Homemade Tonics

They refresh the skin well. For all skin types, avoid highly astringent formulations, as the alcohol found in these lotions tends to dry out the skin, causing it to lose its elasticity and ability to function normally.

Typically, tonic lotions and astringents are wiped over the face by moistening a cotton swab with them. For lax skin, apply a cotton swab to the face with quick movements. Toning lotions promote blood flow to the skin. Dampen a cotton swab and press it to your cheeks, chin, and neck. Avoid areas of the skin where blood vessels are visible.

Pink water. This is one of the most ancient means for refreshing the face, invented by an Arab dermatologist in the 10th century. Rose water can be purchased at a pharmacy, but can also be prepared at home. Mix rose oil with water and mix thoroughly. 2 tbsp. tablespoons of oil are enough for 4.5 liters of purified water.

Gypsy rose water. Place 2 handfuls of dark, fragrant rose petals in a wide-necked jar or bottle. Pour 1 liter of water into a bowl and add 200 g of sugar. After 2 hours, shake, strain and store in a cool place.

Toning lotion made from virgin hazel and rose water. This is the most famous homemade tonic. To obtain it, you just need to mix 3/4 cup of rose water and 1/4 cup of hazel (infusion of young hazelnut twigs). For very oily skin, you can take the same amount of components.

Tonic solution made from flowers and herbs. Mix 2 tbsp. spoons of dried flowers or herbs, or 3 handfuls of fresh ones, and 0.5 liters of water. Pour boiling water over the herb and cover the pan with a lid to prevent the water from evaporating. Let the herb (flowers) steep for 2-3 hours. Strain and pour into a bottle for storage.

Toning marigold lotion. Marigolds are known for their tonic properties. To prepare this tonic, take fresh or dried flowers. Mix 2 tbsp. spoons of dried flowers or 3 handfuls of fresh flowers with 0.5 liters of water. Add 2 tbsp. spoons of hazel (hazelnut). A good product for oily skin with acne.

Stockrose tonic. Put 3 tbsp. spoons of rosebud leaves into boiling water (0.28 l), cover and simmer for 5 minutes over very low heat. Then remove from heat and leave for 0.5 hours. Strain. The lotion is ready.

Many other flowers and leaves (such as lily, geranium, honeysuckle, linden flowers, lavender) can be used in the same way to prepare lotions that refresh and revitalize the skin.

Elderflower infusion. Wash a handful of elderflower flowers and pour 6 tbsp. spoons of water in a large bowl. Leave to brew overnight, strain the next day. If the flowers are dried, take only 2 tbsp. spoons.

We offer several recipes for elderflower infusion; choose the one that suits you best:

a) Place the following components in the bottle and mix: 3 tbsp. spoons of elderflower infusion, 3 tbsp. spoons of rose water, 3 tbsp. spoons of virgin hazel (decoction of hazelnut branches and leaves) and 1 teaspoon of boric acid.

b) To 1/2 cup of elderflower infusion, slowly add 4 tbsp. spoons of benzoin tincture. Add 6 drops of myrrh tincture. Let it sit for 24 hours, then filter. Men can also use this product as an aftershave lotion.

c) Mix the following ingredients in a large bottle and filter after 24 hours: 10 tbsp. spoons of elderflower infusion, 5 tbsp. spoons of cucumber juice, 4 tbsp. spoons of cologne, 1 tbsp. spoon of benzoin resin. Useful for porous skin.

d) 0.5 cups buttermilk or milk, 6 tbsp. spoons of elder flowers, 1 tbsp. spoon of honey. Heat the milk together with the elderflower flowers over low heat for half an hour. Remove from heat and let stand for about 3 hours. Heat again and strain. Add honey. Very useful for rough and itchy