Today I want to talk about one of my favorite skincare steps- toners. I want to introduce you to two Korean skincare heroes: the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Essence Toner and the ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Toner. If you are following skincare influencers on Instagram then you probably saw both of these toners. They are both known for their gentle yet effective formulas loved by many.
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If you are like me and sometimes because of so much hype surrounding them you might not be sure which one is the best option for you, I've got you covered.
Full disclosure: I'm a combination skin type girl. Some days, my cheeks feel like the Sahara Desert, while my T-zone can be a bit of an oil slick. Finding a toner that delivers both hydration and some gentle tightening is a constant quest. So, I decided to put these two toners to the test on my own finicky face!
Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Essence Toner:
This toner has had a cult following for so many years and for a good reason. It is packed with 85% Centella Asiatica extract (aka cica), which is one of my favorite skincare ingredients as it's known for its soothing properties. Perfect for days when my skin feels a little irritated or post-breakout blues, this toner feels amazing on the skin. Plus, the addition of probiotics helps balance my skin's microbiome. That is a major win for keeping those pesky breakouts at bay.
The texture is slightly thicker than water, but still lightweight and absorbs quickly. I love that you can feel your skin getting hydrated and plump. It leaves a subtle dewy finish that my thirsty skin absolutely loves. Seriously, this toner is a lifesaver on those days when my skin feels like a dry sponge or irritated.
Here's what I truly adore about the Skin1004 toner:
- Hydration Hero: This toner is a serious hydrator. It plumps up my skin and leaves it feeling soft and supple.
- Soothing Savior: Cica to the rescue! This toner calms any irritation or redness, making it perfect for sensitive skin types.
- Buildable Layers: Feeling extra parched? Layer this toner! It absorbs beautifully without feeling sticky.
Now, there are a couple of things to keep in mind:Fragrance: This toner does have a slight herbal scent, which may not be for everyone. Personally, I find it calming, but it's worth mentioning.
Availability: Finding this toner in-store can be tricky. Thankfully, online shopping is your friend! You can get it at Stylevana with my discount code INF10SWEET.
ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Toner
This toner is a little bit different than the Skin1004 one. ROUND LAB is all about gentle, lightweight hydration. It is formulated with deep seawater from Dokdo Island (hence the name!). I like that it delivers a refreshing splash that leaves my skin feeling clean and prepped for the rest of my skincare routine. It's also packed with hyaluronic acid, which is another of my favorite skincare ingredients as it is like a magnet for moisture.
Here's why I've been reaching for Round Lab toner:
- Lightweight & Refreshing: This toner is very lightweight and is easy to layer for extra hydration. It absorbs instantly and leaves no greasy residue which some heavier toners can do.
- Gentle Formula: Perfect for even the most sensitive skin types. As someone sensitive to fragrance this toner is fragrance-free and non-irritating.
- Great for Layering: This toner plays well with others! It layers beautifully with other skincare products without pilling or disrupting the formula.
However, there's one thing to keep in mind:
Hydration Power: If you have skin that can get more on the dry side like mine, this toner might not be enough on its own. It delivers a nice layer of hydration, but for truly parched skin, something a bit more substantial might be needed.
The Verdict: A Toner for Every Mood
So, which of these two toners reigns supreme? Honestly, it all depends on your skin type and needs!
Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Essence Toner: This is my go-to when my skin needs a serious hydration boost and plump. It's perfect for calming irritation and leaving my skin feeling soft and supple with one layer.
ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Toner: This is my choice for days when my skin needs a gentle pick-me-up. It's lightweight, refreshing, and layers beautifully with other products.
Ultimately, both the Skin1004 and Round Lab toners are fantastic options forth trying. They're gentle, effective, and perfect for different skin needs.
Bonus Tip: Well, why not try both of these toners? I personally like to use the Skin1004 toner in the evening to replenish my skin after a long day. I tend to reach for the Round Lab toner in the morning for a lightweight pick-me-up before applying makeup.
Remember, the best skincare routine, and with that toner, is the one that works for ...you! Don't be afraid to experiment and find what makes your skin healthy.
Here are some additional thoughts to help you decide which toner might be a better fit:
Skin Concerns: If you struggle with redness, irritation, or breakouts, the Skin1004 toner might be a better choice with its cica and probiotic benefits.
Climate: If you live in a hot, humid climate, the Round Lab toner might be perfect for its lightweight, refreshing feel. Colder climates might favor the more hydrating Skin1004.
Budget: Both toners are affordable, with the Round Lab being on the cheaper side making it a great addition to your skincare routine. This might be a deciding factor for some!
No matter which toner you choose, remember to be consistent with your morning and evening skincare routine. It is important to give your skin a few weeks to adjust to the new product before making a judgment. And most importantly, have fun exploring the diverse world of k-beauty!
Let's Chat Toners!
This toner showdown is just the beginning! What are your favorite toners? Have you tried either the Skin1004 or Round Lab?
Share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below! I would love to build a community of skincare enthusiasts who can learn from each other and discover new skincare gems together.
P.S. In case you are looking for more K-beauty recommendations, check out my other blog posts for product reviews, routines, and skincare tips for all skin types! Keep in mind that you can snag both of these amazing toners on Stylevana! Use my discount code INF10SWEET for an extra 10% off your purchase. Your skin will thank you!
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