Skin and Body Care ~ Two More Toners

Today I want to share two more things that make wonderful skin toners with you.


The first is chamomile.  Chamomile is beneficial as a natural skin care treatment because of it's anti-inflammatory properties and it's ability to promote cell regeneration.  It is also helpful for problem skin affected by rashes, acne, eczema, psoriasis, scars, spider veins, age spots, discoloration and allergic conditions. 

The way that I use this is to simply brew a cup of chamomile tea from a bag and let it cool.  You're certainly welcome to dry your own flowers and brew the tea that way.  


Dab a cotton ball in the tea, gently apply it to your face and let it dry.  Store this in the refrigerator in a covered container.  I notice that my skin is very soft after I use chamomile as a toner.


Incidentally, chamomile is a home remedy for pink eye and is also said to be useful for reducing swelling from bites or stings as well.


The next item I want to share with you is apple cider vinegar.  According to ehow.com, apple cider vinegar is packed with alpha-hydroxy and amino acids that help to dissolve dead skin cells, balance the pH level of skin and stimulate blood circulation. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar stimulates the capillaries under the skin, leaving you with a soft glow.  

To use, mix equal parts ACV and distilled or spring water in a small (preferably glass) spray bottle and spritz on face after washing, but before moisturizing.  The smell will dissipate once it dries.  Alternatively, you can add a few drops of an essential oil to not only mask the odor, but to add more rejuvenating benefits to your toner.  Below, you'll find listed some good choices with their known contributions to skin care.  There is no need to refrigerate this version.

Lavender ~ known to restore skin elasticity and retard wrinkles

Frankincense ~ a strong revitalizing EO that is good for lightening age spots

Spikenard ~ retards wrinkles, revitalizes skin

Myrrh ~ retards wrinkles

Carrot seed oil ~ one of the strongest revitalizing EOs for the skin

Ylang Ylang & Rosewood ~ restores elasticity

Geranium & Helichrysum ~ regenerates skin

Sandalwood, Patchouli & Neroli ~ revitalizes skin

Definitions from the New Oxford American Dictionary:

restore = return to a former condition; repair or renovate so as to return it to its original condition

revitalize = imbue (something) with new life and vitality

regenerate = regrow (new tissue) to replace lost or injured tissue; regrow; bring into renewed existence, generate again

Some variations on the ACV toner would be...

Mix in thirds - ACV, distilled water and green tea which is full of anti-oxidants that are known to prevent wrinkling and dark circles under the eyes.

Other additions include chamomile, rose water and aloe vera.

Store any of these variations in the refrigerator for up to a month.


For more posts in this series click here.


I'm sharing this post at Simple Lives Thursdays and Your Green Resource.