If you suffer from blemishes or large pores, astringents are beneficial in refining the skin and promoting a healthy appearance. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using pore-tightening astringents to improve the skin’s texture. Many commercial astringents tend to contain high alcohol levels, which is damaging to the skin by stripping it of its natural oil and increasing dryness. By using in-home astringents made from natural ingredients, you can get glowing skin without the side effects of chemicals.
Cranberry and Savory Leaves Astringent
Cranberries have a naturally high acid content and contain tannins, which act as the astringent without the drying properties of alcohol, according to the Prostatitis Foundation. In addition, cranberries contain tocotrienols, which are extremely nourishing to the skin leaving it moisturized without added oil, states the Dermaxime website. They are excellent antioxidant sources helpful in preventing free radical damage from external exposure to the sun, pollutants or similar skin irritants. Also, cranberries have the extremely soothing compounds of omega oils that reduce inflammation associated with acne while improving the overall strength, elasticity and collagen in the skin. (see resource 3)
Savory leaves and cranberries together retain antiseptic qualities that regulate your skin’s oil production for fewer breakouts and glowing skin. According to Maggie Oster in her book "Herbal Vinegar," savory leaves in particular help in maintaining pH balance while removing impurities. Steep crushed dried savory leaves evenly in hot water. Puree the cranberries in a blender or food processor and then separate the liquid by sending it through a strainer. Refrigerate the solution and once cool, apply it to the face with a cotton ball. Keep the astringent refrigerated for up to a week.
Mint Chamomile Astringent
The U.S National Institutes of Health report that chamomile’s medicinal use includes skin infections and inflammation associated with acne, eczema and wound healing. The Drug Information website states that chamomile is naturally calming to the skin and helps in moisture retention while delivering antiseptic and antimicrobial qualities necessary for eliminating impurities for clearer, healthier skin. Alternately, mint has naturally existing anti-fungal and antibacterial properties as well as chemicals that stimulate the skin, caused by menthol, states the Science Base website. Using a combination of chamomile and mint aids in preventing flare-ups and pimples caused by oil and impurities.
One calming chamomile astringent includes boiling chopped mint and dry chamomile flowers, straining the solution and storing it in the refrigerator. Apply it to the face with a cotton ball or pad.
Peppermint Witch Hazel Astringent
According to Rhode Island’s Department of Environmental Management, witch hazel is a naturally astringent liquid that calms irritated skin caused by acne and similar ailments. Additionally, it effectively refines the pores by balancing the skin’s pH while maintaining moisture levels. It contains tannins and stops bleeding. For those with acne-prone skin, blemishes often bleed and become inflamed when touched. Witch hazel quells skin aggravation while promoting healing to achieve clearer skin.
In addition to witch hazel, peppermint offers antiseptic qualities that eliminate impurities on the skin’s surface that can cause breakouts. Additionally, peppermint contains menthol, which reduces redness and inflammation while cooling the skin, reports the Chemical Land website. When combined, these two ingredients effectively prevent acne to maintain soft, glowing skin free of impurities.
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