Let me introduce you to my favorite toner -Andalou Naturals Brightening Clementine + C Illuminating Tone. I am kinda impressed by this product which I just got on a whim, that I am now planning to buy some more Andalou stuff.
What Andalou says about their toner [from their website]: Normal & Combination Skin
Andalou Naturals Fruit Stem Cell Science renews skin at the cellular level, blending nature and knowledge for visible Brightening results.
Fruit Stem Cell Complex, superfruit antioxidants, and Vitamin C, work as powerful cell energizers to target hyperpigmentation and UV damage, improving skin tone and texture. Aloe vera effectively hydrates and oxygenates, balancing pH, and stimulating circulation for healthy luminosity.
Andalou Naturals Fruit Stem Cell Science renews skin at the cellular level, blending nature and knowledge for visible Brightening results.
Fruit Stem Cell Complex, superfruit antioxidants, and Vitamin C, work as powerful cell energizers to target hyperpigmentation and UV damage, improving skin tone and texture. Aloe vera effectively hydrates and oxygenates, balancing pH, and stimulating circulation for healthy luminosity.
To Use: Shake well. After cleansing, close eyes, and gently mist face and neck to balance pH and prepare skin for maximum moisturizing. For instant refreshment day and night, mist lightly, with or without make-up.
Results: Brightening
My Experience:
I am a bit skeptical when it comes to products that claim to be 'Brightening' - not that it stops me from grabbing it in the hope that it might give me that 'Glow' all the airbrushed models in glossy magazines have. So, when I picked up this product, all I expected was a decent toner that would freshen up my face in the morning - cos frankly, I am not a morning bird, I am more of a morning zombie.
How I use this:
I use this mostly in the morning or whenever I feel my skin looks super dull or tired. I follow the directions of use and spray it on my face after closing my eyes, cos you don't want a citrusy product in your eyes. Don't open your eyes immediately if you have sprayed this over your eyelids - it can sting a bit. Wait for a min or so. Keep a napkin handy, so that after 2-3 mins you can use the napkin to lightly pat over your face to remove excess moisture. After that, slowly pat your face to get the blood supply going to really boost your skin. And you're done! :)
Why I like this:
To start with, I just love the packaging - it screams organic & herbal with its green & yellow design. Love it. Also the spray nozzle is very nice and functional. I am not a big fan of toners that you cant spray on face.
The next thing I like is the scent - it is super freshening, especially in the morning. I occasionally dab some orange oil on my temples to get a move on stuff cos I can be pretty sluggish till around 3-4pm. This gives the same effect.
Lastly, after applying this, I can see some brightening. Not whitening - let me make that clear. It makes my skin looks healthy and alive - am I making sense? I don't know if it helps with pores and since the brand doesn't claim it does, I didn't test it for that.The brightening effect lasts for at least 5-6 hours, which is very impressive.
Overall: This is a really great product- it doesn't perform wonders or give any long lasting effect. But it does what it says, and that is all I expect from a product :)