Toners stimulate circulation in the skin, remove any remaining dead skin cells or greasiness and give the dead skin a smooth texture. Toners can be helpful for those who have very oily skin or who wears lots of makeup. Use a toner after cleaning the skin or as an interim cleaner to remove dirt and oil. Toners also help to restore the skin's natural pH balance.

While no cosmetic product can change the size of your pores, toners and astringents can make them appear smaller. These products work by very slightly irritating the skin, causing it to swell and making pores less noticeable.

Alcohol and water are the major ingredients in many skin fresheners, astringents and toners. Other ingredients can include witch hazel, glycerin, rose water, vinegar, alum, boric acid, menthol, camphor and other herbs. The major difference in the products is the amount of alcohol they contain. Alcohol strips the naturally occurring oils skin needs to be healthy, so look for a product without alcohol, especially if you have dry skin.

COLD TREATMENT with a splash of cold water is the best toner and can be used by those with any skin type. It closes the pores and improves the skin's texture.

SKIN FRESHENERS are very mild and contain water such humectants as glycerin or rose water and very little alcohol (less than 10 percent). Humectants help prevent the evaporation of moisture from the skin. These products are very gentle and are especially good for sensitive, dry and normal skin.

SKIN TONICS are stronger, containing water, humectants and up to 20 percent alcohol. Tonics are for normal, combination or oily skin.

ASTRINGENTS contain water, humectants, up to 60 percent alcohol and antiseptics. These are drying and only suitable for very oily skin or for application to specific problem areas. Witch hazel is an astringent.



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