Click the play button on the video window to the right to see the show segmentSome people believe facial toners are a secret step to perfect skin.
A toner is an astringent product whose purpose is to bring the skin back to its normal pH after cleansing with an alkaline cleanser, or soap.
Many toners also claim to remove excess dirt or makeup that the cleanser may have left behind. While it may seem like these products are a necessity, the use of a quality cleanser may eliminate the need, making a patient’s daily regimen less time consuming and less expensive.
But do you really need to use a facial toner in your daily skincare routine? Dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Linder gives advice on using a toner or not!
According to Linder all toners are not bad. Linder says it's important to read ingredients and avoid toners that contain alcohol. Also, if you like to use a toner look for one that provides additional benefits and not just extra cleansing.
So how would someone know if there cleanser is pH balanced? Linder says some products may have this information on the bottle itself. If it is not, contact the manufacturer. This information should be readily available to the consumer. If it is not, consider another product.
Is there any skin type that requires a toner? Linder doesn't believe that anyone needs a toner twice a day, everyday.
People with oily skin and breakouts can benefit from once daily application or even every other day. For those with drier, sensitive or more mature skin who prefer a toner, Lindner recommends using one no more than every two to three days.
Toner 101The typical toner found at the drug or department store is a combination of alcohol, fragrances, dyes and preservatives. Others may offer witch hazel or alpha hydroxy acids but still with a high alcohol content.
Alcohol is stripping to the skin, and daily application causes severe dehydration and impaired skin barrier function. In most cases, the tingling and tightness the follows the application of a traditional toner is an indication of dryness and irritation, not cleanliness.
The daily use of a toner may actually exacerbate certain skin conditions. If you are attempting to control any of the following skin concerns, Linder reccomends that you consider skipping the toner step:
Visible aging
Sensitive skin
Rosacea
Dry skin
Linder says oily skin types with acne breakouts may find a toner helpful. In this circumstance the patient requires a product capable of reducing the amount of oil that is produced throughout the day.
There is a fine line however, as toning too often or with too aggressive of a product may cause an over-production of oil.
According to Linder if you wish to remove a toner from your daily regimen you should first ensure your cleanser is meeting all of your needs.
Cleansers should be pH balanced (4.5-6.0) and should rinse clean from the skin. All dirt, makeup and debris will be removed if the cleanser is working properly.
Linder says some patients prefer a toner because it makes them feel cleaner. They enjoy the tingling activity and tightness a toner offers.
For these people Linder recommends an alcohol-free product, such as PCA SKIN nutrient toner (for normal skin) or smoothing toner (for oily skin).
While it is not an absolute necessity, this product provides the clean feel of a toner without over-drying.
To contact Jennifer Linder, M.D., visit her website or give her a call at 480-946-7939.
