homemade facial toners

As much as I love splurging on a decadent face cream or a fancy cleanser, sometimes it's nice to create inexpensive beauty products in my own kitchen. Today I'm sharing two of my favorite facial toners that are simple to make and use all-natural ingredients that are perfect for sensitive skin. The first is a rosewater and witch hazel toner that I use after cleansing to control my acne. Most acne medications cause my skin to break out but this toner keeps my skin clear without irritation. The second toner is chamomile, lavender, and aloe that I like to apply as a mist after using the rosewater toner and before my moisturizer or whenever my face flushes from rosacea. This toner moisturizes and soothes irritated skin.

Rosewater and Witch Hazel Toner
makes about 8 ounces

1 cup distilled water
1/2 cup dried rose petals
1 tablespoon witch hazel
8 oz glass bottle (optional)

Add rose petals to a small glass bowl. Heat water until almost boiling and pour over petals. Allow mixture to cool. Strain petals and pour rosewater into bottle. Add witch hazel and gently shake. Apply with a cotton ball or pad after cleansing or whenever skin needs a bit of refreshment.

Calming Chamomile and Lavender Facial Mist
makes about 4 ounces

1/2 cup distilled water
2 teaspoons dried chamomile flowers
1 teaspoon dried lavender
1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
4 oz glass bottle with atomizer (optional)

Add chamomile and lavender to a small glass bowl. Heat water to almost boiling and pour over chamomile and lavender. Allow mixture to cool. Strain flowers and stir aloe vera into water. Add to bottle and store in the refrigerator. Apply after cleansing and before moisturizing or when skin is dry, hot, or irritated.