Alright y'all, let's be real: 

Since puberty, I have not had clear skin. 

Like, I literally can not even remember a span of time where my skin was glowing and  pimple-free in the past 14 years. 

Depressing, isn't it?

To be honest, I got used to not being comfortable in my skin. I spent my teenage years trying to hide every new breakout and when I could finally smuggle makeup in and out of my dad's house, I started trying to wear foundation (pro tip: unless you have the freedom to practice, you will always look a mess). After about a week, and even lower self-esteem, I stopped trying to hide my acne and just started lying. I remember even telling someone that I was bitten by a spider. Yes, I was dramatic, and the lies just got more outrageous as time passed. After a while, I started using Proactiv, and once that got to be too harsh for my skin, forcing me to stop use, all of my acne returned. Ugh!

Now, as a fully grown woman (don't quote me, I still eat animal crackers), I find that skincare has gotten a bit more complicated. Not only do I have to worry about pimples, I have to worry about bags under my eyes, dewy yet not greasy skin, and worst of all, crow's feet. All at once, I became overwhelmed with wanting to look my best, as I am a soaper/bodycare maker, I believe that we represent what our products are, and because lotusbtr. is A1, made with quality organic ingredients, I just have to look the part, lol. It took me a really long time, but I've finally cracked the code on how to obtain a beautiful, dewy glow! 

*Before we begin, I need to say that healthy skin is the result of healthy choices. Incorporate more leafy greens, colorful fruits and veggies, and spring water into your diet. Your skin will thank you!*

Nissa's Favorite Toner 

What You'll Need:

- Brewed Green Tea (3/4 Cup)

- Organic Apple Cider Vinegar, with "The Mother" (1/4 Cup)

- Rose Petals or Buds 

- 3 Drops of Essential Oil (Optional)

   Why these particular ingredients? Green tea has anti-aging and antioxidant benefits  that can help delay signs of skin aging, such as sagging skin, sun damage, age spots, fine lines and wrinkles. It helps draw out impurities, reduce large pores and can give your skin a beautiful glow. It even helps keep your skin hydrated, which is essential for healthy skin. Rose buds can act as a natural toner, as it contains antioxidants that fight free-radicals, skin irritants, excess sebum, and germs. Due to its astringent properties, Apple Cider Vinegar acts as an antiseptic, and can keep pores clear of bacteria, oil, and other dust particles, therefore making it great for controlling acne/pimples. Not only that, ACV regulates pH of your skin, making it more clean (or alkaline). 

Let's get Started!

1. Brew your green/rose tea.

I use Chinese Green Tea, it's literally a tin full of dried green tea leaves. However, you can use green tea that comes pre-bagged. I usually drink my green tea strong and slightly bitter with lemon and honey. Therefore, I steep my green tea a little longer than normal (I've actually done it overnight lol). However, you can steep your tea and for about 30 minutes as it cools. While the water is still hot, add the rose petals (aka, brew them together, in the same pot/cup). 

Another option would be to add 2 green tea bags, along with two tablespoons of rose buds to a pot of 1.5 cups of water, bring to a boil, then remove from heat and cover for 15 minutes.

2. Measure out Apple Cider Vinegar.

While your tea is cooling, measure out 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar. 

3. Combine the tea and ACV. 

Measure 3/4 cup of your rose/green tea and combine with the apple cider vinegar in a glass container, such as a mason jar and allow to cool. 

4. Place jar in the refrigerator.

Put the jar in the fridge until completely cool.

5.  Drop THREE drops of essential oil into the mixture. (Optional)

The point here isn't to smell the oil, it's to add an extra boost to the toner. My favorite is Rose absolute essential oil, as it is very gentle,  and perfect for gentle skin. Don't overdo it and add more than a few drops! 

6. Use and Enjoy!

The toner you've made can last in the refrigerator for up to a week and a half. Because this is a natural product with no chemicals or preservatives, you will need to be vigilant in remaking it. Remember that mold can form even before you actually see it!

What do you think? Do you plan on making this toner? Let me know in the comments below!