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Have oily skin? Here’s how to choose the best toners for your complexion

Lauren Barth
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If you have oily skin, you likely encounter your fair share of skincare conundrums. Should you still moisturize? Do you need a more aggressive cleanser? Will exfoliating make things better or exacerbate your underlying issues? Most importantly, what ingredients should you seek out or entirely forgo? 

Naturally, with so many skincare questions, finding the right products and curating a routine for your face can be a challenge. We’ll give you a head start with one item you’ll definitely want in your skincare toolkit: toner. 

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Toner is great for those with combination or shine-prone skin since it provides additional cleansing without affecting the skin’s natural pH balance. In fact, when used after a cleanser, toner can restore necessary acidity and fight the overproduction of sebum (aka oil). 

Toner can also reduce the appearance of your pores, lock in natural moisture, and protect your skin from harsh environmental damage. Plus, it feels refreshing on your face. Ready to tone down the shine and get all the benefits of this skincare do-all product? Here’s how to find the right toner for your oily skin.

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What ingredients should you look for?

If your skin is shining, and not in a radiant way, look for these key ingredients when browsing for a new toner. Beta-hydroxy acids and alpha-hydroxy acids, two compounds that minimize pores and decrease oil production. Additionally, look for products that include glycolic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin’s surface. Ultimately, these ingredients will help reduce excess oil and set you on the right path toward a healthy, glowing complexion.

One option that’s great for oily skin and includes these key ingredients is the Olehenriksen Balancing Force Oil Control Toner. The salicylic, glycolic, and lactic acids work together to unclog pores, eradicate oil, and purify your skin, leaving you with a positively radiant glow. The green tea antioxidants in this product also decrease inflammation, while the mint and eucalyptus additives energize the skin.

There are myriad on-the-go toner options should you need a little extra TLC mid-day. Feeling a bit shiny? Give yourself a spritz of toner to reset and refresh your face. La Roche-Posay Serozinc Face Toner is a mattifying mist formulated with zinc sulfate to target oiliness. This convenient and portable Milk Makeup Matcha Toner gel stick can dull shine and detoxify skin whilst you are out and about. It contains kombucha and witch hazel that work to shrink pores and get rid of unwanted oil.

What ingredients should you avoid?

Regardless of how greasy your skin feels, be sure to steer clear of toners with alcohol, since this harsh ingredient can make your skin too dry and tight. However, if you already have a toner with alcohol in it, don’t throw it out quite yet. Check the label to make sure that it also has skin nourishing emollients to counterbalance alcohol’s drying potency. 

Witch hazel can also dry out your skin, but not as dramatically as alcohol. When used in moderation, it can be quite helpful in combatting unwanted shine. Try Mario Badescu Witch Hazel Toner. It will reduce unwanted shine while soothing the skin with aloe and flower extract.

How does toner fit into your routine?

As previously mentioned, toner should be used after you cleanse your face in the morning, as it resets your pH balance, allows your moisturizer to penetrate the skin, and acts as a primer for the rest of your skincare products. Furthermore, it ensures your foundation goes on smoothly and naturally. You can also use a toner at night before you go to bed if you want a deeper clean than your facial cleanser offers. 

How do you apply toner?

Grab your cotton balls and gently dab toner onto your face, focusing on the T-zone if you’re especially oily there. You can also press toner directly onto your skin with clean hands.

No one wants to blot at an oily face all day, so take heed and tone up your beauty arsenal. Using a shine-combating toner is just one essential step towards the clean, fresh complexion you desire.

BlissMark provides information regarding health, wellness, and beauty. The information within this article is not intended to be medical advice. Before starting any diet or exercise routine, consult your physician. If you don’t have a primary care physician, the United States Health & Human Services department has a free online tool that can help you locate a clinic in your area. We are not medical professionals, have not verified or vetted any programs, and in no way intend our content to be anything more than informative and inspiring. 

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