Q.

I’ve been reading online that toner is an “optional” step in your cleansing routine. Can you tell me your perspective on this? What causes the tightness you feel on your face?

– Michelle D., Canada

A.

Toner is used to help seal skin’s pores. After cleansing, our pores have opened up (allowing the cleanser to work), and applying a toner is going to help seal these pores and keep them clean. Most toners are alcohol-based, which can cause a “tight” feeling, though it can often over-dry skin. In Merlot’s toner we don’t use alcohol, but instead use witch hazel – a much gentler alternative that seals pores and leaves skin feeling silky, rather than dry. Many people do still consider toner “optional,” but toners are gaining in popularity and usage.

Have a skin care question? Curious about Merlot products? Send in your questions to MerlotSC @ gmail.com