I remember when toners were straight-up astringents, full of alcohol or witch hazel. I do not miss those days. The category has evolved into something I never expected. Many of the hydrating, micro-exfoliating, purifying, and glow-boosting formulas I come across are truly impressive.
I test each one on damp skin and dry skin, morning and night, before actives and instead of them, and in half a dozen other real-life scenarios.
This is where I review all of it: hydrating toners, acid toners, essences, milky toners, and facial mists.
Not sure you need both? Find out whether a milky essence beats a toner.
Want a toner that does real work? Here is the Darphin formula that won me back.
Of all the EVE LOM masks, the Rescue formula is my favorite. It’s clay based, soft-drying, infused with honey, and packed with skin-conditioning minerals. I even like the camphor smell. EVE LOM later extended the Rescue range with two more…
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For the past six months, the British born Inkey List has become one of Sephora’s most talked about brands. It has also camouflaged itself quite nicely within the retailer’s signature black and white color scheme. Very crafty. Cutting through the…
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First things first — Happy (very) Belated Birthday to Emma Hardie Skincare! Over the summer, the cult favorite British brand celebrated a decade of its iconic Moringa Cleansing Balm. If you have yet to experience this makeup melting potion, the…
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Every brand has its hero product. The Japanese skincare line DHC has two. Most of us associate the line with the golden bottles of their silky Deep Cleansing Oil. Others cannot live without the single ingredient treatment that is Olive…
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Kjaer Weis is best known for its eco-luxe yet practical, refillable compacts. The line is not entirely makeup centric, however. It includes a gorgeous lip balm, a body oil, and The Beautiful Face Oil that promises (and delivers) a brighter,…
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If there is one thing I have learned from taking care of my skin the past five years, it is this: daily use of an acid toner is a habit worth developing. What began with a splurge on the iconic…
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Although I love every epicurean Thanksgiving feast, I just can’t get behind the traditional cranberry side on my dinner plate. Not a fan, don’t get the concept, can’t explain. Which is why when it comes to skincare, it’s peculiar that…
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Not long ago, a very brave stranger hiding behind their phone screen called me out in instagram comments for enlarged pores and deep forehead wrinkles. While looking literally everywhere for a fuck to give, I stumbled upon my bottle of…
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