What do toners actually do for your face? Cleansers, moisturizers, and masks tend to receive all of the attention in the beauty community, but a facial toner deserves a place in your skin care routine. It’s most likely the most astringent product in the routine, helping to get rid of breakouts and calm facial acne.
Once upon a time, toner belonged to the three-step facial routine: cleanse, tone, and moisturize. Face toner is a water-based liquid that is often infused with skin-soothing ingredients like aloe vera, mint, eucalyptus, or tea tree. The idea is that a toner refreshes the skin without stripping it of natural moisture. In doing so, the toner won’t irritate sensitive skin or cause excessive dryness. Toner actually prepares the skin for your post-cleansing moisturizer.
Should You Use A Facial Toner?
Toner works to remove the last traces of dirt or impurities that are leftover after washing your face. It can have a positive impact if you incorporate it into you skin care routine, as it works to improve the appearance and tightness of pores. Can you say anti-aging properties? Facial toner may also work to refine rough patches and improve overall skin tone. Everyone can use a facial toner, and people with oily skin or those who are prone to acne may especially benefit. Toner goes the extra mile to get all of the grime out of your pores, making it great for people who wear makeup.
Mint
Mint leaves exhibit curative medicinal properties because of the specialized plant compounds. The leaves have naturally-occurring flavonoids and carotenoids, including vitamin A and salicylic acid. These two nutrients help to control the secretion of sebum on the skin. Additionally, they offer antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, helping to prevent inflammation and acne. Mint leaves are also mildly astringent, helping to naturally tone the skin. It has the ability to clear away dead skin cells and remove dirt from pores, revamping your skin for a brighter, smoother appearance.
Rosemary
Rosemary is rich in a variety of nutrients, including vitamins, iron, calcium, and antioxidants. Many facial creams, masks, toners, and cleansers contain rosemary extract or rosemary essential oil for this reason. It’s widely used to stimulate the skin, helping it feel energized and rejuvenated. Because it has disinfectant properties, rosemary may be beneficial for people with oily skin and acne. It can help lighten dark spots and blemishes when you apply it to the skin, helping to improve overall complexion. Rosemary may also reduce swelling and puffiness on the skin because it has anti-inflammatory properties. The soothing properties make it an excellent ingredient for skin care.
DIY Rosemary Mint Facial Toner
Ingredients:
- 1 cup nearly boiling water
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 2.5 tablespoons fresh rosemary needles
- 2 tablespoons witch hazel (can add more for stronger toner)
Instructions:
- When the water is almost boiling in a small pot, remove it from the heat and pour it into a heat-safe glass bowl that has the mint and rosemary.
- Allow the herbs to infuse into the water for about 10-15 minutes. Strain the herbs out of the water, collecting the infused water in a vessel of your choice.
- Let the water come to room temperature before adding the witch hazel. The more you add, the more drying it will be.
- Store at room temperature and use within one week, or store in the refrigerator and use within three weeks.
