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The increase in the popularity of micellar liquids in recent times as the basic cosmetic for make-up removal has resulted in tonics falling into a kind of disgrace. A common and erroneous view is that the tonic performs the same function as the micellar fluid, but in fact the task of the tonic, as the name suggests, is to tone the skin, that is, to restore and maintain its natural, slightly acidic pH, often disturbed by preparations. used for removing makeup.
Tonic – action
Many people wonder what is a tonic anyway? Most often, a tonic can be associated with a carbonated drink. However, a tonic is also a face care product.
Before moisturizing but after cleansing the face, the tonic is a fast-absorbing lotion that helps remove excess impurities, sebum and make-up. Facial tonic, as the name suggests, tones the skin and balances the skin’s pH to achieve an ideal slightly acidic pH of around 5,5 (cleansing agents often make the skin’s pH too acidic, so the tonic helps to lower it).
In other words, the face tonic thoroughly cleanses the skin and helps remove dead skin cells accumulated on the surface. By helping to cleanse and close the pores and balance the pH, it is especially beneficial for acne prone skin.
Face tonic – types
The following types of face tonics are distinguished:
- moisturizing tonics – moisturize the skin,
- stimulating tonics – soften the skin,
- astringent tonics – help control excess sebum and reduce pores,
- soothing tonics – soothe inflammatory changes, especially of sensitive skin.
See also: How to get rid of skin discoloration?
Toner – when to use it?
The face tonic should be used twice a day – morning and evening – after cleansing the face and before applying a serum or regular cream, which will vary depending on the season or the specific needs of the skin at any given time.
In short, always use a face tonic after cleansing your face and before applying a cream or serum.
If you play sports or take part in outdoor activities, don’t forget to put it in your bag – you’d be shocked at the amount of dirt that builds up on your skin when you’re outdoors.
In order to replenish your cosmetics supply, you can choose STOP Demodex face and eyelid tonic or Duetus tonic for all skin types from the Medonet Market offer.
Tonic – what are its functions?
The aforementioned task of maintaining the proper pH of the skin is not the only one that a good tonic should do. Just as micellar water cleans the skin of make-up, the tonic cleans the skin of everyday dirt – that’s why it is best to use it in the evening, after the whole day, and in the morning, to refresh the skin after the night.
The third, equally important task of the tonic is micropeeling, which allows the skin to better absorb the applied cosmetics. The exfoliation caused in this way only affects the epidermis, so it is quite safe. After such a process, the skin, previously subjected to appropriate toning, will react best in contact with make-up cosmetics that are often not the best for it.
Not every tonic is the same. Some contain alcohol and are therefore dehydrating and irritating. Ideally, tonics soothe the skin and exfoliate.
Here are all the advantages that a good face tonic should have:
- removes the last remnants of makeup,
- removes dead epidermis cells, ensuring an even and fresh look,
- increases the effectiveness of active ingredients,
- soothes, protects and moisturizes the skin.
Toner – which one to choose?
The key issue is to adjust the tonic to your needs, to your complexion, and therefore to your age. Sensitive skin will require a soothing tonic containing herbal extracts, e.g. aloe, melilot or chamomile. Soothing tonics often also contain goat’s milk and rose water.
A moisturizing or nourishing tonic is the best choice for dry skin. Such a tonic should contain, for example, glycerin, milk, vitamin C or lavender. Rice water compresses can be a good equivalent of such a tonic. Acne skin needs tonics with antibacterial and exfoliating properties. This is best provided by tonics containing e.g. lemon balm, calendula, bay leaves, zinc, sage or lactic acid.
A matting or cleansing tonic will support the oily skin. Most often they include: cucumber, plantain, white willow and salicylic acid. For mature skin, a moisturizing and smoothing tonic will be the best; in such tonics, the most popular ingredients are fruit acids – the so-called AHA acids.