Toner that actually does something to the skin?

[Jmommy]

I’ve been using facial toner for years a bit on and off. Keep reading how important part of your skincare routine it is, but I just can’t see much results in terms of added moisture, or anything for that matter. And the same applies to my first bottle of essence I’ve now almost used up. I’m starting to think might as well skip both products altogether.

Got recommendations for toner and/or essence that actually noticeably moisturizes the skin? I have sensitive skin and signs of aging starting to show.

A little lighter topic for a change in the midst of all the corona talk. Actually wishing this board was more active these days - to resort to something totally unrelated to corona and light now and then

The La Roche Posay astringent toner has improved the skin on my nose. My Tzone is oily with visible pores and this really has helped, I use it in the morning only. I found Pixi and AlphaH much too harsh, both made me very red.

Beauty Pie is fairly divisive on here but if you don't hate the business model, the toner from the JapanFusion range of products is mega gentle and really helps with hydration. I decant it into a small spray bottle rather than using a cotton pad.

If you're looking for hydrating stuff, the only thing that's ever really made me go Wow has been the Vichy Aqualia. It's a hylauronic acid and very plumping.

I've tried snail mucin essence and didn't find it half as good tbh. Have tried all the other trendy things too.

Toners aren't really going to moisturise that much because they are mainly just water. I like to apply my moisturiser while skin is still damp from my toner which seems to see in the moisture little bit. Also you could try mixing a drop of oil with toner in the palm of your hand- rub hands together and apply to face- this is what i do if my skin feels like it needs that little bit extra moisture.

I've done quite a lot of research to find toners which actually have beneficial ingredient- ie calming, antioxidant etc. I recommend liz Earle skin Tonic, or any of the Paulas Choice toners- they are all alcohol free and won't dry your skin.

I stated to use Elemis products back in December.... my skin has improved so much. The Soothing apricot toner and marine cream moisturiser. They’re not cheap tho.

I use Heritage rose and glycerine, it only has two ingredients and I apply 3/4 layers along the 7 skins regime but I never manage 7 layers!

Paulas Choice BHA toner is really good

I'm in my 60s, Ive always used good quality soap (e.g. at moment Suma glycerine soaps ) then toned by splashing my face with cold water I use decent moisturiser/essential oils now my skin is ageing but when young I didn't so much as I used to get a lot of spots. Ive never understood the need for toner, and on occasion Ive tried it seemed like putting vinegar on your face

Not all toners are created equal though! There's no point in using a toner that's got alcohol in it like the toners of old, or one that's essentially scented water. You have to know what you want from your toner before choosing and look at the ingredients carefully.