Apple Cider Vinegar and Witch Hazel Toners

Skin Toners have several benefits: Close pores, remove the traces of left over soap and remove impurities from the skin. Toners restore the skins' natural pH balance. Commercial toners are filled with harsh alcohol and other ingredients that can irritate your skin. Make a facial toner at home with these simple ingredients! There are ways of toning your skin naturally and gently.  You can use Witch Hazel or Apple Cider Vinegar as a base.

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) contains beta carotene, which helps counter the damage that is done to our skin by free radicals. It is known to help maintain firmer skin help tighten large pores and clear up blemishes. It’s a natural bacteria-fighting agent containing vital minerals and elements that are excellent for the skin and hair. Its an effective natural agent in treating age spots and can help those with acne by killing the bacteria and balancing our skin's pH level. It also absorbs excessive oil from our skin.

Witch Hazel is an excellent natural astringent.  It hydrates the skin and reduces inflammation while sanitizing the skin. However, witch hazel contains at least 14% alcohol (I use Humphreys brand), you can certainly opt  for Witch Hazel Hydrosol which is alcohol-free. 

Witch Hazel Toners:

·      You can use Witch Hazel alone by applying to the face with a cotton ball and cleansing.

or

·      4 tbsp of Witch Hazel mixed with any essential oil that suits your skin type. Amount of drops may depend on which oil you are using, their strength and how many different oils you are using.

4 tbsp Witch Hazel

4 drops of Tea Tree Oil

8 drops of Jojoba or Grapeseed oil

ACV Toners:

·      You can use ACV with water alone as a toner.  Depending on the container that you are using, you can use the equal measurements. Mix 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar with ½ cup of distilled or spring water. Pour into a container and shake well.  You can use cotton to wipe your face or you can spray it onto your face and pat dry with your hands.

or 

·      You can add green tea infusion to the toner. Green tea is loaded with anti-oxidants and is great for your skin. Anti-oxidants are known help counteract wrinkles and dark circles under the eyes. To make it, pour 1/4cup of boiling water over 3 green tea bag. Let the tea steep for 15 minutes. Remove the tea bag and let the tea cool for a few hours. Mix together with of apple cider vinegar and 1/4, 5 drops of Tea Tree oil and 8 drops of Jojoba oil. Store this toner in a glass bottle.

            1/4 cup of distilled water

            1/4 cup of ACV

            3 green tea bags

            5 drops of Tea Tree oil

            8 drops of Grapeseed oil