Popular Skincare Hacks That Could Pose Health Risks – Health Digest

There’s no question that a good skincare routine can keep your skin looking and feeling its best. As explained in an article in The New York Times, the three basic elements of a solid skincare routine include cleansing, toning, and moisturizing. However, some people do not fully understand the purpose of toning and why it’s an important step in caring for the skin.

Rather than further cleansing the skin and removing impurities, toner should add moisturizing and soothing ingredients. Toning is a restorative process that helps balance your skin’s pH levels. Sarah Lee and Christine Chang, co-founders of Flow Recipe, shared in an interview with Byrdie, “Many U.S.-made toners are used as an astringent to help remove any left-over residue, dirt, oil, or makeup that is left on the skin after cleansing.” They go on to explain that Korean toner is different and add, “Instead, it’s the first leave-on step of liquid hydration that treats the skin.”

If you’re using an astringent toner to cleanse your skin or remove makeup, you’re skipping an essential step in your skincare routine. Shift your approach to think of toning as completely separate from cleansing. To reap the most benefits of toning to balance your skin, opt for hydrating toners that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and antioxidants like vitamin C (via Forbes).