CTM stands for Cleansing-Toning-Moisturizing which is the most important and basic routine in skincare.

While most people routinely follow the Cleansing and Moisturizing part, they often ignore or skip the Toning part.

Toning might seem like an unnecessary step but toners are magical elixirs which instantly refresh the skin. 

For people with dry skin, toners are especially beneficial since they help in better absorption of the moisturizer.

Benefits Of Using A Toner

  •  Cleanses the dirt, oil and impurities on the skin
  •  Hydrates the skin and makes it look dewy
  •  Restores the skin’s pH balance
  •  Makes the skin tone even
  •  Minimizes the appearance of large pores
  •  Reduces the occurrence of comedones (acne, blackheads, pimples, papules etc)
  •  Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
  •  Reduces the appearance of spots and blemishes
  •  Makes the skin tighter and smoother
  •  Makes the skin look younger and youthful

Skipping toning might not be a good idea but you can definitely skip the expensive store-bought toners and make a DIY toner yourself!

[Also Read: 10 DIY Recipes For Herb Infused Hair Oils For All Your Hair Problems]

Homemade toners are made using common and completely natural ingredients. 

They are effective, safe, and quite easy to make!

Rose Water Toner

DIY Homemade Toners For Dry Skin

1. Rose Water Toner

Rosewater has antioxidants that tone the skin and hydrate it. Rosewater also smells great and is good for sensitive skin. 

It makes the skin plump and rosy, keeping it soft.

How To Make

Boil water in a pot for a few minutes and turn off the flame. Add freshly shredded rose petals to the boiling water and close the lid. Let it steep until it cools down. 

Stir, strain and transfer the mist to a clean bottle.

[Also Read: 10 Step Korean Skincare Routine]

2. Hibiscus Water Toner

Hibiscus cleanses the skin, promotes collagen production and tightens the skin without absorbing oil. 

Hibiscus contains many amino acids and has remarkable detoxifying properties.

How To Make

Finely chop fresh hibiscus petals and add them in a pot of boiling water. Turn off the flame after 10 mins and let the hibiscus seep into the water turning it rosy. 

Stir, strain and store it in a bottle after it cools down.

3. Cucumber & Vitamin E Oil Toner

Cucumber's rich water content is hydrating, cooling and soothing. 

Vitamin E oil moisturizes dry skin and keeps it youthful.

How To Make

Grate a cucumber and strain the juice through a muslin cloth. Add one capsule of Vitamin E oil in it and mix well. 

Store it in a bottle and shake well before using it.

4. Mint Toner

Mint is famous for its refreshing aroma but it is also antibacterial and rich in menthol. Mint soothes the skin and also prevents breakouts.

How To Make

Boil 1 cup of water and turn off the flame after 5 mins. Add 1 handful of finely chopped mint leaves and cover the pot. 

You can also add 1/4th teaspoon alum. When it cools, stir, strain and store it in a bottle.

[Also Read: What Is My Skin Type And It's Preferred Products?]

5. Tulsi Toner

Tulsi leaves are medicinal and have healing properties. 

Tulsi nourishes and moisturizes dry skin. It also contains antioxidants and is antiseptic.

How To Make

Boil shredded tulsi leaves in water and let the leaves steep in the water till it cools down. 

Stir, strain and store it in a clean bottle.

6. Pomegranate Toner

Pomegranate juice rejuvenates the skin and gives it a healthy glow. 

Pomegranates have antioxidants and anti-ageing properties.

How To Make

Blend pomegranate seeds to extract the juice. Strain it through a muslin cloth and store it in a container. 

Pomegranate juice is a natural and organic toner.

7. Green Tea & Aloe Vera Toner

Both these powerful ingredients are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. 

They treat discolouration and brighten the skin. Aloe vera is also an excellent moisturizer for dry skin.

How To Make

Brew plain green tea and strain it. After it cools down, add freshly scooped aloe vera gel and mix it well. 

Store it in a bottle and shake well before each use. 

8. Milk & Coconut Water Toner

Milk and coconut water toner is super nourishing for dry skin. Milk treats dry, itchy skin and also lightens the skin. 

Coconut water re-hydrates the skin making it soft and supple.

How To Make

Fill a cup with equal amounts of fresh milk and coconut water. Stir it well and store it in a bottle. Remember to shake it well each time before using.

9. Rice Water Toner

Rice water cleanses impurities from the skin. Rice water is anti-ageing too. It keeps dry skin moist and supple. 

It also boosts collagen production and lightens the skin.

How To Make

Soak washed rice in lukewarm water for a few hours. Stir and wait until the water turns cloudy and milky. Carefully pour the water into a bottle and shake it occasionally. 

10. Tea Tree Oil Toner

Tea tree oil moisturizes dry and patchy skin. It soothes the skin and also clears up the complexion. 

It is anti-inflammatory and treats many skin conditions.

How To Make

Mix four drops of pure tea tree oil with 1/2 cup distilled water. Store it in a bottle. 

Oil floats on water hence remember to shake it well before each use.

DIY Skin Toner

[Also Read: Make Your Own Scrubs: DIY Body Scrub Recipes]

How To Use DIY Homemade Toners

1. Use the toner while your skin is still damp after cleansing. This will help it to penetrate well into the skin.

2. For easier application, store the toner in a spray bottle and simply spray it over your face and neck.

3. Another way is to soak a cotton pad with few drops of the toner and apply it evenly all over your face and neck.

4. You can also take a few drops of the toner in your palms and gently pat it over your face and neck.

Points To Remember

1. Do a patch test and wait for 30 minutes to see signs of an allergic reaction.

2. Feel free to mix the ingredients and make a customized toner according to what suits your skin.

3. Always use fresh ingredients for making the toner.

4. Store the toner in a glass bottle and make sure to refrigerate it.

5. Make small amounts and use them up within 5-6 days since homemade toners do not contain preservatives. 

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