Bravura London Calendula Toner

The Claims

"Purifying Calendula Toner is an effective facial astringent recommended for normal and normal to oily skin. Its normalising pH helps to fight bacteria, making it particularly valuable for skin types with partial oiliness and break outs. PH 3.8

This exfoliating facial toner combines the effective exfoliation properties of 10% Glycolic Acid and 3% Lactic Acid with hydrating aloe vera and healing calendula extract. It works to remove the last traces of cleanser, along with dead skin cells and excess oil to leave skin feeling smooth, soft and ready for the next stage in your skincare routine."

The Ingredients

Purified Water, Aloe Vera Gel, Glycerin, Lemon Juice, Calendula Extract, Glycolic Acid, Sodium Glycolate, Glucose, Fructose, Sucrose, Urea, Dextrin, Alanine, Glutamic Acid, Hexyl Nicotinate, Lactic Acid, SD Alcohol 40B, Fragrant Oil, Bisabolol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate.

The Immediate Concerns

The first thing I thought when I first heard about this toner was; 

"Acid, on my face... nooooo!!"

but of course that was before I had any clue about Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid and Salicylic Acid, I had in mind the acids you use in chemistry class. 

Thankfully those aren't present in this toner and after a good read of a review Andy Millward from twitter did about it I bit the bullet and bought some. That was four years ago, and I've re-purchased ever since. 

Like many products it contains a few ingredients in the red zone, but thankfully in very low concentrations. I'm thankful because I do really like this toner.

Also for bonus points it is not tested on animals and vegan friendly.

How Did It Fair?

I found over the years it can really calm down an impending pimple outbreak, really helps get the last of any makeup/grime off my face after cleansing, and works as a wonderful freshener in the mornings. The calendula toner is the milder one with 13% AHAs, suited to most skin types, there is also a eucalyptus toner with 15% AHA/BHAs which is aimed at non sensitive, oily skin types. 

My Conclusion

I've already admitted to re-purchasing this toner many times over four years, I can't see myself stopping anytime soon. And I would recommend it it you have mild outbreaks from time to time. 

Next time on the blog

Bravura London - Salicylic Acid 2%