Facial toner is something that people either think essential or a waste of time. I’m of those who say they are essential. I’ve used some form of toner – whether it be straight rubbing alcohol in my young teen years (ouch), Sea Breeze, Clean and Clear, Proactiv, Mario Badescu Rose Water, Witch Hazel, Bioderma, you-name-it – since I was probably 12 or 13 years old. We’re pushing 15 years of toner use here. I have some experience. That’s the biggest reason why I was excited to write this Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water review.
To me, toner creates a balance and a fresh canvas for your moisturizer (which we all should be using daily). I find they remove that last bit of makeup left behind and can rebalance overly dry or oily skin. Also, if you’re using a good toner, you’re leaving good ingredients on your skin – so choose your toner wisely!
I took a chance on the Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water on a trip through Sephora’s aisle of death (aka the mini-sized sample section) when I saw it there for a mere $13. $13 for a small bottle of what literally looked like normal water sounded like a real steal to me. ::Swipes credit card:: ::Watches skin miracles happen::
Ok so maybe skin miracles didn’t start happening immediately, but I liked the initial effects on my face. I was using basic Witch Hazel before trying this product; but found it was getting a tad too drying for the winter months. The Koh Gen Do website says, “Remove Makeup While Nourishing Your Skin. Gently remove even waterproof makeup and skin impurities in a single sweep with mineral-rich Cleansing Water. From the Yumura Hot Springs in Izumo, Japan comes pure water, rich with skin-absorbing nutrients to replenish and rejuvenate as it cleanses. White Birch Sap, harvested only three weeks in early spring, contributes an abundance of minerals and xylitol as it lifts off makeup, oils and residue. No washing or rinsing required!”
I tested this product as a makeup remover first, on waterproof mascara. It removed a good amount, but not all of it. It probably would have no issues with non-waterproof mascara, though. I decided this product would be best as a toner. I’ve been using it every morning and evening. My skin seems brighter, less irritated and it is extremely gentle all over the face and neck. There is no noticeable scent, either.
The $13 mini bottle lasted about two months. I’m hoping to upgrade to the 10 oz. $39 bottle soon. I like to use my toner with regular cotton rounds (instead of cotton balls). I find they absorb less product. Hope you enjoyed that small tip to save you .0002 cents in the long run 🙂
-Steffanie
