Toners and Astringents

Almost all beauty care tips emphasize the importance of cleaning your face properly. Washing your face with normal water is not enough always. You need something which can penetrate your skin and clean it deeply and effectively. You may often be assailed by a number of cleansing products available in the market. Each of them claims to have the capability of getting rid of the grime and oil from your skin. You may be even perplexed if you happen to posses an oily skin. What should you use? An astringent or toner? Both products are similar and each claims to remove all traces of oil from your skin. Read on to know the difference…

Composition- Astringents often contain witch hazel and is alcohol based. They are not totally natural in origin. Toners, on the other hand, are neither composed of chemicals nor alcohol.

Suitability- You need to check carefully before you end up buying the product. The choice between toners and astringents depends on your skin type as well.  Astringents can be beneficial for dry to oily type of skin. Toners are normally used by people having a dry and sensitive skin.

Effects- Astringents can control the surface oils of your skin by lowering the pH balance. They also help in tightening of the skin and clean out the clogged pores effectively. Toners are more suitable for hydrating the skin. A properly hydrated skin retains its elasticity and looks healthier.

Using astringents/toners- You need to clean your face properly first. Use a gentle face wash or a suitable cleansing foam. Pat the face dry with a soft towel or tissue paper. Take care not to rub your facial skin too vigorously. Now apply the toner or astringent on your face with the aid of a cotton ball, stroking gently. Apply it first onto your T-zone and then move on to your cheeks. Let it dry on the surface of your skin. It is a good idea to apply a moisturizer after cleaning the face with an astringent or toner.