What Is Toner For Skin Care And Why You Should Use It?

Toner is a liquid product that is applied to the skin after cleansing and before moisturizing. It is designed to balance the skin’s pH, remove any traces of dirt or makeup, and prepare the skin for the next steps of your routine.

But what exactly does toner do for your skin and how can it benefit you? Here are some reasons why you should consider adding toner to your skin care regimen:

1. Toner can hydrate your skin. Some toners contain humectants, which are ingredients that attract and retain moisture in the skin. Hydrated skin is more plump, smooth, and healthy-looking. Hydrating toners can also help prevent Transepidermal water loss, which is the evaporation of water from the skin’s surface.

2. Toner can exfoliate your skin. Some toners contain chemical exfoliants, such as Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs), which gently dissolve the dead skin cells and unclog the pores. Exfoliating toners can help improve the skin’s texture, brightness, and clarity. They can also help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.

3. Toner can soothe your skin. Some toners contain anti-inflammatory and calming ingredients, such as aloe vera, chamomile, or green tea. Soothing toners can help reduce the redness, irritation, and inflammation of the skin. They can also help heal and repair the skin’s barrier function, which is essential for maintaining the skin’s health and immunity.

4. Toner can control your oil production. Some toners contain astringents, which are ingredients that tighten the pores and reduce the excess sebum (oil) on the skin. Astringent toners can help prevent the clogging of the pores and the formation of acne. They can also help mattify the skin and make it less shiny.

As you can see, toner can do a lot for your skin, depending on the ingredients and the formulation. However, not all toners are created equal, and some may be more suitable for your skin type and concerns than others. Here are some tips on how to choose the right toner for you:

Know your skin type. Different skin types have different needs and preferences when it comes to toner. For example, dry skin may benefit from hydrating toners, while oily skin may prefer astringent toners. Sensitive skin may need soothing toners, while dull or aging skin may want exfoliating toners. You can also use different toners for different areas of your face, such as a hydrating toner for your cheeks and an astringent toner for your T-zone.

Read the label. The ingredients list can tell you a lot about the toner’s function and quality. Look for toners that contain natural, organic, or plant-based ingredients, as they are more gentle and beneficial for the skin. Avoid toners that contain alcohol, fragrance, or artificial colors, as they can be drying, irritating, or allergenic for the skin. Also, check the pH level of the toner, as it should be close to the skin’s natural pH, which is around 5.5.

Patch test. Before using a new toner, it is always a good idea to do a patch test on a small area of your skin, such as your wrist or behind your ear. This way, you can see how your skin reacts to the toner and avoid any potential adverse reactions. If you experience any burning, itching, or redness, stop using the toner immediately and consult a dermatologist.

Making your own toner at home can be a great way to customize your skin care routine and save money. There are many different ingredients and recipes that you can use to create your own toner, depending on your skin type and needs. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Apple cider vinegar toner. Apple cider vinegar is a natural astringent that can help balance the skin’s pH, remove dirt and oil, and soothe irritation. To make this toner, you will need:

2–4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
1 cup of water
1 teaspoon of honey
Optional: 1 chamomile tea bag

Combine all the ingredients in a glass container and stir well. Transfer the mixture to a spray bottle or apply it with a cotton pad. You can use this toner once or twice a day, after cleansing.

2. Witch hazel toner. Witch hazel is another natural astringent that can help tighten the pores, reduce inflammation, and calm redness. To make this toner, you will need:

4 tablespoons of witch hazel (make sure it’s alcohol-free)
2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel
A few drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)

Thoroughly mix the ingredients together in a glass container. Transfer the mixture to a spray bottle or apply it with a cotton pad. You can use this toner after cleansing or whenever your skin feels dry.

3. Lemon juice toner. Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that can help brighten the skin, fade dark spots, and fight acne. To make this toner, you will need:

1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon of water
Optional: 1 teaspoon of honey

Mix all the ingredients in a glass container until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a spray bottle or apply it with a cotton pad. You can use this toner after cleansing or whenever your skin feels dull.

These are just some examples of how you can make your own toner at home using simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen or bathroom. You can also experiment with other ingredients such as rose water, green tea, cucumber, oatmeal, etc., depending on what works best for your skin.

To use toner, simply apply a small amount to a cotton pad or your fingertips and gently swipe or pat it over your face and neck. You can use toner once or twice a day, depending on your skin’s needs and tolerance. Follow with your favorite serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen, and enjoy your refreshed and radiant skin.

What Is Toner For Skin Care And Why You Should Use It?

Happy Skin Care!

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Riya Sharma

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