The Inkey List Exfoliating Toners
WHICH ONE DO I NEED?
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Exfoliating Acid Toners are my favourite method of exfoliation, easily slotted into an existing routine, mess free and largely more gentle than physical scrubs (no apricot seeds here, thanks!) The Inkey List has two brilliant acid toners in their range, not to be mistaken with toners to remove remnants of makeup, these form the beginning of your leave on skincare- not the end of your cleansing routine. After cleansing, apply the toner to a cotton pad and take over the face and neck, follow up with the rest of your routine.
The results? Smoother, glowing skin with a perfect base for whatever you apply next.
PHA TONER
INCI: Water (Aqua / Eau), Propanediol, Gluconolactone, Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide
PHA’s are popping off in skincare at the moment and as usual, The Inkey List were ahead of the game. Neither an AHA nor a BHA- PHA’s (Poly Hydroxy Acid/gluconolactone and lactobionic acid) are gentle exfoliants due to their humectant (hydrating) properties and large molecular size- making them PERFECT for sensitive skins.
They were under an exclusive patent for many years, and only recently have we seen them introduced across formulas from brands other than Neostrata which is great news for skincare junkies everywhere!
This toner from the Inkey List is great because it combines PHA with Niacinamide making it great for all skins, but particularly for anyone who struggles with redness and can’t use other exfoliants.
I’ve recommended countless times and only ever received positive feedback, it’s one we should all have on hand.
GLYCOLIC ACID
INCI: Aqua (Water/ Eau), Glycolic Acid, Propanediol, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Alcohol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Betaine, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Trisodium, Ethylenediamine Disuccinate.
Glycolic Acid was the first of the acid toning range from the Inkey List and for good reason too. Glycolic is best known for its brightening properties and works brilliantly on hyperpigmentation, it also remains one of the best and most researched chemical exfoliators.
It does however have a smaller molecular size and potential to irritate than PHA which means it isn’t for everyone. I would only use this particular formula (& most glycolics) in the evening and no more than 3x a week for a brightening boost. It’s also really good at rectifying any suspect tanning errors!
As always with exfoliants, they can increase sun sensitivity so don’t forget to use SPF every day to keep your skin healthy and protected.
The Inkey List is Cruelty Free and available at Selfridges, Cult Beauty, Boots, Sephora US and Shoppers Drug Mart Canada, in addition to their own website where you can AskINKEY for specific product related support.
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