In the intricate tapestry of skincare, face toners emerge as the unsung heroes, imparting balance and radiance to our daily routines. From liquid formulas to pad formulations, each toner variant comes with its own set of advantages and considerations. This blog post will delve into the correct ways to apply face toner, introduce the nuances of liquid and pad formulations, and provide valuable tips to make the most of this essential skincare step.

Types of Skin Toner Formulations: Liquid vs. Pad

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1. Liquid Toners

Advantages:

• Cost-Effective: Typically more cost-effective due to larger packaging.

• Versatility: Can be applied with hands, cotton pads, or reusable beauty tools. Depending on viscosity, some liquid toners can also be used with a spray dispenser and used as a face mist.

• Customization: Easy to blend with other skincare products or DIY masks.

• Eco-Friendly Options: Many liquid toners come in recyclable packaging.

Disadvantages:

• Potential Spillage: Liquid toners may spill if not handled carefully.

• Bulkier Packaging: Larger bottles may be less travel-friendly.

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2. Toner Pads

Advantages:

• Portability: Convenient and travel-friendly due to pre-soaked pads.

• Consistent Application: Each pad provides a measured amount, reducing the risk of overuse.

• Less Wastage: Pre-soaked pads minimize waste of the formulation product.

Disadvantages:

• Cost Per Use: Can be more expensive on a per-use basis.

• Less Customization: Limited ability to adjust the amount applied per use.

• Single-Use Concerns: May generate more waste if materials used are not eco-friendly.

Types of Skin Toner Formulations: By Functions

1. Hydrating Toners

Humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid act like tiny sponges in your toner. They have a special ability to draw moisture from the environment, including the deeper layers of your own skin. Think of them as reaching down and pulling water molecules up towards the surface. Once these humectants attract moisture, they don't just let it go. They bind to the water molecules, creating a sort of reservoir on the surface of your skin. This helps to prevent dehydration and keeps your skin feeling plump and hydrated throughout the day. The presence of humectants in your toner can also improve the absorption of other skincare products in your routine. By creating a more hydrated environment, they allow serums, moisturizers, and other treatments to penetrate deeper into the skin for maximum effectiveness.

2. Exfoliating Toners

Toners containing AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) or BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids) offer a gentle yet effective way to exfoliate the skin. Unlike physical scrubs that buff away the top layer with tiny particles, these toners work through a chemical process. AHAs, such as glycolic acid or lactic acid, are water-soluble acids that work on the surface of the skin. They help break down the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, allowing them to be gently shed and revealing a smoother, brighter complexion. AHAs can also stimulate collagen production, leading to a more youthful appearance over time. BHAs, like salicylic acid, are oil-soluble, meaning they can penetrate deeper into pores. This makes them particularly effective at tackling clogged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. BHAs can also help regulate sebum (oil) production, which can be beneficial for acne-prone skin.

3. Astringent Toners 
Astringents, often containing alcohol (though gentler options exist like witch hazel extracts), work by targeting sebum production. Sebum is the natural oil produced by your skin, and while it's essential for maintaining a healthy moisture barrier, excess sebum can lead to an oily appearance and clogged pores. Astringents have a tightening effect on the skin's surface.  While they don't actually shrink pores permanently, this temporary tightening can make pores appear smaller, reducing their visibility and creating a smoother look.  Traditional alcohol-based astringents can be quite drying for the skin.  While they may initially control oil, the excessive dryness can actually lead to a rebound effect, where the skin overproduces oil to compensate for the lost moisture. Thankfully, there are gentler astringent options available.  Witch hazel extract, for example, offers similar pore-minimizing and oil-control benefits without the harsh drying effects of alcohol.

4. Soothing Toners
Soothing toners often incorporate botanical extracts like centella asiatica or aloe vera, known for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties. These ingredients help to soothe irritation, reduce redness, and minimize discomfort associated with sensitive skin. Soothing toners are typically formulated without harsh alcohols, fragrances, or dyes, which can be irritating to sensitive skin. This gentle approach allows them to cleanse and balance the skin without causing further irritation. A soothing toner can also help to rebalance the skin's pH after cleansing, which can sometimes strip the skin's natural oils, and calm any irritation caused by the cleansing process. If you're looking for a spray-type of toner, you can also use a soothing toner with a spraying pump. Throughout the day, a spritz of a soothing toner can provide a refreshing and calming effect, especially for irritated or sun-exposed skin.

5. pH Balancing Toners

Healthy skin has a slightly acidic pH, typically around 5.5. This acidic mantle acts as a protective barrier, helping to keep good bacteria thriving which aids in fighting off harmful bacteria, maintain optimal hydration levels and minimize irritation. Some toners are formulated with a slightly acidic pH to help restore the skin's natural balance after cleansing, which can be disrupted by harsh cleansers or tap water. This is because many cleansers, especially those formulated for oily skin, can be quite alkaline (having a higher pH).  While effective at removing dirt and oil, they can disrupt the skin's natural acidic pH balance.  Similarly, tap water often has a higher pH than the skin, further contributing to this imbalance. pH balancing toners are formulated with a slightly acidic pH, typically close to the skin's natural level (around 5.5).  These toners gently neutralize any residual alkalinity left behind by cleansers or tap water.  By restoring the skin's natural pH balance, they can minimize the risk of irritation and breakouts. 

Correct Ways to Apply Face Toner

1. Start Skincare Routine with Clean Skin:

Begin your toning ritual on freshly cleansed skin to ensure optimal absorption and product efficacy.

2. Gentle Application:

Pat or gently sweep the toner onto your skin using clean hands or a cotton pad. Avoid rubbing, as it may cause unnecessary friction.

3. Damp Skin Enhances Absorption of Toners:

Apply toner while your skin is slightly damp for improved absorption and enhanced hydration.

4. Skincare Layering:

If using multiple toners, layer them based on consistency, starting with the thinnest and progressing to thicker formulations.

5. Sealing All the Skincare Benefits:

Seal in the benefits of your toner by promptly following it with serums, ampoules and moisturizers.

6. Consistency is Key:

Incorporate toning into your routine consistently, whether it's morning or night, to reap long-term benefits.

Toners for Private Labeling and White Labeling

1. Rice Toner

Formulated with the finest rice extract meticulously grown and harvested in Korea's pristine rice fields. This Brightening Rice Toner is rich in nutrients known to revitalize, hydrate and brighten the skin. Contains niacinamide, tranexamic acid and peptides to further enhance the brightening effects and elevate the skin's radiant glow. 

2. Heartleaf Toner

Infused with heartleaf extract, panthenol, AHA and BHA, this toner delivers a hydration boost while making sure the skin is clear from accumulated sebum. The formulation is specially designed for those with sensitive skin, who needs a gentle exfoliation infused with abundance of moisture and hydration.

Ready to start manufacturing for your brand? 

Whether you desire personalized tweaks to our existing formulations or have your own exclusive formula in mind, our team is dedicated to collaborating with you to create your new beauty brand or product line. Embrace the freedom to curate a skincare line that reflects your vision, values, and caters precisely to the diverse needs of your clientele. Browse our existing formulations or drop us an custom formulation inquiry to get started!