When it comes to drugstore beauty finds, Pixi has always been the toner authority. The Glow Tonic was the gateway to acid toning for most of us. Fast Forward a decade, and the brand has expanded to a number of targeted skincare collections, each one with its own liquid step. Most recently, Pixi launched Antioxidant Tonic. After using it for a couple of weeks, I can only hope it is the entry formula in an entirely new line of Skintreats. It’s that good.
What is Antioxidant Tonic about?
Pixi refers to the new Antioxidant Tonic as “the shield for your skin.” Its sole purpose appears to be straightforward–to protect the skin from oxidative stress. What makes this new launch so special however, is its multifaceted performance. Not only is the new tonic super hydrating, it also brightens, balances, and soothes the skin. Unlike other Pixi tonics, this is a true 3-in-1 formula: a toner, essence, and serum in a single step.
What’s in the new Pixi toner?
Of all the Pixi tonics, this latest addition has the most viscous texture. It’s quite juicy, actually. The thicker viscosity is most likely due to the second ingredient: Betula Alba Bark Water, aka Birch Tree Sap. This botanical is rich in minerals and amino acids and also a superb hydrator. Pixi powers up its latest with a Nordic Berry Blend that includes Cloudberry, Strawberry, Lingonberry, and Blueberry Extracts, to maximize its antioxidant activity.
I am most impressed with the inclusion of Niacinamide and Vitamin C in the form of Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP), both of which deliver overall brightness to dull and sallow skin tones. Other highlights include probiotics, Sodium Hyaluronate, White Ginger Extract, Ceramide NP, Vitamin B5, and Sea Water. At this price point, there simply isn’t another toner with an ingredient deck as well-rounded. You’ll be happy to hear the formula is alcohol-free and has no added fragrance.
How to use it?
I can’t emphasize this enough: skip the cotton round when applying this toner. The Antioxidant Tonic is so rich and silky that patting it directly into skin will elevate your self-care efforts. Those familiar with the 7 Skin Method (the K-beauty phenomenon that means applying the same toner/essence 7 times back-to-back after cleansing), can try a multi-layer method. Semi-recently, some refer to this as “skin flooding.” My skin has been slightly dehydrated lately and I’ve enjoyed using this tonic in three layers before my moisturizer. Most days however, it’s ‘one and done.’
Does it simplify my routine?
On lazy days, absolutely. It’s been a minute since a hydrating toner has impressed me this much. And, especially, at such a budget-friendly price. It feels like an essence serum hybrid and delivers both instant and lasting hydration. As remarkable is how well it absorbs in just seconds. It never feels tacky or sticky. Two thumbs up.
$29 (250ml) or $15 (100ml) at pixibeauty.com
