I've been using this recipe for a few weeks now without any issues and decided to give back to the community now that I know the recipe is more or less harmless, at least for my skin type.

Topical caffeine application isn't really discussed here much but it has efficacy as a skincare ingredient and, anecdotally, it feels so good to apply in the morning, especially if it's been sitting in the fridge overnight! I think I even get a small caffeine buzz from it. Green tea has anti-aging properties even when decaffeinated so this skin ingredient is a double-whammy of awesome, and the recipe is cheap and easy to make again and again. You'll need-

• 1 green tea bag

• 200 mL of hot water

• 1 tsp of witch hazel

• (for acne sufferers) 4 drops of tea tree oil

• pure unpasteurised honey is also something I've thought of adding to the recipe, as it seems it's also a quality skincare ingredient, and would dissolve nicely in the tea, but have yet to try it.

Steep the tea bag for 4-5 minutes in a mason jar or other airtight container. Remove bag and add witch hazel, tea tree oil, and/or honey. Seal it up, give it a good shake, and put it in the fridge. Apply in the morning after washing your face but before adding any exfoliants, serums or moisturiser/SPF. When kept chill and in an airtight container, it seems to be good for about 5-6 days before it goes very dark and smells 'off'.

Results? My skin is definitely brighter, and diluting the tea tree oil/witch hazel seems to negate the irritation they can cause when applied without a carrier fluid. Tea tree oil is really good for my personal brand of acne but it burns. Since I started using this toner my acne seems to be diminished by about half. Plus, my wallet is pleased that a jar costs under $0.50 to make. But don't take my word for it- try it out yourself today!