Many of us use them, but what exactly is a toner and what does toner do for your skin? In this guide, we explain all. We’ll uncover why many people use toners and how it fits in with other skincare products to give you a clean, clear and beautiful complexion.
What is toner?
It looks and feels like water, but toner usually contains added elements such as glycerine, acids, antioxidants and more. Whilst toners nowadays generally don’t contain vast amounts of alcohol, if at all, many people still consider toners to resemble their 1990’s ancestor. However, toners have come a long way since then. As long as you choose an all-natural toner without alcohol, toners can offer a wide range of benefits for your skin.
What does toner do?
Toners are designed to be used between cleansing and moisturising as an extra protection and hydration aid. It helps to close pores, protect and refresh skin, and prepares it for either moisturiser or make-up. It penetrates quickly and helps lead to plump and radiant skin whilst helping to close pores, so dirt can’t get back in. It can be used as part of both your daytime and night time routine.
Where does toner fit in your skin routine?
Toner should be used after washing your face. Following a cleanse, or double cleanse, use your toner swiftly after. It will penetrate the skin more easily when the skin is already wet. It also works to lock in more moisture this way. If you’re using an exfoliator, use your toner after. The toner will help to close your pores after you have removed any dead skin cells with the exfoliation.
Toners should be pH balanced so that it lays a good foundation for any skincare products you then apply. They are easy to apply, as they usually come with a spray nozzle – just like Our Toner. Once you’ve applied the toner, you can then apply moisturiser, make-up or sunscreen.
Which toner should you choose?
Different toners are suited to different skin types, so this will be the primary factor affecting which toner you choose. The different ingredients of a toner do different things. Some are more hydrating and calming, whilst others will be designed to balance out the oils in your skin.
Those with normal or combination skin will want to choose a toner which is hydrating and soothing. Sensitive skin benefits from all-natural botanicals in the toner, such as calming chamomile. Those with dry skin will benefit from a toner with moisturising ingredients, such as glycerin.
If you have acne-prone skin or are prone to spot breakouts, then a toner can prove beneficial for you. As toners are great at closing pores and protecting the skin, it will help to eliminate the excess oil from your face.
What are the benefits of using a toner?
The right toner will provide a multitude of benefits for your skin. These include:
- Closing and tightening pores. Used after cleansing, a toner will close and tighten your pores. This helps to prevent impurities and pollutants entering the skin.
- Balance the skin. Toners are pH balanced, which means they will effectively refresh and revitalise the skin.
- Soothing and calming. There is nothing more satisfying than spritzing your face with a cooling toner after cleansing. Our Toner contains the anti-inflammatory residual water of green mandarin fruit, as well as calming chamomile extract. Perfect for soothing the skin.
- Provide extra hydration. Toners will help lock in any moisture following cleansing. This is why toners are best applied when skin is slightly damp. The UpCircle Face Toner contains hyaluronic acid and glycerin to plump, moisturise and brighten the skin.