Whether your skincare routine is wash and go or a multi-step plan, the chances are you’ve used or considered adding toner to your bathroom cabinet. Maybe you used to follow a toning routine years ago but didn’t much like the products – or the effects.
Maybe you’re religious about removing make up, using a DIY face scrub or having regular facials. The chances are you’d never scrimp on using SPF or applying serum. Perhaps you don’t think your morning and evening routines need another cosmetic to fit in. Well, think again. Believe or not, toning your skin isn’t something to discount and the experts say adding some toner to your routine will help your skin’s health.
Here’s why, if toning has dropped off your beauty to-do list, you should contemplate re-introducing it.
What does a facial toner do and why to use one?
Jade Baker is a Skincare Buyer for John Lewis, and she tells us: “Toner plays an important role in helping cleanse and rejuvenate your skin. While it’s especially helpful for people with oilier skin, there are products to support all skin types, ultimately helping your skin stay looking healthy for longer.”
Designed to be used after washing your face, a toner will ensure your face stays clean. This is increasingly important after exposure to city air and pollution or if you’ve worn layers of foundation and concealer and eye make-up.
Jade explains, “Toners help clean your skin – whether that’s getting rid of left-over make-up or removing dirt and natural oils. As a result, it can have a positive effect on helping maintain your skin’s natural pH balance, and help clean and close your pores, making them less visible or prone to blemishes.”
How to apply toner
Applying toner is straightforward: do it between washing or cleansing your face and before you use moisturiser or serum. It only takes a few seconds:
1 - Apply it to a cotton wool pad (or a reusable alternative)
2 - Gently rub this across your face, neck and upper chest.
3 - Repeat morning and night (but this will depend on your skin and the product you’re using, so make sure to read the label).
Best facial toner for mature skin
Perhaps you’ve assumed toners aren’t for mature skin. But think again: toners can help your skin to look youthful. Jade explains, “When it comes to older skin, the good news is that most toners will help your skin stay looking younger and fresher. If you’re really looking to reduce fine lines or get a smoother appearance though, look for ingredients which will help to rejuvenate the skin such as:
• Hydroxy acids
• Glycerine
• Hyaluronic acid
If your skin is sensitive, perhaps you’re wary of adding a new product to your beauty repertoire. Previously toners have been alcohol based which can be very drying to the delicate skin on our faces.
But dermatological developments have moved things on and today most toners are water-based, although Jade has some tips about other ingredients to be aware of: “There are a huge range of products available now, to suit all skin types. If you’ve sensitive skin though, try to avoid alcohol-based toners. Rosewater is a popular alternative amongst people with sensitive skin. I’d also recommend steering clear of glycolic acid, retinol or benzoyl peroxide – as these can dry out sensitive skin and lead to breakouts and blemishes.”
What should I look for in my toner?
Toners are readily available all across the high street in chemists and on beauty counters. The choice is huge, and possibly overwhelming. It’s important you pick the right option so as to avoid a product which may dry out your skin or fail to deliver the right results.
It’s best to get some expert advice rather than plunging into a new toner and hoping for the best. Jade advises, “There’s no one-size fits all approach, so I’d recommend speaking with someone – whether that’s a dermatologist or a Partner on one of our John Lewis beauty counters. They’ll be able to discuss your requirements and recommend the right products for you.”