Natural Toner Tips - Skin Care Essentials Articles | Skin Care

By: Matthew Hick

Designed to tighten the pores, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, toners are a wonderful way to give the skin a daily boost. Used after general cleansing, and before moisturizing, toners help to rejuvenate tired skin. Add it to your daily skin care routine for a fresh, clean and nourishing feel.  But watch for over-the-counter products that may contain alcohol. They tend to dry the skin and cause irritation, especially on those who are fair or have sensitive skin.

For some easy and inexpensive ways to tone the skin without the risk of over drying, try these homemade toning tips:

Aloe.
Known for its soothing effects, this natural healer is an excellent way to treat damaged or sunburned skin by encouraging skin regeneration naturally. Available in tubes at the drugstore, simply snapping off a twig from an aloe plant and squeezing out the liquid also does the trick.

Lavender. Not just soothing, this essential oil is known for its antiviral and antiseptic qualities. Used to kill bacteria and keep skin clean and healthy, lavender is great for sunburns.

Tea Tree Oil.
Another essential oil is known to be a strong antibiotic, antiseptic, antiviral and bactericide that helps clear skin of bacteria and aids in the prevention of blemishes and breakouts.

While the treatments above are good for all skin types, try some of these for special skin concerns:

For Dry Skin: If you suffer from dry skin, you have to be careful not to add to your discomfort by unknowingly using a drying agent on it. Mint toners made from an extract of 2 handfuls of fresh mint leaves boiled in 100grams of water and applied to the face with cotton wool are a refreshing alternative.

For Oily Skin: Try concocting a toner using honey and egg. Whisk one egg until it thickens, adding 1 tsp. of honey and 1 tsp. of lemon juice. Apply to face and neck for 10 minutes, washing with warm water. Dab dry.

For Normal Skin. Rose water not only cleans, but hydrates and nourishes the skin in order to increase circulation, hydrate it, and restore natural PH levels.

Cucumber also is a refreshing toner. Simply chop a small fresh cucumber into a half cup of plain yogurt. Apply to skin for 10-15 minutes, washing off with warm, clear water.

Freshening the skin with a toner is a quick and easy way to give your skin a lift. Just remember: Natural skin toners are made with fresh ingredients with a short shelf life. No preservatives are added, so leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator for 1-3 days before being discarded. Never use anything that smells bad.