About Betty Expertise I am a licensed Esthetician and have been a professional Makeup Artist for over 15 years. I love doing makeup and teaching women how to do it themselves. I am familiar with almost all products and ingredients, and would be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding cosmetics.
Experience Licensed Esthetician (facialist/skincare expert) CA, 1985. My makeup work has been seen in Vogue, Madamoiselle, Details, Rolling Stone, etc. Clients have included: Warner Bros Studios, Quiksilver/Roxy, Vans, PBS, Cameron Diaz, Dita Von Teese, Kelly Slater, Jaime Pressley,etc.....
Expert: Betty Date: 12/12/2004 Subject: Natural toner or astringent
Question If there is a difference between a toner or astringent. I believe I need a toner because it seems milder than an astringent. But you can correct me if I am wrong and tell me which one I need.
I have normal skin. Correct me if I am wrong, but I am thinking all skin types need a toner or astringent.
I am running out of my toner but its expensive. I was looking for a less expensive one but effective one. If you know of something natural and easy to use like witch hazel that would be even better. Is witch hazel a good toner?
Thanks in advance.
Answer Hi Sallie! Yes, a toner is milder than astringent. Usually astringent contains more alcohol (cosmetic alcohol is different than rubbing alcohol). You should use a toner after you cleanse, to remove any extra makeup or any calcium deposits from hard water. I wash my face in the PM with cleanser and water, in the AM, I just use toner. For some reason my skin gets irritated if I wash it with water in the AM. I figure, all I need to remove from my skin is whatever it picked up overnight. I prefer to use Rose Water or Orange Blossom Water when I can find it. Middle Eastern markets usually have both, usually under $5 a bottle. Fancy specialty cosmetic shops sell the same stuff for $12 to $15 a bottle.Witch Hazel is fine, too, but be sure to use moisturizer afterwards. Tea Tree Oil, diluted about 2 drops per 1/2 cup of water, is excellent also. As far as mass market toners, that's one thing I will not buy at a department store- Toners are all at least 75% water! I won't spend more than $10 on it- and it better be good! Good luck and Happy Holidays, Betty
