Are Toners Really Necessary For Your Skin's Health?

Maybe you've heard this before. We know we have:

Most dermatologists will tell you that toner is not necessary for the health of your skin. Yes, you can skip that step in your beauty cleansing routine. Or can you???

Toners or astringents often contain alcohol. And that can make your skin very dry, very uncomfortable. Your face can feel as taut as a drum. In other words, you can barely move it. Remember SeaBreeze? That one would almost knock your socks off. The sting was there to zap any extra oil sitting on your complexion's surface.

But there are some new facial toners on the block. These ain't your mama's toners! Instead of stripping your skin of oil, these new formulas offer some good things-----like anti-aging ingredients and nourishing agents. Wrinkle fighters like----hyaluronic acid, peptides, and or glycerin.

And the new toners aren't just for you ladies with the greasy and pimply 'T-zones.' The new toners have been developed with all skin types in mind. And dermatologists are saying yes, to these new face savers.

Here are 3 toners we like:

1. Dermalogica Age Smart Anti-oxidant Hydramist ($65.50, mist spray, http://www.adorebeauty.com/, and other online skin care stores). Full of peptides to encourage collagen formation. Gives back elasticity and hydration to the skin. Mist spray contains agents that fight damaging free radicals.


2. Exuviance by NeoStrata SkinRise Bionic Tonic ($37, 36 single-use pads, at http://www.exuviance.com/ and other fine skin care stores). SkinRise contains a triple blend of Polyhydroxy Acids and a marine botanical to nourish and condition the skin. Ingredients also include green tea extract to protect the complexion from the elements. Brings about firmness and smoothness to the skin.


3. Care by Stella McCartney Toning Floral Water ($35, 4.2 oz, http://www.sephora.com/). Tones and soothes skin with anti-oxidants such as green tea and linden blossom extracts, with Vitamins A and C. Also hydrates skin and boosts radiance.