Skin care toners – Do you use a facial skin toner?

There seems to be a debate on whether or not a toner is necessary in your skin care routine. I for one am a dedicated toner user. Toner has been part of my skin care routine since I was in my twenties and I am now over 50.

Toners are used after cleansing your face but before moisturizing. They are meant to remove the last bits of cleansing lotion, dirt or debris and to restore the skin's pH balance. Additionally, depending on the type of toner and the ingredients they contain, they can offer anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Toners refresh and cool the skin and prepares your face for the next application of your skin care routine, such as applying your moisturizer or makeup, if any.

All skin types can benefit from a toner. However be sure to use the right toner for your skin type. Furthermore, find a toner that is free irritants such as acetone, mint, menthol and SD alcohol, and ethanol and isopropyl alcohol. Alcohol is very drying to the skin and harms the soluble collagen below the surface of the skin. Natural ingredients such as witch hazel, germanium, honey, lemon, ivy and sage, chamomile, and green tea are just some of the herbs used in toners. Although witch hazel by itself can be very drying to the skin, use it with moisturizers such as vitamin E and honey.

As indicated above, toners are used after cleansing your face but before moisturizing. To apply, add a generous amount to a cotton ball and stroke over your face and neck liberally. Your toner should feel soothing and refreshing to the skin. I personally leave my toner in the fridge so it is really refreshes the skin and the cool liquid will close the pores before applying any moisturizer or makeup.

Below is a simple recipe to make your own toner. Keep it refrigerated and your skin will love the soothing and refreshing treat.

Anti-aging Toner
1/2 cup pure spring water or distilled water
2 teaspoons green tea leaves (or 1 green tea bag) - not decaffeinated
Bring water to a boil. Place the tea leaves or tea bag in a glass or bowl. Pour the boiling water over the leaves or bag and steep for 2 to 3 minutes. Strain the green tea into a bottle, and let it cool. Apply to skin with cotton balls. Do not rinse. Apply moisturizer.

It is not a mystery green tea is so popular in the cosmetic industry. Loaded with Vitamin E and C, the antioxidant agents slow the signs of aging externally.

For more skin care articles, homemade skin care recipes such as toners, facial peels, cleansers and exfoliates, visit Complete Skin Care Therapy and click on the recipes tab.


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