Merumaya Gentle Exfoliating Toner

You might remember that I reviewed the Merumaya Luxury Face Wash last month, and after I was really impressed with it, the team recommended their newest release, the Gentle Exfoliating Toner* (£17.50). I was eager to try it out as a chemical exfoliant was something my routine was really lacking. I had previously tried the (way over hyped) Alpha-H Liquid Gold and didn't really enjoy it at all. I found it really harsh on my skin and didn't seem to make any difference. I since tried the Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Pads, and although I did like them, I never got round to repurchasing.

If you missed that last post, you can't sit with us Merumaya is a relatively new UK-based skincare brand, created by industry expert, Maleka Dattu. Their motto is "Integrative Effective Skincare" and the brand stands for 6 principles: Prevent & Perfect, Performance, pleasure, practicality, price and patriotism. Their products are sold both online and in John Lewis stores, being one of the most affordable "department store" skincare brands.

The Gentle Exfoliating Toner contains 15% natural Alpha Hydroxyl Acids (AHAs), which gently exfoliate the top layer of skin to remove dead skin, leaving a clear, bright complexion. AHAs can be beneficial to all skin types. They can peel away dry, flaky skin, which allows other products to be absorbed more easily. Oily complexions will look refined and less sallow, and pores will be cleansed and unblocked. This will also mean fewer blemishes, and a faster healing rate.

What sets the Merumaya toner apart from the rest is the inclusion of Hyaluronic Acid and Natural Betaine. These both act to hydrate the skin, leaving it feeling plump and soft. Hyaluronic acid retains moisture, and is already naturally occurring within your connective tissues. Natural Betaine is an osmoregulator, meaning it maintains water balance in skin cells. It can also hold 1.6x its own weight in water. These ingredients mean you really get the most hydration out of any serums, moisturisers or oils you use after the toner.

As I mentioned before, I found other exfoliating toners really stripping to even my oily skin, yet this one feels similar to an essence, adding extra moisture rather than taking it away. You aren't limited to using it once every other day like the Alpha-H, the Merumaya Gentle Exfoliating Toner is, as the name suggests, gentle enough for daily, or even twice daily use. You can also use it as a targeted spot treatment, one of my favourite ways to use these types of toners. I pop a small amount on a cotton bud.

The Merumaya Gentle Exfoliating Toner is just so comfortable, and a pleasure to use. I have to say that this product has really surprised me. I mentioned in my previous Merumaya review that I found the signature essence (the company uses the same scent along their line of products) a bit too much, however this time around I love it! It has really grown on me and is now one of my favourite things about the toner. I'm really happy I have found a lovely exfoliating, and the extra hydration takes it above and beyond any similar products.

#BEAUTYHASNOAGE

Maleka, the creator of Merumaya has released the most lovely video #beautyhasnoage. Maleka's mission is all about changing the perception of what is defined as beauty for the future generations. It's so inspiring to hear her campaigning beauty for all, and especially touching on ageing as being a beautiful process. I have so much respect for her knowledge and passion, and just makes me love Merumaya all the more. I think their products are brilliant for the price, and I now want to explore the range even more. I am particularly intrigued by the Melting Gel Cleanser, one that I have seen talked about all over the blogosphere!

Have you ever used an exfoliating toner? 

Also, share your thoughts on #beautyhasnoage!

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*Post contains PR samples