Skin
Some ideas are repeated so often by marketing teams (at the service of the demo-cosmetics industry) that they end up becoming an unquestionable "truth" for mere mortal customers.
If you do a little research, you'll discover that this is one of those beauty myths created to sell products.
The short and direct answer to the question is: toning is not necessary for healthy skin. So why use it?
Let's explain
Toners were originally developed to remove soap residue from the face when caustic soda-based soaps combined with hard water (a type of water in some regions) left a sticky residue after cleansing.
The alcohol-based tonic removes the soap scum, eliminating irritation and contributing to the smoothness of the cleansing.
Today, few people use soaps based on caustic soda and hard water (as filters are more readily available), so the original use of tonics has died out, but the product persists.
Tonics today
Toners today come in a huge variety of formulations.
Today's alcohol-based toner is used after cleansing to remove any lingering waterproof make-up residue.
Some can be used in place of cleanser. Others can be used as an ally for oily skin to remove any sebum left after cleansing, to produce a feeling of cleanliness.
Tonics are also known as astringents, and are popular with acne patients. They are based on salicylic acid and can contain sensory substances, such as menthol or camphor, to create a soothing sensation when applied to the skin.
Formulations for dry skin mostly contain propylene glycol and water to act as a moisturizing humectant, attracting water to the skin, which can be retained by a moisturizer applied afterwards.
There are different formulations for special use. For example, in an anti-ageing routine, a toner can contain an alpha hydroxy acid to induce exfoliation.
Glycolic acid, on the other hand, is more commonly used because it can be synthesized cheaply.
Another variety of toner is biphasic, which consists of a solvent and an immiscible oil without an emulsifier. In order for the water-soluble and oil-soluble phases to mix, the product is stirred immediately before use. This creates a temporary emulsion before facial application.
The water-soluble solvent dissolves dirt from the skin, while the oil leaves a moisturizing film to improve dry skin. Glitter can be added to the phases, creating interesting optical effects when shaken, which adds to the market appeal.
What they didn't tell you about tonics or astringents
To achieve the same effect as a tonic, there are several homemade recipes that you can make at home, naturally and inexpensively
1 Green tea tonic
A green tea tonic is a great way to treat acne naturally, as it has anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties, is rich in polyphenols and more. (2)
Its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce irritation and redness when applied topically to the skin. It helps the skin rejuvenate and repair skin cells, as well as maintaining collagen levels in the skin, which improves skin firmness and helps smooth out fine lines and wrinkles. (3, 4)
Recipe
Boil a cup of water.
Add a tablespoon of green tea leaves or dip a tea bag into the boiling water.
Leave to cool.
Soak a cotton pad in the tea or use the green tea bag itself and gently wipe it over your face.
You can freeze cotton pads soaked in green tea and use them to treat puffy eyes. (5)
2. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is rightly recognized for its skin rejuvenating benefits, it can restore your skin's pH balance, kill bacteria and prevent blemishes.(1)
Balances the skin's pH.
Exfoliation.
Reduce hyperpigmentation.
Stimulate circulation.
The fermentation process creates a compound in the vinegar called acetic acid, which is well known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Much of apple cider vinegar's effectiveness is due to the fruit acids it contains, such as acetic acid and malic acid.
Whether you want to treat wrinkles, acne or even a blemish, here are some ways to use it
Recipe
The best way to incorporate apple cider vinegar into your skin care routine
1 part organic apple cider vinegar
2 parts mineral or filtered water
Soak a cotton pad in the solution and wipe it over your face.
Don't use it when you're going to be exposed to the sun, remember it's an acid.
3. Aloe Vera and rose water
Aloe vera is simple to grow in pots, but considering its many healing powers, it's worth having one.
Known for its sunburn healing properties, it moisturizes the skin and treats inflammatory acne.
Rose water also has a number of benefits, ranging from reducing skin redness, moisturizing the skin, minimizing enlarged pores and balancing the skin's pH. Therefore, aloe vera and rose water collectively form a perfect combination!
Recipe
Mix 1/2 cup of aloe vera gel and 1/2 cup of rose water. Dip a cotton pad in the solution and apply all over the skin.
4. Mint
Mint leaves can naturally tone your skin, treat acne, clear away dead skin cells and invigorate your skin. A mint leaf tonic is excellent for oily skin, super simple to make and leaves your skin feeling fresh and moisturized.
Receita
Boil 1 cup of water.
Add a few mint leaves (or a tea bag) to the boiling water.
Leave to cool.
Dip a cotton pad in the solution and apply all over your face.
5. Rose water
It is one of the most effective tonics, especially for oily, acne-prone skin. Rose water has nourishing properties and gently removes dead skin cells that prevent clogged pores and rashes.
You can use the bottled kind available on the market. It's just as effective compared to homemade.
Recipe
2-3 cups of fresh, washed and cleaned rose petals
a wide pot or saucepan
strainer
glass spray bottle
+ or - 2 liters of distilled water
Add the cleaned rose petals to your pot or pan.
Add enough distilled water to just cover the petals. Don't add too much water, or you'll dilute the rosewater!
Place the pot on the stove over a low heat. Cover and boil for 30-45 minutes, until the petals lose their color.
Let the rose water cool completely. Strain the water into a spray bottle or capped jar.
Store in the fridge for up to a month.
6. Chamomile
An excellent idea for those who want that astringent feeling, chamomile has soothing, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce acne breakouts and dark spots on more sensitive skin. You'll also discover that it can brighten your skin! (6)
Receita
Boil 1 cup of water and add a tablespoon of chamomile, or a sachet.
leave to cool
apply to face
7. Saline solution
For normal skin and those who just want to correct the pH and lightly pre-hydrate, there's nothing more practical than using a cotton pad soaked in saline solution.
Attention
Any new product that you have never tried before, even if it is natural, should be tested to see if there are any signs of allergy.
To use or not to use tonic on the face
It's not necessary, but you can use a toner to enhance the cleansing and moisturizing action, since it's a liquid that's easily absorbed and can be used as part of the cleansing and moisturizing process.
Once you feel the tonic has been absorbed, it's time to apply your moisturizing cream as normal.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. Do not replace a medical opinion in any way.
