mandelic acid vs retinol

15 BEST TONERS FOR DRY SKIN

Dry skin can feel tight, rough, and flaky. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including weather, genetics, and aging. Toners can be a great addition to your skincare routine for dry skin, as they can help to remove impurities, balance your skin’s pH, and prepare it for moisturizer. But with so many toners on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. Here’s a guide to the 15 best toners for dry skin.

OUR TOP PICKS 

CERAVE HYDRATING TONER

CeraVe’s soothing toner offers a refreshing dose of hydration and nourishment for your skin, thanks to its key ingredients including hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides. This 6.8 oz product is particularly well-suited for individuals with active skincare routines, as it replenishes moisture and strengthens the skin’s barrier. Despite some reports of stickiness by a few reviewers, its hydrating formula leaves skin feeling soothed and revitalized.

ELTAMD SKIN RECOVERY ESSENCE TONER

This toner from CeraVe is suitable for all skin types due to its gentle formula and high-quality ingredients. Free of alcohol and fragrance, it preserves the skin’s natural oils and features a patented blend of amino acids that soothe irritation and enhance the skin barrier. Reviewers praise its effectiveness in reducing pore size and improving wrinkles, with noticeable results from the first use. However, a few users found the formula to be too drying for their skin. Available in a 7.3 oz size, this toner offers gentle and calming benefits for a variety of skincare needs.

TOWER 28 SOS DAILY RESCUE FACIAL SPRAY

Tower28’s red spray bottle toner has garnered popularity for its gentle, non-irritating formula that improves skin tone and is suitable for all skin types. Free of fragrance and housed in a convenient spray bottle, this toner contains hypochlorous acid, known for its calming and purifying properties. Endorsed by the National Eczema Association, it effectively soothes eczema flare-ups, inflamed acne, and perioral dermatitis. While some users find the spray a bit harsh, the lightweight formula quickly absorbs into the skin, leaving it hydrated, radiant, and refreshed. Despite the desire for a finer mist, the toner’s efficacy in calming irritation and promoting skin healing makes it a popular choice among skincare enthusiasts.

PAULA’S CHOICE SKIN PERFECTING 6% MANDELIC ACID + 2% LACTIC ACID LIQUID EXFOLIANT

If you’re looking for a toner that gently exfoliates while also hydrating dry skin, Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant is a great option. This unique formula combines two alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) – mandelic acid and lactic acid – to remove dead skin cells without irritation. Mandelic acid is known for being gentler on skin than other AHAs, making it a good choice for those with sensitive skin. Lactic acid, a naturally occurring AHA, helps to hydrate and plump the skin. This exfoliating toner can help to improve the appearance of dry skin by smoothing rough texture, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and brightening the complexion. It’s also formulated to be fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores.

CHARLOTTE TILBURY DAILY GLOW TONER WITH NIACINAMIDE

Charlotte Tilbury’s lightweight solution is suitable for all skin types and doesn’t contain any harsh acids. It uses niacinamide, a type of vitamin B3, which helps to brighten the skin and has multiple benefits like calming, moisturizing, and strengthening the skin. Sephora customers love it because it’s gentle, clears pores, and improves skin texture, making it great for preparing the skin before applying makeup. It’s particularly good for people using strong retinoids, as it doesn’t contain drying or irritating ingredients like BHA or AHA. Even if you’re using retinol, you can safely use this product alongside it. It’s praised for its nice texture and hydrating formula, but it’s on the pricey side. You get 5 ounces of product in each bottle.

SK-II CLEAR LOTION SKIN TONER

The SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner is praised for its ability to deeply cleanse and exfoliate the skin without any fragrance. It’s suitable for all skin types. The main ingredient, Pitera™, along with AHAs, helps to improve skin texture by providing essential nutrients. Users find it hydrating and soothing, noticing immediate improvements in dullness and texture. It effectively cleans pores, even picking up dirt missed during face washing. However, some users note that the bottle can leak a bit, so caution is advised when pouring the slightly runny solution from the frosted bottle.

LA MER THE ESSENTIAL TONIC

La Mer’s The Essential Tonic is a luxurious choice for hydrating and refreshing your skin. Despite being on the pricey side, its key ingredients, including Miracle Broth and marine ferment, provide deep moisture and soothing benefits. It’s designed to complement La Mer’s Creme de La Mer moisturizer, enveloping your skin in hydration. With a perfect 5-star rating on Sephora, it’s hailed as the best splurge toner for those looking to indulge in high-quality skincare. Available in a 6.7 oz size, this tonic offers a lavish addition to your skincare routine.

CLÉ DE PEAU BEAUTÉ ESSENTIAL REFINING ESSENCE

Toners like this one, which contain alcohol and succinic acid, are adept at managing sebum production, thus diminishing surface shine and greasiness on the skin. The incorporation of hyaluronic acid and glycerin in this formula is applauded for preventing excessive dryness. Many individuals with oily skin regard this toner as a valuable investment, commending its capacity to regulate oil levels and impart a revitalizing radiance that lasts all day. Users appreciate its cooling sensation and its ability to enhance makeup application. Nonetheless, it is considered expensive, and some reviewers express dissatisfaction with the scent. Each bottle holds 5.7 ounces of product.

MURAD CLARIFYING TONER

Many people who care about their skin choose the Murad Clarifying Toner to help get rid of blemishes and make their skin clearer and healthier. This toner has special things like witch hazel extract, which makes pores smaller and reduces redness. It also takes away extra oil and dirt from your skin without making it too dry. There are good things in it like grape seed extract and vitamin E that protect your skin from things that can make it worse, like pollution. People like how it feels fresh and makes their skin clean and full of energy. It’s great for skin that’s oily or gets acne often. Using the Murad Clarifying Toner can be an important part of making your skin look better and clearer.

SKINCARE JUNKIE PORE THERAPY DAILY TONER PADS

People who love taking care of their skin really like using Skincare Junkie Pore Therapy Daily Toner Pads. These pads have a strong formula that helps make your skin look fresh, brighter, and less crowded with dirt and oil. They have important stuff like salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid that clean out your pores and make your skin smoother. They also have fruit enzymes and PHAs that make your skin look better and feel nicer, along with hyaluronic acid that keeps your skin hydrated. On Amazon, they got a perfect 5-star rating, and people say they’re the best for getting beautiful skin. Each pack comes with 50 pads, so you have plenty for your everyday skincare routine.

THE ORDINARY GLYCOLIC ACID 7% TONING SOLUTION

In the quest for clearer skin, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution steps up as a champion for blemish-prone and acne-faring complexions. This toner packs a punch with 7% glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that acts as a chemical exfoliant. By gently dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, it helps clear clogged pores, reducing the appearance of blemishes and preventing future breakouts. However, unlike some harsh acne treatments, The Ordinary’s toner boasts a formulation that prioritizes balance. Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative is included to lessen the potential for irritation that AHAs can sometimes cause on sensitive skin. This toner also aims to improve overall skin texture and tone, promoting a smoother and brighter appearance. 

INNISFREE GREEN TEA HYALURONIC ACID TONER

Innisfree’s Green Tea Facial Toner is praised for its ability to calm and soothe irritated skin, thanks to its key ingredients: panthenol, hyaluronic acid, and green tea tri-biotics™. Green tea is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can effectively alleviate skin irritation, redness, and swelling. This toner harnesses the balancing benefits of green tea leaves in a lightweight liquid formula that feels gentle on the skin. With a size of 6.8 fluid ounces, this product offers ample supply for daily use. Keep in mind that Innisfree’s Green Tea Facial Toner is not cruelty-free.

HARUHARU WONDER BLACK RICE HYALURONIC TONER FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

The Haruharu Wonder’s Black Rice toner is made especially for sensitive skin, giving it a gentle but good treatment. It has ingredients like rice extract and hyaluronic acid that calm and hydrate your skin. With fermented black rice extract and other good stuff, it helps sensitive skin. K-beauty is famous for using ingredients that soothe the skin without causing irritation, and this toner does just that. But, some people say it can sometimes make your skin feel a bit dry. Each bottle has 5.1 ounces of product, so you have enough for your skincare routine.

PIXI GLOW TONIC

For those with combination skin, which can be oily in some areas and dry in others, finding the right balance is key. Pixi Glow Tonic might be your perfect match. This toner contains 5% glycolic acid, a gentle yet effective AHA that exfoliates to remove dead skin cells and excess oil. This can help to minimize the appearance of enlarged pores in oily areas, while also promoting smoother texture and a brighter tone overall. Pixi Glow Tonic goes beyond just exfoliation, though. It’s formulated with soothing ingredients like ginseng and aloe vera to calm and hydrate, addressing dryness concerns. This balance of exfoliation and hydration makes it a good option for combination skin, helping to regulate oil production without stripping away essential moisture.

RENEE ROULEAU ELDERBERRY SOOTHING TONER

Infused with elderberry fruit extract, sodium PCA, and biosaccharide gum-1, this alcohol-free toner offers anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, perfect for sensitive skin. Users appreciate its ability to balance and relax the skin, preventing post-cleanse discomfort and promoting a healthy glow. Additionally, it’s noted for reducing hyperpigmentation and is suitable for sensitive, breakout-prone skin due to its minimal ingredient list. With anti-aging benefits packed in, this toner offers a comprehensive solution for skincare needs. Each bottle contains 6 fluid ounces of product, and it’s cruelty-free.

WHAT CAN FACIAL TONER DO FOR YOUR SKIN?

In the past, toners were mainly used to control oily skin and acne, especially in teenagers. But now, they’ve changed a lot. Toners today are made for different skin types and problems to help you take better care of your skin.

Usually, toners are used after washing your face to prepare it for other skincare products like serums and moisturizers. They work quickly to get into your skin and remove any leftover makeup or dirt. Some toners have acids that help remove dead skin cells and make your skin smoother. Others focus on hydrating your skin to keep it moisturized. Basically, the type of toner you use decides what it does for your skin.

HOW DO YOU APPLY FACIAL TONER?

Applying facial toner is easy and can be done in just a few simple steps:

Start with a freshly cleansed face: Use a gentle cleanser to wash your face and pat it dry with a clean towel.

Pour or spray the toner onto a cotton pad: Shake the toner bottle if needed, then pour a small amount of toner onto a cotton pad. Alternatively, some toners come in spray bottles, allowing you to mist it directly onto your face.

Swipe the cotton pad across your face: Gently sweep the saturated cotton pad across your face, avoiding the delicate eye area. Focus on areas that may be oilier or have more impurities, such as the forehead, nose, and chin (T-zone).

Allow the toner to dry: Let the toner absorb into your skin for a few seconds to a minute before moving on to the next step in your skincare routine.

Follow with moisturizer: Once the toner has dried, apply your favorite moisturizer to lock in hydration and complete your skincare routine.

CONCLUSION

Do you really need toner? Yes, toner is really necessary for the skin. And finding the best toner for dry skin is important for maintaining hydrated and healthy skin. With many options available, it is essential to consider factors such as ingredients, hydration levels and skin sensitivity when choosing the right toner for your needs. From alcohol-free formulas infused with hyaluronic acid to soothing toners infused with plant extracts, there are toners designed to address specific dry skin concerns. (rewrite this)

Chemical Peel for Acne Scars: An Expert Guide

If you’re someone who has struggled with acne in the past, you’re likely to have some unwanted reminders left behind in the form of scarring. While there are various methods to treat acne scars, chemical peels have become a popular choice among many individuals. A chemical peel, as the name suggests, uses a chemical solution to exfoliate the skin and remove the damaged layers. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about chemical peel for acne scars.

What is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a cosmetic treatment that involves applying a chemical solution to the skin to remove damaged or dead skin cells and promote new skin growth. This process can help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, sun damage, and acne scars. The chemical solution used in the peel can be adjusted depending on the desired level of exfoliation and the specific skin concerns addressed.

When it comes to treating acne scars, chemical peels are classified into three categories – superficial, medium, and deep. Superficial peels target the outermost layer of the skin, while medium and deep peels penetrate deeper layers of the skin. The strength of the chemical solution used in the peel increases with each category.

How Does a Chemical Peel Help with Acne Scars?

Acne scars occur when the inflammation caused by acne damages the collagen in the skin. Collagen is an essential protein that gives skin its strength and elasticity. When collagen breaks down, the skin may appear uneven, rough, or scarred.

Chemical peels work by removing the damaged layers of skin, stimulating collagen production, and promoting cell turnover. As the new skin grows, it appears smoother and more even. Chemical peels can improve the texture and tone of the skin, reduce the appearance of acne scars, and leave the skin looking brighter and refreshed. A 2020 study published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology concluded that chemical peels are an effective treatment for acne scars. The study found that a series of three chemical peels significantly improved the appearance of acne scars in 80% of participants.

How to Use Chemical Peel at home?

Whether or not you should use a chemical peel for acne scars at home depends on a number of factors, including the severity of your scars, your skin type, and your comfort level with DIY treatments.

If you have mild to moderate acne scars and are comfortable using a chemical peel at home, there is no reason why you can’t do so. The best type of chemical peel to use at home is one that is designed for home use and that contains a low concentration of acids. At-home chemical peels are typically less concentrated than professional chemical peels, but they can still be effective.

You need to follow the instructions carefully and to do a patch test on a small area of your skin before using a chemical peel on your entire face. This will help you to determine if you have any sensitivity to the peel. To ensure your safety, it’s important to purchase these peels from reputable sources rather than unfamiliar online sources, as some unverified suppliers have been known to offer questionable products.

Best chemical peels for acne scars at home include AHA (Alpha hydroxy acids) and BHA (Beta hydroxy acid). AHAs are gentle acids that are effective at exfoliating the skin and removing dead skin cells, which can help improve the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, and wrinkles. Some common AHAs used in chemical peels include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid. While BHAs are oil-soluble acids that are effective at exfoliating the skin and removing dead skin cells from the pores, making them a good choice for people with oily skin or acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid is the most common BHA used in chemical peels.

To use a chemical peel for acne scars at home, follow these steps:

  • Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry. Avoid using any harsh cleansers or exfoliants, as this can irritate your skin.
  • Apply the chemical peel to your skin using a cotton ball or cotton pad. Be careful to avoid the eye area.
  • Leave the peel on for the amount of time specified in the instructions. This will typically range from 1 to 5 minutes, depending on the strength of the peel.
  • Rinse the peel off with cool water and neutral the peel according to the instructions provided with the product or by your dermatologist
  • Apply a moisturizer to your skin (no retinoid or acids).
  • Depending on the severity of your acne scars, you may require multiple peel sessions spaced several weeks apart to achieve the desired results.

Pros and cons of Chemical Peel for Acne Scars

Pros

  • Chemical peels are an effective treatment option for reducing the appearance of acne scars.
  • They can improve the texture and tone of the skin, leaving it looking brighter and refreshed.
  • Chemical peels are a non-invasive treatment option that requires little to no downtime.
  • They can be customized based on the specific needs and concerns of each individual.

Cons

  • Chemical peels may cause redness, irritation, or sensitivity to the skin.
  • They may not be suitable for individuals with certain skin conditions or sensitivities.
  • Chemical peels should only be performed by a licensed and experienced skincare professional.
  • They may require multiple treatments to achieve desired results.

Chemical Peel vs Other acne scars Treatments

While chemical peels are an effective treatment option for acne scars, they are not the only option available. Let’s take a look at how chemical peels compare to other treatments:

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a mechanical exfoliation procedure that uses a rotating abrasive device to remove the top layers of skin. It is an effective treatment for moderate to severe acne scars, but it can also be painful and have a long recovery time.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that uses tiny needles to create punctures in the skin. This stimulates collagen production and can help to improve the appearance of acne scars. Microneedling is less painful than dermabrasion and has a shorter recovery time, but it may require multiple treatments to achieve the desired results.

Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is a cosmetic procedure that uses a laser to remove the damaged layers of skin and stimulate collagen production. Laser resurfacing can be an effective treatment for acne scars, but it can also be more expensive and may require a longer recovery time than chemical peels.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable treatments that can help improve the appearance of acne scars by filling in the indentations left behind. While dermal fillers provide immediate results, they are temporary and may need to be repeated regularly.

PREPARATION AND AFTERCARE FOR CHEMICAL PEEL

Preparation

  • Stop using any products that contain retinol, glycolic acid, or other exfoliants for at least one week before your peel. These products can make your skin more sensitive to the peel.
  • Discontinue the use of any antibiotics or other medications that may interact with the peel. Be sure to talk to your dermatologist about all of the medications you are taking before your peel.
  • Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry on the day of your peel. Avoid using any harsh cleansers or exfoliants.

Aftercare 

  • Apply a moisturizer to your face two to three times a day. Choose a moisturizer that is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.
  • Avoid sun exposure for at least two weeks after your peel. This will help to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation.
  • Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your face every day.
  • Avoid touching or picking at your peeling skin. This can lead to infection.
  • If you experience any redness, swelling, or discomfort, contact your dermatologist immediately

FAQs 

  1. Are chemical peels painful? Most individuals do not experience pain during the chemical peel process, though some may experience mild discomfort or tingling sensations.
  2. How long do the results of a chemical peel last? The results of a chemical peel can vary depending on the strength of the solution used and the individual’s specific skin concerns. Superficial peels may provide temporary results that last several weeks, while deeper peels may provide longer-lasting results.
  3. How long does it take to recover from a chemical peel? Recovery times can vary depending on the strength of the chemical solution used. Superficial peels may require little to no downtime, while deeper peels may require several days or weeks of recovery time.
  4. Who is a good candidate for a chemical peel for acne scars? Individuals with mild to moderate acne scars and generally healthy skin are good candidates for chemical peel treatments. It’s essential to consult with a skincare professional to determine if chemical peels are a suitable treatment option.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Chemical peels have become a popular treatment option for individuals looking to reduce the appearance of acne scars. With various types of chemical peels available, each with its own unique benefits and considerations, it’s essential to work with a licensed and experienced skincare professional to determine the best treatment plan for you. While chemical peels may not be suitable for everyone, they can provide impressive results when performed correctly. If you’re considering a chemical peel for acne scars, it’s essential to do your research and understand the risks and benefits involved. With proper preparation and aftercare, chemical peels can improve the appearance of acne scars and leave your skin looking healthier and refreshed.