Kitchen Pretty: DIY Hydrating Facial Toner
DIY is making a comeback — but if we’re real, for us, it never left.
In this new series, we’re sharing some of our tried-and-true beauty recipes that have held us down through every season. Easy, effective and made with ingredients you may already have on hand.
Today’s recipe:
A gentle, hydrating toner that helps restore moisture, soothe the skin, and prep it for serums or moisturizers — especially during these dryyy winter months.
It’s perfect for daily use, particularly for dry or combination skin, but we’ve included tips for adapting it for oily skin too.
Ingredients:
For Dry/Combo Skin:
½ cup rose water or chamomile tea (hydrates and soothes)
¼ cup aloe vera juice (calms inflammation and deeply hydrates)
1 tbsp vegetable glycerin (locks in moisture)
1 tsp alcohol-free witch hazel optional) (balances oil production)
A couple drops of lavender, chamomile, rose or frankincense essential oil (optional, for calming and nourishing effects)
Bonus: If your skin’s feeling suuuper dry, add 1 tsp rosehip oil or jojoba oil. This creates a thicker, cushiony toner that doubles as a pre-serum step — especially great for overnight use on flaky or tight skin.
For Oily Skin:
½ cup green tea or cucumber water
¼ cup aloe vera juice (calms inflammation and deeply hydrates)
½ tsp vegetable glycerin (locks in moisture) —feel free to omit altogether if skin feels greasy
1 tsp alcohol-free witch hazel (balances oil production)
A couple drops of tea tree, rosemary or geranium essential oil (optional, antibacterial + balancing)
Add 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional; helps balance pH and reduce breakouts)
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a glass spray bottle or jar.
Shake well before each use.
After cleansing, spritz onto your face or apply with a cotton pad.
Follow with your moisturizer, facial oil, or next step in your skincare routine.
Bonus points if you're layering it into your ten-step Korean skincare ritual — or your own intuitive flow.
Storage & Use:
Keeps for up to 2 weeks.
Store in the refrigerator for a cooling effect and to extend shelf life.
Use morning and night for hydrated, glowing skin.