Toners, astringents, skin fresheners, skin lotions, softeners, tonics, balancers, cleansing waters and other terms are used for products in this category. The choice of nomenclature
can vary by manufacturer and even within product lines. Also, the product name does not necessarily indicate strength or inclusion of a particular ingredient. For this chapter the term toners will be used to cover all these nomenclatures unless specified. Toners may be categorized as cosmetics or over-the-counter (OTC) drug products, depending upon the claims and ingredients. There is an astringent category under the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) Skin Protectant Drug Products for Over-the-Counter Human Use (2) defining astringents as (products) applied to the skin or mucous membranes for a local and limited protein coagulant effect.” This definition covers the use of aluminum acetate, aluminum sulfate, and witch hazel. Active ingredients and labeling claims in astringent drug products are dictated by the FDA OTC Monograph (2). Except for witch hazel (hamamelis water) USP, these actives are reserved for OTC uses and are not typically used in cosmetic toners and, therefore, will not be considered for purposes of this chapter. To add to this confusion, there are products branded as toners and astringents containing cosmetic ingredients as well as toners and astringents containing salicylic acid that are sold in accordance with the FDA’s OTC Acne Drug Monograph (3).