If your skincare routine is basic, you’re probably not using a toner. This second step is commonly skipped since most people don’t see the advantage or fail to figure out which formula best suits their skin. Let’s fix that by identifying the key benefits of toner and which ingredients to look for.
Cleansing
Using a toner after washing your face helps to take off your makeup and remove the environmental toxins that cling to our skin. If you think your face wash is enough, splash a cotton ball with some alcohol and swipe along your forehead. Is your cotton ball still white? Probably not. While alcohol alone is way too stripping and harsh to use on your skin daily, toner will do a comparable job at removing dirt and debris off your face. And many toners offer additional skin benefits.
Balancing
Healthy skin starts with a neutral pH balance. Naturally our skin falls to the acidic side, and with the use of soaps, products and makeup we can throw our pH off even more. Toner helps to reset our skin by bringing it to a balanced, neutral state where it can perform its best.
Calming
For those who suffer from redness or irritated skin, toner could be the cure. Soothing ingredients like lavender, azulene, rosewater and aloe can relieve discomfort and reduce the flush or pinkness we see in people with sensitive skin.
Priming
If your skin texture is standing in the way of a smooth makeup application, try using toner to prep the skin. Whether the issue is rough patches or too much oil production, toner can help improve the skin’s surface for a flawless finish. Try our Lotion Yon-Ka PNG, a true “eau du soin” (treating water) which is a great choice for normal to oily skin.
Toner can be used before your moisturizer and makeup as a primer, or spritzed over makeup to help set and seal your products. In warmer months, keeping a small spray bottle of toner in your purse is a quick fix for refreshing your skin and makeup throughout the day.
Moisturizing
If dryness is one of your major skin concerns, a toner with humectants could help. Vegetable Glycerin is a popular hydrating ingredient for its ability to attract moisture and lock it in. You’ll find this natural ingredient in our Lotion Yonk-Ka PS. If your skin is lacking suppleness, try using a moisturizing toner in conjunction with your cream or lotion. This extra boost could help alleviate symptoms of dry skin and make your skin appear more supple and hydrated.