By Alison Angold CIDESCO ITEC
A question that I often get asked is what is the point of using a toner in my skincare regime? It’s often a forgotten product, being pushed aside in favour of an all in one cleaner, or facial wipe. And because people don’t really know what its for, then they don’t use it. So, here I’m going to explain why you need to add a toner to your skincare routine.
A toner has so many benefits for the skin, that for me, it is a must have product – I notice an enormous improvement in my skin when I include a toner after cleansing. So here is what all the fuss is about;
Extra cleansing
Cleansers can leave a residue on the skin – especially if we are using cream or lotions that are wiped off with cotton wool. This residue can build up, leading to congestion under the skin (that bumpy feeling, that aren’t quite spots). A toner, will whip away this residue leaving the skin fresh, clean and smooth, and unlikely to create a build-up congestion
Tightens pores
While open pores are usually here to stay once opened, regular use of a toner, will have a slight tightening effect on pores, and helps to close them and close any gaps in the cells. The stimulating effect of cleansing can soften the skin and begin to open the pores; if not then closed, the skin is then open to bacteria and dirt entering the pores and causing blackheads and spots.
Restores protection
It balances out the Ph of the skin. Most skin care products, including cleansers, should be Ph balanced to our slightly acidic skin, however the cleansing process, can put this somewhat out of whack. Using a toner, after cleansing will quickly restore this balance to ensure our skin is consistently protected. Read about the Acid Mantle here.
Adds hydration
Toners are generally made of flower waters, so can add an extra layer of hydration to the skin – essential for dry, mature skins, and in the colder weather. This works especially well if you apply your moisturiser directly after the toner, on damp skin.
Removes excess oil
A toner can help remove excess oil, on an oily skin, and then restore the Ph balance as mentioned above, therefore reducing the likelihood of developing spots and blackheads.
Precautions when buying a toner
As mentioned toners are usually based on flower waters, with some added ingredients, so are fairly natural. Some toners may contain alcohol – a very, very small amount of alcohol can be useful for more oily skin, but any more can strip our skin of vital moisture and protection. If the first 2 or 3 ingredients listed on a toner is alcohol, then avoid!!
| About the Author Alison Angold is a fully qualified (certified) beauty therapist, massage therapist, and aromatherapist from the UK. She has over 25 years of experience in this industry and has worked in a variety of beauty salons, spa’s as well as running her own successful beauty and massage business. Her career has allowed her to treat many, many clients, with skincare concerns, medical conditions, and a whole variety of other ailments and issues, which has enabled her to work closely with essential oils, prescribing specific blends for these clients to help with these conditions. Her qualifications in the use of essential oils and aromatherapy, allow her to share this knowledge with others, in a safe, reliable way. |