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Holistic organic anti-aging treatments for professional use

Alkaline toners – effects, benefits, risks and what you should pay attention to

1. What is an alkaline toner?

An alkaline toner is a facial toner with a pH above 7. This distinguishes it from most conventional products, which are formulated in the acidic range (pH 4.5–5.5) . The goal of an alkaline toner is to neutralize excess acids on the skin , cleanse the skin from within, and regulate the skin's environment .

Alkaline care follows the idea that acidic stress caused by diet, environment and stress is excreted through the skin – and an alkaline environment supports this process.


2. When is alkaline care useful?

Alkaline toners can help with:

  • Over-cared skin (e.g. perioral dermatitis)

  • Rosacea & impure skin (for deacidification and regulation)

  • Skin stress due to environmental pollution

  • Hornification disorders and seborrhea

  • Hormonal changes

The pH value also plays a role in anti-aging : a slightly alkaline environment stimulates microcirculation , has an anti-inflammatory effect and can improve the absorption of active ingredients.


3. Can you combine alkaline and acidic (acidic) toners?

Yes – but specifically.

There's an intelligent skincare approach that first detoxifies and opens the skin with an alkaline toner . Then, a mild acidic toner (e.g., with fruit acids, hyaluronic acid, or lactic acid) can be used to restore the skin to its natural balance (pH 5.5) .

💡 Important: The order and spacing are crucial:

  • Basic toner first , then wait 5–10 minutes

  • Then apply active ingredient serums or a slightly acidic facial toner


4. Why do many supposedly alkaline toners contain PEGs?

Many brands—even those that claim to be "natural" or "alkaline"—use PEG derivatives (polyethylene glycols) in their toners. These substances often serve as:

  • Emulsifiers

  • Solvency broker

  • Humectants

  • Stabilizers for pH-sensitive formulations

The reason: A pH value above 7 destabilizes many natural active ingredients , which is why PEGs are used as a technical solution - even though they are not compliant with natural cosmetics and can weaken the skin barrier .


5. What are PEGs and why are they problematic?

PEGs (polyethylene glycols) are synthetic compounds derived from ethylene oxide . They make the skin more permeable—not only to active ingredients, but also to undesirable substances (pesticides, pollutants, preservatives, etc.).

Risks:

  • Disruption of the skin barrier

  • Promotion of allergies

  • Microbiome imbalance

  • Environmentally problematic (not biodegradable)


6. How to identify PEGs in the INCI list

Name (INCI) function Problematic because…
PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate Surfactant/Emulsifier synthetic, skin permeable
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Emulsifier not compliant with natural cosmetics
PEG-75 Lanolin Refatting agent can have a comedogenic effect
Laureth-4 Emulsifier/foam enhancer Ethoxylate derivative, potentially contains dioxanes
Ceteareth-20 Emulsifier derived from petroleum, increases skin permeability
Polysorbate-20 Solvency broker synthetic, potentially harmful to the microbiome

7. Why the BEAUÉTAL Basic Toner is different

➡ To the product

Alkaline pH value – supports skin balance and detox
Free from PEGs, perfume, alcohol, silicones and microplastics
100% natural & vegan
✔ Ideal for wrinkles, irritated skin, over-cared skin, tightness and acne
Supports active ingredient absorption and optimally prepares the skin
✔ suitable for sensitive skin

✔ Can be combined with an acidic toner in cosmetic treatment.

💡 Especially in combination with the Tri-Hyaluronic Serum with Silver, the toner has a skin-soothing, firming and anti-inflammatory effect – without any chemical compromises.


Conclusion: Basic toner – yes, but only without PEGs

Alkaline toners are a powerful tool for balancing the skin's environment , optimizing active ingredient absorption , and alleviating stress . But the formula must be just right:

🚫 No PEGs, no fillers, no hidden compromises.
BEAUÉTAL relies on real effectiveness without synthetic tricks.