Can I use face toner on sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin is not always dry skin

Sensitive skin can also be oily or combination skin. Oiliness does not cancel out sensitivity, so choose a toner with both in mind rather than buying an oil control formula automatically. Skin that stings easily, particularly during or after cleansing, is sensitive. Redness, itching, burning and dryness are other clues. Sensitivity can accompany eczema, rosacea or contact dermatitis, a skin reaction triggered by contact with a substance.345

Which toner should I choose?

• Choose a fragrance free formula. An unscented product can contain ingredients that hide other smells and irritate dry, sensitive skin.
• Avoid heavily fragranced toners and formulas with lots of dyes or preservatives. Sensitive skin guidance also recommends avoiding dyes and harsh ingredients.
• Avoid alcohol containing skincare if your skin is dry. Alcohol rich astringents used for oil control can be harsh and drying.
• Be cautious with exfoliating toners. Alpha hydroxy acids can sting, and salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can irritate sensitive skin.
• Do not assume botanical ingredients are automatically suitable. Ingredients such as chamomile, lavender and rose oil can cause contact allergy.

For hydration, look for a moisturizing toner rather than an astringent designed to remove oil. Toner can add hydration after cleansing, but moisturizer still has a job, despite toner applying for the position.16

How do I add toner to my routine?

1. 1Wash with a gentle cleanser, rinse thoroughly with warm water and gently pat your face dry.
2. 2Apply toner after cleansing. Gently swipe it over your face with a cotton round, or mist it on if the product is a spray. Do not rinse it off.
3. 3Follow with moisturizer. For dry skin, apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp.
4. 4Start with one application a day, in your morning or evening routine. Toner can be used once or twice daily, but frequency should depend on tolerance and the other products you use.

What if I have rosacea or use prescription skincare?

With rosacea, leave toner out. Choose a mild cleanser and a rosacea friendly moisturizer instead. Apply prescribed rosacea medication before moisturizer, and wait until your face is dry before moisturizing to reduce burning or stinging. Test new skincare before applying it to your face. Avoid exfoliating, rubbing and scrubbing. If you cannot find products your skin tolerates, ask your dermatologist for specific options.2

When should I stop using toner?

Stop using a toner that causes burning, stinging, itching or irritation. If you have applied an irritant, rinse the affected skin with warm water and an emollient, a moisturizing product, as soon as possible. A contact reaction can appear within hours or days, so an uneventful first application is not the whole picture. Watch for itching, blisters, dryness or cracking. A rash can look red on lighter skin or dark brown, purple or grey on darker skin. See a doctor for persistent, recurring or severe symptoms. Tell your dermatologist if even moisturizer burns or stings.56

What should I expect from toner?

Changes from toner usually take six weeks to three months and can be subtle. Do not keep using an irritating formula while waiting for benefits. A basic routine can stop at cleanser, moisturizer and daytime sunscreen, leaving toner without a compulsory attendance policy. Sunscreen protects against ultraviolet radiation; toner does not replace that step.137