What Is A Toner & What Exactly Does It Do?
by: Alisha Whitley, June 27, 2019
You’ve heard that using a toner is an important skin care step, but what does it do? If you’re perplexed by toners, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn what a toner is, why you need to use one and which toner is right for you.
What Is Toner, Anyway?
Toners are typically associated with drying, alcohol-based formulas that zap grease from your skin - along with every last bit of moisture. Luckily, toners have come a long way. In addition to having astringent properties, the newest generation of toners and facial mists provide hydration, balance skin and treat a wide range of skin concerns and conditions.
What Does It Do?
Essentially, toners complete the cleansing process. These fast-absorbing liquids remove lingering impurities and replenish the skin with necessary moisture. Eminence Organics Lead Skin Care Trainer Natalie Pergar refers to toning as the “conditioning” step of your skin care routine. The right toner balances your complexion and provides a base layer of hydration to prep your skin for the steps that follow.
When Should I Use Toner?
Toners should be applied morning and night, immediately after cleansing and exfoliating. Applying a toner when your skin is still slightly damp allows for its active ingredients to absorb more efficiently. In addition to using toners as part of your daily and nightly skin care routine, Eminence Organics International Trainer Jude Herrera says they can also be used throughout the day to hydrate skin, soothe dryness or set your makeup.
How To Choose One
Now that you know the benefits of toning your skin, it’s time to choose the right toner for your skin type and concerns. Today’s toners are formulated for a variety of concerns, from acne and large pores to dryness and fine lines and wrinkles.
Oily Skin With Large Pores/Breakouts
Oily skin is particularly prone to large pores and breakouts. Look for a balancing toner that tightens pores and restores moisture. Our Lime Refresh Tonique uses lime juice (a natural astringent), lavender and green tea to balance an oily complexion.
Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin needs soothing botanicals to relieve redness and discomfort caused by dryness. The Hawthorn Tonique is infused with chamomile, eucalyptus oil and carrot to calm and protect dry, sensitive skin.
Dry Skin
Believe it or not, even dry skin can benefit from a toner. Many of today’s toners are formulated with ingredients that add rather than strip moisture. We recommend adding our Stone Crop Hydrating Mist to your routine. This refreshing facial mist employs stone crop juice to improve hydration and heal dry skin.
Aging Skin
If you have aging skin, look for a toner that contains antioxidant-rich and hydrating ingredients. Our Neroli Age Corrective Hydrating Mist is infused with neroli oil, coconut milk and coconut water to hydrate and moisturize skin. A Natural Retinol Alternative and Swiss green apple stem cells step in to tighten and firm your complexion.
