Toners are products that are used to prepare the skin for other products like serums and moisturizers and are primarily applied after cleansing. There are usually 4 main components for toners, the water base, exfoliants, astringents, and antioxidants. Some toners are meant for specific skin concerns such as acne, while others hydrate the skin.
Toners that are water based are mainly used for hydrating the skin. Water-based toners typically include humectants because they retain moisture.
Examples of humectants include:
Hyaluronic acid
Glycerin
Rose Water
Fermented rice water
Best for: Oily, and acne-prone skin
Pro Tip: Apply immediately after cleansing while your skin is still damp, so it locks in hydration.
Watch For: In a water-based toner focus on hydrating ingredients, instead of harsh and potentially irritating ingredients.
Feels like: Light, watery, and refreshing textures
Exfoliating ingredients in toners improve skin texture by using acids to remove dead skin cells.
Examples of exfoliants include:
Glycolic Acids (Is an AHA)
Lactic Acids (Is an AHA)
Salicylic Acids (Is a BHA)
Fruit Enzymes
Best for: All skin types
Pro Tip: Start slowly to see how your skin reacts to the toner, and if your skin doesn't show any signs of irritation increase the frequency of using the toner slowly.
Watch for: Avoid over-exfoliation because it disrupts the skins natural barrier which can lead to irritation, increased skin sensitivity, or breakouts.
Feels like: Mild stinging, tingling sensation, tightness, and cooling textures
Toners with astringents help tighten pores, and help reduce acne by reducing access oil and dirt that clog pores.
Examples of astringents include:
Witch Hazel
Salicylic Acid
Rose Water
Green Tea
Best for: Oily and Acne-prone skin
Pro Tip: Let the product dry naturally, instead of patting or rubbing it in, for best results
Watch for: Don't use on dry skin because astringents are very drying, leading to irritation and redness
Feels like: Rough and "sandpapery" textures
Antioxidants are ingredients that protect the skin from damage, such as UV damage and inflammation, by counteracting free radicals which are unstable molecules. Antioxidants also improve skin texture, brighten skin tone, and boost skin immunity.
Examples of antioxidants include:
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Zinc
Best for: All skin types
Pro Tip: Find an antioxidant toner with opaque packaging to protect it from light
Watch for: Irritating ingredients, like alcohol, can disrupt the skin and potentially lead to increased oil production.
Feels like: Smooth, dewy, and refreshing textures
High concentrations of Vitamin C - Can cause inflammation and irritation on tween skin
Fragrance - Can cause allergic reactions and redness
Lactic Acid - Is a harsh exfoliant that can cause irritation and redness
Look for ingredients like...
Witch Hazel (alcohol-free)
Aloe Vera
Rose Water
Witch Hazel - an effective ingredient for tweens because it can reduce oil, tighten pores, calm redness, and it has antioxidant properties that can lead to healthier skin.