In every skincare routine, there are key steps. And no matter what skin issue you’re trying to fix – dryness, acne, uneven skin tone – you need to follow these steps. This is imperative to achieving great skin and getting rid of those skin issues. However, every now and then, a great product comes along that merges 2 or more steps into one. It shortens the skincare routine and can even give you more value.
Today, we’re talking about a product that does this flawlessly – acid toners. The first thing we want to clear up is that acid toners are not as dangerous as they sound. The fact that they have the word ‘acid‘ in them is actually a good thing. To break it down, think of acid toners as upgraded toners. Toners are usually an essential part of the skincare routine. They balance the skin’s pH level, hydrate and prep the skin for upcoming products. Acid toners, on the other hand, take things up a notch.
Basically, acid toners come packed with AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids like glycolic and lactic acids) and BHAs (Beta Hydroxy/Salicylic Acid). These acids are key to ungluing the bond that holds dead skin cells to your skin’s surface. This is why AHAs & BHAs are typically found in exfoliators and cleansers. Apart from exfoliating your skin, these amazing acids also work in refining the skin’s texture and controlling the production of sebum. With acid toners, you can kiss acne and dull looking skin goodbye.
(Photo: US Asos)
So who can use an acid toner?
The great thing (or one of them at least) is that it works for all types of skin, especially if your skin has exfoliating needs. You especially need this if you’re dealing with flaky skin, acne, uneven skin tone or excess oil. And if you have sensitive skin, you’re in luck. Acid toners have a pretty low percentage of acid which makes it mild and suitable for sensitive skin.
When can you use an acid toner?
Well, we recommend using your regular toners daily, but this is not the case for acid toners. Because of its exfoliating properties, you will need to treat the acid toner as an exfoliator. Exfoliation should only be done 2-3 times a week to avoid irritation which could lead to breakouts. So, we recommend using your acid toners 2-3 times a week as well. Also, while using the toner, refrain from using any other exfoliator, be it physical or chemical. Too much exfoliating and your skin will get irritated.
Lastly, if you’re going to add this to your routine (which you should) be sure to use it after you cleanse. A clean skin is ready to receive the acid toner and prepare for all the yummy products after.
Take a look at 2 retailed on Jumia:
Mario Badescu Acid Toner for N16,500
(Photo: Shopee)
Aqua Glycolic Acid Toner for N13,999
(Photo: Walmart)
If this seems a bit too rushed for you, let’s slow things down first. Take a look at toning and then we can move from there.
(Feature Image: Glossybox)