Discover the best DIY cleansing routine for your skin
Natural Facial Toners for Oily, Combination & Mature Skin
Your skin changes with the seasons, age, hormones and even stress, so using the same cleanser or facial toner as everyone else isn't always the best approach.
A skincare routine works best when it's tailored to your skin type. The right cleansing ingredients help remove impurities without stripping the skin, while a gentle facial toner can leave your complexion feeling balanced, refreshed and ready for moisturiser or facial oil.
In this guide, we'll look at the best cleansing options for different skin types and show you how to make simple DIY facial toners using natural ingredients.
Why Cleansing and Toning Matter
Cleansing removes makeup, sunscreen, excess oil and daily impurities.
A facial toner is the second step that helps refresh the skin after cleansing while preparing it for the rest of your skincare routine.
Know Your Skin Type
| Skin Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Normal | Comfortable, balanced, neither oily nor dry. |
| Combination | Oily T-zone with normal or dry cheeks. |
| Oily | Excess shine, enlarged pores and blemish-prone. |
| Mature | Often drier with fine lines and reduced elasticity. |
Best Cleansing Options for Each Skin Type
Normal & Combination Skin
The goal is to cleanse without disrupting your skin's natural balance.
- Sweet Almond Oil
- Golden Jojoba Oil
- Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel
- Vegetable Glycerine
Oily Skin
Choose lightweight ingredients that help leave skin feeling fresh and balanced.
- Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel
- Vegetable Glycerine
- Tea Tree Essential Oil (properly diluted)
- Golden Jojoba Oil
Mature Skin
As skin matures it often benefits from richer, nourishing ingredients.
DIY Facial Toners
These recipes make approximately 100ml of facial toner.
🌿 Facial Toner for Normal & Combination Skin
Base Ingredients
- 95ml Witch Hazel
- 5ml Vegetable Glycerine
Add
- 2 drops Lavender Essential Oil
- 1 drop Geranium Rose Essential Oil
Method
- Mix all ingredients in a clean bottle.
- Shake thoroughly.
- Shake before every use.
- Mist onto freshly cleansed skin.
🌿 Facial Toner for Oily Skin
Base Ingredients
- 95ml Witch Hazel
- 5ml Vegetable Glycerine
Add
Method
- Combine the ingredients.
- Shake well.
- Store in a 100ml spray bottle.
- Use after cleansing.
🌿 Facial Toner for Mature Skin
Base Ingredients
- 95ml Witch Hazel
- 5ml Vegetable Glycerine
-
Add
- 2 drops Frankincense Essential Oil
- 1 drop Geranium Rose Essential Oil
Method
- Mix all ingredients together.
- Pour into a spray bottle.
- Shake well.
- Apply after cleansing morning and evening.
How to Use Your Facial Toner
- Cleanse your face.
- Shake the bottle well before each use.
- Mist onto clean skin or apply with a reusable cotton pad.
- Allow it to absorb naturally.
- Follow with your favourite facial oil or moisturiser.
Safety Information
Essential oils are highly concentrated and should always be properly diluted before use on the skin.
Perform a patch test before first use. Avoid contact with the eyes. If irritation occurs, discontinue use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use these toners every day?
Yes. These DIY facial toners are gentle enough to use as part of your daily skincare routine when prepared as directed. Apply after cleansing, both morning and evening, to help refresh the skin before applying a facial oil or moisturiser. If you have particularly sensitive skin, start by using the toner once a day and monitor how your skin responds.
Why use Witch Hazel in a facial toner?
Witch Hazel is a popular ingredient in DIY skincare because it creates a lightweight, refreshing base that leaves the skin feeling clean and revitalised. It blends well with floral waters, vegetable glycerine and essential oils, making it an excellent foundation for homemade facial toners suitable for a variety of skin types.
How long will my toner last?
When prepared using clean, sterilised equipment and stored correctly, your DIY facial toner should remain fresh for around 2 to 3 months. If you notice any changes in colour, smell or appearance, it's best to discard the mixture and make a fresh batch.
How should I store my DIY facial toner?
When prepared using clean, sterilised Store your toner in a clean, sterilised bottle away from direct sunlight and heat, ideally in a cool, dark place. Refrigerating the toner can provide an extra refreshing sensation when applied, especially during warmer months. Always shake the bottle before use, as the essential oils will naturally separate from the water-based ingredients over time.
Can I use any essential oil in these recipes?
Not all essential oils are suitable for facial skincare. Some can be irritating, especially on delicate facial skin or when exposed to sunlight. The recipes in this guide use essential oils that are commonly chosen for facial care when properly diluted. Always follow recommended dilution guidelines, perform a patch test before first use and avoid applying products to broken or irritated skin.
Do I need to perform a patch test?
Yes. Even natural ingredients can cause sensitivity in some individuals. Before using any new DIY skincare product, apply a small amount to the inside of your elbow or wrist and wait 24 hours. If irritation occurs, discontinue use. Patch testing is especially important when using essential oils, as they are highly concentrated.