Real talk: what does a toner even do? I never really added one to my skincare routine. I was never sure of what the actual benefits toners had on my skin. I've told you before that I am a skeptic; so I wondered if this was just a gimmicK? LOL, yes I just jump to extremes and thought the cosmetic industry was lying to me. Dramatic. As usual. Of course, I had read about toners before but because I never gave a one a fighting chance, it didn't have time to actually make a difference on my skin. I decided to stick to a routine and have patience and see if this made a difference. The test subject: Hyrafresh Toner from L'Oreal. It's alchohal free and "refines in a splash."
According to Paula's Choice, a skin care company that also features informative articles about the benefits of various forms of skincare, toners "can transform the way your skin looks and feels after cleansing." Here is their explanation of the benefits of a toner:
"A toner can quickly and fundamentally provide skin with generous amounts of antioxidants, soothing agents, and vital hydrating ingredients. A state-of-the-art toner enhances skin’s surface, giving skin what it needs to look fresher, smoother, and hydrated. It also serves to remove those last traces of makeup you may have missed with your cleanser. Once you start using a well-formulated toner, the results will be undeniable. As many of our staffers can attest, it no longer becomes an optional step—it’s a must-have!"
After using Hydrafresh Toner for about two weeks I did, in fact, notice a difference in my skin. And I was pleased. I sometimes have built up dead skin around the corners of my nose. While applying my makeup, I noted that I did not have to work so hard to make foundation sit well near my nose. I was shocked, really. The toner was the only new product I was using on my face. My cheeks also looked radiant. So I was pretty much sold on the toner. However, as more time went on, I started to notice that my nose started to dry out. I decided to alternate the days I used the toner. Once I began to use this toner more sparingly, I felt that the results lasted better. Instead of daily use, for people to who have normal skin, use the L'Oreal Hydrafresh Toner 3 or 4 days a week.
So, no, toners aren't a gimmick LOL. But, as I've said before, respond to your skin needs rather than following someone else's routine. This is a great, affordable toner to see if you would like to add a toner to your routine.