Since I was a young girl I’ve been told that the basis of a good skincare routine relies on cleansing, toning and moisturising. It’s a simply three step process that promises better looking skin. And while I understood the need to cleanse and moisturise, I always struggled to understand what the purpose of the toner was. Do you need to use a toner? Or is it OK to skip that step in your skincare routine? Well after a bit of research and speaking to a facialist, here is what I’ve found out about toners:
They shrink pores
Applying a small amount of toner to your skin will remove oil and therefore give the appearance of smaller pores.
They add a layer of protection
Toners can help close pores and reduce the amount of impurities that can get clogged in your skin. They can even protect and remove the impurities found in your tap water.
They moisturise
Some toners can actually help to bind moisture to the skin.
They give your skin pH balance
Naturally our skin is acidic and after cleansing with an alkaline based product, the pH balance of your skin can get disturbed. Which means your skin has to work overtime to restore the balance, but by using a toner, you can help to restore this balance quickly.
They can prevent ingrown hairs
As toners contain acids, they can help prevent ingrown hairs.
They refresh the skin
Toners can even be used instead of washing your skin when it’s oily or dirty. So it’ll leave your skin revitalised, even when you’re on the go.
Do you use a toner as part of your skincare routine? What’s your favourite toner to use?
This was something I ignored for SO long and I wish now that I really didn’t! I’ve started using a toner from Kiehls and it feels amazing on my skin and really does seem to be helping reduce the size of some large pores and help even out my complexion. I didn’t realise they’d help prevent ingrown hairs, that’s interesting to know.
Gillian xx EyelinerFlicks.com
Yes! I use the one you’ve pictured above from Liz Earle, it leaves my skin totally refreshed.
Yea I do sometimes. I use Mary Kay.
I use a toner everyday without fail, sometimes twice a day. I use a mixture of a tea tree anti bacterial and a hydrating vitamin e, i couldn’t be without them.
I use that Liz Earle one in your pic too. I didn’t really know all those benefits though! Thanks for posting!