Astringents
Astringents close the pores of the skin, improving its tone and texture , making it feel firmer
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They work by reducing the water content of the skin cells and can aid the healing of broken or inflamed skin. They can also be used to reduce tear production by inflamed or infected eyes.
They frequently sting when applied to recently shave, exfoliated, sore, or broken skin. Antiperspirants, aftershave lotions, and skin-toning lotions often contain astringents.
Commonly used astringents include sodium chloride (salt), alcohol aluminum compounds, and some plant extracts such as horsetail and witchhazel. They are used in aftershave lotions to close pores that have been opened by the shaving libricant and hot water, producing a smoother-feeling chin.
After using a cleansing lotion, which opens the pores to aid cleaning, an astringent should be applied to close them before make-up, such as foundation, is applied. This prevents the foundation from becoming trapped under the pores.
Old Wive's Tales - Herbal Astringents
Lemon balm, lavender infusion, mint, rosemary, yarrow, horsetail, nettle, red raspberry leaves, walnut leaves, sage, and witch hazel are all herbs that are said to tone and smooth skin.
Try them, some of them may work, but be careful - witch hazel, rosemary and lavender have all been linked to allergies and dermatitis, and rosemary and lavender also cause photosensitivity.
Reference: Cosmetics Unmasked:Dr Stephen & Gina Antczak