Facial Toners
A
facial toner is that lovely product that you sneak in between washing your face and applying moisturizer in order to minimize the appearance of large pores and make the skin tighter and firmer. While they are not crucial to everyone's face care regimen, they can add a nice touch to your complexion if you buy the right product.
Choosing a Toner
# Figure out your skin type whether it's normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive or acne-prone. Most toners and
astringents are developed specifically to treat each skin type to maximize the benefits.
# Determine if your
cleanser and
moisturizer are doing what they are supposed to and if you are getting the results you want. If you aren't getting good results, then perhaps you need a toner.
# Pick out a few brands that can satisfy your budget and see what they offer. Don't worry about spending a lot. Since it's an intermediate step in your skin care regime and not a core component, you can be sure that even a drugstore brand will help refresh the skin.
More About Toners
Know that toners take many names. They are sometimes called
astringents (usually containing alcohol and salicylic acid for treating acne),
fresheners. Toners can moisturize, control oil and exfoliate. This is where you have to choose which qualities will be the most effective on your skin.
* Acne-prone skin deserves an exfoliating toner or an astringent with 2% salicylic acid.
* AHA exfoliating toners are good for those with normal to dry skin, or a combination of the two.
* Dry skin needs a moisturizing toner. Avoid those that have menthol, salicylic acid, or alcohol as they can dry skin more. If you want some exfoliating properties, a gentle AHA will do you good.
* If you have oily or normal/oily combination skin, you would be best with an oil controlling toner. You may also enjoy a moisturizing toner during the summer. Then you can skip the moisturizer and just put on
sunscreen.
* Sensitive skin would be best using a calming or soothing toner.
Quick Picks
Here are some quick picks for toners that have been well rated. The first row is appropriate for all skin types and most contain antioxidants. The second row is more particular to one skin type or another.
Related Buying Guides
*
Facial Cleansers
*
Face Scrubs
*
Makeup Removers
