3 Ingredient DIY Rosemary Cedarwood Facial Toner
Last updated on April 4, 2025 by Jess Healey
Originally published on January 29, 2018
Every so often, a little rosemary plant finds a new purpose.
When my dad gifted me a small potted rosemary, I knew I wouldn’t use it in the kitchen—I’m one of those rare folks who loves the smell of fresh rosemary, but not the flavor. But I couldn’t let it go to waste. As someone who lives life from scratch, especially when it comes to skincare, I started wondering: could rosemary be the upgrade my basic witch hazel toner needed?
Turns out, yes. Big time yes.
Let me introduce you to this 3-ingredient facial toner that I’ve grown to love. It’s incredibly simple, refreshingly effective, and filled with natural goodness for your skin.
Why Make a DIY Facial Toner?
Facial toner helps:
- Balance your skin’s pH after cleansing
- Gently tighten pores
- Refresh and prep skin for moisturizing
Many store-bought toners are full of alcohols and synthetic fragrances that can dry or irritate your skin. This DIY alternative skips all that and leans into soothing, plant-based ingredients that nourish your skin—especially if you’re prone to breakouts, oiliness, or mild inflammation.
Benefits of Each Ingredient
? Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent made from the bark and leaves of the Hamamelis virginiana shrub. It’s known to:
- Gently tone and tighten skin
- Soothe inflammation
- Help manage excess oil
Its mild antibacterial and antioxidant properties make it ideal for acne-prone or sensitive skin. 1
? Want to make your own witch hazel extract? Click the photo below and learn how!
? Rosemary
Rosemary is more than a culinary herb. It contains antioxidants like rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, which may support:
- Improved circulation to the skin
- Reduced appearance of puffiness
- Enhanced skin clarity
The aroma can also improve focus and mood, offering a mini aromatherapy boost while you tone. 2
? Cedarwood Essential Oil
Steam-distilled from cedarwood, this essential oil brings:
- Natural astringent properties (great for oily skin)
- Antibacterial and antifungal support
- A grounding, earthy aroma that pairs beautifully with rosemary
Some early studies suggest it may also help with skin clarity and irritation. 3
DIY Rosemary Cedarwood Facial Toner Recipe
Equipment
- Wide-mouth mason jar (for steeping)
- Strainer or cheesecloth
- Clean glass jar or bottle (for finished toner)
- Label for the finished product
Ingredients
- ¼ cup rosemary leaves – dried
- ¾ cup witch hazel extract – homemade or store-bought
- 30 drops cedarwood essential oil – optional: add 10 more drops for stronger scent
Instructions
- Pour ¼ cup dried rosemary into the jar.
- Add ¾ cup witch hazel over the rosemary. Seal tightly.
- Infuse for 2 weeks. Store the jar in a cool, dark spot. Shake daily if you remember.
- After 2 weeks, strain out the rosemary and pour the infused liquid into a new clean jar.
- Stir in 30 drops of cedarwood essential oil (or up to 40 drops if you prefer a stronger scent).
- Label your bottle and keep in a cool spot. Store in the fridge to extend shelf life.
Notes
? Substitutions & Variations
- No cedarwood? Try lavender or tea tree essential oil for their calming or clarifying effects.
- No rosemary? Calendula or thyme can offer similar antioxidant and skin-supportive benefits.
- Need more hydration? Add a splash of aloe vera juice or vegetable glycerin (about 1 tsp) to the finished toner.
? Storage Tips & Shelf Life
- Storage: Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate.
- Shelf Life: Best used within 1–2 months if refrigerated, or up to 4 weeks at room temperature.
- Signs it’s gone bad: Change in smell, color, or presence of cloudiness or mold.
Want a longer shelf life? Consider adding a natural preservative like leucidal liquid (check usage rates with your supplier).
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. It’s gentle enough for daily use on most skin types. If you’re new to essential oils or have very sensitive skin, try a patch test first.
You can, but it will shorten the shelf life. If using fresh, be sure to store your toner in the fridge and use within 2 weeks.
This toner is especially helpful for oily, acne-prone, and combination skin types, thanks to its astringent and clarifying ingredients. That said, normal skin will also enjoy its refreshing feel and light hydration.
Final Thoughts
Simple, effective, and beautifully aromatic—this 3-ingredient toner has become one of my favorite daily rituals. It’s a quick DIY that feels luxurious and grounding, with real benefits for your skin.
Let me know if you make it! I’d love to hear what oil or herb combos you try. ?
I have severe allergies and rheumatoid arthritis since my early years. Anyways turning 50 very soon and I want to make some healthy choices.
Good for you! I hope your healthy choices lead to less allergies and arthritis. 🙂