Skin Toner – What You Need To Know

For many, the word “toner” brings to mind stinging astringents from the 1980’s. The original was an alcohol-based product that was used to dry up oily skin and remove any leftover dirt following cleansing. HOWEVER ‘some’ of today’s high quality formulas have completely evolved.

WHY has Toner Made a Major Comeback?

Pore Minimizing
Large facial pores allow more dirt, oil and toxins to enter the skin which can cause irritation and infections. Toners help minimises enlarged pores by exfoliating pore-clogging dead skin cells (look for the gentle ingredient poly-hydroxy acid & natural oligosaccharides). SO when our pores are reduced, it means fewer oils and toxins are able to settle into the skin. This creates a fresher, cleaner and less oily appearance, while also helping prevent outbreaks.

pH Balance
Our skins natural pH level is typically between five and seven (the scale being 0 to 14 and 7 being the most neutral level). HOWEVER our ideal pH balance can get out of whack due to various factors. When this happens, our skin try’s to work overtime to return to its normal level which can cause stress – and for some people an over production of sebum causing breakouts and blackheads. A good quality toner can help restore our skins vital PH balance.

Protection & Detoxification
As discussed, toners can help reduce pore size and also tighten cell gaps after cleansing. This helps reduce the risk of impurities and environmental toxins and contaminants penetrating into the skin. It can even protect and remove chlorine and minerals present in tap water.

Blemish Reduction
Acne can not only be a nuisance, it can also lead to facial scarring. By removing dead skin cells, oily buildup and residue from facial pores, it means less blemishes.

Hydration and Nourishment
Toners are a good way to add other specific ingredients and nutrients to your skin that you may not have in your other products. They can also add another layer of skin-replenishment and hydration to your skin. This is essential for maintaining suppleness and moisture, creating a more youthful appearance.

Skin Prep – in readiness for what follows
Balancing your skin allows other products (such as serums and moisturisers) in your regimen to absorb better.

Night Time Renewal
Toner helps remove any pore-clogging impurities that will saturate further into our skin (during our several hours of snooze time) over night. This helps our skin in its nightly renewal process. SO ….big tip ….always remove makeup before bed and don’t skip Toner.

What to look for

It’s important to look for clinical grade toners which are made with many of the same ingredients you might find in your other skin-care products. High quality ingredients are the key to the most effective Toners available. Every ingredient has an important job to do. Toners should always be alcohol-free!

SPOTLIGHT …..Rodan + Fields Pore Minimizing Toner

Rodan + Fields REDEFINE (alcohol-free) Toner has an exclusive combination of clarifying ingredients which minimises the appearance of enlarged pores quickly and efficiently. Gentle poly-hydroxy acids exfoliate pore-clogging dead skin cells while oligosaccharides help reduce the appearance of pores and prepares the skin for products which follow. Shop here

The bottom line: The next time you’re wondering whether or not you really need to add another step to your skin-care routine, remember not to tune out toner. It eliminates dirt, grease, and grime to help clear your complexion and make the rest of your products work better.

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Victoria ☺️