Tone Up

While I do like using facial toner, it's usually somewhat of an afterthought to more urgent beauty care needs like moisturizer and makeup removing wipes. In other words, if I'm in a hurry, the toner is forgotten.

But since I've started using Kiehl's Acai Damage-Protecting Toning Mist ($26 at kiehls.com and Kiehl's Since 1851 in South Coast Plaza ), toner has become more of a necessity... and on an occasion or two, was the only product used when I was in a hurry.

There's just something about the light, refreshing mist that makes my skin feel clean and renewed. Perhaps it's the toner's main ingredients: acai berry, known for its antioxidant properties; aloe vera juice, which helps maintain moisture in the skin and contains natural proteins, enzymes and amino acids that help soothe skin; and lavender, which can help reduce skin blotchiness. The formula was designed to balance the skin’s tone and texture and provide a layer of protection against environmental skin damage. All of the toner's plant ingredients are organic and the formula is paraben- and silicone-free. The spray nozzle on the bottle makes for easy application. Spray onto a cotton facial pad and gently apply to the face.

Through summer 2010, the toning mist is available as part of a Limited Edition Label Art series, in which all net proceeds benefit the Rainforest Alliance, a nonprofit organization that works to promote environmental biodiversity and sustainability among businesses and consumers worldwide. The four different labels were designed in honor of four supporters of social and environmental causes: actress Julianne Moore, artist Jeff Koons, musician and producer Pharrell Williams, and model/surfer Malia Jones. Kiehl's aims to raise $200,000 for the Rainforest Alliance.