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10 best exfoliating toners that tackle ageing and scarring for smoother, glowy skin

These products work to dissolve dead cells to leave skin clear and glowing

Pippa Bailey
Monday 12 October 2020 12:09 BST
These use  acids to dissolve dead skin cells and dirt that settle in fine lines and block pores
These use  acids to dissolve dead skin cells and dirt that settle in fine lines and block pores

Far from those toners of the spritzing floral water variety that have very little – if any – effect on skin, we are all about exfoliating toners, which use acids to dissolve dead skin cells and dirt that settle in fine lines and block pores, to leave skin clear and glowing.

They also even out tone, help the skin retain moisture, speed up cell turnover, and tackle excess oil and breakouts.

And they do all this without abrasive micro-beads, which only superficially exfoliate the top layer of skin (known as manual exfoliation) and are bad for marine life as they don’t disolve or breakdown.

There are three categories of acids used in exfoliating toners: alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) and poly-hydroxy acids (PHAs).

AHAs are mainly either glycolic or lactic acid, and are great for normal/combination skin and those concerned with the visible signs of ageing.

The most popular BHA in skincare is salicylic acid, and it’s perfect for those with congestion (such as blackheads and milia), acne and excess oil.

PHAs are not as common, but still have plenty to offer. They have a larger molecular structure than AHAs and BHAs, so they don’t penetrate the skin as deeply, leading to minimal irritation; perfect for those with sensitive skin.

The most common PHAs are lactobionic and gluconolactone acids.

Simply soak a cotton pad in your chosen toner and sweep it across freshly cleansed skin once a day, preferably in the evening (acid exfoliation can leave skin more sensitive to sun damage).

If you’ve not used an acid exfoliator before, build up use from three times a week to daily. Mild irritation or tingling is to be expected, but if you experience anything more than this, stop using it.

All our favourites give clearer, smoother, brighter skin after a few weeks of repeated use, and there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for mild or major irritation, struggling with teenage spots or mature lines.

You can trust our independent reviews. We may earn commission from some of the retailers, but we never allow this to influence selections, which are formed from real-world testing and expert advice. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

The verdict: Exfoliating toners

Quite how Kate Somerville made something that sloughs away dead skin and grime to reveal a bright, smooth complexion completely without irritation, we don’t know, but we love it. For a more budget option, The Ordinary’s glycolic acid solution is typical of the brand’s no-frills efficiency.

Refresh your skincare routine with one of the best face cleansers and organic moisturisers

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