Toners: Forget Everything You Think You Know

WHAT IS A TONER?

Every girl has heard of tonic, but many have no idea what it is, so let's dispel the fog. On any given day, the skin is exposed to dirt, impurities, pollution, and cosmetics that can wreak havoc on the complexion. That's why Cleansing is an essential part of the skin care routine.; You want to get all the dirt that clogs your pores off your face to avoid common enemy #1: acne. However, sometimes the cleaning process can be rushed or not as thorough as necessary to completely rid the skin of all dirt. There are a few things you can do after a toner cleansing routine:

1. This can help ensure that dirt, excess oil, cleanser residue, and virtually any type of contaminant is washed away from your skin's surface.
2. Certain detergents and environmental aggressors can affect the pH level of the skin. Tonic can help balance the skin's natural pH.  
3. Most formulas can help soothe, hydrate, and hydrate the skin.

DO YOU NEED TO USE TONER? 

We can take risks here, but the question "Should I use toner?" a kind of riddle, stuck somewhere between the age-old questions “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?” and "Who stole the cookies from the cookie jar?" when it comes to skin care. Everyone has their own opinion in the debate, but who is right and who is wrong?

Some experts will tell you that toner is nothing more than a waste of time. And, let's face it, no one likes to waste their time, especially when their skin is part of the equation (and potentially endangered). Then, just as you're about to quit toner for good, another pro repeatedly tells you that your skin needs it, that it's a cleanser backup plan, and one of the most important steps in the cleansing process. The jury is still out, and yes, it's confusing as hell. Skincare.com expert and celebrity cosmetologist Mzia Shiman told us about her morning and evening skin care.and guess what, she tones the skin twice a day after cleansing. If the toner is good enough for her, then it is definitely good enough for us. 

WHAT TO BUY 

Go ahead, buy 3 of our favorite toners - we're looking at you, Kiehl's - on the market right now.

KIEHL'S CUCUMBER ALCOHOL-FREE HERB TONER 

Suitable for dry and sensitive skin, this mild toner contains gentle botanical extracts that have a soothing, balancing and slightly astringent effect. The skin is left soft, clean, soothed and (spirit) toned. 

Kiehl's Cucumber Herbal Alcohol Free Tonic, $ 16

KIEHL'S ULTRA NON-OIL FACE TONIC 

Normal to oily skin types should enjoy this toner formulated to gently remove residue, dirt and oil without stripping skin of its vital moisture. The non-drying formula contains imperata cylindric root extract and antarcticin to soothe and hydrate skin. 

Kiehl's Ultra Oil-Free Facial Toner, $ 16 

KIEHL'S CLEARLY CORRECTIVE CLARITY-ACTIVATION TONER

This highly effective toner infuses skin with hydrating actives for visibly clearer, softer skin. The activated C in the formula helps to visibly reduce the appearance of dark spots and skin discoloration. After washing, moisten a cotton pad with tonic and apply it on the face with massaging movements. 

Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Clarity Activating Toner, $ 42

Remember: there is no one-size-fits-all toner. Discuss with your dermatologist which tonic is right for you and whether you should use it in your daily routine.