In everyday facial care, toner performs an auxiliary function. It neutralizes the effect of the products used for cleansing and normalizes the pH level of the epidermis, thereby preparing it for the application of cream.
However, for oily skin, toners can have a much broader effect. They may well help cope with excess fat, stop inflammatory processes and reduce the appearance of acne. But to do this, you need to carefully choose a toner for oily and problem skin. It is important to understand which components should be in its composition, and which ingredients are undesirable in it.
FAN journalist has prepared a rating of the best toners for oily skin, which will become indispensable and favorite assistants in everyday care.
Kinds
Based on preferences, skin type, purpose and direction of action, tonics can be divided into types:
Cleaning
Fights excess secretion of sebaceous glands, cleanses pores of impurities. Softens the skin and has an exfoliating effect. Regulates the pH balance of the epithelium, relieves irritation and dries out inflammation. Although it is recommended for all skin types and age groups, for sensitive ones it is better to choose a product with medicinal herbal ingredients. Many people prefer the Natura Siberica line.
Moisturizing
Glycerin, which is part of tonics, gently moisturizes the dermis and tightens pores. Recommended for all skin types. Has no age restrictions. Daily use of a moisturizing tonic gives the face a healthy appearance without greasy shine and provides cells with micronutrients. Prevents irritation and peeling. Use in the evening after cleansing with cleanser.
Matting
Makes the face matte, removes fat and impurities from the surface. Extracts of vegetables and medicinal plants even out the relief of the epidermis and give it softness. The product removes dead epithelium and creates a feeling of comfort. Recommended for oily and combination skin. The alcohol concentration in the mattifying toner should not exceed 5%.
Toner is used before applying makeup base.
Tonic lotion
The cosmetic liquid has a cleansing, moisturizing and soothing effect. It can refresh the skin, make it elastic and smooth. Fights age spots, blackheads and pimples. The plant components contained in the composition tone the skin, saturating it with micronutrients. Recommended for sensitive, dry and mature skin.
Read about the product from Natura Kamchatka at the link.
Refreshing
The product regulates the process of subcutaneous fat production, cleanses pores, and makes acne invisible. Recommended for blackheads, inflammation and irritation. Suitable for any type. Removes impurities well, refreshes, makes the surface of the face soft and velvety. Relieves signs of fatigue, restores tone to the epidermis. A good example is Black Pearl.
For dry skin
For dry skin, it is better to choose tonics with a moisturizing, cleansing and exfoliating effect to nourish the skin with a vitamin complex. Daily use will help eliminate dryness and inflammation. The hyaluronic component contained in the base relieves the feeling of tightness, soothes and deeply moisturizes the dermis. May be suitable for combination type at any age.
For normal
The group of tonics is intended for daily use. Cleanses the skin well, moisturizes and tightens pores. Exfoliates the stratum corneum and accelerates the process of cell renewal. Eliminates inflammatory conditions, prevents the appearance of acne. Can strengthen and rejuvenate the skin, restoring the natural water balance.
Read about acid tonic in this material.
For combined
The cosmetic product cleanses the epidermis, moisturizes it and regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Gives matteness, removes oily shine and makes the face smooth. Prevents the formation of acne and inflammatory lesions. After several uses, blackheads become less noticeable and pores become smaller.
For fatty
Tonic for oily skin removes unpleasant gloss from the surface of the dermis, but does not dry it out, but moisturizes the epithelial cells. Tightens pores, has an anti-inflammatory effect, improves complexion. Actively removes acne spots, redness and irritation.
Alcohol with salicylic acid in the base of the tonic cleanses the skin of blackheads. Helps eliminate bacteria, fight acne and purulent pimples.
For oily skin, select a tonic with an alcohol content of at least 30%.
For problematic
This skin type is prone to the formation of pimples, acne and blackheads, so the toner should contain surfactants. By acting on the epidermis, they dry out rashes and deeply and gently cleanse it. The product for problem skin tightens pores, removes blackheads and oily shine. Prevents the formation of acne and gives the skin a matte appearance.
For sensitive
Cosmetic liquid for sensitive skin nourishes the epidermis, relieves irritation and removes dead cells. Eliminates pathogenic bacteria that can cause acne and pimples. An anti-inflammatory tonic based on natural ingredients normalizes the production of elastin and collagen, reduces redness and inflammation. Regular use makes the skin tone more even and matte, giving it a fresh and healthy look.
Sensitive skin types do not allow the use of tonic containing alcohol.
Anti-aging
Hypoallergenic, suitable for all skin types. With regular use, it can reduce deep wrinkles by up to 20%. Moisturizes, makes it elastic, restores natural pH balance. Does not give a feeling of tightness, evens out tone and improves blood circulation. Contains components of medicinal plants and flowers that have a lifting effect.
To tighten pores
Enlarged pores are typical for oily and combination skin. Tonics narrow them, cleanse them of impurities and blackheads. The alcohol included in the composition gently removes dead skin cells and restores the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Prevents the appearance of inflammatory processes, redness and removes oily sheen.
For teenage skin
Against the background of hormonal changes, the teenage dermis undergoes changes and is prone to the appearance of pimples, blackheads, and irritations. Tonics will help avoid negative consequences. They normalize sebum production, tighten and cleanse pores, and prevent acne. The restorative agent maintains moisture, makes the surface smooth and velvety.
For skin prone to rosacea
If you have rosacea, you should choose tonics for sensitive dermis. These drugs, when used correctly, smooth out the manifestation of the disease and prevent the emergence of new foci of the choroid. The vitamin complex and horse chestnut extract in the tonic can strengthen the walls of blood vessels. To avoid irritation of the epidermis, you should choose a product with natural herbal ingredients without alcohol.
Tonic spray
The product is suitable for any skin and age. It cleanses, soothes and tones the epidermis, and also prepares it for the application of moisturizer. Ingredients: thermal water with beneficial microelements and mineral salts. The liquid can well moisturize the epidermis and restore the microflora. Regular use makes the skin smooth and soft, giving a healthy appearance.
For men
Men's skin is less sensitive, but oilier and denser. It also requires protection and careful care, because it can be prone to irritation, inflammation, and dryness. You should tone the dermis in the morning and evening, first using lotion for washing, then tonic as a moisturizer. The composition should include acids, trace elements and extracts of medicinal plants. They will acidify the skin and have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.
Softner
This emollient skin care liquid is able to cleanse and moisturize the surface layer. Enhances the effect of moisturizing products applied afterwards. Suitable for all skin types, restores pH balance. The slightly acidic environment prevents the occurrence of pimples and acne by removing harmful bacteria.
Criterias of choice
The source of oily shine is the overactive work of the sebaceous glands. Therefore, it is necessary to select means that normalize this process. The optimal drug dries problem areas and relieves inflammation.
- The first thing you should pay attention to is the alcohol content; the more it is in the composition, the more the toner will dry out the skin. It should not be used on the skin around the eyes and lips. For these areas, softer products are needed.
If the use of alcohol-containing products is necessary for clinical indications, then the amount of alcohol should be no more than 20-30% of the total volume.
- The second point is the components. The more natural substances contained in the composition, the less negative impact the tonic will have on the skin. Herbal extracts help fight rashes, have an antiseptic effect and are suitable for daily care.
Salicylic and glycolic acids will help get rid of sebaceous shine, acne, and pimples, but long-term use of such products causes drying of the skin.
- The third, but no less important rule is to choose a product directly for yourself. If you are prone to allergic reactions, be sure to study the composition of the tonic for the presence of allergens.
The best facial toners
You can choose the right toning cosmetics if you know your skin type. It can combat any problem of the epidermis if used as directed. Liquid consistency is often based on thermal water or alcohol. You can buy it not only at the pharmacy, but also in cosmetic stores.
You will find a complete list of the best tonics at the provided link.
Tonic enhances the effect of creams by almost 40%.
PAYOT Lotion Tonigue Reveil
After washing, the product restores the acid-base balance of the skin, moisturizes and refreshes. Recommended for any type, including sensitive. Helps improve the effect of anti-aging moisturizer. Does not contain alcohol, softens the skin without drying or tightening it.
Cost from 700 rubles.
The bottle is economical, with a convenient dispenser. The liquid has an unobtrusive smell, although not everyone likes it. Disadvantages: Doesn't always remove makeup residue.
Whitening peeling tonic Bielita-Vitex Ideal Whitening
The advantages of the product are its reasonable price and convenient bottle. One of the disadvantages is a specific smell. Tonic prepares the epidermis for subsequent procedures - applying serum or cream. With regular use, it fights pigment spots.
Costs 150 rubles.
Whitens freckles and evens out skin tone. Gently exfoliates dead epithelium, stimulating regeneration. Recommended for dry, sensitive and combination skin.
Moisturizing facial toner Natural Pharmacy
Recommended for normal to oily skin. It cleanses well of impurities, tones and prepares for further application of moisturizers. Fights shine, regulates the production of subcutaneous fat, refreshes. Capable of restoring acid-base balance.
Product price from 40 rubles.
It has a simple design, natural composition and pleasant aroma. Cons: rapid evaporation of scent from the surface of the skin.
Absorbing facial tonic Faberlic “Oxygen Breathing” Oxiology series
The brand's products are intended for dry and normal skin of any age. Although many people use it for combination and oily skin types. It has a pleasant smell, moisturizes well, nourishes and refreshes. The absorbent product is hypoallergenic and removes makeup residue.
Costs from 170 rubles.
Capable of mattifying the skin, preventing redness and irritation. Economical to use. Disadvantages: does not tighten pores, does not completely remove oily shine, has an inconvenient lid.
Mattifying tonic powder Propeller “Blur Effect”
Recommended for problem skin, although some buyers are confident that the tonic is also suitable for oily skin types. The product cleanses the dermis of pollution, removes shine, and prevents the appearance of inflammatory foci.
Price 80 rubles.
Normalizes sebum secretion, mattifies and adds freshness. A sulfate-free version of a cosmetic product can increase the barrier functions of the epithelium. Cons: Inability to completely remove oil, tighten pores and replace the effect of powder.
Faberlic Active vitalization Renovage series
The product is recommended for dry and sensitive skin for women over 50 years old, although many use it in the 35+ category. It has a beneficial effect on the skin and removes impurities from the surface.
The price varies from 170 to 210 rubles.
Useful for winter care, as it protects the epidermis from external factors. Economical to use, gives a feeling of freshness. No deficiencies found. There is a similar product in the Christina line.
Lotion (Tonic) CLINIQUE Exfoliating for sensitive skin Clarifying Lotion
The product has a calming and softening effect. Does not contain alcohol, does not dry out the skin, relieves irritation. Cleanses pores and prepares the dermis for the application of moisturizers.
Cost from 450 rubles.
Able to dry out inflammation, hypoallergenic. Disadvantages: in some cases there is a feeling of stickiness and dryness.
Korean AHA & BHA Daily Clean Toner
The toner contains a high concentration of acids that help cleanse the skin and remove dead cells. Well suited for problematic and oily types.
Cons: price – 1200 rubles per bottle.
Regular use improves complexion, cleanses pores of dirt and fat deposits. Helps restore natural pH balance, helps heal scratches and pimples.
Revitalizing tonic for face
The product is recommended for all skin types as a final cleanser after washing. It is able to support the process of self-regulation of the epidermis and retain moisture. Restores skin cells, moisturizes and nourishes them. Disadvantages: cost - 1900 rubles.
Lotion (Tonic) for face and eyelids Stop dem odex for demodicosis and acne
Natural ingredients in the product help fight acne. It tightens pores and cleanses them deeply. Recommended for all skin types. It has a pleasant aroma and can relieve irritation and pain.
Price from 120 rubles.
Stimulates the growth of epithelial cells and collagen production, restores the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Disadvantages: does not completely fight acne, contraindicated in case of individual intolerance to the components.
Lotion-tonic Cora Tonic with collagen for mature skin
Recommended for oily, combination and normal skin. Cleanses, stimulates and tones. Activates the regeneration of epithelial cells, increases elasticity, and gives the dermis radiance. The disadvantages include a strong unpleasant odor and small volume.
Price from 250 rubles.
Pharm-MIK Mint
Products are recommended for oily and combination skin. Promotes narrowing and deep cleansing of pores. Normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands, relieves irritation, prevents the appearance of blackheads and acne. A pleasant mint aroma gives the skin freshness. Among the disadvantages: it does not remove fat deposits from the epidermis well.
Cost from 350 rubles.
Libre Derm hyaluronic moisturizing facial toner
The cosmetic liquid removes residual impurities after washing and balances acidity. Tones, smoothes fine wrinkles, improves microcirculation. Recommended for normal and combination skin types. Disadvantages: irritation, itching, uneconomical bottle. In some cases, an allergic reaction may occur.
Price from 450 rubles.
Bark for oily and combination skin with prebiotic
Sebum-regulating tonic restores the functioning of the sebaceous glands, moisturizes, regulates water balance, and prevents the development of inflammatory processes. With regular use, the number of blackheads noticeably decreases. Disadvantages: weak effect on comedones, poor cleansing of oily sheen.
Price from 220 rubles.
STOPPROBLEM SALICYL LOTION D/CHUVS SKIN pharmacy
The product does not contain alcohol, tones well and cleanses pores of impurities. Prevents the appearance of pimples and acne, relieves inflammatory processes. Disadvantages: low anti-acne effect, possible allergic reactions. Price from 60 rubles.
Read about cucumber face lotion in this article.
Hydrolate/Floral water DNC Lavender (Tonic)
Recommended for all skin types. Able to cleanse pores and moisturize the epidermis. Heals scratches and sunburns, reduces itching from mosquito bites. Has a pleasant aroma. Cons: tight spray, insufficient cleansing of the skin, in some cases – strong drying effect.
Cost 140 rubles.
Exclusive cosmetics for blackheads
The product is suitable for oily and combination skin types. Cleanses and tightens pores, neutralizes inflammation, relieves irritation. Regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands, restores acidity.
It is affordable, has a pleasant smell, large volume, does not leave a sticky effect, and is economical to use. Disadvantages include a gel structure, the possible appearance of small pimples and poor removal of blackheads. Price from 40 rubles.
TianDe Snake Factor Facial Repair
Suitable for all dermis types, increases the effectiveness of anti-aging care. Well moisturizes, cleanses from remaining impurities and fat, tightens pores. With regular use, it makes the skin elastic and improves color. There are no disadvantages.
The cost of the drug is from 560 rubles.
PAYOT Lotion Tonigue Fraicheur pH restoring
Recommended for caring for any type of dermis. Used as a moisturizer that can tone and refresh. Gently removes dead cells without drying. Normalizes acid balance. Disadvantages: weak restorative effect, inability to fight blackheads. Cost from 750 rubles.
JOYSKIN cleansing for dehydrated skin
Hypoallergenic toner suitable for sensitive and problematic dermis. Actively fights acne, reduces irritation and redness, deeply moisturizes. The antiseptic properties of aloe extract and tea tree oil normalize fat metabolism. Cons: insufficient cleansing, poor hydration and increased activity of the sebaceous glands.
Read this material to learn how to make your own tonic.
Cost from 300 rubles.
Siberina Anti-inflammatory
Suitable for problematic, combination and oily skin. Extracts of medicinal plants help fight purulent and acne rashes. It has a calming effect, relieves itching and irritation, and makes the dermis matte. No deficiencies were identified. Cost from 330 rubles.
GREEN MAMA Soothing for facial skin prone to unsightly redness with seaweed
The product does not contain alcohol and has a softening, soothing effect. Normalizes blood circulation, refreshes and reduces the visibility of age spots. Evens out the relief of the epidermis. Disadvantages: burning and redness; components may not be suitable for sensitive types.
Price from 95 rubles.
CLINIQUE Exfoliating 2 Clarifylng Lotion 2
Used for dry and normal skin as a cleanser. Gently exfoliates dead cells and regulates moisture content. Mattifies pores, moisturizes, refreshes, strengthens the walls of small capillaries. Capable of disinfecting and removing inflammatory foci. Disadvantages: peeling, feeling of dryness, strong smell of alcohol and cost - from 1,500 rubles.
Read about apple cider vinegar tonic here.
About tonics
In the home skin care ritual, the toning step is no less important than the others. Tonics have become part of daily personal care for a reason; this is not a marketing ploy. They appeared with the aim of restoring the pH of the skin, since previous methods of cleansing (soap, aggressive cleansers, tap water) upset the balance. New generation tonics not only restore the protective barrier, but have a lot of useful properties: nourish, moisturize, soothe, mattify, rejuvenate, etc. In addition, they help subsequent skincare products penetrate deeper and act more effectively.
Most toners are universal and suitable for all skin types.
Toners for combination skin should intensively moisturize and regulate sebum, without overdrying or in any way damaging the epidermis.
How to use and contraindications
Tonics should not be used in cases where there are open wounds, cuts or purulent ulcers on the face. Allergic intolerance to the components included in the liquid is also a contraindication.
Find out how to use the tonic here.
To get the maximum benefit from using the drug, it is important to follow the rules:
- Pre-cleanse the skin of impurities and makeup with a cleansing gel.
- Shake the contents of the bottle with liquid and moisten a cotton swab.
- Apply to face and neck, rub into skin with light circular movements. Do not rinse off.
- Apply cream or serum.
- Use in the morning before applying makeup, in the evening after removing makeup.
Do not replace toner with lotion. The difference between toner and lotion is in the composition, so they do not perform the same functions.
Products with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)
AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) are water-soluble substances that are chemical exfoliants. They have the following effects:
- exfoliation;
- stimulation of regenerative processes;
- hydration;
- increasing skin firmness and elasticity;
- stimulation of the production of elastin, collagen, hyaluronic acid;
- anti-age effect;
- lightening;
- antioxidant protection.
In addition to the general properties, each of the acids has its own individual characteristics, for example, citric acid is able to normalize pH. The use of products with a peeling effect promotes better penetration of the active components of skincare cosmetics.
Home Recipes
If you have the spirit of an experimental cosmetologist, you can create recipes for tonic cosmetics yourself. The main thing is to remember to check how your skin reacts to them before using them. Before applying to your face, drop a little on the crook of your elbow and make sure there is no redness or irritation. At home you can use:
- Proven mineral water, “Narzan”, “Esentuki”, have properties that normalize the acid-base balance, remove toxins, and saturate with microelements. Remember that “bubbles” in mineral water are carbon dioxide harmful to the epidermis, so before applying such a home remedy, let the gas escape or use still water.
- Hydrolates. Aqueous solution of essential oils. Such “mixtures” are suitable for normal face types, as they have a slight moisturizing tonic effect. You shouldn't expect miracles from self-made products - you won't be able to achieve the correct consistency at home.
- Decoctions of medicinal herbs. A plant-based solution can resist microbes, relieve irritation, and slow down aging, but to also cleanse, you need to add alcohol. Alas, it is problematic to mix alcohol-containing components and herbal decoctions at home without causing harm. In this case, preliminary testing is mandatory!
We offer several harmless home recipes for tonic preparations that have a moisturizing and refreshing effect:
- Refreshing for aging skin:
- pink petals 12 g
lime zest 3g
- rose oil 5-7 drops
- For oily skin (with mattifying effect)
- oat flakes 12 g
calendula oil 5-7 drops
- milk 50 ml
- Moisturizing for dry skin
- mineral water 70 ml
cucumber 30-50 g
- avocado oil 20-25 drops
The petals are brewed like regular tea, crushed zest is added to the decoction, and the mixture is infused for half an hour. Oil is added to the cooled product.
Mix the flakes with milk and bring to a boil. Strain the mixture, add oil. Effect: narrowing of pores and normalization of fat secretion.
Cut the cucumber into small circles or grate it on a coarse grater, pour in mineral water and add oil. Recommended for applying toning masks.
If the “home laboratory” is not your thing, we recommend using products from trusted cosmetic brands. It is not necessary to “buy” into an advertised name; the composition of most tonics is identical, so finding a drug of the required composition for a reasonable price is quite possible.
How to treat a purulent pimple*
Rashes on the nose, chin, forehead, and cheeks must be treated. Cosmetics alone will not be enough. You need to contact a dermatologist who will tell you what to do with purulent pimples*. You should immediately stop squeezing out acne and aggressive cosmetic procedures.
For mild to moderate acne, a dermatologist may recommend the use of topical antibiotics, for example, Clindovit® gel6,18. The main active substance in its composition is clindamycin phosphate6.
The drug is recommended to be used together with benzoyl peroxide or azelaic acid (for example, Azelik® gel) in order to reduce the risk of developing antibiotic resistance 28.
*acne
conclusions
- Toner for oily skin is a must-have.
- The tonic is a second degree cleansing. It expands and cleanses pores, preparing the skin to absorb creams and masks.
- Each toner is designed for a different skin condition.
- If you use a mattifying toner, it can replace a makeup base.
- Tonics can be used more than twice a day.
- An alcohol-based product cannot be used constantly, and it is strictly forbidden to use it in the hot season.
- Some tonics give good results if you use other care products from this series in parallel.
- Popular brands producing tonics for oily faces are Garnier, Green Mama, Green Mama, L'Oreal, La Roche-Posay, Librederm.
Ideal composition
Do you know what to look for when choosing a toner? We should be interested in what the product is made of, the degree of its usefulness and safety for the skin.
As for odors: preparations from companies that support the trend of naturalness do not contain artificial flavors, but the smell is not strong, but barely perceptible. This is achieved due to the presence of plant extracts and essences in the composition. Agree, strong smells of berries or flowers in most cases will scare away customers, causing an association with an air freshener for the toilet, and not with a facial product. But a product that gently smells of fresh grass, fruit or field will be perceived easily and naturally.
So, regardless of what system of naturalness and safety your favorite alcohol-free facial toner is certified with, it:
- 90-100% consists of natural ingredients;
- has a short shelf life due to the lack of preservatives;
- has a pale color (there are no dyes in the composition);
- does not contain fragrances, radioactive substances, petroleum products;
- has the mark of the standard, quality and certification body.
