Toners aren’t what they used to be 10, 20 years ago—and that’s a good thing. Gone are the days of harsh, alcohol-based treatments that strip skin. In, are hydrating formulas that soothe and plump. Today’s toners act more like a primer for your skin-care routine, New York-based board-certified dermatologist Arielle Kauvar, MD, previously told Allure. They prep your skin for all of the serums, moisturizers, and whatever else follows, helping them to absorb faster and deeper.
The K-beauty Skinfood Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pads, which are pre-soaked cotton pads made with carrot root extract and glycerin, do just that. I recently just got back from Florida with a really bad sunburn (kids, do as I say, not as I do!), and my skin has been aching for relief. I placed a few of these on my cheeks, down my neck, and on my shoulders, and not only did they feel amazing, but when I applied a rich cream shortly after, it definitely felt like the lotion blended in easier than ever. Perhaps it was just a placebo, but either way, my skin felt great! Well, as good as it could feel after getting accidentally annihilated by the sun. (My sister’s sunscreen had expired—how was I supposed to know? 😭)
For those without sunburns, after cleansing, place the cloths directly on skin in areas that need extra moisture, like cheeks or forehead. Leave them on for five to 10 minutes, then pat in any remaining essence—your skin will eat it right up!—before moving on to the rest of your routine (serum, moisturizer, and, dear god, sunscreen).
The Skinfood Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pad is in the March Allure Beauty Box.
