Is Toner Really Necessary? Here’s What Experts Say
What Does Toner Do?
Traditionally, toners were used after cleansing and before moisturizing to bring your skin’s pH balance back to normal, especially after using alkaline soaps or cleansers. They were also believed to help remove any leftover residue after washing. Back then, this was considered an essential step to make sure your skin was ready for the next stages of your routine.
Nowadays, many cleansers are already pH-balanced, so the need for toners to do this job has lessened. Because of this, toners have evolved and now come in different formulations aimed at tackling various skin concerns.
Modern Skin Toners and Their Benefits
In today’s skincare world, toners can provide various benefits PH-control — it all depends on what’s in them! Here’s a quick look at some common types and how they’re used:
1. Hydrating Toners:
- Ingredients: Hydrating toners often contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera.
- Benefits: These toners are designed to boost moisture levels in the skin, making them particularly beneficial for dry or dehydrated skin types. They help to soothe and plump the skin.
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2. Exfoliating Toners:
- Ingredients: Exfoliating toners typically feature alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid.
- Benefits: These toners help to gently remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. They can improve skin texture and clarity, making them a good option for those dealing with dullness, acne, or uneven skin tone. They make the skin delicate to sun exposure though so it’s best to use SPF daily while using AHAs/ BHAs.
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3. Pore-Tightening Toners:
- Ingredients: Pore-tightening toners may contain astringent ingredients such as witch hazel or tea tree oil.
- Benefits: They help to minimize the appearance of pores and control excess oil, which can be useful for oily or combination skin types. These toners often provide a tightening effect that leaves the skin feeling refreshed.
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4. Soothing Toners:
- Ingredients: Soothing toners commonly include calming ingredients like chamomile, calendula, or rosewater.
- Benefits: These toners are designed to reduce redness and irritation, making them ideal for sensitive or reactive skin. They help to calm the skin and restore balance.
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Common Toner Ingredients and What They Do
Here are some common toner ingredients and their benefits:
- Niacinamide: This form of Vitamin B3 helps to improve skin elasticity, even out skin tone, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
- Vitamin C: An antioxidant that brightens the skin and helps to protect against environmental damage.
- Witch Hazel: Known for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, witch hazel can help reduce redness and tighten pores.
- Aloe Vera: Soothing and hydrating, aloe vera is great for calming irritated skin and providing moisture.
- Ceramides: Strengthen the skin barrier, locking in moisture and protecting against environmental damage.
- Glycerin: A powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture, keeping the skin hydrated.
- Salicylic Acid: An exfoliant that penetrates deep into pores, salicylic acid helps to unclog them and reduce acne.
- Hyaluronic Acid: A powerful hydrator, hyaluronic acid helps to retain moisture in the skin, keeping it plump and smooth.
- Glycolic Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin’s surface, promoting a brighter complexion and smoother texture.
- BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids): Exfoliate by penetrating the pores, making them effective for treating acne and reducing oiliness.
- Lactic Acid: Another AHA that gently exfoliates, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin who still want to achieve a smoother, more radiant complexion.
- Rose Water: Known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, rose water helps to calm the skin and add a gentle, natural fragrance.
- Tea Tree Oil: With its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil is often used in toners for oily or acne-prone skin.
- Rice Extract: Rich in antioxidants, rice extract helps to soothe, brighten, and moisturize the skin.
- Peptides: Promote collagen production, improving skin firmness and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
- Green Tea Extract: Packed with antioxidants, it helps to soothe and protect the skin from free radical damage.
- Cica (Centella Asiatica): Known for its healing properties, Cica soothes irritated skin and promotes a healthy barrier.
- Chamomile: Calms and soothes sensitive or irritated skin with its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Oat Extract: Moisturizes and soothes dry, itchy, or irritated skin, making it ideal for sensitive skin types.
Expert Opinions on the Necessity of Toner
The necessity of toner in a skincare routine is a topic of debate among experts. Here’s what some leading dermatologists have to say:
Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital:
Dr. Zeichner acknowledges that while toner can offer benefits, it’s not a one-size-fits-all product. He notes that if you’re using a well-formulated cleanser and moisturizer, a toner may not be strictly necessary. However, for individuals with specific skin concerns, such as dryness, acne, or sensitivity, a targeted toner can provide additional benefits.
Dr. Shari Marchbein, a board-certified dermatologist and Founder of Niche Dermatology:
Dr. Marchbein emphasizes that the role of toners has evolved. Today, many toners are formulated to offer specific benefits such as hydration or exfoliation. She suggests that if you find a toner that addresses your particular skin issues and enhances your overall routine, it can be a valuable addition. However, she also acknowledges that some people may not see significant benefits from using a toner and can skip it without compromising their skincare routine.
Dr. Mona Gohara, a dermatologist and associate clinical professor at Yale School of Medicine:
Dr. Gohara highlights the importance of personal preference and skin type in deciding whether to use a toner. She points out that toners with active ingredients, like exfoliants or hydrators, can be beneficial for certain skin types. However, for those with straightforward skin concerns, a well-rounded regimen without a toner may be just as effective.
How to Decide If Toner Is Right for You
If you’re contemplating whether to include a toner in your skincare routine, consider the following:
- Assess Your Skin Type and Concerns: Determine if you have specific skin issues that a toner might address. For instance, if you struggle with dryness or uneven texture, a hydrating or exfoliating toner might be beneficial.
- Evaluate Your Existing Routine: Consider if your current cleanser and moisturizer are effectively meeting your skin’s needs. If you feel that something is lacking, a toner with targeted benefits could complement your routine.
- Patch Test New Products: Before adding a new toner to your regimen, perform a patch test so you know it doesn’t cause irritation or adverse reactions.
- Choose Products Wisely: Opt for toners with ingredients that align with your skin concerns. Avoid alcohol-based toners that can be drying.