Toner is an essential step in a skincare routine, often overlooked but crucial to rebalancing the skin after cleansing. It helps prepare the skin for subsequent treatments by restoring its natural pH and providing an initial dose of hydration.
Main roles of the tonic
- Restore skin pH : Cleansers can sometimes unbalance the skin's pH. Toner helps restore this balance, making skin more resistant to bacteria and irritation.
- Hydrate and soothe : Some toners are enriched with hydrating (like hyaluronic acid) and soothing (like aloe or rose water) ingredients to reduce redness and soothe skin.
- Refine skin texture : Toners containing mild acids (like salicylic or glycolic acid) can gently exfoliate and refine skin texture.
- Prepare the skin for subsequent treatments : Well-toned skin better absorbs serums and creams applied subsequently, maximizing the effectiveness of the active ingredients.
How to use a tonic
- With a cotton pad : Apply a few drops to a cotton pad, then wipe over the face, avoiding the eye area.
- With hands : Put a few drops of tonic in the palm of your hands, then gently pat it onto your face to make it penetrate.
Types of tonics
- Moisturizers : Enriched with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, plant extracts and glycerin.
- Purifying : Often formulated with mild acids to help treat acne and enlarged pores (like AHAs, BHAs).
- Soothing : Contains soothing ingredients to reduce redness and irritation (such as aloe, chamomile).
The toner is particularly beneficial for those with sensitive or dehydrated skin, as it provides an essential first layer of hydration and care.