Hi Lovelies,
Welcome to the next step in my Skincare 101 series. It’s time to talk about toner. Sometimes when people talk about toners they say “astringent” and all of a sudden a toner is something only people with oily skin use or need and it’s supposed to strip away all of your oil. Nope, that’s not how this works. Toners can do some really great things for your skin and there are many great options for every skin type and skin concern. Toners are also referred to as ‘softeners’ or ‘skin refreshers’. I prefer using this terminology because it more evocative of the true benefits and purpose of a toner.
When it comes to toner the question that I am asked most frequently is “Do I really need one?”. I always answer with an affirmative yes because that second step in your routine is more than an “astringent”, it’s a treatment step. Toners are liquid products used after cleansing and are applied with either a cotton pad or sprayed directly onto the face. Whenever I use a toner I notice my skin is softer, and my moisturizer feels better on my skin and absorbs more quickly.
The Benefits of using a toner:
- Adds moisture.
- Balances your skin.
- Exfoliates, removing dead skin cells on the surface of the skin
- Helps to minimize the appearance of pores.
- Calms redness and soothes the skin.
- Brightens the skin.
- Prepares skin for serums and treatments.
- Helps your moisturizer to work more effectively and absorb better.
- Infuses the skin with antioxidants.
Below are two of my favorite recommendations for toners that would enhance your skincare routine.
Fresh Black Tea Age-Delay Instant Infusion Toner
I have been using the Black Tea category from Fresh for almost two years. It is hydrating, anti-aging, and provides visible results. This is a treatment toner that provides 24 hours of hydration, improves skin texture and brightens the complexion. The formulation is a dream team of Hyaluronic Acid, Black Tea, Blackberry Extract, and Vitamin C. I would recommend this for a normal to combination/dry skin type.
Photo Credit: Pinterest
Pixi Glow Tonic
The Glow Tonic by Pixi contains 5% Glycolic Acid which improves texture and helps to even out the skin tone, while gently exfoliating. It is alcohol free (yay! no stripping the surface of the skin!), contains Witch Hazel, and is safe for all skin types. Once again my rule of them holds true; if something is pink it’s probably going to be good for you.
Photo Credit: Pinterest
If you have any more questions about toners please leave a comment below! I love trying new toners and softeners so I will definitely be sharing more of my favorites and more skincare tips in the coming weeks. As always, please let me know if you try any of these products or if you already have a favorite toner that you love.
XOXOXO,
Lily
Lily Sage Creates 