Ever stare at your skincare shelf and think, “Why does this tiny bottle cost more than my weekly groceries?” Yeah, same. That exact thought pushed me down the DIY toner rabbit hole, and honestly, I never fully climbed back out. Making toner at home feels empowering, budget-friendly, and kind of fun in a “mad scientist but for skin” way.
If you love skincare and enjoy mixing things in your kitchen without burning anything down, this one’s for you. I’ll walk you through 10 DIY toner recipes to try at home, explain why they work, and share my honest opinions along the way. Grab a cotton pad and let’s chat.
Why Even Bother With DIY Toners?
Before we get into the recipes, let’s talk about the “why.” Toner helps balance your skin, remove leftover gunk, and prep your face for serums and moisturizers. Store-bought toners work, sure, but they often come with alcohol, fragrance, or mystery ingredients your skin didn’t ask for.
DIY toners give you control. You choose the ingredients. You tweak them based on your skin’s mood swings. Plus, you save money, which means more cash for sunscreen or snacks. Win-win, right?
1. Rose Water Toner for Everyday Glow
Why I Love It
Rose water feels like skincare’s chill best friend. It soothes, hydrates, and smells amazing without trying too hard.
How to Make It
Pure rose water
Distilled water (optional for dilution)
Mix equal parts if your skin feels sensitive. Use straight rose water if your skin handles it well.
Best For
Dry skin
Sensitive skin
Anyone who wants instant calm
This toner feels gentle enough for daily use, and IMO, it never irritates. Ever wondered why roses show up in fancy skincare? This is why.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar Toner for Breakouts
Why It Works
Apple cider vinegar balances pH and fights acne-causing bacteria. It sounds scary, but dilution keeps things safe.
How to Make It
1 part apple cider vinegar
3–4 parts distilled water
Always dilute. Always. Your face deserves kindness.
Best For
Oily skin
Acne-prone skin
This toner packs a punch, so use it sparingly. I stick to 2–3 times a week, unless my skin feels extra chaotic.
3. Green Tea Toner for Redness Control
Why It’s a Classic
Green tea calms inflammation and fights free radicals. It also feels refreshing, especially in the morning.
How to Make It
Freshly brewed green tea
Let it cool completely
Store it in the fridge for up to three days.
Best For
Redness
Sensitive skin
Post-sun exposure
Ever splashed cold green tea on your face at 7 a.m.? It wakes you up faster than coffee. FYI.
4. Witch Hazel Toner for Oil Control
What Makes It Special
Witch hazel tightens pores and reduces oil without stripping skin. Choose an alcohol-free version, please.
How to Make It
Alcohol-free witch hazel
Optional: A few drops of aloe vera
Shake before use.
Best For
Oily skin
Combination skin
I use this when my T-zone starts acting like an oil slick. It keeps shine under control without drama.
5. Aloe Vera Toner for Instant Soothing
Why Your Skin Loves Aloe
Aloe hydrates, heals, and cools irritated skin. It works like a reset button.
How to Make It
Fresh aloe vera gel
Distilled water (1:2 ratio)
Blend and strain for a smooth texture.
Best For
Sunburned skin
Dry or irritated skin
This toner saved my face after one too many “I don’t need sunscreen” moments. Learn from my mistakes.
6. Cucumber Toner for Refreshment
Why It Feels So Good
Cucumber cools and hydrates skin instantly. It also reduces puffiness, which I appreciate on tired mornings.
How to Make It
Fresh cucumber
Distilled water
Blend, strain, and store in the fridge.
Best For
Puffy skin
Dehydrated skin
This toner feels like a mini spa moment. Ever wondered why spas love cucumber slices? Mystery solved.
7. Chamomile Toner for Sensitive Skin
Why It’s So Gentle
Chamomile calms irritation and reduces redness. It works like a hug for stressed skin.
How to Make It
Brewed chamomile tea
Let it cool fully
Use within three days.
Best For
Sensitive skin
Redness
I reach for this toner when my skin throws a tantrum. It always talks it down.
8. Rice Water Toner for Brightening
Why It’s Trending
Rice water brightens skin and smooths texture. People used it centuries ago, and they knew what they were doing.
How to Make It
Rinse water from uncooked rice
Let it sit overnight, then strain
Best For
Dull skin
Uneven tone
This toner gives subtle glow over time. Don’t expect magic overnight, but stay consistent.
9. Lavender Toner for Stress Relief
Why It Feels Luxurious
Lavender calms both skin and mind. It feels relaxing without feeling heavy.
How to Make It
Lavender tea or hydrosol
Optional: A few drops of glycerin
Best For
Normal skin
Nighttime routines
I love using this before bed. It signals “skincare is done, chill now.”
10. Lemon-Free Brightening Toner (Yes, Really)
Why I Skip Lemon Juice
Lemon juice irritates skin and increases sun sensitivity. I said what I said.
The Better Option
Orange peel-infused water
Distilled water
Best For
Dull skin
Uneven tone
This option brightens gently without risking irritation. Ever wondered why DIY recipes still push lemon? Beats me.
How to Use DIY Toners Safely
DIY skincare feels fun, but safety matters. Always patch test before full application. Store toners in clean containers and keep them refrigerated when possible.
Quick safety tips:
Use clean tools
Label your bottles
Toss anything that smells off
Your skin deserves fresh ingredients, not science experiments gone wrong.
DIY Toners vs Store-Bought: My Honest Take
DIY toners work beautifully for simple needs. They hydrate, soothe, and balance skin without filler ingredients. Store-bought toners shine when you want targeted actives like acids or niacinamide.
I mix both in my routine. I use DIY toners daily and reach for store-bought ones when my skin needs extra help. Balance matters.
Final Thoughts on DIY Toner Recipes
Making your own toner feels rewarding, affordable, and surprisingly easy. These 10 DIY toner recipes to try at home cover everything from acne to dryness to dullness. You don’t need a chemistry degree or a fancy lab to start.
So tell me, which one will you try first? Your kitchen already holds half the ingredients. Your skin might thank you, and your wallet definitely will.
