How to Make a Rose Water Toner at Home

What Ingredients Do I Need to Make a Rose Water Toner at Home?

To make a 100ml batch of homemade rose water toner, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Rose Water: 60-70ml (about 2/3 of the 100ml batch)
Witch Hazel: 30-40ml (about 1/3 of the 100ml batch), alcohol-free or labeled as witch hazel hydrosol
Optional Additives:
Apple Cider Vinegar: 1-2 tablespoons (about 15-30ml), can be reduced or omitted for sensitive skin
Essential Oils: A few drops of rose, lavender, or chamomile essential oil for added benefits and fragrance

There are two main methods to extract rose water at home:

Rinse the rose petals under lukewarm water to remove any dirt or residue.
Place the cleaned rose petals in a saucepan and cover them with distilled water, ensuring the water level just covers the petals.
Bring the water to a simmer over medium-low heat, cover the saucepan to keep the petals submerged.
Let the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the petals have lost their color and are pale pink.
Strain the mixture into a large bowl using cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve, and discard the petals.

Use a distillation apparatus or a DIY setup with a pot, lid, and a collection vessel.
Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Collect the distilled rose water as it condenses.

Bottle Type: Use a clean, dark glass spray bottle to protect the toner from light.
Shelf Life: Homemade rose water can be stored in the fridge for up to 6 months. The rose water toner is best used fresh and stored in the fridge for up to one week.
Refrigeration Needs: Both the rose water and the toner should be stored in the refrigerator to prolong shelf life and prevent spoilage.

Application Methods: Spray the toner directly onto clean skin or apply it using a cotton pad. Let it dry for a few seconds before applying any face oil or moisturizer.
Frequency: Use the toner in the morning and evening as part of your skincare routine.

Allergies and Skin Reactions: If you have sensitive skin, start with a small patch test to ensure you do not have any adverse reactions. Reduce or omit the apple cider vinegar if your skin is particularly dry or sensitive.
Sourcing Organic Roses: Ensure the roses are organic and free from pesticides. Rinse the petals thoroughly before use.
Purity: Use distilled water and avoid any additional ingredients in the rose water and witch hazel to maintain purity and effectiveness.