Natural toners are an essential step in skincare, helping to balance pH, tighten pores, hydrate, and prepare the skin for moisturizers and serums. Unlike commercial toners that may contain alcohol and synthetic additives, DIY natural toners can be tailored to your skin type using gentle, plant-based ingredients.Mary Makes Good+2Wikipedia+2Reddit+2
🧪 What Is a Toner and Why Is It Important?
A facial toner is a water-based liquid applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. It helps remove residual impurities, restore the skin’s pH balance, and enhance the absorption of subsequent skincare products. Toners can also provide specific benefits depending on their ingredients, such as hydration, exfoliation, or oil control. Source Vitál Apothecary+10Verywell Health+10Wikipedia+10
🌱 20 Scientifically-Backed Natural Toners You Can Make at Home
1. Rose Water Toner
Mechanism: Rose water has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to soothe irritation and hydrate the skin. Healthline
Usage Instructions:
Soak rose petals in distilled water and simmer for 30 minutes.
Strain and store in a spray bottle.
Apply after cleansing.Verywell Health
Risks: Generally safe; however, always perform a patch test to rule out allergies.People.com+12The Sun+12Puristry+12
2. Aloe Vera Toner
Mechanism: Aloe vera contains polysaccharides that promote skin healing and hydration. Mary Makes Good+5Healthline+5Jasmin Organics+5
Usage Instructions:
Mix equal parts of aloe vera gel and distilled water.
Store in a bottle and apply with a cotton pad.
Risks: Rare allergic reactions; perform a patch test before use.
3. Witch Hazel Toner
Mechanism: Witch hazel acts as an astringent, reducing inflammation and tightening pores. Nasola+14Healthline+14Allure+14
Usage Instructions:
Dilute witch hazel extract with equal parts of water.
Apply with a cotton pad after cleansing.
Risks: May cause dryness or irritation, especially in sensitive skin.Healthshots+2Nasola+2Puristry+2
4. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Toner
Mechanism: ACV contains acetic acid, which has antimicrobial properties and helps balance skin pH.
Usage Instructions:
Mix 1 part ACV with 2 parts water.
Apply with a cotton pad.MDPI
Risks: Can cause irritation; always dilute and perform a patch test.The Sun
5. Green Tea Toner
Mechanism: Green tea is rich in catechins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Usage Instructions:
Brew green tea and let it cool.
Apply with a cotton pad or spray bottle.Bramble Berry+2The Sun+2Farmhouse on Boone+2
Risks: Generally safe; ensure freshness to prevent bacterial growth.Sadhev
6. Cucumber Toner
Mechanism: Cucumber has hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties, soothing the skin.Nasola
Usage Instructions:
Blend cucumber and strain the juice.
Mix with equal parts water.
Apply with a cotton pad.IJPS Journal
Risks: Perform a patch test to rule out allergies.
7. Chamomile Toner
Mechanism: Chamomile contains flavonoids that reduce inflammation and soothe the skin.
Usage Instructions:
Brew chamomile tea and let it cool.
Apply with a cotton pad.
Risks: May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to ragweed.
8. Neem Toner
Mechanism: Neem has antibacterial properties, making it effective against acne. The Sun
Usage Instructions:
Boil neem leaves in water, cool, and strain.
Apply with a cotton pad.
Risks: Perform a patch test before use.
9. Rice Water Toner
Mechanism: Rice water contains inositol, which promotes cell growth and slows aging.
Usage Instructions:
Rinse rice and soak in water for 30 minutes.
Strain and use the water as a toner.
Risks: Use within a few days to prevent fermentation.
10. Orange Peel Toner
Mechanism: Orange peel is rich in vitamin C, aiding in skin brightening. The Sun
Usage Instructions:
Boil orange peels in water, cool, and strain.
Apply with a cotton pad.
Risks: May cause photosensitivity; use sunscreen during the day.
11. Lavender Toner
Mechanism: Lavender has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.Nasola+6Healthline+6Dermatology Times+6
Usage Instructions:
Brew lavender tea or use lavender hydrosol.
Apply with a cotton pad.Reddit+1Bottega Zero Waste+1
Risks: May cause allergic reactions; perform a patch test.Healthline+40Reddit+40The Sun+40
12. Mint Toner
Mechanism: Mint has a cooling effect and helps control oil production.Mary Makes Good
Usage Instructions:
Boil mint leaves in water, cool, and strain.
Apply with a cotton pad.
Risks: May cause irritation; perform a patch test.Dr.Oracle
13. Basil (Tulsi) Toner
Mechanism: Basil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Usage Instructions:
Boil basil leaves in water, cool, and strain.
Apply with a cotton pad.
Risks: Generally safe; perform a patch test.
14. Calendula Toner
Mechanism: Calendula promotes healing and reduces inflammation.
Usage Instructions:
Brew calendula tea, cool, and strain.
Apply with a cotton pad.
Risks: May cause allergic reactions; perform a patch test.
15. Honey Toner
Mechanism: Honey is a natural humectant, retaining moisture in the skin.
Usage Instructions:
Mix 1 teaspoon of honey with 1 cup of warm water.
Apply with a cotton pad.
Risks: Sticky residue; rinse if necessary.
16. Coconut Water Toner
Mechanism: Coconut water hydrates and provides essential nutrients to the skin.
Usage Instructions:
Use fresh coconut water and apply with a cotton pad.
Risks: Use fresh to prevent spoilage.
17. Amla (Indian Gooseberry) Toner
Mechanism: Amla is rich in vitamin C, promoting collagen production.
Usage Instructions:
Boil amla pieces in water, cool, and strain.
Apply with a cotton pad.
Risks: May cause dryness; moisturize after use.
18. Papaya Toner
Mechanism: Papaya contains enzymes that exfoliate dead skin cells.
Usage Instructions:
Blend papaya and strain the juice.
Mix with equal parts water.
Apply with a cotton pad.
Risks: May cause irritation; perform a patch test.
19. Coriander Toner
Mechanism: Coriander has antibacterial properties and helps in detoxifying the skin.
Usage Instructions:
Boil coriander leaves in water, cool, and strain.
Apply with a cotton pad.
Risks: Generally safe;
20. Tea Tree Oil Toner
🌿 Mechanism: Tea tree oil is antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, making it effective against acne-causing bacteria.
🔬 Source: NCBI
🧴 Usage Instructions:
Mix 4–5 drops of tea tree oil in 100 ml of distilled water.
Shake well before each use.
Apply with a cotton pad, avoiding eyes and broken skin.
⚠️ Risks: Always dilute! Direct application can burn or irritate. Patch test mandatory.
🔍 Comparison Table: Natural Toners vs Commercial Toners
| Feature | Natural Toners 🍃 | Commercial Toners 🧪 |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Plant-based, minimal | Synthetic, alcohol-based |
| Skin Suitability | Customizable to skin type | Generalized formulation |
| Cost | Very low (DIY) | Can be expensive |
| Shelf Life | Short (natural preservatives) | Longer (chemical preservatives) |
| Risk of Irritation | Low (if patch tested) | Higher (due to alcohol/fragrance) |
| Environmental Impact | Eco-friendly ♻️ | Often packaged in plastic |
✅ Conclusion: DIY toners are safer, gentler, and eco-conscious – but require fresh prep and patch testing.
🧑⚕️ Expert Quotes on Natural Toners
🗣 Dr. Whitney Bowe, Dermatologist & Author
“Toners made from natural hydrosols like rose or green tea are fantastic for calming the skin without the irritation risk of alcohol-based formulas.”
🔗 Source: Harper’s Bazaar Interview
🗣 Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Dermatologist, Mount Sinai
“Apple cider vinegar in small dilutions may help balance pH and reduce breakouts, but always use caution with sensitive skin.”
🔗 Source: Healthline Interview
🗣 Dr. Andrea Suarez, Board-Certified Dermatologist
“Aloe vera remains a gold standard for natural skin hydration and inflammation control.”
🔗 Source: YouTube @DrDrayzday
📊 Summary Table of 20 Natural Toners
| No. | Ingredient | Key Benefit | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rose Water | Soothing, hydrating | All skin types 🌸 |
| 2 | Aloe Vera | Anti-inflammatory | Dry, sensitive 💧 |
| 3 | Witch Hazel | Astringent, oil-control | Oily, acne-prone 🧼 |
| 4 | ACV | pH balance, antibacterial | Acne-prone 🍎 |
| 5 | Green Tea | Antioxidant, calming | Combination 🍃 |
| 6 | Cucumber | Cooling, hydrating | Inflamed skin 🥒 |
| 7 | Chamomile | Calming, gentle | Sensitive 🌼 |
| 8 | Neem | Antibacterial | Acne, oily 🌿 |
| 9 | Rice Water | Brightening, toning | Aging, dull skin 🌾 |
| 10 | Orange Peel | Vitamin C boost | Pigmentation 🍊 |
| 11 | Lavender | Antiseptic, calming | Combination 💜 |
| 12 | Mint | Cooling, oil reduction | Oily, irritated 🌱 |
| 13 | Basil (Tulsi) | Detoxifying | Acne-prone 🌿 |
| 14 | Calendula | Healing, soothing | Irritated skin 🌼 |
| 15 | Honey | Moisturizing, antibacterial | Dry, acne 🌟 |
| 16 | Coconut Water | Nutrient-rich hydration | All skin types 🥥 |
| 17 | Amla | Collagen booster | Aging skin 🍈 |
| 18 | Papaya | Exfoliating enzymes | Dull, rough 🍈 |
| 19 | Coriander | Detoxifying, anti-acne | Acne-prone 🍃 |
| 20 | Tea Tree Oil | Antibacterial, anti-acne | Oily, acne-prone 🌿 |
🙋♀️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take for natural toners to show results?
⏳ Most users report improvements in 7–14 days with consistent use.
2. Are DIY toners as effective as store-bought ones?
✅ Yes, especially for soothing, hydrating, and balancing. For conditions like acne or pigmentation, results vary.
3. Can I refrigerate natural toners?
❄️ Absolutely! It extends shelf life and enhances cooling effect.
4. Can I use natural toners daily?
👍 Yes. Most DIY toners are gentle enough for daily use unless otherwise specified.
5. Do I still need a moisturizer after toner?
🧴 Yes. Toner preps the skin, but moisturizer locks in hydration.
6. Is alcohol-free better?
🚫 Yes, especially for sensitive skin. Alcohol can strip natural oils and damage skin barrier.
7. How do I prevent spoilage of natural toners?
📆 Use within 5–7 days or refrigerate. You may add a few drops of vitamin E as a natural preservative.
8. Can natural toners cause breakouts?
😬 If not patch tested or used past freshness, yes. Always patch test.
9. What is the best toner for dry skin?
💧 Aloe vera, honey, or rose water are ideal.
10. Which toner is best for acne-prone skin?
🔥 Witch hazel, tea tree, neem, or apple cider vinegar (always diluted).
⚠️ Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical or dermatological advice. Always consult a board-certified dermatologist before starting any new skincare routine, especially if you have known allergies, chronic skin conditions, or are pregnant/lactating.
