Skincare Saturday- the importance of a toner

Toning is an essential part of a daily skincare regime. The traditional routine of cleansing, toning and moisturising twice daily has been recommended to help maintain healthy skin for decades. Yet as I've found through teaching students and clients about skin health it's an often overlooked step because they don't understand the importance of a toner. 

Toners come in several forms- astringents, fresheners and tonics. Astringents often contain witch hazel or alcohol as a main ingredient to remove excess make-up and dirt left behind after cleansing and to close pores. Alcohol toners should be avoided as they can dry skin out and impair the skins barrier function. Witch hazel based formulas are often recommended for oily skin types. 

Tonics are glycerin and water based and often highly scented with floral or essential oils. Because of the glycerin base they are usually recommended for drier and more mature skins. 

Fresheners are hydrating sprays that can be spritzed throughout the day as well as used after cleansing. They are suitable for all skin types and often contain specialised ingredients to help combat certain skin concerns such as sensitivity and ageing. 

My favourite type are fresheners because they are suitable for all skin types and conditions and they can be used in many ways. 

🔹In-flight to keep skin hydrated

🔹help maintain hydration levels during the day. Abby Armstrong from Dermalogica recommends spritzing 5 times a day for healthy skin. 

🔹as an afterwax 

🔹to calm a sunburn 

🔹to ensure even distribution and absorption of daily moisturisers 

Dermalogica have three fantastic toners- Antioxidant Hydramist, Ultracalming Mist, and Multi-Active Toner. 

Antioxidant Hydramist (£36.50) gives an instant lift, hydrates to reduce fine lines and helps fight free radicals. It contains peptides and MAP ingredients to boost collagen production. Great as a refreshing spritz over makeup throughout the day! 

Ultracalming Mist (£28.30) contains an Ultracalming Complex that helps to reduce redness, irritation, sensitivity and inflammation. It's fantastic after waxing or for sunburns!  

Multi-active Toner (£27.00) helps hydrate the skin to aid even absorption of moisturisers. It contains lavender to soothe and purify the skin and aloe vera to cool and soften the skin. It's an ultra-light product that's great for all skin types.