In a world full of store-bought cosmetics with long, hard-to-pronounce ingredient lists and questionable effectiveness, more and more people are turning to natural alternatives. DIY skincare is no longer just a fun hobby – it’s a conscious and healthy way to care for your skin without unnecessary chemicals. Making your own products at home means you know exactly what you’re putting on your skin, while also being kind to the environment – and your wallet.
Today, I’m sharing four simple recipes for homemade facial toners that refresh, soothe, and brighten your complexion. Each is made from natural, easy-to-find ingredients and delivers real skincare benefits – without preservatives or alcohol.
Ingredients:
– ½ cup raw rice
– 1 cup floral water (e.g. rose, neroli, or geranium hydrosol)
Instructions:
Rinse the rice thoroughly under running water. Place it in a bowl and pour over the hydrosol. Let sit for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Strain the liquid and transfer it to a clean spray bottle. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Effects:
This toner gently brightens the skin, smooths texture, and soothes irritation. The hydrosol adds extra moisturizing and toning properties.
Benefits:
Ingredients:
– 1 small cucumber
– 1 tablespoon witch hazel or lavender hydrosol
– a few drops of lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
Grate the cucumber finely and strain the juice through cheesecloth or a fine sieve. Mix the juice with the hydrosol and, if desired, a few drops of lemon juice. Pour into a clean spray bottle and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Effects:
This toner soothes irritated skin, refreshes, and tightens pores. Witch hazel adds anti-inflammatory and astringent benefits while regulating sebum production.
Benefits:
Ingredients:
– 1 small raw potato
– 1 tablespoon hydrosol (e.g. rose, geranium, or neroli)
Instructions:
Grate the potato and strain the juice using cheesecloth. Mix the juice with the hydrosol and pour into a spray bottle. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Effects:
This toner helps fade pigmentation, refreshes, and soothes the skin. The hydrosol supports hydration and gentle toning.
Benefits:
Ingredients:
– 1 green tea bag
– 1 cup floral water (e.g. geranium or witch hazel hydrosol)
– 1 tablespoon rose hydrosol
– a few drops of lemon essential oil
Instructions:
Brew the tea and let it cool completely. Remove the tea bag and add the hydrosols and essential oil. Pour into a clean spray bottle and store in the fridge for up to 7 days.
Effects:
Green tea is anti-inflammatory and rich in antioxidants. Rose hydrosol hydrates and soothes. Witch hazel purifies, soothes, and regulates oil production. Lemon oil adds a fresh scent and purifying effect.
Benefits:
💡 TIP: To extend your toner’s shelf life, add a natural preservative from fermented radish root (e.g. Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate).
It will:
– Prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.
– Keep the toner fresh and safe to use for up to 4 weeks in the fridge.
Conclusion:
DIY facial toners are simple, affordable, and a beautiful way to nourish your skin with clean, natural ingredients. You know exactly what’s in them – and that makes all the difference.
Do you have a favorite recipe or want more DIY ideas like these? Feel free to leave a comment or share your go-to natural toner! 💚