You need a toner and no, not for your printer!

When we hear the word "toner" the first thing that comes to mind is

the toner we use for a printer. Those toners are the magic powders when mixed together make the images we print

sharper, clearer and you might say more vibrant.

Well, facial toners can do the same thing and more!

A facial toner is skin care's best kept secret. They are a water -based product, can be infused with botanicals, with different formulas for different types of skin. However, they all have this in common. A toner will remove any last traces of grime, dirt and impurities stuck in your skin. When added to your daily routine, toners can have a major impact on the appearance and tightness of your pores, restoring your skin's PH level, removing dry skin patches, addressing pigmentation discoloration, uneven texture, acne and fine lines, all of which results in smooth, clearer and more vibrant skin!

So how do you know what kind of toner to go for? It's easy. You just need to know your

own skin.

The first group of toners are called Glycolic Acid Toners. Who should use them? Just about everybody! From acne problems to aging skin to sun damage, this is the toner to use.

What is glycolic acid? It's an AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid which helps the shedding of skin cells). It's derived from sugar cane, is water soluble and can penetrate the skin, where it loosens the bond between dead skin cells so they can be swept away easily. By sweeping away those dead skin cells, your complexion becomes smoother, and more even toned. It also allows other products, like serums, to enter the skin deeper so they can do their work. Over time, by triggering collagen production, these toners can help lessen the look of wrinkles and firm the skin and they have also been found to boost the production of hyaluronic acid, a natural component of the skin that keeps everything plump and hydrated.

Is there anyone who shouldn't use this kind of toner? If you have sensitive skin or dark skin, you should do a patch test to see if there is a negative reaction. If you or suffer from eczema or psoriasis it is wise to talk to your dermatologist first before delving into these. But if your skin is tolerant, they are a game changer and are great to use in your nighttime routine. If you use a retinoid in the evening, alternate between this and the retinoid or use a gentler toner on your retinoid nights. They are soothing and brightening and anti-aging and are perfect to include in your "toner routine"

So, with all these benefits, how difficult and how long does it take to use a toner? About 30 seconds! Just wet a cotton pad and swipe over your face. Avoid the eye area and you are done. Now you're ready to add those serums as your skin is ready to receive them. But I'll save serums for another day!

So, what do I recommend?

Well, my top pick is Pixi Glow Tonic because it makes you glow! It's a toner that just about everyone can use. It is infused with 5% glycolic acid and does everything it's supposed to do leaving you with radiant skin. And did I mention it soothing too! It's an award winner and a personal winner for me. And priced right! Definitely a must try.

Second on my list is Mario Badescu Glycolic Toner. This is a mild glycolic toner which also contains aloe vera and grapefruit. This one contains papaya extract which aids in cell turnover. It too checks all the boxes of what you want a toner to do. It's affordable and another winner to try.

Next on the list is The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toner. If you are on a budget, then this may be for you. Some people have called it a game changer because of the results they have seen. It's a little higher in the glycolic acid percentage so it may not be the one to start with if you have sensitive skin. But if you have normal, dry, combination, or oily skin, it's definitely worth a try!

EltaMD Recovery Essence Face Toner is a great choice if you have sensitive skin. It's by the same company that gave us their remarkable facial sunscreen, so you already know the standards they have. It's said to be safe for both sensitive and acne prone skin and still does all the things we want a toner to do. A great choice if you are in this category.

Paul's Choice Recovery Calming Toner. This is a great toner for sensitive skin. It's enriched with evening primrose, hyaluronic acid, and vitamins C, E and B3. It targets dry, dehydrated skin plus help reduce redness and gets rid of the dullness. It's another winner!

Thayer's Alcohol-Free hydrating Rose Petal Witch Hazel Facial Toner. Over 125 thousand people are using it, so it's got to be doing something and I know so firsthand. This too checks all the boxes, can be used by everyone. It's made with 98% all natural ingredients, and Thayer's reports that it's the 1# toner brand in the U.S. When you see the results, you'll understand why. Its price point is unbelievable for the results it delivers and is a great toner to cycle with your glycolic.

So, there you have it. These are my top choice because I have tried them all and they are all great. I rotate between the glycolic and ones that are non-glycolic when I'm using a retinoid. They are all great and will all perform as they are supposed to.

If you are wanting to look vibrant, have a glow, then try one or two of these toners.

As someone once said to me "Why be dull when you can dazzle"!

Liz❤️

(Any links in this post are affiliate links which I may be given compensation for if they are purchased through the link)