The forgotten step
US beauty junkies tend to boast a more-is-more approach to skin care, using products simply because someone, somewhere told us to.
But really, an unassuming routine of cleansing, moisturising and the occasional face mask does just as good a job. That is, with the exception of one often overlooked element – toner.
As mystifying as it is essential, so many people cast it off as superfluous. I mean, what does a toner do anyway?
Well, as it happens, quite a lot.
What is a toner? A toner’s function is to finalise your cleansing routine, removing debris like traces of make-up and impurities that might still be lingering. This makes it an especially important step if your cleanser contains oil.
Not only this, but they also help to soothe and repair the skin’s surface, diminishing blemishes, minimising redness and giving the appearance of smaller pores.
What ingredients should you look out for? Toners have come a long way and nowadays there are plenty of options tailored to address the needs of every skin type.
If you have oily or acne prone skin, opt for one that contains exfoliating ingredients like amino fruit acids or glycolic acid, but if you’re more sensitive, those that contain chamomile will help with redness and inflammation.
How do you use them? Designed to be used directly after your cleanser but before moisturiser, toners should be applied to the skin using cotton pads. Saturate the pad and smooth over your face, neck and décolletage in the morning and at night. – The Independent