Toners were originally created for general skin cleansing and care. They were also marketed as a "skin freshener" due to the cooling capabilities of these formulations.
Today's toners are a far cry from the early alcohol-based mixtures with rose water, borax, glycerin, zinc and aluminum salts, menthol, and camphor, among other ingredients. I even read in a pseudo-scientific article from the 70s that "turtle oil" was the star ingredient in many toners, incredible but true!!
The new generation of toners provides antioxidants, hydration, and elasticity. A well-formulated natural toner is an excellent option for even saving on your moisturizer or serum, as you may need to apply smaller amounts of these. However, there are some misconceptions I've heard in recent months. Here is a selection of the worst.
- Alcohol in toner has an astringent effect.
False: Alcohol is used in a toner to provide stability, prevent bacterial growth (if used around 10%), and increase the solubility of essential oils or perfumes. Synthetic or natural alcohol is too harsh for the skin. The astringent effect is more of an optical effect due to skin inflammation after applying alcohol, which makes pores appear smaller.
- It's an easy product to make at home.
False: There are many recipes on the internet where it is recommended to boil a tea bag and add honey or essential oils to preserve it. This preparation is the perfect "broth" for the growth of bacteria and fungi.
- It is the next step after cleansing to remove stubborn makeup or cleansing product residue.
False: Proper cleansing is enough to ensure no residue is left on the skin.
- Replacing toner with rose water or jasmine is a valid natural alternative.
False: They can be pleasant and sensorial, but they contribute very little to skin health and do not replace toner.
- It is recommended that exfoliating toners (acid toners) be used 3 times a week.
False: Repeated exfoliation can cause serious damage to the upper layers of the epidermis, considering that these preparations contain high doses of chemical exfoliants.
–It is useful as a spray to take on the plane.
False: As they are usually formulated with humectants that, in a dry environment such as an airplane cabin, draw water from the skin and dehydrate it.
Focusing on the Ultra Revitalizing Elixir, I sought to create a multitasking product capable of soothing even the most sensitive skin and, at the same time, providing healthy ingredients for those looking to improve skin care.
– Saccharide Hydrolysate: is a mixture of active molecules obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis of Schizandra berries, with a unique composition of peptides, sugars, and hydroxy acids. This combination improves barrier function and soothes even the most sensitive skin.
– Cucumber Extract: soothing and refreshing, it provides elasticity and flexibility to the skin.
– Rice Starch: Creates a great protective film.
– Allantoin: reduces skin irritation and stimulates the natural regeneration of skin cells, improving its ability to retain moisture.
– Artemisia Umbelliformis Extract: protects the skin with antioxidant properties and blocks damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, it also acts as an antibacterial compound.