Substances that reduce the size of facial pores are called toners, according to "Milady's Standard Cosmetology." These astringent solutions also remove residue left by cleansers and soaps, act as moisturizers and help remedy skin conditions. Home remedies are not meant to replace professional care--seek help from a doctor or dermatologist if you're concerned about the quality of your skin. Some ingredients, such as flower-based essential oils or honey, can cause allergic reactions. Avoid ingredients that you have a known allergy or sensitivity to.
Everyday Remedy
Witch hazel is toning oil extracted from the leaves of the Hamamelis virginiana tree. Not only does it function as an astringent, reducing the size of facial pores, the oil also acts as an antiseptic as noted in "Milady's Skin Care and Cosmetic Ingredients Dictionary." Mix 12 drops of witch hazel with two drops lavender essential oil. Lavender has antimicrobial properties and is purported to be a calming, soothing extract with a floral, fragrant scent. Apply the toner to your face after cleansing and moisturizing to reduce the size of pores and lock in moisture. Rinse immediately after use. Use cold water, which temporarily adds to the pore reduction effect.
Acne-Fighting Toner
Tea tree oil is an astringent substance, recommended by the MayoClinic.com as an alternative treatment for acne. This highly astringent substance also functions as a facial toner, as noted in "A Consumer's Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients." Mix 12 drops of tea tree oil with four drops of chamomile essential oil. Chamomile is purported to have skin-soothing, anti-inflammatory properties as noted in "The Herbal Companion." Use tea tree oil and chamomile in place of a facial cleanser or after moisturizing to reduce the size of facial pores. Rinse your face immediately after using with cold water to further minimize the size of pores.
Dry Skin Toner
Cucumbers act as a mild facial toner, closing facial skin pores. According to "Natural Beauty at Home," cucumbers contain ascorbic and caffeic acids, as well as the trace mineral silica. The silica in cucumbers draws water from the skin, reducing puffiness and inflammation. The acids gently peel away dead skin cells and debris from other facial care products. Peel one whole cucumber and mix it in a blender with a tablespoon of honey. Honey, a natural moisturizer, is a natural antibacterial ingredient as noted in a June 1999 study published by the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine. Dry skin, which may be prone to cracking, can benefit from the added moisture of honey and its antibacterial properties. Use a cucumber and honey-based facial toner after cleansing -- there's no need to moisturize separately unless your skin is very dry. Apply the mixture to your face and allow it to sit for up to five minutes before rinsing the remedy off with cool water.
References
- "Milady's Standard Cosmetology"; Arlene Alpert ; 2007
- "Milady's Skin Care and Cosmetic Ingredients Dictionary"; Natalia Michalun; 2009
- "A Consumer's Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients"; Ruth Winter; 2009
- "The Herbal Companion"; Marcus Webb; 1997
- "Natural Beauty at Home"; Janice Cox; 2002
Member Comments