Using a toner is the most important step in a skin care regimen yet, it is the usually the first one to be left out. Toners are one of the least understood products in skincare, within the general public. With the world becoming more interested in personal hygiene and esthetics, some educational insight about this topic is needed. As a Licensed Esthetician, I will give an overview of the purpose, main ingredients, and proper usage of toners.

Toners, in general, serve three main purposes. One is to remove any cleansing residue or any make-up, dirt, oil, and debris that the cleanser did not take away. Secondly, a quality toner will balance the PH level of the skin. Cleansers are usually too acidic or too alkaline for the skin to stay balanced without a toner. Toners also add beneficial ingredients like plant extracts, trace elements, and minerals to the skin.

Toner should always be used after cleansing and exfoliating. This step must be redone after using a treatment mask if one is being used. Serums and moisturizers are always applied last. It is advised not to use a toner for the sole purpose of cleansing. A cleanser is necessary for proper cleaning.

Most people are familiar with the terms astringent, toner, and toning lotion. In a good skincare line, these terms are used to label their toning product within the proper basic skin types. Astringents are usually labeled for oily skin types. Toners, in general, can be used for all skin types if only one is provided by that particular skincare company. Toner is good for combination/normal skin types. Lastly, toning lotions are good for normal to dry skin.

The main ingredients usually seen on a toners package label may be witch hazel, aloe vera, alcohol, white tea, green tea, water, etc. The active ingredients for acne prone skin are frequently salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

Toning products should be made part of every skin care routine, even the most basic. Toners are an important and beneficial means to bring balance to the skin.

Tips:

- Alcohol should be avoided when picking out a toning product to use.

- Look for products that include many beneficial plant extracts.

- Choose products with calming ingredients, like chamomile or allotoin.

Learn more about this author, Dominique Hill.
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