Blogging Heros
How often do you clean your face?
Do you get pimples while singing in the choir? Or break out quite a bit after exercise?
Do you have a dermatological problem you’ve been struggling to solve? Looking for a solution? A good skin regimen is the first step.
In preparing to solve adult skin problems, don’t confuse toner and astringent. They may look alike, but they perform different functions.
The following is a guide to help you understand the difference between toner vs astringent.
Skin Type
Toners can be used for all skin types but are best suited for oily and combination skin. They help to remove excess oils and makeup while replenishing lost moisture.
Astringents, on the other hand, are best for normal and dry skin types. They help to remove dirt, oil, and bacteria while toning and refreshing the skin. They also help to reduce the look of large pores.
For those with sensitive skin, there are alcohol-free toners that contain calming, hydrating ingredients such as aloe, chamomile, and lavender. If you are still unclear on which one is better for you, always consult a dermatologist or skin care specialist for advice.
Skin Concerns
Toners are designed to remove dirt, oil, and makeup residue from the skin while also balancing out the skin’s pH. They are gentler than astringents, so those with more sensitive skin should opt for this option.
Astringents are stronger than toners and can often contain alcohol or salicylic acid, which works to reduce breakouts. However, these harsh ingredients can potentially cause irritation in those with sensitive skin.
Depending on the severity of your skin concerns – whether your acne is mild, moderate, or severe – the choice of toner or astringent should be made in consultation with a dermatologist, who can give sound advice and specialized products tailored to your individual needs.
Ingredients
Toners generally contain humectants, astringents contain a higher percentage of alcohol, and some toners can even be formulated with a combination of both. Humectants, such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid, are effective at drawing water from the environment into the skin. This helps refresh and hydrate dry areas.
Astringents tend to be harsh, contain higher percentages of alcohol, and can strip away the skin’s natural oils, making them more suitable for oily skin. Some toners can also contain ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which are both helpful in combating acne. `
Alcohol Content
A toner contains a lower alcohol percentage than an astringent and can range anywhere between 0-15%. Although there are a few natural options available, a great majority contain alcohol.
On the other hand, an astringent usually contains a higher alcohol content between 20-60%. So if you are looking for a gentle and mild solution, a toner is a better choice. However, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, an astringent is a better option due to its more effective cleaning performance.
Sensitivity
A toner is usually soap-free, gentle, and non-abrasive; it is also a light, water-based solution that helps to rebalance your skin after cleansing. An astringent is a stronger product, usually containing alcohol, which helps to remove excess oil. Generally, astringents are better suited to dealing with oily skin types as they have more astringent properties.
Astringents can be too harsh and dry for those with combination or dry skin. If you have sensitive skin, you should generally go with a toner, as it’s the gentler option of the two.
Usage Frequency
Toner should be used twice daily, while astringent should only be used once a day or as needed. It should be used after regular facial cleansing and before any type of moisturizer or makeup. Astringent should be used after toner or cleanser and only if necessary.
If you have excessively oily skin that breaks out easily, then using an astringent can help remove excess oil and reduce acne breakouts. However, for those with more dry or sensitive skin, toner can be used more frequently to help keep your skin clear and balance skin pH levels.
Hydration Needs
If you have normal to dry skin, a toner is best for you as it helps to add moisture without stripping your skin of its oils. An astringent might be too harsh for skin of this type as it can strip away excess oil. For oily skin, an astringent may be the better choice as it can help to remove oil and reduce shine.
However, this product may be too harsh for dry skin. Regardless of which type of skin you have, both products should be used sparingly as overuse can be drying and irritating.
Pore Size
Toner is used after cleansing to gently remove the remnants of cleanser and help to restore the skin’s natural pH balance. It also helps to close pores and can reduce the appearance of pore size. Astringent is stronger than toner, so it is used mainly for people with oily skin or large pores.
It is stronger in content and contains ingredients that help to wipe out dirt and oil, reducing pore size and giving the skin a matte look. Astringent also has a drying effect, which can be beneficial for people with oily skin but not helpful for dry or sensitive skin.
Skincare Routine
A skincare routine is incredibly important in maintaining healthy, beautiful skin. When it comes to toner vs astringent, it is important to know the difference and use the product that best suits the individual’s specific type. Toners are usually less harsh than astringents and contain less alcohol.
Astringents, on the other hand, contain high amounts of alcohol and are designed to provide deep cleansing. If a person has oily skin or acne, they might benefit from an astringent. However, those with dry, sensitive skin should avoid them as they can be too harsh and lead to skin irritation.
Toner vs. Astringent: Choose What’s Right for You
Choosing between a toner vs astringent doesn’t need to be hard. Take the time to get to know your skin and what it needs. Astringents are great for those with oily skin, while toners are suitable for all skin types.
Pick the product that best fits your unique needs. Try it out, and you’ll find the perfect combination for your own skin!
Thanks for reading our article! Looking for tips or advice? Check out our other blog posts for more!
