Why we do not use toner - protecting your skin barrier naturally
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Why we do not include a toner
You may think we left a toner out of our range by accident. In reality, its absence is entirely intentional.
At Cactus, we believe that most toners do more harm than good over time and do not respect how a healthy skin environment is designed to function.
What a balanced skin environment looks like
Understanding skin pH and balance
Your skin has a natural pH balance. When it is functioning properly, skin looks calm, hydrated and naturally radiant.
That effortless glow you sometimes notice is a sign that your skin is operating in balance.
Historically, toners were created to counteract harsh cleansers that disrupted skin pH. After cleansing stripped the skin, toner was used to try and restore balance.
Why we do not need to rebalance after cleansing
Our Lemon Myrtle Cleanser is formulated to cleanse without disrupting your skin's natural pH or damaging the acid mantle.
The acid mantle is a protective layer made up of fatty acids and sebum. It plays a vital role in:
• Protecting skin from environmental pollutants
• Preventing moisture loss
• Supporting skin barrier health
• Slowing the visible signs of ageing
When the acid mantle is compromised, skin becomes reactive, dry or excessively oily.
The role of sebum in healthy skin
Why stripping oil causes imbalance
Sebum is not the enemy. It is essential for healthy skin.
When skincare products strip oil aggressively, skin responds by producing more oil to compensate. This is why oily skin is often the result of over cleansing or harsh products, not excess oil production.
Maintaining a balanced level of sebum helps prevent:
• Excess oil production
• Dehydration
• Congestion and breakouts
• Sensitivity and irritation
Why toners feel good short term
The illusion of clean skin
There is no denying that toners can feel good initially. They often create a sensation of tight, smooth skin by temporarily constricting pores.
However, this effect is short lived.
Most toners rely on ingredients such as:
• Alcohol
• Witch hazel
• Strong astringents
These ingredients tighten pores by dehydrating the skin, which over time can reduce elasticity and compromise barrier health.
Why we avoid long term risk
While some people enjoy toners and witch hazel, our approach is based on long term skin health.
From research, formulation experience and industry insights, we believe the potential for long term damage outweighs short term cosmetic results.
Healthy skin does not require a toner when cleansing and exfoliation are done correctly.
How to cleanse deeply without toner
A barrier friendly alternative
A well designed routine removes the need for toner entirely.
To achieve a deep clean without stripping the skin:
• Cleanse daily with Lemon Myrtle Cleanser
• Use White Clay Mask once per week
The White Clay Mask draws out impurities, excess oil and environmental debris without compromising pore elasticity or skin balance.
Recommended product
Best alternative to toner for balanced skin
A gentle, pH balanced cleanser that supports the acid mantle, maintains skin balance and eliminates the need for toner.
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