If you know a certain ingredient works well for your skin, you may want to use it in your own DIY toner. Below is a list of DIY toners by ingredient.
Keep in mind that because these homemade toners don’t have any preservatives, you’ll want to store them in your refrigerator and discard them after 2 to 3 days.
If you’re using an ingredient for the first time, always do a skin patch test and wait at least 30 minutes to see how your skin responds before applying it to your face.
1. Witch hazel
Witch hazel is an astringent that can calm:
- irritation
- inflammation
- acne
You can spray pure witch hazel onto your face or apply it with a cotton pad. It’s soothing to your skin and may reduce the appearance of pores.
You can also try this DIY recipe:
- 4 tbsp. witch hazel — make sure it’s alcohol-free, otherwise it will be drying
- 2 tbsp. aloe vera
- a few drops of your favorite essential oil
Thoroughly mix the ingredients together, then funnel the toner into a spray bottle or apply it to your face using clean hands or a cotton pad.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe vera brightens your skin and may help fight acne. It’s also moisturizing, so it’s a great toner to use for dry skin.
Try this easy DIY toner recipe that works well for sensitive skin. It’s a hydrating, antioxidant-packed toner that may help calm redness:
- 1/2 cup rose water
- 1/2 cup aloe vera
Mix together thoroughly, then apply to your clean, dry skin.
3. Essential oils
Essential oils can add a great scent to DIY toners. Some also have helpful properties for your skin.
Tea tree oil is a popular option for healing acne, but keep in mind it’s very strong and may cause a tingling or burning sensation on irritated areas. You can also consider these essential oils:
- lavender
- chamomile
- clary sage
- geranium
- sandalwood
- rose
- jasmine
Try this DIY toner:
- 1 tbsp. witch hazel
- 1/2 tsp. vitamin E oil, which may be helpful for acne scars
- 3 drops of lavender essential oils
While research suggests there are health benefits, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and be sure to research the quality of a brand’s products. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil and dilute any essential oil with a carrier oil so it doesn’t burn your skin.
4. Rosewater toner
Rose water can naturally balance your skin’s pH, which can get out of balance if you use a cleanser that’s too alkaline or an exfoliator that’s too acidic. Rose water is also gentle and hydrating, and it smells great.
Try this DIY rosewater toner:
- 1 tbsp. rose water
- 1 tbsp. alcohol-free witch hazel
Combine all ingredients and mist over your entire face.
5. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can naturally exfoliate your skin, making it look brighter and more even.
Try this soothing DIY toner recipe, which includes calming chamomile. Chamomile fights bacteria without changing the skin’s pH, and honey adds hydration:
- 1 cup water
- 1 chamomile tea bag
- 1 tsp. honey
- 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
6. Green tea
Green tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help neutralize free radicals. Plus, it’s naturally anti-inflammatory, so it may reduce redness.
Before you use this DIY toner, make sure the tea has totally cooled:
- 1/3 cup green tea
- 3-4 drops tea tree essential oil
Shake ingredients together before misting the toner over your face.
7. Cucumber witch hazel toner
Cucumber water is cooling, hydrating, and soothing to red, overheated, or irritated skin.
Try this simple toner:
- 1 tbsp. cucumber water
- 1 tbsp. alcohol-free witch hazel
Combine all ingredients and mist over your entire face.