the truth about toners

The toning portion of a daily regimen is often misunderstood and not always necessary.  Many people feel that toning must be done on a daily basis to ensure clean skin.  Oily patients especially like to tone, because it makes their skin feel drier and tighter (if only for a small period of time).

There are many different toners available on the market today, and it is important to understand how they function, their formulation and benefits of use.

Toners were initially used to balance the skin’s pH after cleansing with soap, which can be more alkaline and drying to the skin.  Because of this alkalinity, toners with a more acidic base helped to lower the skin’s pH, bringing it back to its normal range.  For example, the skin has a pH of about 5.5 to 6.5.  If a person uses a soap that has a pH of 11, then applies a more acidic toner with a pH of 3.0 after cleansing, this will help to bring the pH level back down.

However, if the cleanser you are using is what we call “pH balanced,” then toning is not really necessary.  If you or your patients still feel the need to tone, look for toners that are alcohol-free – alcohol can cause unnecessary drying – and will enhance your daily regimen, such as toners that are formulated with alpha hydroxy acids, nutrients and antioxidants.  Also, try pouring some of your toner into a spray bottle and spray it on your skin throughout the day, especially if your toner is formulated with antioxidants and nutrients.  This way you are protecting and nourishing your skin throughout the day.  This will also help to avoid wasting product by using cotton squares.

PCA SKIN offers two toners:  Smoothing Toner, which is formulated with lactic acid (AHA), citric acid (AHA) and aloe vera (antibacterial and soothing) which is best suited for oily skin types; and Nutrient Toner, which is formulated with pumpkin wine (supplies rich vitamins and antioxidants to the skin), Glutathione (antioxidant) and lactic acid (AHA) which is suitable for all skin types and conditions.

Begin by using either of these toners once every other day, and then use more or less often based on skin type and condition.

the power of pumpkin

This time of year, the thought of pumpkin is typically visions of pie.  Aside from is role in holiday desserts, this nutritious and delicious vegetable is also great for your skin. The natural enzymes found in pumpkin have excellent keratolytic properties and help release impacted cells from the stratum corneum, leaving the skin smooth and soft.  This is especially important in the winter months when colder temperatures and lower humidity can leave skin dry and flaky.

In the exfoliation of the skin, enzymes function differently from acids. Alpha hydroxy acids exfoliate by dissolving the bonds (desmosomes) holding cells together, while enzymes work by cleaving the bonds between amino acids that make up proteins.  Exfoliation with enzymes is typically a more gentle process than with single acid peels, and highly effective.

In addition to the excellent surface-smoothing action provided by its enzyme component, pumpkin is also a rich source of vitamins A and C, and a host of other beneficial nutrients.  Treat yourself and your patients to a professional pumpkin mask.  The result is smooth, glowing and healthy skin.  Find these ingredients in the PCA SKIN Pumpkin Peel Treatment. This treatment is especially good for acneic, breakout-prone patients or those with sluggish, dull complexions. Pumpkin Peel Treatments are a great choice for the holidays, and for healthy skin.