SOS Skincare! Natural toners

Venus, radiant goddess of love and beauty

I received this message on facebook from a friend in her late teens, as follows:

The other day, I made up a kind of skin toner with green tea, chamomile tea, and apple cider vinegar - about one part vinegar to 5 parts water. I dabbed it on my skin twice a day for about three days, and then I broke out in dozens of tiny spots around my chin area, and a few in other places too. 

My skin is feeling quite itchy and painful, even though I've been moisturising well. I've never had anything like this before. I was wondering if it's possible this reaction could just be my skin purging impurities, or if one of the ingredients was too astringent and I'm just reacting badly to it? Have you had any experience with these things? 

Firstly I salute all those who turn to natural skincare solutions, it makes so much sense to offer the skin ingredients which it can recognise and assimilate. The skin has several functions, one of which is protection. It defends the body from unwanted agents. In this scenario, there looks to be a direct cause and effect. The skin is irritated and is saying 'no' to the solution.

The function of toner is to refresh the skin after cleansing and temporarily tighten pores, producing the toned effect. My friend is prone to breakouts therefore I would suggest witch hazel extract, available in most chemists and health food stores. This has an astringent or drying effect.

My other suggestion is rosewater, which has a destressing effect and works well for drier and aging skin although it suits all skin types. I specifically recommend Nature's Aid Triple Strength Rose Water. This is my personal preference as a toner; I  decanted into an atomiser and mist it onto my face. Such is a beautiful ritual, I love how the delicate scent fills the air and settles on my face, like being kissed by a host of angels!

Finally, my friend should drink her chamomile tea and green tea, they are both excellent from a health point of view. And apple cider vinegar, especially if it is the raw, unpasteurised type is a valuable tonic. I use daily, liberally on my lunch time salads. And as a full time undergraduate living in London, I celebrate that she has these healthful items in her cupboard.

Suggested affirmations:

I am tender and gentle with myself
I have happy, healthy skin
I create harmony within and without

I am happy to offer guidance with natural skincare issues, post your questions below.