As a skin care professional, many clients ask me why they should use a toner.  There is a very good reason that makes this product so important in your skin care program.  And it probably isn’t what you think it is.

Toner is meant to be applied after cleanser and before moisturizer.  Many companies say it is to remove any traces of make-up, cleanser, or whatever else may be left on the skin after cleansing.  If you are cleansing and rinsing your skin correctly, there is nothing left to remove.

It is, however, very important to return your skin to the proper pH after cleansing.  The skin strives to maintain a pH balance of 4.5 to 5.5, which helps keep bacteria and other invaders a bay.  They don’t like an acidic environment so it is a good protection mechanism.  Some cleansers and even your tap water may have a pH of as high as 8, way more basic than your skin likes.  When the skin pH is raised, it opens the pores and strips the acid mantle away leaving the skin open to invaders and dehydration.  If you use a toner after cleansing, the skin’s pH is returned to the lower level and your skin’s barrier is protected.

There are many toners on the market with different ingredients for different purposes.  Toners with salicylic acid are good for very oily or acne prone skins types.  The acid will exfoliate the skin and help with clogged pores and excess oil.  Other toners provide hydration, anti-aging and soothing ingredient.  It is important to not use a toner that is too drying.  If your skin feels tight, like it may crack when opening your mouth wide, after the product dries you know it is too harsh.  This can actually lead to clogged pores.  To read more on this subject, click here.