Everybody wants a simple skincare routine, right? So when you hear of another must-have product you just have to incorporate into your daily regimen, you’re skeptical.
Toners and astringents are used to improve the appearance of your skin by removing excess oil, sloughing dead skin cells and constricting your pores. But these products can also moisturize, calm, and refresh your skin.
- Toners include ingredients like salicylic acid, witch hazel, and benzoyl peroxide without using harsh chemicals or alcohol. As a result, these products are good for people with dry or sensitive skin since they aren’t as likely to dry or irritate the skin. Downside? Toner may leave an oily residue on your skin (I happen to like the dewey look).
- Astringents include similar ingredients but are chemical-based or alcohol-based. These ingredients allow the product to remove excess oil and tighten your pores, making it harder for dirt to cause breakouts. Astringents are more suitable for those with oily or combination skin. Downside? They’re pretty harsh and drying.
My dermatologist here in Washington, D.C. recommended toner as an essential part of my daily routine (ed. note: this recently transpired at an appointment when my humidity-provoked breakouts just would.not.end). However, a lot of beauty experts will argue that adding a toner or astringent to your daily routine is unnecessary and certain types are too harsh on your skin.If you have sensitive skin, go for a product that is water-based with ingredients like rosewater
Bottom line: Shop around, ask for samples, and do a road test before committing to one or the other. Once you find a good product that restores your skin’s pH balance to perfection, you’ll have glowing skin just like your favorite celebrity on the red carpet. So while toners and astringents may not ever become the must-have beauty product (yes, all you routine-simplified beauties out there can breathe a sigh of relief), they do have their place.
Here is my round-up of bestselling toners and astringents:
1. Clinique Acne Solutions Clarifying Lotion ($15): This is a widely used astringent for acne-prone skin, and comes at an affordable price.
2. Mario Badescu Special Cucumber Lotion ($15): This is my all time favorite astringent, also at an affordable price. (I will be writing a lot more about Mario Badescu products in the future).
3. Lancome Energie de Vie ($50): This is a great product for those of you with dry skin. Added benefit: no parabens or sulfates.
4. Jurlique Balancing Mist ($34): This is a really refreshing product, also great for those of you looking for some added moisture. Products like this are very useful for traveling (see my post on great travel products).
Briana
I’ve never really used a toner aside from the one that comes in the Proactive kit but lately, I’ve been hearing so much more on the benefits and essential use of a toner. I think after reading this, I’m definitely going to have to add one to my skin routine.
Alexandra
Briana– glad this article could help! Reach out if you have any specific questions, I have several other favorites
laura carson miller
I enjoyed this article very much. Well written and informative.
I’m actually a Clinique promotional consultant! So I have to say, I’m glad Clinique made your list! The Clarifying lotion for acne is like a liquid exfoliator for the face that will sweep away dead surface cells, it’s wonderful! At first it might break you out more but it’s because it is emerging the clogged pores. If someone has bad acne I’d recommend the entire “acne solutions” Clinique line because as a system you’ll see greater results!
Great article! I need to try the Mario Badescu astringent! I absolutely love their pink spot treatment!
Sarah
I highly highly recommend Rosewater based toners! and All the mists from Jurlique are so refreshing and hydrating.
Personally,
I love the he Rose Floral water from Fresh and B&Tea Balancing Toner and Orange Astringent Toner from Aesop. Very gentle and hydrating :)!!
Steph Tee
I used to use all of those and now I just use a cleanser and Nerium. I highly suggest you check it out.