Toner, often overlooked in skincare routines, plays a crucial role in helping subsequent products absorb better.
After cleansing, the skin can be left feeling dry and using a toner not only helps restore the skin's pH balance but also prepares it for the following steps in the skincare process.
Many may not fully understand the specific function of toner, but its unique properties make it an essential part of skincare.
First, toner provides additional hydration to the skin, which is vital for maintaining a plump, comfortable feel. During the cleansing process, the skin often loses some moisture and oils, and toner helps replenish these essential elements, restoring the skin's natural barrier.
This moisture boost keeps the skin hydrated, allowing subsequent products like serums and creams to seep more effectively.
Second, toner helps adjust the skin's pH. The natural pH of the skin is around 4.5 to 5.5, but many cleansing products can disrupt this balance, leading to dryness or discomfort. Toners typically have a mildly acidic composition, which helps restore the skin's pH to a healthy level.
Not only does this make the skin feel more comfortable, but it also enhances the absorption of subsequent skincare products, as the skin is more receptive when in the right pH range.
In addition, certain ingredients in toners offer other benefits for the skin. For instance, toners with antioxidant properties can help neutralize free radicals, slowing down the aging process. Those with oil-controlling ingredients can help regulate sebum production, preventing acne and shine.
Depending on the ingredients, toners can address different skin concerns. Therefore, selecting the right toner for your skin type can provide not just hydration and pH balance, but also targeted care for specific issues.
Toner's role extends beyond hydration and pH balancing—it also aids in enhancing the absorption of subsequent products. After cleansing, the skin's surface may still contain oils or impurities that can hinder the effectiveness of the following skincare products.
One of the key functions of toner is to cleanse these residues, ensuring that the skin is left with a clean surface for better product absorption. By thoroughly cleansing the skin, toners help open up pores, allowing serums, creams, and other skincare products to absorb deeper and deliver their maximum benefits.
Many people tend to skip toner, believing its effects are minimal. However, the impact of toner on absorption rates and overall skincare effectiveness cannot be underestimated.
It not only prepares the skin with hydration and balanced pH but also creates an optimal surface for the subsequent products to work. By incorporating toner into your skincare routine, you can significantly improve your skin's condition, allowing the products that follow to perform better.
It's important to note that choosing the right toner for your skin type is essential. There is a wide range of toners on the market, each catering to different skin needs. If you have dry skin, a hydrating toner will effectively lock in moisture.
For oily skin, a toner that controls oil production will help balance sebum levels. Toners containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or witch hazel can offer extra nourishment and soothing benefits.
The role of toner in skincare is not just limited to surface hydration. It provides deep skin conditioning, helps remove impurities, adjusts pH levels, and creates a foundation for better absorption of subsequent products.
By using toner properly, you can improve your skin's ability to absorb active ingredients, ensuring that every product in your routine works to its full potential and delivers the best possible results.
WHAT DOES TONER DO TO YOUR SKIN? | ASK DR. STURM
Video by Dr. Barbara Sturm
