Apple Cider Vinegar Skin Toner: A natural alternative to skin toners
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV), a staple in many households, has long been used for its therapeutic benefits for digestion, weight loss, and more. When it comes to skincare, ACV emerges as a natural alternative to commercial toners, boasting properties that can help balance pH, reduce acne, and improve overall skin health.
Properties and Benefits
pH Balancing: One of the primary roles of a toner is to restore the skin’s natural pH level. After cleansing, the skin often becomes alkaline. ACV is acidic, helping bring the skin back to its natural slightly acidic state, promoting a healthy skin barrier.
Acne-Fighting: ACV contains acetic, citric, malic, and lactic acids. These acids can exfoliate skin, absorb excess oils, and unclog and minimize pores, making it effective against acne.
Anti-inflammatory: ACV can help soothe skin irritations and reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for breakout-prone skin.
Reduction in Age Spots and Hyperpigmentation: The alpha hydroxy acids in ACV can aid in removing dead skin cells, revealing a more even-toned complexion.
How to Prepare and Use ACV Toner
Here are the steps to choose and make your own Apple Cider Vinegar toner.
- Choosing the Right ACV: It’s important to select organic, raw, and unfiltered apple cider vinegar that contains the “mother” – a collection of beneficial enzymes, bacteria, and proteins.
- Preparation: A typical recipe involves mixing one part ACV with two parts distilled or purified water. For sensitive skin, you might want to dilute it further. DO NOT use pure ACV on your skin or face as in its natural form would be too strong for your skin.
- Application: After cleansing, dampen a cotton pad with the ACV toner and sweep it across the face, avoiding the eye area. It’s normal to experience a slight tingling sensation initially.
- Follow-up: Always follow up with a moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. If using the toner during the day, applying sunscreen is essential as acids can make the skin more sensitive to the sun.
Precautions
Patch Test: As with any new skincare product, conduct a patch test on a small section of the skin to check for any adverse reactions.
Avoid Overuse: Depending on your skin’s tolerance, start by using the toner once a day or even every other day, gradually increasing its frequency. Overuse can lead to dryness or irritation.
Storage: Store the ACV toner in a cool, dark place. To extend its shelf life, consider storing it in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
Apple Cider Vinegar Toner is a budget-friendly, natural alternative to store-bought toners that offers numerous skincare benefits. However, as with all skincare routines, what works for one person might not work for another. Pay attention to how your skin reacts, and adjust the frequency and concentration of ACV accordingly. The key lies in understanding your skin’s needs and being consistent with your skincare regimen.
