You might have heard of facial toner, but what is it, and what’s the hype? You might also be worried if you’ve heard people talking about their faces burning from toner applications. We will give you a detailed look at stinging vs. tingling vs. burning and what it means for your skin.
What is Toner?
Toners can be a great product to incorporate into your skincare routine because they remove makeup residue and dirt missed with a facial cleanser. They are also packed with nutrients and antioxidants to help you prepare for what’s coming next. With new advances in skin science, toners come in various formulas to target different skin concerns and are suitable for all skin types.
Benefits of Using Toners
Toners reinforce the benefits of facial cleansing. Basic cleansers are effective, but they can sometimes miss dirt or impurities that get stuck in the pores. A toner ensures that all of your makeup and residue that builds up during the day are removed before you go to sleep. An effectively cleansed face will also help your serums, moisturizers, and other products absorb more effectively onto the skin. Many toners are water-based, so they promote a dewy, glowing complexion.
Removes Leftover Dirt and Oil
Even after washing your face, there can still be leftover makeup, oil, or debris on your skin. Toner acts as a backup step to ensure your face is truly clean and ready for the rest of your routine.
Helps Your Other Products Work Better
When your skin is clean, it can absorb serums and moisturizers more easily. Think of toner as a primer; it preps your skin so the rest of your products can work more effectively.
Supports a Radiant Looking Complexion
Many toners are lightweight and water-based, which means they help the skin to appear moisturized without adding heaviness. This can leave your skin looking refreshed and radiant.
Can Target Specific Skin Concerns
From acne to redness to dryness, there’s likely a toner made for your skin’s needs. Today’s formulas are formulated with ingredients such as exfoliants, antioxidants, and botanicals that go beyond cleansing.
Is Face Toner Supposed to Burn?
Although facial toner should not burn, you might feel a tingling or mild activity on the skin. The intensity of the activity will depend on your skin type and the potency of the toner you are using. Astringents with high alcohol percentages may have a more active feel, whereas mild toners may only cause a light tingling sensation. These sensations often occur because of exfoliating acids in the product or due to skin conditions such as dryness or a compromised barrier.
What Does it Mean When a Toner Burns Your Skin?
There are several reasons your toner might be burning your skin. Consider the following possibilities:
Sensitive Skin
If you have sensitive skin or are using a toner to help with acne, the product may irritate it. This is especially common if the toner's ingredients are too strong for your sensitive skin.
Allergic Reaction
Try to research your skincare products for your known allergens before applying them to your face. If you’re unsure of skin allergies, do a small patch test to ensure the product doesn’t cause an adverse reaction. Burning, redness, hives, or swelling could occur if you are allergic to any of the toner’s ingredients.
Too Many Acidic or Active Ingredients At the Same Time
A combination of acidic exfoliants, toners, and serums could be overdoing it for your skin. Try to space out when you use each product to avoid skin irritation. For most people, exfoliating every day is not necessary.
What to Do if Toner Burns Your Face
If your toner is burning, stop using the product immediately. It’s likely a sign that your skin is sensitive, allergic to its ingredients, or has an impaired barrier. However, burning can also come from incorrect usage, so check the label and see if that is the cause. If you’re using the toner as labeled, try using a different one with milder ingredients and ask your dermatologist or skin specialist for recommendations.
Is Toner Supposed to Make Your Face Red?
Toner is generally mild, causing little to no reactions. When used correctly, it can visibly brighten the appearance of your complexion or gently exfoliate. It should not make your face red. If you have redness after applying toner, this is a clear sign that the product is not right for your skin.
How Should Skin Feel After Applying Toner?
Your skin should feel refreshed and look hydrated immediately after applying toner. Within a few weeks, the skin’s tone and texture should improve with a visibly softer and smoother appearance.
Choosing the Right Toner for Your Skin Type
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Oily: Brazilian Propolis Mist
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Normal: Protein Mist Enzyme Toner, or Colostrum Hydrating Mist
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Acne Prone: Clarify Exfoliating Astringent or Brazilian Propolis Mist
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Dry: Protein Mist Enzyme Toner, Colostrum Hydrating Mist, or Soothe Dermal Repair Mist
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Combination: Brazilian Propolis Mist
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Sensitive: Soothe Dermal Repair Mist or Refresh Aloe Cucumber Mist
If you are unsure of your skin type, take our skin quiz today to figure out what products are right for you.
Dual-Purpose Toner with Exfoliation
This toner is specifically meant to be used without the need to exfoliate:
How to Apply Face Toner the Right Way
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Cleanse: Use a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water. Pat your skin dry.
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Apply Toner/Mist: Spray your skin with toner or massage the product into your skin with a cotton pad.
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Serum: Apply your favorite serum after the toner.
Shop Online with Epicuren Discovery
At Epicuren Discovery, we understand that no two people have the same skin. We have products available for every skin type and a wide variety of skin concerns. Shop our online store today to find a facial toner that meets your skincare goals and take the next step toward brighter, healthier-looking skin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toner
How do I know if my face toner is working?
When facial toner is working correctly, your skin should immediately feel hydrated and refreshed. Visible improvements in tone and texture should be noticeable after one to two weeks, with continued improvements.
Should I use toner every day?
Toners can be used daily, but follow the instructions properly to avoid over-exfoliating with other products.
How long should toner sit on the skin?
Toner should be left on and followed by a serum and moisturizer.
Do you wipe your face after toner?
No. Toner should be left on the face to absorb into the skin thoroughly.
Do I have to use a toner?
A toner is not necessary, but it can be effective and provide benefits based on your skin type.
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