There is an ongoing debate regarding whether the use of toners is necessary for keeping your skin looking and feeling healthy. In truth, a lot of people misunderstand the benefits that toners provide. They’re commonly confused with cleansers and similar products that are supposed to remove excess residue from your skin. Today, I’ll describe the benefits of using toners, so you’ll understand what they offer and why you should include them in your daily skin care routine.
Benefits Of Facial Toners
First, to clear up any confusion, you should be using a gentle cleanser on your skin to help remove face and eye makeup as well as excess oil. That said, cleansers are often not enough. Some cleansers aren’t as effective at unclogging your skin’s pores as toners. As a result, oily skin can still develop blackheads. A toner can cleanse your skin by removing oil, particles, and other material that would otherwise clog your pores.
Another benefit is that they can help support the skin’s natural protective barrier. Some cleansers are harsh and can strip this barrier away. People who have sensitive skin are often susceptible to contaminants and other environmental influences such as pollution. If the protective barrier isn’t left intact, tiny particles can accumulate on their skin. Over time, these particles can cause a reaction.
A toner may also help remove dead skin cells before they build up on the surface of the skin. It does this by incorporating exfoliants that clear away the dead skin cells, preventing them from filling and clogging the pores. Finally, after using harsh soaps or facial washes, the skin’s ph balance can be disturbed. Facial toners can quickly restore the ph balance.
Selecting The Right Toners
Not all toners are created equal. Some are gentle on your skin while others can be overly harsh. It’s important that you use a toner that doesn’t irritate your skin, causing reactions or redness. Also, you’ll want to select a formulation that doesn’t dry your skin in the process of removing excess oil. The following 3 solutions offer a high level of efficacy:
Neostrata Toning Solution – A formulation designed specifically for oily skin, it uses an 8% glycolic acid concentration to remove excess oil and unclog pores while leaving the skin’s protective barrier intact.
La Roche Posay Physiological Solution – Perfect for sensitive skin, this solution causes tiny particles resting on the skin’s surface to bunch together, making them easier to remove. It includes soothing cleansing ingredients that help get rid of impurities without causing irritation.
Reversa 3 in 1 Gel Cleanser – This gentle formulation is a facial cleanser, makeup remover and moisturizer all in one. Rich in humectant glycerin, it lifts away dirt, excess oil and makeup without stripping your skin’s natural lipids.