Need to know:
• These days, toners aren’t astringent like the older versions, so your skin shouldn’t feel tingly, tight or dry after applying one. Stop using if it does.
• If you have very oily skin, you may be able to get away with a hydrating toner, followed by sunscreen, and skip the moisturiser – especially when the weather warms up.
• For those with blemished skin, look for ingredients such as witch hazel. Antioxidants will help slow the ageing process. Aloe vera, camomile and marshmallow are among nature’s sMothers. And many toners are enriched with oils and emollients to deliver a hit of hydration.
Five reasons to tone:
1 Toners can restore the skin’s pH balance and remove any of the impurities your cleanser may have missed.
2 It’s ideal for balancing combination skins.
3 It prepares the skin for serums and moisturisers, helping them spread better.
4 Many toners have other benefits. They can be packed with active ingredients that are hydrating, soothing, anti-ageing, brightening or blemish-fighting. So it pays to get the right one for your skin type.
5 Spray-bottle toners can be a solution for on-the-go hydration, to battle winter’s dry conditions and overheated rooms. They’re also ideal for plane travel. I like them because there’s no need to mess about with bits of cotton wool.
