Let’s demystify toner, shall we?
Back when I was running my skincare line, one of the most common questions I got wasn’t about serums, cleansers, or creams—it was about toner. What even is toner? Do I really need it? Isn’t it just fancy water?
I get it. Toner has a bit of an identity crisis in the world of skincare. But trust me—when used right, it can be the quiet hero of your routine.
So, What Is Toner?
Toner is like a fresh glass of water for your skin. It hydrates, helps tighten the pores, removes lingering impurities, and preps your face to absorb your moisturizer or serum more effectively.
Think of it as hitting the “refresh” button after cleansing.
What’s the Difference Between Toner and Astringent?
Astringents are toner’s tougher cousin. While both help clean the skin, astringents go a step further by reducing oil and tightening pores more intensely. This makes them better suited for oily or acne-prone skin.
What to Avoid in Store-Bought Toners
Here’s a tip: if it stings, it’s probably not helping.
Skip the formulas loaded with alcohol. That burning sensation might feel like it’s doing something, but in reality, it can dry you out and actually trigger more oil production. Instead, look for alcohol-free or low-alcohol options—especially if you’ve got sensitive skin.
Why I Made My Own Toner
When I couldn’t find a toner that checked all the boxes—gentle, hydrating, and refreshing—I made one myself.
This DIY Cooling Cucumber Toner is a hybrid: part toner, part astringent. It’s easy to make, soothing to the skin, and filled with natural ingredients that support glow, calmness, and hydration.
Even better? It’s sensitive-skin friendly.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
🥒 Cucumber: Cooling, calming, and full of folic acid and vitamin C. It soothes irritation, hydrates, and over time can even help with fine lines.
🌿 Witch Hazel Astringent: A natural glow booster. It gently clears away excess oil and dead skin cells without stripping your skin bare.
💧 Vegetable Glycerine: This silky moisturizer helps lock in hydration and soften the skin. Most commonly derived from soy or coconut.
🌲 Cedarwood Essential Oil: Naturally anti-inflammatory and a great soother for irritated, dry, or acne-prone skin. Always do a patch test first!
🌸 Geranium (or Germanium) Essential Oil: This floral powerhouse is beloved for balancing oil production and supporting skin healing. If you have very sensitive skin, feel free to substitute with orange oil or leave it out altogether.
DIY Cooling Cucumber Toner Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Blender or food processor
- 1 Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- 1 Small jar or spray bottle
Materials
- 1/2 cucumber peeled and blended
- 2 tablespoons witch hazel alcohol-free preferred
- 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerine
- 3 drops cedarwood essential oil
- 2 drops geranium essential oil optional or substitute with orange oil
- 1/4 cup distilled water
Instructions
- Blend the cucumber until smooth. Strain the juice using cheesecloth or a fine strainer.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine cucumber juice, witch hazel, glycerine, and distilled water.
- Add essential oils and mix well.
- Pour into a clean, airtight glass bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 7–10 days.
