Here’s another hidden gem in the form of exfoliating toner, though I never really talk about it often. Perhaps because I enjoyed it a little too much that I don’t want to share it, just yet *smirk*
Yoshimomo Alpha Beta AHA + BHA Toner.
A little intro (for more details, check the web):
This dual-hydroxy, radiance renewing toner is designed to remove excess oil and pore-clogging debris while minimizing the appearance of discoloration, scars, fine lines, wrinkles, large pores, and other surface imperfections. Deeps cleans, clarifies, and brightens – creating visibly clearer skin, a more even skin tone, and a healthy, youthful-looking glow.
Yoshimomo Alpha Beta Toner is coincidentally the first “natural” acid toner that I tried. Check out the ingredient list, lots of fruit and plant extracts with a touch of actual Lactic Acid.
ORG Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, ORG Witch Hazel Distillate, ORG White Willow Bark Extract, ORG Sugar Cane Extract, ORG Bilberry Fruit Extract, ORG Sugar Maple Extract, ORG Orange Peel Extract, ORG Lemon Peel Extract, Rice Protein, Quinoa Protein, Amaranth Protein, Lactic Acid, ECOCERT Aspen Bark Extract, ORG (Palm-free) Vegetable Glycerin, Essential Oil Blend (Contains components of: ORG Bergamot FCF Peel Oil, Manuka / New Zealand Tea Tree Leaf Oil, Geranium Egyptian Leaf Oil. Chamomile Roman Flower Oil).
Given the nature of the product, it’s definitely milder and gentler than other conventional acid toners I’ve tried. The results aren’t that fast or obvious. But that’s exactly why I love it. Sure, having faster result is much more gratifying but that’s without a cost. Whether it’s over-exfoliation or irritation, these are the risks when we’re dealing with acid. I had been wanting to find a milder option in acid toners, simply because I don’t find the need to use that much of a concentration all the time, not anymore anyways. Again, I’m going to reiterate that I love customizing my skincare routine. It’s like having a cupboard of remedies and weapons to deal with different situations and conditions. In this case, Yoshimomo Alpha Beta Toner fits the bill.
As far as results, I find this works best when I have certain blemishes and redness on the skin. It tones down the inflammations without being too harsh on the skin; something that I always try to avoid. It’ll take longer to heal but I never rush anyway. I won’t lie that this toner is still quite drying and I still need a hydrating toner afterwards. It’s pretty much textbook by now, when one incorporates acid toner, one must use a hydrating toner. The toner dries up pretty quickly and left the skin quite tightened; something that I’d associate with astringent, thanks to Witch Hazel ingredient. It removes excess sebum and clarifies the pores – a good one to use when I’m feeling grimy and oily.
Even though this product comes in a mist/spray form, I actually use a cotton pad. I never spritz it directly on the face because I find that’s risky. I might accidentally spritz it over my eyes and that will not be funny. Having a cotton pad gives me control and the product can reach the face evenly. The scent isn’t the most pleasant, I can sense the tea tree oil in it. There’s a slight warming sensation upon using but it goes away pretty quickly. At the 5-10 minute waiting time, I like to place the cotton pad over the blemish or on the nose and chin where I usually have congestion. Then, take my hydrating toner of choice and continue with the rest of the skincare routine.
After a certain period of time, I notice this helps preventing unwanted blemishes as well. It keeps my skin moderately clear. I don’t necessarily notice this fades any PIH faster than other products and I don’t expect it to. But it keeps dullness at bay. The AHA element isn’t as strong as the BHA, so to speak. One thing for sure, I never have to worry about going overboard. I’ve said it time and time again that I don’t use acid toner on daytime, because why risk it? But Yoshimomo Alpha Beta Toner is the only product that I dare to make an exception. It’s gentle on the skin. The pH level is at 4.5 – 5, not as acidic as the conventional ones. That being said, I’d only use it on days where I know I’ll be staying at home. Not often and I still use SPF afterwards, obviously.
I got to admit Yoshimomo Alpha Beta Toner isn’t exactly affordable. But to be honest, the selection of “natural” acid toners is still limited in the green beauty world and the second product I tried (hint: The Beauty Chef Probiotic Skin Refiner) is actually more than twice the price of Yoshimomo‘s *chuckle*
However, given the results and how it fits into what I need, I don’t mind at all.
so glad you’re writing again 🙂