skin care- deep dive into toner

January 02, 2022

skin care- deep dive into toner

I gave an overview for each of the skin care steps that I've researched. Each Sunday, I'm doing a deep dive into each step and what I've learned about the products. This week is: TONER

There are many different types of toners-exfoliating, balancing skin pH, hydrating, supporting skin with nutrients, etc. I don’t have particularly sensitive skin, but I found that tonor always irritates and seems to almost burn my skin--I am almost certainly using the wrong kind in the wrong way. I’m still working to figure out what to do with toner, but this is what I’ve learned so far.

Exfoliating is good for oily, acne prone, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone and typically include active ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids or beta hydroxy acids (common AHAs- glycolic acid, lactic acid, and BHA- salicylic acid). AHA is best for normal to dry and sun-damaged skin. BHA is best for normal to oily, red, and breakout-prone skin.

pH balancing is good for combination skin, acne prone/blackhead skin, or irritated skin especially if you live in an area with high pollution levels. These toners restore your skin with nutrients that typical cleansers might remove and to resist harmful bacteria. The skin’s optimal level is 5.5. Excess oil will raise the pH to make it more acidic and these toners will generally include an alkaline to combat that and bring the pH back down.

Hydrating- gently refreshes your skin and adds a layer of protection in addition to a moisturizer.

I’ve heard that these are good:

Exfoliating

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution $10

Glossier Solution Exfoliating Skin Perfector $25

pH Balancing

Elemis Balancing Lavender Toner $35