Toners may often be considered a nonessential part of a skin-care regimen, but a good toner can actually make a difference. Growing up, I used toners mainly as a second step of cleansing, with the purpose of removing makeup and cleanser residue. However, I later found out that certain toners can do more, such as balance the skin. Toners that contain skin-friendly acids can help restore the skin’s pH level, which is naturally acidic (5.5 on the pH Scale). A balanced complexion is the perfect start to clear, blemish-free skin.
A simple, inexpensive acidic ingredient that can be used to create a toner is apple cider vinegar, which is high in acetic acid. The skin benefits of acetic acid have not been documented enough for my liking, but a large number of people have experienced great benefits from the use of apple cider vinegar in their skin-care routines. Many people claim that it has even cured their acne, faded acne scars and kept their skin clear.
My first experience with apple cider vinegar on my skin was rather scary. I applied it straight, undiluted, and I quickly developed a chemical burn. Later, I learned that apple cider vinegar should always be properly diluted with water. My following experience was much more successful, and I was then able to appreciate its benefits. Here’s a quick, easy, and inexpensive recipe to try!
What you need:
-Apple cider vinegar, unpasteurized, unfiltered, raw (I use and recommend Bragg’s brand, available at most health food stores and some groceries stores)
-Filtered water
-A clean glass jar, or an old glass toner bottle
-Utensil for mixing
-Cotton balls or cotton rounds
Preparation
1. Put 2 parts apple cider vinegar (ACV) and 4 parts filtered water in the jar.
2. Mix well.
3. Wet your cotton ball with the mixture and apply it to cleansed skin avoiding the eye area.
What you should expect:
A more balanced complexion and fewer blemishes.
If your skin reacts well to the ACV, you may want to increase your ratio to 1:1 of ACV and water for more effectiveness.
If your skin does not react well to ACV and becomes irritated, rinse your skin well and apply some aloe vera gel to soothe it.
Photo credits: Lilly Wallace