4 all-natural toners and astringents to freshen up your complexion

Most toners purchased at the cosmetics counterwill set you back several bucksa bottle. For a fraction of the cost, however, you can make these all-natural toners with ingredients you can find in your kitchen. Here are a few toners for your skin care needs.

• 1 egg white

1. Clean your face thoroughly using any natural cleanser.

2. Whisk the egg white just before applying it to your face. Leave it on for about 15 minutes.

3. Wash off with tepid water and pat skin dry.

• 5 ml (1 tsp) dried chamomile
• 75 g (1/3 c) boiling water
• 2 drops essential oil1. Place the chamomile and boiling water in a cup. Cover and allow to steep for 15 minutes. Strain the liquid through a fine sieve into a sterile 125 millilitre (four ounce) glass bottle that has a tight-fitting lid. When cool, add the essential oil and shake well to mix. Allow to stand for 48 hours, shaking periodically.

  2. Pour the liquid through a paper coffee filter into a sterile glass bottle. Cap the bottle and store in a cool, dark place.

  3. Apply daily with a cotton ball.

• 60 ml (2 oz) lemon juice
• 125 ml (4 oz) distilled water
• 90 ml (3 oz) witch hazelCombine all ingredients. Pour into a clean bottle or decorative cosmetics container. Shake well before using. Apply with a clean cotton ball.Keep in the refrigerator indefinitely.

• 1 cucumber

1. Peel the cucumber and puree it in a food processor. Apply the puree to your skin using a cotton pad, gently swathing your face. Rinse off with cool water.

2. Refrigerate any leftovers in a clean, covered container. They should keep for a day or two.

• Banana is an astringent that induces a tightening or tingling sensation on the skin, which decreases the appearance of wrinkles.1. Clean your face thoroughly with any natural cleanser.
  2. Mash 1/4 of a ripe banana until very creamy and spread it all over your face, avoiding the eyes.
  3. Leave on for 15 to 20 minutes.
  4. Rinse with warm water and then splash cold water on your face. Gently pat your skin dry.