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Who knew that drinks consumed for their health benefits could also be great for the skin? Green tea and apple cider vinegar are both at-home remedies for skin conditions that range from acne to sunburn. Both of these pantry staples have long been consumed for their health properties. Green tea's polyphenols are said to prevent heart disease and cancer, among other diseases. This same ingredient is what makes green tea beneficial for the skin.
Apple Cider Vinegar Toner

If you are looking for acne relief, try apple cider vinegar toner, which contains malic and lactic acids. It treats acne, promotes exfoliation and reduces red marks. This vinegar also regulates skin to its proper pH. The result is often healthy, clean pores, a natural defense against bacteria and dead skin cell turnover for glowing skin. Although this toner's benefits are impressive, it is contraindicated for people with sensitive skin. However, if you still wish to try it, purchase the raw, organic variety; it is reportedly somewhat gentler on the skin.
Apple Cider Vinegar Toner Application Methods

Find apple cider vinegar in the oil and vinegar aisle at your local grocery store. Before applying it to your skin, dilute the vinegar in the ratio of 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to 1 cup of water. Dip a cotton pad into the mixture; apply it to your face. To use apple cider vinegar as a steam toner, add it to hot, steaming water. Hold a damp towel over your head; lean your face over the steam. This deep cleans your pores and tones your facial muscles.
Green Tea Toner

The health benefits of green tea have long been reported. It contains antioxidants, anti-inflammatory elements and polyphenols that are said to slow the aging process. As a toner, green tea reportedly moisturizes the skin, relieves eczema and acne, and has stronger antioxidant properties than Vitamin E. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents in green tea ward off free radicals and reduce inflammation caused by sun exposure. While it doesn't block ultraviolet rays, it offers added benefits when worn under zinc oxide-based sunscreens. Topically applied green tea also soothes sunburns.
Green Tea Toner Application Methods

To apply green tea toner, first steep the tea leaves in boiling water; cool the mixture before applying it to your skin. To preserve the benefits of your green tea toner, freeze the remaining freshly brewed green tea and then thaw the ice cubes when you are ready for later applications. The antioxidant polyphenols in tea are oxidized when exposed to air, making this a necessary step. To make a green tea mask, mix 1 teaspoon of green tea leaves with 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise. Leave it on your face for 20 minutes, rinse and then pat your skin dry.
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References
Writer Bio
Monica Crowe has written professionally since 2008. She was a reporter for the "Ruston Daily Leader" and editor of "Living Well" magazine. Crowe is the recipient of a first-place Louisiana-Mississippi Associated Press award. She studied at Louisiana Tech University and is now pursuing a certification from the National Academy of Sports Medicine.
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