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BEAUTY
TONER TALK: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS SKINCARE STAPLE
By Ayis Stephen-Diver, 28 May 2024
Once just an extra cleanse after washing your face, toners have evolved into the multitasking monarchs of skincare; they prep, hydrate, soothe, exfoliate, balance, brighten, and you can even layer different toners as part of the same routine for more TLC. With so many on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose which one works best for your skin type - that's why we've put together this guide to all things toner-related.
TONERS EXPLAINED
Toners are water-like solutions best applied right after washing your face. All toners predominantly clean the skin a second time, but different toners achieve different results - this guide is all about choosing the right one. You can target hydration, reduce inflammation, unclog pores, soothe irritated skin or balance your skin’s natural pH.
TYPES OF TONERS AND WHAT TO LOOK FOR
EXFOLIATING TONERS
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toner, £11.50
This toner includes hydroxy acids (AHAs, BHas, PHAs), glycolic acid, mandelic acid and salicylic acid. They work to exfoliate your skin, but don’t use them more than three times a week as they can be quite harsh on the skin.
This toner includes hydroxy acids (AHAs, BHas, PHAs), glycolic acid, mandelic acid and salicylic acid. They work to exfoliate your skin, but don’t use them more than three times a week as they can be quite harsh on the skin.
ASTRINGENTS
Mario Badescu Witch Hazel & Rosewater Toner, £15
Think witch hazel. These tend to contain a very high percentage of alcohol and are mainly used for tightening pores, providing an extra cleanse and reducing oiliness. If you have sensitive skin, these aren’t ideal as they can irritate your skin further.
Think witch hazel. These tend to contain a very high percentage of alcohol and are mainly used for tightening pores, providing an extra cleanse and reducing oiliness. If you have sensitive skin, these aren’t ideal as they can irritate your skin further.
HYDRATING TONERS
First Aid Beauty Hydrating Toner, £20
Look for ingredients like humectants (hyaluronic acid, glycerin) or extracts such as rice and oats to maximise your skin’s moisture. These are the perfect products for dry skin and they can do wonders for healing a damaged skin barrier and balancing the skin's pH.
Look for ingredients like humectants (hyaluronic acid, glycerin) or extracts such as rice and oats to maximise your skin’s moisture. These are the perfect products for dry skin and they can do wonders for healing a damaged skin barrier and balancing the skin's pH.
SOOTHING TONERS
Elemis Soothing Apricot Toner, £20
Often layered on top of exfoliating toners, soothing toners calm the skin and reduce inflammation or redness. They contain heartleaf extract, aloe vera, centella, or rose water. Burning sensation, begone!
Often layered on top of exfoliating toners, soothing toners calm the skin and reduce inflammation or redness. They contain heartleaf extract, aloe vera, centella, or rose water. Burning sensation, begone!
HOW TO APPLY
Avoid dropping a generous amount onto a cotton pad (like we all do) and swiping it all over the skin, as this technique can be damaging. A better way to apply is by using a patting motion with your palms. Depending on the amount you added, this could take anywhere between one to three minutes.
Pictures: ASOS
TONERS IN PRACTICE
Use toner straight after cleansing. If you’re using an exfoliating option, apply a soothing toner afterwards for a nice cooling effect. Follow up with your serums, but beware of conflicting acids or overloading one ingredient within your routine. For instance, if there’s already salicylic acid in your toner, avoid using a serum that uses the same acid too. Moisturise to follow up, and always remember to use sunscreen in the AM!
