Facial toners are one of the cosmetic products many skin care specialists have different opinions about. While some view it as mandatory, others argue that facial toners might be necessary only to those who have extremely oily skin. Facial toners are believed to have multiple benefits when it comes to improving the way the skin looks.
Removing soap residue, proving a fresh look, minimizing pores and improving skin tone are just some of the benefits the facial toners are said to provide. However, there’s no need to pay a premium price in order to be able to get these benefits. Whether you are trying to decide whether or not you might need facial toners or you are trying to green your beauty routine, making your own facial toner can be a simple, cost effective solution.
Before trying a few homemade facial toner recipes it may be helpful keeping a few aspects in mind. Your skin type is perhaps the most important element that should be taken into account.
Those who have dry or sensitive skin should stay away from highly acidic ingredients that might cause irritations or that might intensify existing problems even more. For those with the aforementioned conditions skipping ingredients such as apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, alcohol and other similar acidic ingredients might be a wise preventative strategy.
On the other hand however, rosewater facial toners are seen as a more appropriate alternative for all skin types. Here are a few recipes you might want to experiment with:
Cucumber facial toner. Blend two small cucumbers with half a cup of natural apple juice in the food processor. Apply the mixture on the face leaving it for 15 minutes, then rinse using lukewarm water. For a more refreshing and nourishing sensation you can also try mixing a small cucumber with 1 tablespoon milk and 2 tablespoons finely chopped mint until they get smooth. It is recommended that you use it immediately, yet keeping the mixture in a cool dark place can expand its lifespan.
Rosewater toner. You will need about 2 cups of fresh rose petals, 2 cups of distilled water, a few drops of glycerin and approximately half a cup of witch hazel. Put the rose petals and the distilled water in a small saucepan and let the mixture simmer on low heat. Let the mixture cool down, then put it in a glass container and add the rest of the ingredients. Adding more glycerin can be a good idea for dry skin, while a little witch hazel might be beneficial for those who have an oily skin due to its astringent qualities.
Lavender toner with grapefruit seed extract. This facial toner works well for normal and combination skin types. Mix one cup of lavender water with three tablespoons of vegetable glycerin and half a tablespoon of grapefruit seed oil in a jar and refrigerate the mixture after each use.
Lemon toner for oily skin. This recipe combines the astringent qualities of witch hazel with the gentle exfoliating properties of lemon juice for a smooth, matte skin. Mix 1/2 cup of witch hazel and 1/4 cup of lemon juice. Testing the mixture on a less visible area first might be recommendable to avoid potential irritations. Diluting the mixture with sparkling water is also a good idea if you find the mixture particularly strong.
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