How Do I Choose the Best Witch Hazel Toner?

To choose the best witch hazel toner, consumers should search for a product that contains natural ingredients. This product is often recommended for those who are combating acne. A combination of organic extracts designed to kill bacteria, reduce swelling, and balance oil production in the skin can dramatically improve the complexion.

Toner is a liquid tonic that is applied to the face after it has been washed. This tonic is designed to minimize the appearance of pores, and remove any dirt or debris that was missed during the washing process. The application of toner should typically be followed by use of a moisturizer formulated to work with an individual's specific skin type.

Witch hazel is a naturally drying ingredient and is usually only found in products that are designed for use with normal to oily skin, or extremely oily skin types. In addition to toning the skin and tightening pores, this extract naturally fights off future infections. As old skin irritations are healed by daily application of this product, new black and white heads are prevented from forming by its anti-bacterial properties. Use of a witch hazel toner on dry to sensitive skin can occasionally cause breakouts and excessive dryness, including red, irritated patches.

Straight witch hazel that has not been mixed into a prepared toner can be found in the first aid aisle of most grocery and convenience stores. This dilution usually contains between a 10% to 15% concentration of witch hazel, and also is mixed with a low dose of alcohol. Alcohol is also used in many commercial beauty toners, though typically at much lower concentrations, and can be additionally drying to the skin. Only those with moderate to severe acne should consider use of pure witch hazel as a toner.

Due to this chemical's tendency to dry skin naturally, it is often best to look for a prepared witch hazel toner that is made from all natural or organic ingredients. Aloe leaf juice is a common ingredient that may be used in this type of product. As the witch hazel works to tighten skin and kill bacteria, aloe helps lock in moisture to the newly cleaned skin cells to prevent drying. This ingredient also has astringent properties, and can prevent the formation of new clogged pores and skin infections.

Individuals who experience chronic acne may also require a witch hazel toner that treats their existing additional symptoms. Acne, which is the formation of bacteria in the pores of the skin, can also lead to redness, swelling, and scarring of the delicate facial tissues. Toner which also contains allantoin can address these conditions, as it works to kill the bacteria already present in the skin. This ingredient soothes irritated skin, reduces the appearance of redness, and causes swelling to go down. Skin exposed to a combination of witch hazel, aloe juice, and allantoin can, over time, appear brighter, less red, and healthier.