Cloves have been treasured for centuries in traditional beauty routines thanks to their antioxidant-rich compounds and naturally cleansing properties. When combined with other skin-friendly ingredients, they can create refreshing DIY facial toners that leave your skin feeling clean, hydrated, and revitalized.
Important: These recipes are for cosmetic use only. DIY toners are not proven to erase wrinkles, permanently tighten pores, remove dark spots, or boost collagen. Results vary from person to person. Always perform a patch test 24 hours before applying any new product to your face.
1. Clove & Rice Water Toner
Best for: Refreshing the skin and improving hydration
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 cup rice water (freshly prepared)
- 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel (optional)
- Spray bottle
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Water
Rinse ½ cup of uncooked rice.
Add 1 cup of clean water and let it soak for 30 minutes.
Strain the rice and keep the water.
Step 2: Prepare the Cloves
Bring the rice water to a gentle simmer.
Add the cloves.
Simmer for about 10 minutes.
Allow the mixture to cool completely.
Step 3: Strain
Remove the cloves using a fine mesh strainer.
If desired, stir in aloe vera gel.
Step 4: Bottle It
Pour into a clean spray bottle.
Store in the refrigerator.
Use within 5–7 days.
How to Use
- Cleanse your face.
- Spray lightly over the skin.
- Allow it to air dry.
- Follow with moisturizer.
2. Clove & Green Tea Toner
Best for: Oily and combination skin
Ingredients
- 1 cup brewed green tea
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon glycerin (optional)
Step 1: Brew the Tea
Prepare one cup of green tea.
Let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Infuse with Cloves
Add cloves to the warm tea.
Cover and let steep for 20 minutes.
Step 3: Strain
Remove the cloves.
Add glycerin if your skin tends to be dry.
Step 4: Store
Transfer to a sterilized spray bottle.
Refrigerate.
Use within one week.
Benefits
- Refreshes the skin
- Helps remove excess oil
- Leaves skin feeling clean and comfortable
3. Clove & Rose Water Toner
Best for: Normal and sensitive skin
Ingredients
- ½ cup pure rose water
- 1 tablespoon cloves
- ½ teaspoon aloe vera gel
Step 1: Heat
Warm the rose water gently.
Do not boil.
Step 2: Add Cloves
Add the cloves.
Steep for 15–20 minutes.
Step 3: Cool
Let the mixture cool completely.
Strain thoroughly.
Step 4: Mix
Stir in aloe vera gel until smooth.
Pour into a clean spray bottle.
How to Apply
- Spray onto freshly cleansed skin.
- Pat gently with clean hands.
- Finish with your favorite moisturizer.
4. Clove & Flaxseed Toner
Best for: Dry skin that needs extra hydration
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon flaxseeds
- 1 tablespoon cloves
- 1½ cups water
Step 1: Simmer
Add flaxseeds and water to a saucepan.
Cook for 8–10 minutes until slightly gel-like.
Step 2: Add Cloves
Stir in the cloves.
Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 3: Strain
While still warm, strain through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
Step 4: Cool
Allow the toner to cool completely.
Transfer to a spray bottle.
Store in the refrigerator.
Use within 5 days.
Benefits
- Provides lightweight hydration
- Leaves skin feeling soft and refreshed
- Can help reduce the feeling of dryness
How to Use DIY Herbal Toners
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.
- Shake the bottle before each use.
- Spray or apply the toner with a cotton pad.
- Let it absorb naturally.
- Follow with a moisturizer.
- Use once or twice daily if your skin tolerates it well.
Storage Tips
- Keep refrigerated.
- Use clean bottles and utensils.
- Discard immediately if the toner changes color, smell, or develops mold.
- Because these recipes contain no preservatives, make small batches.
Safety Tips
- Always perform a 24-hour patch test before applying to your face.
- Avoid using on broken or irritated skin.
- If redness, burning, or itching occurs, stop using the product and rinse thoroughly.
- Cloves can be irritating for some people, especially in concentrated forms, so use them sparingly and avoid applying undiluted clove essential oil directly to the skin.
Final Thoughts
DIY herbal toners can be a simple addition to your skincare routine, offering a refreshing way to cleanse and hydrate your skin. Ingredients like cloves, green tea, rose water, rice water, and flaxseed each bring unique properties that may help your skin feel smoother and more comfortable. However, they are not a substitute for medically proven treatments for wrinkles, pigmentation, acne, or collagen loss. Pair these toners with daily sunscreen, gentle cleansing, and a consistent moisturizer for the best overall skincare routine.
