How to Choose a Toner

Choosing a Toner:

 A toner will help restore the skin's normal pH after washing. Also, toners can act as a "pre-treatment" agent, allowing the skin to absorb serums or moisturizers you will apply afterward. Some people choose to skip toners in their regimes, and that's totally fine. Generally, a neutral skin wash has a ph of 4.5-6.5, but it's sometimes likely that the water you washed with has an alkaline pH, so applying a toner after washing keeps the skin balanced. Be aware of store-bought toners that may include alcohol that might be drying to the skin.

1. Hydrosols: Can suit all skin types, depending on the plant used to make the hydrosol. Hydrosols are generally anti-inflammatory and mildly astringent.
   
   

Best Hydrosol Toners based on skin type:
      Dry or Irritated skin: Chamomile, Neroli, or Rose Hydrosols

Oily Skin: Rosemary, Lemon Balm, or Yarrow Hydrosols
            Aging Skin: Elderflower or Neroli Hydrosols

1. Apple Cider Vinegar: Can suit oily, combination, fungal infections, or blemish-prone skin

It can be mildly antiseptic, exfoliating, and brightening

1. Witch Hazel: Great for oily or combination skin, blemish-prone skin, and may help soothe dermatitis and itching. It is a strong astringent, anti-inflammatory, and minimizes visible pores.

Apply your toner after washing by using a cotton pad and gently wiping over the skin, or use a mist directly onto the face.

Homework: Figure out which type of toner you need to use based on your skin type. Don't forget to test it before you use it.

Exfoliation, Masks &  Serums

Generally, it would be best if you exfoliate at least once per week. It will help to remove dead skin, blackheads and reveal younger-looking skin. Ensure that you are not too rough when exfoliating to avoid irritation or damage to your skin. You can use a mild fruit enzyme treatment or an Alpha Hydroxy Acid to exfoliate your skin weekly.

Masks

You can apply a mask at least once per week. There are two different types of masks: some have a "detoxing effect" to  brighten, tighten, and tone the skin, But some masks have a "moisturizing effect" to boost hydration and minimize fine line and wrinkles plump the skin. Make sure to understand what your goals are and find a suitable mask for your tastes.

Serums: Generally, you will want to apply serums after toning but before moisturizers to have maximum contact with the skin's surface. A good rule of thumb is using them from the thinnest to the thickest. Wait at least 1-2 minutes before moisturizer for them to absorb completely into the skin. There are a whole host of serums you can use to address your concerns, from skin brightening, acne treatments, calming the skin, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. 

Often a basic serum that everyone could use in their regime is a Vitamin C Serum. Vitamin C Serums are great for brightening and protecting the skin from everyday environmental stressors. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals in the skin.  Free radicals are formed by the sun, pollutants, stress, and smoking, leading to premature aging or skin cancer (DermStore.com).

Our glow serum is a Vitamin C Serum infused with Vitamin C Esters, Organic Aloe,  Rosehip Oil, and white willow bark extract for a multi-benefit of brightening, hydrating, scar lightening, and gentle exfoliation for brighter younger-looking skin!

Homework: Make a note listing the types of masks/serums you have. Make sure that you are applying them in the correct order based on thickness.