“The Tiger’s Spots” Hydrating & Clarifying Face Toner

Organic witch-hazel water forms the core of this toner. Witch-hazel has a long history of traditional medicinal uses, treating a range of conditions from acne and scalp sensitivity, and it has since been shown to contain several compounds with potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can benefit your skin. Witch-hazel can be used to remove excess oil and is said to help balance the oil (sebum) production of the skin. As an astringent, witch-hazel helps to shrink and tone the pores, while its anti-inflammatory properties make it soothing, even to irritated and sensitive skin. It has been shown to help reduce redness in the skin and is said to ease the effects of inflammation-related issues, such as acne, eczema or psoriasis. It may also potentially be beneficial for non-inflammatory types of acne. The witch-hazel we use is certified-organic and was harvested from a wild crop. It is 100% naturally distilled and formulated with natural grain alcohol as the preservative. (NB: The overall alcohol content of this toner is less than 3%.)

Witch-hazel’s reputed healing power is augmented by two precious active ingredients, hyaluronic acid and allantoin. Hyaluronic Acid is naturally present in the human body, including in the epidermis, where, among other things, it contributes to keeping the skin hydrated. It is a powerful humectant—a substance that can attract water from the body’s immediate environment and bind it to its molecules. Hyaluronic acid is said to be able to retain up to 1,000 times its own weight in water.

As we grow older, our bodies produce less hyaluronic acid, contributing to the visible signs of aging in our skin. Applying products containing hyaluronic acid helps counteract this process, keeping skin moisturised and helping to restore the skin’s elasticity, thus, making it visibly smoother and more supple. The effect can be quite instant, which is amazing to see! Hyaluronic acid has also been shown to contribute to wound healing.

The hyaluronic acid we use is vegan and produced by bacterial fermentation of glucose derived from corn. It is classified as a natural skincare ingredient.

Allantoin is a substance that is found in some plants, such as comfrey or chamomile—both herbs with long histories of medicinal use, including the care for damaged skin. In skin care today, allantoin acts as a mild exfoliant, as it helps break down the outermost membranes of the skin and facilitates the shedding of dead skin cells, while, at the same time, promoting new cell growth as well as the skin’s own collagen production.

By removing the barrier of dry, dead skin cells, allantoin also facilitates the functioning of humectants; the attraction of water to the skin from its environment. This reduces the risk of transepidermal water loss and aids the hydration of the skin. Allantoin has also been shown to soothe and assist the healing of irritated, wounded or rashy skin, and it acts as an emollient, softening and smoothing the skin.

While allantoin is found in nature, its extraction from those sources is costly and inefficient. Therefore, a nature-identical version is almost always used in skincare preparation, including this product. Both versions have been found to be generally non-toxic and safe even for sensitive skin. However, a small number of people might have allergic reactions. Therefore, as with all new skincare products, a patch test is recommended before commencing full use.

The toner is finished with soothing organic aloe vera juice and New Zealand mānuka hydrosol (the water-based product resulting from the distillation process that also produces mānuka essential oil).

Use: Following cleansing, soak a small area of a soft cloth or reusable makeup pad & gently wipe over face & neck. Then apply serum if using, followed by your moisturiser.

General Information: OK to use daily. Keep in a cool, dark place.

General Cautions: For external use only. Keep away from eyes. Do not use if you are allergic to any of the ingredients. Product is made in an environment where nuts may have been present. Caution is advised when using products containing essential oils during pregnancy or on children.