The toner debate – do you (or don’t you) need a toner – is one that has been going on for many years. In an earlier post I discussed toners and why you may need one. If your skin is oily, then toners can be beneficial. For almost all other skin types, they are an unnecessary step (not to mention expense).
The use of toners came about in an age when we used harsh cleansers to clean our faces. This stripped away our natural oils and often left us feeling tight and dry. Toners provided the relief. Today we are spoiled for choice with a wide range of gentle cleansers to choose from. If, after cleansing, your skin feels tight and dry, it’s likely that your cleanser contains oil stripping ingredients. Consider looking for another – a toner shouldn’t be needed to repair the damage that a cleanser may cause.
Toners Caveat
If you still enjoy using a toner, look for one formulated without the use of alcohol or witch hazel. These two ingredients, which are found in many toners, are highly irritating and drying to skin.
If a toner is part of your skin care regimen, Neostrata Toning Solution is one to consider. Formulated with 8% glycolic acid, it helps to exfoliate dead, dry skin cells that may lead to clogged pores.