DIY Toner: Make Your Own Chamomile Facial Toner

What is Chamomile?

Chamaemelum nobile is a low-growing, carpet-like perennial that grows up to 12 inches tall and spreads through creeping rhizomes. It thrives in sun to partial shade in well-draining soil. The small, daisy-like flowers are the healing part of the plant. Harvest them just as they fully open.

Use whole flower heads fresh, or dry them on flat drying screens. Many people are familiar with the calming effects of chamomile flower tea. This same calming effect happens when chamomile flowers are ingredients in remedies for skin care. When used in facial treatments, the flowers provide gentle cleansing and can calm irritation and puffiness. Other common chamomile healing and beauty concoctions include hair rinses, skin lotions, and bath blends. 

You may want to consider growing it in your medicine garden!

How to Make Chamomile Toner

Use this herbal facial toner to remove any last traces of dirt, grime, and impurities after washing your face.

Ingredients

• 2 cups distilled water* 
• ½ cup dried chamomile flowers 
• ¼ cup organic apple cider vinegar or true witch hazel extract (if the smell of vinegar is bothersome)

*Distilled water is preferred for use in skincare recipes because nearly all impurities and/or chemicals that irritate the skin have been removed. Distilled water also tends to have a neutral pH (acid/alkaline level), which is better for use in skin care. If the pH is too high, skin will feel dry; if too low, skin tends to be oily. Water with a neutral (or near-neutral) pH eliminates the risk of dryness or oiliness and enables the skin to better absorb the herbal healing ingredients. Distilled water can be purchased at many supermarkets and pharmacies.

Instructions

1. Heat water to hot (but not to the boiling point) and add the chamomile. Remove from heat and allow to steep for 15 minutes. 
2. Add vinegar and mix well. 
3. Strain out the flowers and discard them. 
4. Store the liquid in a cleaned and sterilized glass jar. The toner will keep for up to 6 months.

Incorporating chamomile into your skincare routine is a simple and effective way to experience its numerous benefits. From soothing irritated skin to promoting relaxation, this versatile herb offers a natural and gentle solution for various beauty concerns. By following the recipe for chamomile toner, you can easily create a homemade product that can help enhance your complexion!