by Kimberley Heit

Created on: July 04, 2009   Last Updated: July 14, 2009

According to original beauty gospel we should "cleanse, tone and moisturize", but recently toners have faced ongoing criticism for being an overrated part of skin care. Many experts now agree that the use of facial toner is not obligatory, but it does offer several benefits. In a nutshell a toner can help thoroughly cleanse your skin and prepare it to readily accept moisturizer.

Key benefits of using a facial toner:

A deeper cleanse

Most people agree that their skin feels especially fresh and clean after using a toner. A toner can help remove any residue left behind by your cleanser, especially if you use a soap based product. If you wear make up they will help remove any leftover make up residue.

Reduces the appearance of enlarged pores

A toner can create a temporary physical improvement in the appearance of your pores. The right type will encourage your skin to swell out and this makes it look like your pores have shrunk in size.

Oil reduction

If you suffer from oily skin and a shiny t zone, a toner can help minimize this. A toner, formulated for use on oily skin, acts as an astringent stripping away the excess oil. If you are prone to acne you might like to look for a toner that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. However, be wary of using a toner with a high alcohol content. Initially it will work well to help control oil production, but over time it can cause the skin to produce more oil to compensate for the drying effect. Witch Hazel and essential oil based toners are typically a better option.

P.H balancing

The wide variety of toners, available today, allows you to achieve the correct P.H balance no matter what your skin type. A hydrating toner encourages your skin to excrete more oil and a toner aimed at oily skin will encourage the skin to secrete less oil. In this way the correct P.H balance can be reestablished. Hydrating toners also often contain extra ingredients like those aimed at assisting with acne, for example Rose water.

Refreshes the skin

A toner can act as a great pick me up to revive a tired complexion. Many toners contain energizing essential oils or natural extracts. The act of applying toner also helps encourage blood circulation to the skin on your face, which can bring color back into the face.

When it comes to selecting a toner, make sure you select the right one for your skin type. There are varieties suited to oily skin, dry skin, normal skin and sensitive skin.

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