MicrodermResearch

Do you use a toner before or after a home microdermabrasion?

Let’s start with a quick revision of facial toners.

A facial toner is a product that we apply to the face after cleansing makeup with other cosmetics. Toner, as well as a makeup remover, are two of the basic and most important steps for cleansing the face. They take care of cleansing the pores and prepare the skin for the application of night creams (evening) or makeup products or moisturizers (morning).

Toner after microdermabrasion

 

There are 3 types of face toners depending on your preferences and skin needs.

  1. Alcohol-based toners

Alcohol-based toners are usually quite strong. Popular ingredients in such products include witch hazel, glycolic acid, and AHA, which have an exfoliating and firming effect on the skin. They often dry out the skin, sometimes even too much. Alcohol-based toners are usually recommended for people with very oily and problematic skin, as they eliminate dead cell buildup, which is also the main idea behind microdermabrasion procedures.

Such products are not a good option before or after a microdermabrasion treatment. The harsh compounds, available in alcohol-based toners will make the skin more susceptible to irritation and redness. You should also avoid exfoliating products one week before and two weeks after the procedure and most alcohol-based toners have this exact purpose – exfoliating the dead skin cells, sebum and impurities.

  1. Rosewater and/or glycerin-based toners

This type of face toners are also quite strong. They are not suitable for sensitive skin types, as it may cause redness. Often, there are many fragrant ingredients added to this type of facial toners that smell good but may actually aggravate skin sensitivity, so keep that in mind if your skin is prone to irritation.

Rosewater and/or glycerin-based toners are great prior and post microdermabrasion treatment, as the procedure increases skin dryness. Both rosewater and glycerin provide deep moisturizing effect on the skin, they will decrease the healing time and will take care of the impurities on the skin surface. Additionally, both ingredients act as strong humectants. So, yes, you can use a rosewater and/or glycerin-based toners before and after your microdermabrasion treatment but be careful – if you notice redness or increased skin sensitivity, you should immediately discontinue use.

  1. Water-based face toner

This is definitely the type of face toner that is recommended before and after a microdermabrasion session. It is gentle even for the most sensitive skin types and does not cause irritation, blemishes or discomfort. The lack of alcohol makes it perfect for almost any skin type because it neither greases it nor dries out the skin.

Water-based toners are a perfect option before and after a microdermabrasion treatment, providing optimal hydration levels for your skin.

The regular application of facial toners will also enhance the action of other skincare products

After your microdermabrasion procedure, try to use the toner after washing your face to get rid of the sebum accumulated and dirt buildup. According to dermatologist Alisha Zalka, toner application can enhance the effects of other applied products immediately. So if you want to see even faster and better results from your night cream, moisturizer or serum, make sure to take that extra step in the evening ritual.

Vanessa Micoff MD

Dr. Vanessa Micoff received her Bachelor of Science degree in Venereology from the University of California, Riverside and her M.D. from the University of California, San Diego. She is a member of multiple dermatology associations and lecturer. More about her here.

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