Toner is an essential part of any skincare routine because it helps to balance the pH of the skin, remove any remaining traces of makeup, dirt, or debris that your cleanser might have left behind, and prepare the skin for any other products that you’re going to apply. However, there is a common misconception that toner strips your skin of moisture, leaving it dry and irritated. In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at the effects of toner on the skin to determine if it really does dehydrate your skin as much as people think.
What is toner?
Before we delve deeper into the topic at hand, let’s first shed some light on what toner is and what it does. Toner is a liquid that usually comes in a clear or translucent form, and it is meant to be used after cleansing your face and before moisturizing. Toners are formulated with a variety of skin-soothing ingredients, including humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, antioxidants like green tea and vitamin C, and exfoliants like salicylic acid and lactic acid.
What are the benefits of using toner?
Toner has several benefits when it comes to your skin, some of which include:
- Rebalancing the pH of the skin after cleansing
- Removing any remaining traces of makeup, dirt or debris that your cleanser might have left behind
- Providing hydration and moisture to the skin
- Exfoliating the skin to unclog pores and prevent acne
- Minimizing the appearance of pores
- Improving the absorption and effectiveness of other skincare products
Tip: Choose a toner that’s suited for your skin type and concerns. If you have dry skin, look for a toner that’s formulated with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, opt for a toner that contains exfoliating ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil.
Does toner strip your skin of moisture?
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter – does toner really dry out your skin? The short answer is no, toner does not strip your skin of moisture, but it depends on the type of toner you’re using and your skin type.
Alcohol-based toners
Alcohol-based toners are the type of toners that can potentially dry out your skin because they contain high levels of alcohol that can be irritating and dehydrating. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you might be tempted to use an alcohol-based toner to control your excess oil, but this can actually backfire because it can cause your skin to produce even more oil to compensate for the dryness. If you must use an alcohol-based toner, look for one that’s formulated with other beneficial ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera to help soothe and hydrate the skin.
Hydrating toners
Hydrating toners, on the other hand, are formulated with ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or aloe vera to provide the skin with the moisture it needs. These toners absorb quickly into the skin and leave it feeling soft and supple, not tight or dry. They’re particularly beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin because they help to soothe and calm any irritation or inflammation.
Exfoliating toners
Exfoliating toners are formulated with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to exfoliate the skin and remove any dead skin cells or debris that might be clogging your pores. While these toners can be beneficial for those with acne-prone skin, they can potentially be drying if overused. It’s important to follow the instructions on the label and use an exfoliating toner no more than once or twice a week, particularly if you have dry or sensitive skin.
How to choose the right toner for your skin type?
Choosing the right toner for your skin type can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure what to look for. Here are a few tips to help you choose the best toner for your skin type:
For dry skin
- Look for toners that are formulated with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or aloe vera
- Avoid toners that contain high levels of alcohol
- Choose toners that have a milky or creamy consistency
For oily skin
- Look for toners that are formulated with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to exfoliate the skin and control excess oil
- Avoid toners that contain high levels of alcohol
- Choose toners that have a lightweight, watery consistency
For combination skin
- Choose toners that are formulated with a balance of hydrating and exfoliating ingredients
- Avoid toners that contain high levels of alcohol
- Choose toners that have a lightweight, non-greasy consistency
How to use toner correctly?
Now that you know how to choose the right toner for your skin type, it’s important to learn how to use it properly to maximize its benefits. Here’s how:
- Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser
- Pat your face dry with a clean towel
- Apply a small amount of toner to a cotton pad
- Sweep the cotton pad across your face, avoiding the eye area
- Allow the toner to fully absorb into your skin before applying any other products (this should only take a few seconds)
- Follow up with your favorite serum or moisturizer
Conclusion
Toner is an essential part of any skincare routine, but it’s important to choose the right toner for your skin type and concerns. While some toners can potentially dry out your skin, there are plenty of hydrating and skin-soothing toners that can provide the moisture your skin needs. Follow this guide to choose the right toner for your skin type and learn how to use it properly to get the most out of its benefits.
FAQs
Q. Does toner strip your skin of moisture?
No, toner does not strip your skin of moisture as long as you’re using the right toner for your skin type and concerns. Avoid toners that contain high levels of alcohol, and choose ones that are formulated with hydrating or skin-soothing ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or aloe vera.
Q. Should I use toner every day?
Yes, you can use toner every day as part of your skincare routine. However, it’s important to choose the right toner for your skin type and concerns and to use it properly to avoid irritating or dehydrating your skin.
Q. Can toner help with acne?
Yes, toner can help with acne because many toners contain exfoliating ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil that can unclog pores and prevent breakouts. However, it’s important to choose the right toner for your skin type and concerns and to follow the instructions on the label to avoid over-exfoliating or irritating your skin.
References:
1. Skincare Ox. “The Ultimate Guide to Toners: Why You Need One and How to Use It” https://www.skincareox.com/toners-101-what-are-they-and-why-you-need-one/. Accessed 5 Oct. 2021.
2. Healthline. “How to Choose the Right Toner for Your Skin Type” https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/toner-for-your-skin-type. Accessed 5 Oct. 2021.
3. Dermstore. “13 Best Face Toners for Clear, Glowing Skin in 2021” https://www.dermstore.com/blog/top_ten/face-toners-for-every-skin-type/. Accessed 5 Oct. 2021.