring that balance is critical. This is where toner comes in. Toner restores the skin to a normal pH (5.5 to 6.2), preventing unnecessary dryness or irritation.
- It can clarify your complexion.
A commonly-held belief is that toner can shrink pores. Unfortunately, this is simply untrue. Once a pore has stretched, it can’t shrink. But you can minimize the appearance of large pores with toner. How? Toners (particularly toners made with cosmetic alcohol such as SD or isopropyl alcohol) cause a slight swelling at the opening of the pore, which makes the actual pore less noticeable. But remember that these effects are only temporary.
What toner to use
Today’s toners are more sophisticated than past products, and you’ll find a plethora of options. Here are some tips for choosing toner for your skin type.
- Oily or acne-prone skin: Both toners and astringents (which generally contain more alcohol than toners) are great options for oily or acne-prone skin. They lift away any leftover cleanser. Toners with salicylic acid help to exfoliate the inside of the pore, reducing the chance of blemishes. Also, look for toners with witch hazel. Even though witch hazel is typically too drying, oily and acneic types can benefit from this.
- Normal or dry skin: Opt for a moisturizing or hydrating toner with humectants and botanicals to pamper dry or sensitive skin. And don't necessarily disdain toners with alcohol; certain cosmetic alcohols (such as cetyl, which is a fatty alcohol) will not dry out the skin when used correctly. Do avoid daily use of toners with salicylic or glycolic acid and instead, rotate their use with mild toners to prevent excess dryness or irritation.
Product picks
- Acne-prone skin: Clear up acne with Murad Clarifying Toner, which features algae extract and witch hazel to absorb oil and keep skin smooth and blemish-free.
- Oily skin: If your skin is very oily, go for a toner that addresses the excess oil, such as Bliss Steep Clean Toner Pads. These pre-treated pads save time, allowing you to just grab a pad, wipe and go.
- Dry skin: La Roche Posay Hydraphase Toner is a soothing formula that removes residue and leaves skin soft.
- Sensitive skin: Pamper delicate, sensitive skin with botanical extracts that hydrate and reduce redness. EmerginC Lavender Toner is loaded with lavender and other soothing natural extracts.
See also:
8 Must-Haves for Your Beauty Kit
Skincare for Teens: Beyond Blemishes
Affordable Skin Care Review: Creating a Skincare Routine for Under $100
Alcohol is A-OK for Your Skin
How to Complete Your Skin Care Routine