6 Points to Know When Choosing a pH Toner

Toner is an important but often overlooked part of any skincare regimen. Familiarising yourself with the function of toner can help you select the right product for your skin. You should understand six things before adding a toner to your routine.

1. The Importance of Skin pH

The pH scale describes how acidic or alkaline a substance is. Neutral pH is 7, and skin is normally slightly acidic with a pH around 5-6. This acidity helps protect your skin’s barrier and inhibits the damaging effects of surfactants and the growth of harmful bacteria. Maintaining an appropriate skin pH is crucial if you want to have healthy, radiant skin. High, alkaline pH levels on your skin can cause damage to its barrier, making you more susceptible to dryness, damage, and sensitivity.

2. The Effects of Cleansing

Many cleansers that are effective at removing dirt and oils contain alkaline ingredients which can raise your skin’s pH. Even gentler cleansers can make your skin too alkaline because they remove the naturally acidic oils on your face. A pH toner can help correct this effect and return your skin to a 5.5 pH. Furthermore, toners can help remove residues left on your skin after cleansing.

3. Varieties of Skin Toners

Toners are made with various ingredients and can address different skin concerns. There are toners with hydrating ingredients that help moisturize dry skin after cleansing. Exfoliating toners gently remove dead skin cells and other debris to create smooth skin. There are also brightening toners that can help reduce redness and hyperpigmentation. Toners come in varying consistencies, from thin liquids to thicker gel-like formulations.

4. Common Toner Ingredients

You should review the ingredients in a toner before adding it to your skincare routine. Avoid harsh or drying ingredients. In the past, many toners contain alcohol, which can damage your skin’s barrier. Instead, look for toners with ingredients that soothe and treat the skin. Aloe vera has excellent hydrating and antioxidant qualities. Toners with niacinamide can help reduce the appearance of pores and fine lines. Cucumber is naturally cooling and reduces irritation. Finally, you can balance your skin’s oiliness with a toner containing witch hazel.

5. The Benefits of Using Toners

Using toner can have many positive effects on your skin. First, toners balance your skin’s pH after cleansing, allowing your skin barrier to remain strong. Toners can be refreshing to your skin. They deliver hydration without causing pores to clog. You can also use a toner to reduce excess oil and minimize the visibility of pores. Furthermore, toner can help your skin’s texture and tone appear more even. Finally, toners can be soothing and reduce redness.

6. Adding Toner to Your Regimen

If you have a multi-step skincare routine, you might be curious about how to integrate the toner into your current regimen. First, you should check that your toner’s ingredients don’t clash with any other products you use. Generally, toner should be applied immediately after cleansing and before treatment and moisturizing steps. Use your fingers to apply a small amount of toner to your face and massage gently. Toner can help prepare your skin for serums, oils, and moisturizers. Most toners are appropriate for morning and evening applications. You can also use your toner as a face mask by applying a thicker layer and allowing it to sit on your skin for ten minutes. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen in the morning to protect your skin from sun damage.

A balancing pH toner can help strengthen your skin barrier so that you can avoid dryness and damage. Applying a toner after the cleansing step of your skincare routine can help you return your skin to its natural pH. Look for toners with gentle ingredients that address your skin concerns.