Blindly using any beauty product, in this case astringent, is not a good idea. Find out if it really suits your skin.

Astringent is a beauty ingredient that is quite commonly used in Indian salons especially after a session of threading or waxing. They often ask you if you would like to apply astringent or cream post these treatments.

If that has left you wondering what exactly it is and whether or not you should use it or not, get all your queries on astringent answered here.

What is an Astringent?

Astringents are found in a variety of substances like lemons, pomegranates, tannins which are found in teas and wines. Imagine a dry feeling in the mouth after taking a sip of merlot or eating a lemon, that’s what astringents do. 

They help the pores to bind and shrink and have been in use for medical as well as cosmetic purposes since a long time. This drying or shrinking action has proved to be useful in skincare as well but not everyone should use astringents for their skin. Others should consider using a natural toner. 

If you suffer from oily skin, astringent can help improve your skin’s appearance by minimizing pores and drying up oily skin. Astringent is usually applied after cleansing, but before moisturizing. The alcohol-based products can also help remove bacteria and leftover traces of cleanser or makeup.

Who CAN use it? 

Typically, astringents should be used by people who have oily or acne-prone skin. This is because it will help close open pores and prevent dirt to clog them. It will also heal the pimple and prevent scarring. 

So the next time you go for threading your eyebrows at a salon, ask for astringent if you have oily skin and dab it on your eyebrows and the area around it (except the eyes) before heading out. 

And if you happen to pop a pimple by mistake, then apply some on it too. 

Astringents are also helpful in preventing fungal infections and relieving irritated skin. Use them after taking hot steam or after you remove blackheads to soothe the skin and form a protective layer over it. But be wary of using them too often. Daily use of astringents is not recommended by most dermatologists unless you have been prescribed it keeping your skin condition in mind.

They have some alcohol content in them and this dries out the skin of its moisture. 

 

Who CANNOT use it?

If you have dry skin, it is best to stay away from them as astringents can further dry it out and cause irritation. They will further shrink the pores and tissues which will leave your skin feeling itchy and drier than before. Even if you apply some, say after a hot bath, it is essential that you follow it up with a good moisturizer. 

For Women who are lactating and are pregnant, best not to use any astringent and consult from a trusted dermatologist if you intend to do so.

How to Use the Astringent

Astringents are easily available in stores. You may find various brands. The key is to find the one best suited for your skin. If you have oily skin, a slightly stronger one is fine but people who have combination skin or dry skin should opt for the mildest available option. 

It comes in a liquid form so take a cotton ball and dab a few drops on it. Now apply it on your skin gently. Do not rub too hard or for a long time. You may not find any dirt on the cotton ball but it will heal your irritated skin and make it firmer by binding the pores. 

A slight tingling sensation is normal.  

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