How does a tonic differ from a lotion (photo: @kylieskin) For the most part, tonics and lotions are very similar to each other. They are the final step in cleansing and do not need to be washed off. They remove residues of cosmetics and detergent surfactants from gels, foams and other products, neutralize the effects of tap water, equalize the pH level and prepare the skin, making it more receptive to subsequent stages of home care. In addition, they should be selected based on the type, condition and needs of the skin. But tonic and lotion also have fundamental differences.
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How does a tonic differ from a lotion (photo: @georgiafowler)
A tonic
is a product that, as a rule, contains active cleansing ingredients, but in a lower concentration. In addition, the assortment of tonics includes those that solve more specific issues: reduce the activity of the sebaceous glands, exfoliate and prevent the occurrence of redness and acne. Sometimes before applying a cream or serum, in order for them to show maximum effectiveness, you need to wait until the toner is well absorbed, and sometimes not (read the instructions carefully).
Renewing toner [comfort zone] Active Pureness
Active Pureness Renewing Tonic This astringent, alcohol-free tonic has not only a renewing and cleansing effect, but also an antibacterial effect. Such effects are achieved through the combination of two active components - gluconolactone and arginine. Active Pureness also contains mangosteen extract to fight free radicals. Suitable for both mature and teenage problem skin.
Revitalizing facial toner Weleda Hamameliswasser
Weleda Hamameliswasser Invigorating Facial Tonic The main components of this product are witch hazel distillate and rose moschetta leaf extract, which simultaneously refresh, soften and tone the skin.
Plus, Hamameliswasser has a pleasant, calming and soothing aroma, reminiscent of meadow grass. No acne or rashes: diet for perfect skin Read
Mary Kay Botanical Effects Refreshing Toner
Mary Kay Botanical Effects Botanical Effects refreshing toner normalizes the hydrolipid balance, neutralizing dehydration, regulates sebum secretion, reduces the visibility of pores and gives the skin a matte appearance. Two ingredients are responsible for this: dragon fruit saturates the skin with beneficial microelements and replenishes the lack of vitamins, and aloe vera further strengthens local immunity.
Librederm Hyaluronic Moisturizing Face Tonic
Moisturizing hyaluronic tonic Librederm Hyaluronic Moisturizing Face Tonic Temperature changes, cold wind and dry air due to heating devices negatively affect the beauty and health of the skin. All this can cause dryness, tightness and discomfort, but a well-chosen toner can eliminate discomfort and further slow down premature aging processes. Librederm Hyaluronic Moisturizing Face Tonic based on hyaluronic acid will help in exactly this situation and make the skin fresher and tighter.
What is hydrolate
Hydrolate is a cosmetic liquid based on natural plant components, obtained by steam distillation. It nourishes and moisturizes dry skin, maintains acid-base balance, restores and tones.
Scheme for obtaining hydrolate
Contraindications for use exist in case of individual intolerance to one of the herbal components. The product has maximum effect when it is correctly selected for your skin type.
Cosmedix Purity Balance Exfoliating Prep Toner
Exfoliating toner Cosmedix Purity Balance Exfoliating Prep Toner Purity Balance Exfoliating Prep Toner works in several directions simultaneously.
It removes residual sebum and cleansers, removes blackheads, preparing the skin for the subsequent application of products. It is aimed at maximum cleansing and preventing inflammation. At the same time, the tonic does not damage the natural epidermal barrier, does not dry out the skin and does not cause discomfort. And all because the mix of lactic and salicylic acids, niacinamide and tea tree acts gently but effectively. Why every girl needs collagen cream and drinks with collagen Read
Is it possible to combine funds
The use of tonic does not exclude lotion. They can be used in turn. First of all, cleansing should take place with a lotion that removes dirt and tightens pores, and then a tonic relieves irritation and provides adequate nutrition to the skin. This tandem will make your skin blooming and well-groomed.
In our age of fast technology and time shortages, manufacturers began to produce a combined composition called “lotion-tonic”. Here the main role is played not by functionality, but by compactness. This product is less effective and the cleansing procedure is not done as necessary, according to cosmetologists, but the woman will spend much less time on skin care.
The lotion is intended for the care of problematic facial skin. The toner is used for all skin types. It does not have pronounced cleansing properties, it does not relieve inflammation.
The best way would be to alternately use both remedies. One performs deep cleansing, and the second prepares the face for applying cream.
Nescens Metabolic Activator Toner
Facial tonic Nescens Metabolic Activator Toner Tonic-activator of metabolic processes stimulates cellular renewal, strengthens the skin, reduces redness and inflammation, evens out its tone and texture, restoring smoothness and radiance. The complex of acids included in the composition, in parallel with the peeling effect, works on hydration, niacinamide normalizes the epidermis’s own protective functions, taurine and glycerin retain moisture, and larch sponge mushroom extract restores firmness and elasticity.
Dr.F5 Heartleaf Pore Tightening Toner
Dr.F5 Heartleaf Pore Tightening Toner Rosemary, centella, hibiscus, lemon balm, sage - this is not a complete list of extracts that Dr.F5 brand experts used to create Heartleaf Pore Tightening Toner. All these medicinal plants are included in the Skinpore Controller complex, which not only refreshes the skin, maintaining hydrolipid balance and making pores less noticeable, but also fights rashes. It also accelerates the healing of microdamages.
Mixit Your Skin Normal to Oily Balancing Tonic
Mixit Your Skin Normal to Oily Balancing Tonic Mixit balancing tonic is a basic product for the care of oily, combination and problem skin. The hyaluronic acid it contains moisturizes, preventing dehydration and dryness, biotin reduces inflammation and irritation, and pyridoxine (vitamin B6) removes toxins. By the way, the feeling of cleanliness that appears after using this product remains until the evening.
M.Aklive Face Tonic Oily Skin Solution
M.Aklive Face Tonic Oily Skin Solution Alcohol-free Face Tonic Oily Skin Solution based on deionized water is a godsend for those with oily skin.
In addition, it contains time-tested ingredients such as green tea, chamomile, licorice and tree mushrooms - they are the perfect mix to solve specific problems. As a result, this product gently cleanses pores, neutralizes oily shine, brightens post-acne and gives the skin a porcelain matte finish and an inner glow. Metabiotics and other beneficial bacteria that are needed for beauty and youth Read
How does a tonic differ from a lotion (photo: @koraorganics) First of all,
a lotion
is a more general-purpose product that cleanses the face of makeup and other types of impurities. It also refreshes, moisturizes, removes redness and gives a matte finish. All these effects are achieved due to the concentration of surfactants in the formula. Sometimes lotion acts as a kind of replacement for serum.
What is micellar water
Micellar water is a cosmetic colorless liquid that is odorless and tasteless. Recommended for combating rosacea and acne. It effectively cleanses the epidermis, saturates skin cells with oxygen, removes makeup, and helps normalize the activity of the sebaceous glands.
Compared to tonic, this cosmetic liquid is delicate in terms of application and has a gentle effect on the epidermis. Suitable for all types. Copes well with excess sebum, gently removes dead skin cells and any impurities.
Suitable for women suffering from allergies, because it does not cause redness or irritation. It also promotes hydration and deeply nourishes the epidermis. It does not cause exacerbations in dermatological diseases. It contains an aqueous solution and micellars. Does not contain essential oils.
Disadvantages: neutralizes harmful and beneficial substances found on the skin. After use, it may make it sticky or dry, tighten or leave an oily sheen.
Restoring facial lotion Armani Beauty Crema Nera Acqua Reviscentalis
Restoring face lotion Armani Beauty Crema Nera Acqua Reviscentalis Crema Nera Acqua Reviscentalis lotion not only adds radiance and evens out skin color and microrelief, but also has a noticeable anti-aging effect, tightening the skin. Glycolic acid acts as an exfoliant, gallic acid activates the restoration of damaged cells, and the unique Revistentalis detox complex (derived from Myrothamnus flabellifolia, known as the “resurrection plant”) rejuvenates.
Tonics
Even consultants cannot always tell you what they are needed for. Of course, these products are designed to tone, but how? It turns out that their main task is to normalize the PH of the skin, which is disturbed by cleansing agents (we are talking about soaps, foams, lotions).
Remember: this product can be called differently (thermal water, cosmetic, balancing lotion, etc.), however, if the recommendations for use talk about an intermediate step between washing and treating the skin with a moisturizer, know that this is a category of tonic.
Don't expect miracles from these drugs! Tonics will not tighten the skin, smooth out wrinkles or tighten pores, except for a few minutes. Don't expect deep cleansing. Do not expect a reduction in skin oiliness (especially if you use alcohol-containing toners, which on the one hand dry out, and on the other hand, on the other hand, increase the secretion of sebum).
The tonic is really intended to normalize PH, but do not confuse the general acidity and the one brought down by washing a minute ago (alas, it does not affect the first).
You've probably already decided that you don't need toner, right? We hasten to reassure you - regular use of the drug will remove the remnants of makeup, supply the skin with antioxidants and allow the moisturizer to be better absorbed, prolonging its effect.
When choosing a toner, consider your skin type and carefully look at the composition. What should not be in the drug?
- acetone;
- essential oils (volatile plant extract);
- camphor;
- menthol (menthol);
- citrus fruits;
- flavorings, fragrances (fragrance).
Alcohol content in tonic water is acceptable, but not recommended. On the labels of imported cosmetics it may be designated as: SD alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, ethanol.
Facial lotion Sisley Floral Toning Lotion
Facial lotion Sisley Floral Toning Lotion Floral Toning Lotion can rightfully be called a cosmetic “waltz of flowers”.
And not only because of the characteristic aroma, but also because of the appropriate composition, which includes extracts of witch hazel, cornflower and rose. This product perfectly tones, relieves tension and redness, and also nourishes with moisture, transforming even the driest and thinnest skin. Expert opinion: hyaluronic acid injections and other popular beauty procedures that can be harmful Read
More details about the funds
Tonics differ in composition. Cosmetologists divide them into several large categories. They can be made either water-based or contain alcohol. Most often, there is no alcohol in this product, but it contains many plant extracts and oils. It can be used on areas with sensitive skin.
Lotions contain alcohol. The composition may include acids, antiseptics, vitamins and other components. Since lotions contain alcohol, it is not recommended to use it near the eyes. The best option would be to lubricate the inflamed areas with it. Cosmetologists regard these products more as medicinal than cosmetic.
Often, even manufacturers confuse these two concepts by writing “lotion” on the label when the composition does not contain alcohol, but contains a decoction of dandelion or chamomile.
Mattifying lotion for tightening pores Erborian “Bamboo”
Mattifying lotion for narrowing pores Erborian “Bamboo” Erborian light green lotion makes flawless matteness and a perfectly even tone a reality even for those whose skin begins to shine within a few hours after washing. The juice and fibers of bamboo moisturize and nourish, persimmon tones, white willow bark softens and adds velvety, and ophipogon japonica (a Japanese lily of the valley) soothes and protects from the aggressive effects of external factors. No matter how you look at it, this is an ideal facial care product.
How to use toner correctly
It is recommended to use tonic after each facial cleansing procedure: twice a day. Avoid the eye area when applying cosmetics unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer. There are two ways to apply toner to the skin.
1. Using a cotton pad along the massage lines:
- Moisten a cotton pad with toner and lightly move from the center of the forehead to the temples, one smoothing motion on each side;
- Then walk with a cotton pad from the wings of the nose to the ears;
- Distribute the toner from the center of the chin to the ears;
- The final stage: from the space between the eyebrows to the tip of the nose.
2. Cloth napkin (suitable for sensitive skin types):
- Soak a cloth napkin or pharmaceutical gauze folded in 2-3 layers well with the tonic composition and apply tightly to your face, like a fabric mask, for a few seconds.
Avène Tolérance Control Gentle Cleansing Lotion
Gentle cleansing lotion Avène Tolérance Control The uniqueness of the Tolérance Control lotion with Avène thermal water is that it dissolves makeup (suitable for the area around the eyes) and does not require rinsing with water or another cleanser. At the same time, it soothes, removes redness and remineralizes the skin. In fact, this lotion acts as a self-sufficient care, that is, this product replaces serums.
Recipes for simple tonics and lotions at home
If you don’t particularly trust store-bought cosmetics and prefer to use only what you have created yourself, we suggest creating the following options for home care cosmetics:
- Green tea is one of the best tonics! All you need to do is brew pure green tea, let it cool, and then apply it to your face using a cotton pad. This herbal component wonderfully soothes irritated epidermis and tones the face.
- Aloe vera is a great solution for oily skin. It also perfectly soothes the epithelium, allows you to get rid of shine and dry out pimples or rashes. Preparation of the liquid is simple - mix distilled water and aloe juice 1:1.
- Witch hazel is a great option for oily and normal skin. It has antibacterial properties and is an indispensable assistant in the fight against acne. Those with dry epithelium should not use the substance.
Before applying the liquid to your face, make sure that you are not allergic to any natural ingredients.
Ansaligy Hydrating Lotion
Moisturizing facial lotion Ansaligy Hydrating Lotion Hydrating Lotion contains a special form of folic acid, which noticeably tightens the skin within a month after the first use.
It was accompanied by betaine and soap tree saponins, which are responsible for moisturizing, restoring pH balance and preparing the skin for subsequent care. The most effective facial care products that will replace a trip to the cosmetologist Read
In tandem
The two cosmetics are not mutually exclusive; on the contrary, they are often used together. The lotion works first, thoroughly removing impurities and unclogging pores. Then the toner comes into play, soothing and nourishing the skin, preparing it for the application of the cream. A useful tandem of two drugs will provide deep cleansing and preparation for the next stage of caring procedures.
Modern man is often limited in time, and constant time pressure has generated a steady demand for combination products, such as tonic lotions. In such cases, it is not efficiency that comes to the fore, but compactness and ease of use. Universal solutions are not welcomed by cosmetologists, who advocate the gradual rather than simultaneous use of two products.
Don't Touch My Skin Don't Touch My BHA Exfoliating Lotion
Exfoliating lotion Don't Touch My Skin Don't Touch My BHA Acids in care are like a little black dress, you can't live without them now. Don't Touch My BHA, for example, contains salicylic and mandelic acids, which melt sebaceous plugs, unclog pores and gently exfoliate dead skin particles. This combination is enhanced by azeloglycine, which reduces inflammation and even lightens post-acne, and niacinamide, which reduces wrinkles. The lotion can be used to prevent acne on the body (back, shoulders and chest), as well as against ingrown hairs in problem areas.
Neutrale Micellar Lotion
Micellar toning lotion Neutrale Micellar Lotion Micellar lotion Micellar Lotion with extracts of ginseng, grapefruit, cornflower, hyaluronic acid and a complex of amino acids was specially created for sensitive skin prone to allergies and irritations.
And by the way, it is suitable not only for the face, but also for the décolleté area. It cleanses, refreshes, softens, prevents dryness and flaking, and also stimulates natural collagen production. Text: Svetlana Antonova
How to use tonics and lotions: useful tips
Correct use of the product is the key to a good result. To avoid dryness, redness, peeling and other troubles on the face, you need to remember the following few rules:
- The amount of alcohol in the liquid often depends on the skin type indicated on the packaging. If only 10% alcohol is added for dry epidermis, then products for oily skin can contain up to 60%.
- All lotions tend to dry out the face, and therefore it is better for those with dry and sensitive bodies to use only alcohol-free products.
- Both products should be used only after washing and before applying cream or any other care product! Micellar water is better for removing makeup, and foam or a special gel would be an ideal option for washing.
Both cosmetic products are easy to use! Apply the liquid to a cotton pad and use circular motions to apply to your face, especially your chin, nose and cheeks.
