Two words - Witch Hazel.
I first heard about witch hazel from my Esthetician, step-sister. She uses it, and she has access to the good stuff, so that, right there, should tell you somethin' about the quality of this stuff!
Witch hazel is a natural astringent produced from the leaves and bark of the North American Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana) shrub, which can be used on sores, bruises and swelling.
It's useful in the treatment of acne, but is gentle, unlike products like Clean & Clear or Neutrogena toners (which add Salicylic Acid).
It is often used as a natural remedy for psoriasis, eczema, aftershave applications, ingrown nails, to prevent sweating of the face, cracked or blistered skin, for treating insect bites, poison ivy, and more!
I use Thayers Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel, which I pick up at Whole Foods for $9.99 (for 12 fl. oz).
This bottle lasts me well over a month, probably about 3 months. What I like about the Thayers brand is that they offer a wide variety of versions of witch hazel - cucumber, lemon, peach, etc. I also like that they add Vitamin E - because I have dry skin, and this addition ensures it doesn't dry my skin out too much.
You can find witch hazel everywhere, and for much less that $10/bottle. Walgreen's sells T.N. Dickinson's on sale now for $3.99 (for 16 fl. oz), and you can also get it at Target, CVS, Wal-Mart, Jewel, Dominick's... shall I go on?
