Toners are used between the cleansing and moisturizing steps in your regimen, and can help remove any left-over residue on the skin to truly give you a clean slate. Toners are also meant to help balance the pH level of your skin, as many cleansers are too alkaline.

 

Toners are typically water-based, there are some with alcohol however this can be very drying long term so if buying, try to aim for a toner with a low percentage of alcohol (this includes witch hazel that can be alcohol free or based so check the label!).

 

If you want to go the more natural route, you can always just use plain witch hazel or any hydrosol (floral water) that would be the most appropriate for your skin type and concerns.

 

Hydrosols are easily accessible, just make sure you read the labels. Information is power.

 

Some examples of hydrosols you can use are;

 

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia distillate)

– cooling & hydrating
– antibacterial & anti-fungal properties
– great for after-sun care
– the smell can be quite strong, so you can dilute the scent with witch hazel without losing any toner properties

 

Melissa (Melissa officinalis distillate)

– lemon fragrance
– is an astringent so it gives you that ‘tightening’ sensation
– best for oily skin types

 

Lemon Peel (Citrus limonum distillate)

– anti-fungal & antibacterial
– antiviral & anti-parasitic activities
– can be used to help lighten the skin (age and sun spots)
– great for use in the mornings!

 

Orange Blossom or ‘Neroli’(Citrus aurantium distillate)

– has astringent properties so it’s great for oily or acne-prone skin
– has antimicrobial properties
– is soothing so it is safe enough for sensitive skin

 

Peppermint (Mentha piperita distillate)

– cooling effects, great for use in after-sun care or even hot-flashes

 

Rose (Rosa damascena distillate)

– most widely used and produced hydrosols in the world
– very gentle, rejuvenating
– great for irritated skin and acne

 

Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana distillate)

– has been used to help treat atopic dermatitis
– great for acne, eczema and is common to be used as aftershave

 

To make your own toner, all you have to do is choose hydrosols that would blend well with each other and determine the ratios how you see fit. Smell each hydrosol by itself to make sure you don’t have an overpowering scent over another. You can always dilute the smell by using witch hazel!

 

 

 

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The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be used or substituted for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. The information we provide is for general use. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional before making any medical decisions. 

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the nearest hospital emergency department, or call the emergency services immediately. If you choose to rely on any information provided by The Honesty Policy, you do so solely at your own risk.