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Unlock the Secrets: Crafting Your Own Green Tea Toner
Ingredients Unveiled
Key Ingredients:
Step by Step Guide
Crafting a Simple Green Tea Tonic
Place 1 green tea bag or 1 teaspoon (5 g) of loose green tea into a mug. Opt for plain green tea and unwrap the bag before putting it in the mug. If you prefer loose leaf tea, measure the appropriate amount and add it directly to the mug.
- You have the option of using regular or organic green tea.
Pour 8 fl oz (240 mL) of boiling water onto the tea. Bring water to a boil using a tea kettle or microwave-safe container. Then, pour the water over the tea.
- You may choose between filtered water or tap water.
Let the tea steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Stir the tea bag or leaves initially, then allow the tea to steep without disturbance for the remaining time.
- If necessary, steep the tea for up to 10 minutes. Since you won’t consume it, bitterness isn’t a concern.
Hint: Utilize the steeping time to prepare any extra ingredients, such as slicing and juicing a lemon or measuring out witch hazel.
Transfer the brewed tea into a sealed container capable of holding 8 fl oz (240 mL). If using loose tea leaves, strain the tea through a sieve or coffee filter into the container. For tea bags, simply remove the bag and pour the tea into the container.
- If planning to include additional ingredients, opt for a container with a capacity of 10 fl oz (300 mL) or more.
- A small, clean spray bottle can also serve as a storage option for the green tea toner.
Hint: When transferring green tea to a narrow-necked container like a spray bottle, use a funnel for easy pouring. Position the funnel over the container's opening and pour the tea through.
Introducing Optional Additions
Incorporate 1 US tbsp (15 mL) of lemon juice for its skin-brightening properties. Obtain fresh lemon from a grocery store, extract its juice, and measure out the desired amount. Add the lemon juice directly into the green tea container, seal it, and shake thoroughly to blend.
- Lemon juice aids in brightening skin tone, making it ideal for addressing dullness or age spots.
Include 2 fl oz (59 mL) of apple cider vinegar to balance skin pH. Purchase apple cider vinegar from a local store or online. Stir it into the green tea, seal the container, and shake well.
- Both regular and raw apple cider vinegar varieties can be used.
- Apple cider vinegar helps balance skin pH and gently exfoliates.
Incorporate 2 US tbsp (30 mL) of honey for its anti-aging properties. Ensure the tea is still warm when adding honey to facilitate proper blending. Regular honey or specialized types like manuka honey can be used for enhanced anti-aging benefits. Stir until the honey fully dissolves in the green tea.
Add 1 US tbsp (15 mL) of witch hazel for increased astringency. Pour the witch hazel into the chosen container, seal it, and shake vigorously to blend. Witch hazel aids in pore cleansing and pH balancing, along with possessing anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate redness or swelling on the face.
- Witch hazel is typically available in the first aid aisle of most drug and grocery stores.
- Check product labels for alcohol content, as some varieties may cause skin dryness.
Mix in 3-5 drops of vitamin E oil to soothe irritated skin. Vitamin E oil or capsules can be found in the supplements section of grocery stores. Add the drops or extract oil from a capsule into the container or spray bottle. Shake well before each use.
- This addition imparts moisturizing properties, making it beneficial for dry or sensitive skin.
Include up to 30 drops of tea tree oil for its natural acne-fighting abilities. Purchase tea tree oil from beauty supply stores or online retailers. Add the drops to the container, seal it, and shake thoroughly to combine.
- Tea tree oil is highly effective for treating acne-prone skin.
- Adhere to recommended drop amounts to prevent skin irritation.
Hint: As the toner settles, its ingredients may separate, so remember to shake it well before each use to ensure even distribution.
Add up to 30 drops of lavender oil for a soothing aroma. Obtain lavender essential oil from a local store or online sources. Incorporate the desired number of drops into the container, ensuring not to exceed 30 drops to avoid skin irritation. Seal the container and shake thoroughly.
- Lavender emits a calming fragrance, enhancing the relaxation of your facial cleansing routine.
Utilizing Green Tea Toner
Allow the freshly brewed green tea to cool before application. Immediately after brewing, the tea will be too hot for use. Let it sit at room temperature for an hour or refrigerate the container for expedited cooling. It's ready for use when it reaches a lukewarm or cool temperature.
Keep your toner refrigerated for preservation, lasting up to 2 weeks. Refrigeration extends the toner's shelf life and enhances its refreshing sensation upon application.
- If refrigeration isn't an option, prepare a fresh batch every 3 days.
Prioritize face cleansing before applying the toner. Begin by moistening your face with warm water and gently massaging a mild cleanser onto your skin. Thoroughly rinse and pat your face dry with a clean towel.
Apply your DIY green tea toner using a cotton ball or spray bottle. If using a jar or similar container, dip a cotton ball into the toner and gently swipe it across your face, avoiding the eyelids. For a spray bottle, close your eyes and mist the toner onto your cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin.
- Repeat this process twice daily post-face wash.
Hint: Do not rinse off the toner after application! It must remain on your skin to be effective.
Follow up with your regular moisturizer after applying the green tea toner. Apply facial lotion immediately after toner application while your skin is slightly damp to seal in moisture and leave your skin feeling soft and supple.
- Remember, toner does not replace moisturizer, even with added vitamin E oil.
Pointers
Cautions
- Before applying the toner to your face, perform a patch test on a small area of your arm to check for any allergic reactions.
Essential Supplies
- Mug
- Measuring cup and spoons
- Air-tight container or small spray bottle
- Cotton balls
- Funnel (optional)
