Brightening Toners

General Recipe:

1. Water or Distilled Water (75-85%): This is typically the base ingredient for most toners.

2. Humectants (5-15%): These ingredients help to draw moisture into the skin, contributing to hydration. Examples include glycerin and hyaluronic acid.

3. Brightening Agents (1-5%): These might include ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, or licorice root extract, which are known for their skin-brightening properties.

4. Exfoliants (0.5-2%): These are optional but can contribute to a brightening effect by promoting cell turnover. Examples could be alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic or lactic acid, but keep in mind these can be irritating for some skin types.

5. Preservatives (0.5-1%): This is crucial to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microbes in your product. Options include benzyl alcohol or potassium sorbate, among others.

6. pH Adjusters (0.1-1%): Ingredients like citric acid or sodium hydroxide can be used to ensure the pH of your toner is within a range that's beneficial for the skin.

7. Active Ingredients (0.1-1%): These could include additional antioxidants, plant extracts, or other beneficial compounds.