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DIY Natural Beauty

Author: Eliza Sarasohn

Organic lifestyle expert Eliza Sarasohn — author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Organic Living — tackles the ins and outs of living la vida organica. Below, Sarasohn shares a few recipes for treating your skin to some all-natural TLC.

Skin need a little freshening up after a long day? Feel like pampering yourself with a little extra tender loving care, but don't want to spend big bucks at the spa? Try one of the recipes below for a quick natural pick-me-up. Astringents and toners are good for removing soap residue after washing your face and for balancing pH and oil levels.

Apple Skin Toner

This toner is intended for slightly oily skin. Witch hazel is a gentle astringent, apple cider vinegar will help restore your skin's natural pH balance, and lavender soothes sensitive skin.

2/3 cup witch hazel
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
A few drops of lavender or essential oil of your choice

Mix and pour into a clean bottle. Shake bottle well before using, dampen a cotton or ball or pad with toner, and swab over face.

Aloe Vera Toner

As basic as can be and a good choice for skin that needs a little soothing. Simply combine equal amounts of distilled water and aloe vera gel or juice. Pour into jar and refrigerate. Shake vigorously before applying.

Zingy Lemon Astringent

Another simple, basic recipe-this one will definitely give your skin a zingy feeling. Don't use if your skin is irritated in any way.

1/2 cup witch hazel
Juice from 1/2 medium lemon (about 1 Tb.), strained

Combine ingredients in bottle. Shake well to blend. Store in refrigerator for a refreshing iciness when applied, or at room temperature (if stored at room temperature, discard after a week or two.)

Watermelon Toner

Watermelon juice is full of antioxidant vitamins and is noted as helpful for removing blemishes.

2 tbsp. fresh watermelon juice
1 tbsp. vodka
2 tbsp. witch hazel
2 tbsp. distilled water

Strain watermelon to get rid of seeds and fruit pieces. Combine all ingredients in small bowl and stir well. Pour into clean bottle.

To use: pour a small amount on clean cotton pad and apply to face. Store toner in your fridge between uses to retain freshness. It will keep for approximately one week.

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