Understanding Toners and Addressing Large Pores on Dry Skin

Based on your questions and the previous discussion:

Your Formula as a Toner

As the staff mentioned, your initial formula containing a surfactant like Coco-Wash (or similar cleansing agents you have) is not suitable as a toner, as toners are typically leave-on products applied after cleansing. If you remove the surfactant, the remaining mixture of Water, Propylene Glycol, Witch Hazel, and Phenoxyethanol could function as a basic toner base, primarily offering hydration (from Water, Propylene Glycol) and pore-tightening benefits (from Witch Hazel).

Do Toners Dry Out Skin?

It is not true that most toners dry out the skin. Toners that cause dryness often contain high amounts of alcohol. Alcohol-free toners, on the other hand, can provide hydration and deliver beneficial ingredients without stripping the skin's natural moisture. Therefore, people with dry skin can absolutely use toners, provided they choose one formulated without drying alcohols and containing hydrating ingredients.

For dry skin with large pores, the key is to use products that address pore appearance while also providing sufficient moisture. Look for toners or serums with ingredients known for pore-tightening (like Witch Hazel) alongside hydrating components (like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, or Ceramides).

Using Witch Hazel in a Gel

Yes, you can incorporate Witch Hazel extracts into a face gel formulation. Gels are a good vehicle for water-soluble ingredients like Witch Hazel and can provide a lightweight, hydrating feel suitable for various skin types, including dry skin.

Comparing Witch Hazel Types

You asked about the difference in effectiveness between "Witch Hazel(Extract99% Tannins)" and "Witch Hazel(Alcohol Free)" for pore tightening and if they can be used together. While I don't have specific information on a product labeled "Witch Hazel(Extract99% Tannins)", I can provide details on the "Alcohol Free" types available.

Products like Witch Hazel (Distillate - Alcohol Free, Paraben Free) and Witch Hazel (Alcohol Free, Paraben Free) Plus Allantoin are made from distilled Witch Hazel without alcohol. They are known for their ability to help tighten pores safely without irritating or drying the skin, making them suitable even for sensitive skin. The version with Allantoin (Witch Hazel (Alcohol Free, Paraben Free) Plus Allantoin) also includes Allantoin to help reduce irritation and add moisture.

Both types of Witch Hazel you mentioned can generally be included in the same formula, but their combined effect and optimal concentration would depend on the specific formulation goals and the properties of each exact ingredient you are using. The alcohol-free distilled versions are effective for pore tightening and are gentle on the skin.

In summary, focus on alcohol-free formulations for dry skin, incorporate hydrating ingredients, and Witch Hazel is a suitable ingredient for helping to tighten pores, whether in a toner or gel form.