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In the past few years, I’ve seen radical improvements in my skin ever since I switched to natural skin care. My routine is now painfully simple. At night, I clean my face with coconut oil and apply this apple cider vinegar facial toner (using raw apple cider vinegar). During the day, I only use safer cosmetic products (which are the bomb) for makeup. And that’s it.
To tell you the truth, I wasn’t sold on natural skincare (or putting apple cider vinegar on my face) in the beginning. For years, I was practically married to my four step cleansing process I thought I had to do to get clear, beautiful skin. How could you expect to treat acne and pimples without exfoliating, cleansing, toning, and moisturizing with the most expensive products? Clearly, an apple cider vinegar toner wasn’t as sophisticated as my expensive store-bought one.
Then, it hit me. Why would adding more synthetic (and expensive!) chemicals to my skin somehow be better for me?
If like me, you’ve seen huge improvements in how you feel when you eat less processed foods and more whole foods without additives, you’ve probably already started to wonder about the concoctions you put on your face, skin, and hair.
To help you navigate natural skin care, here’s why apple cider vinegar can be great for your skin, and how to make your own DIY apple cider vinegar facial toner.
Toners
The act of cleansing, toning and moisturizing dates back thousands of years. Evidence shows ancient cultures utilized avocado, palm oil, olive oils, and spices for moisturizing, animal fats and salts for cleansing, and botanical waters and natural astringents for “freshening” the skin.
In fact, in the early 1900s, women (our great grandmothers!) were still making their own skin care products for toning and brightening skin from unprocessed milks, lemon juice, witch hazel, and vinegar.
Are toners a must?
Toners were originally introduced as a way to restore the skins natural pH after using conventional cleanser products, which became popular in the 1930s.
The skin has a very delicate acid mantle that normally has a pH of around 5. Soap-based cleansers are typically more alkaline (have a pH above 7), which can disrupt the acid mantle on the skin. When the acid mantle is disrupted, it promotes abnormal bacteria growth, and our skin becomes more susceptible to diseases, infections, and even wrinkles long-term. Toners, which are more acidic (a pH of around 3-4), restore the skin to its natural pH.
As beauty products have developed and evolved, most cleansers are now less alkaline and tailored to specific “types” of skin. As a result, there is much controversy about whether toners are necessary for use among professionals. Claims of conventional toners to “tighten” and “soothe and soften” skin can be far-fetched and inaccurate.
Here’s the low-down. Convention toners are typically a chemical soup of alcohol and conventional astringents, fragrances, parabens, hydrogenated oils (seriously?), and additives like “RED” this and “BLUE” that. These aren’t even close to being necessary for anyone to have clear, beautiful skin.
Because our skin’s delicate pH can be disrupted by many factors including stress, our diet, lack of exercise, and not drinking enough water, a simple, natural toner like this DIY apple cider vinegar facial toner, can be very beneficial for balancing the skin.
Why use an apple cider vinegar facial toner?
Raw apple cider vinegar is simply the by-product of the fermentation of apples. Apples are loaded with potassium, pectin, malic acid and calcium, and fermentation fortifies it with even more beneficial acids and enzymes. While it may seem weird to put apple cider vinegar on your face, it’s antiseptic and antibacterial, which is an added bonus when dealing with skin infections and conditions like acne and eczema.
Apple cider vinegar facial toner made from raw apple cider vinegar balances the natural pH of the skin, and breaks up the bonds between dead skin cells (exfoliating) to keep skin pores open. It also can lighten sun and age spots, and can improve acne and acne scars. And lastly, it’s great for freshening and removing excess oils and make up that may have been left behind after performing natural techniques like the oil cleansing method for cleansing skin.
Best of all? It’s super-duper affordable and contains no added conventional chemical craziness. Now that’s what’s up.
DIY Apple Cider Vinegar Facial Toner
Ingredients:
Raw apple cider vinegar
Filtered water
Optional:
Brewed herbal tea
Hydrosols (Like rose or orange)
Essential oils (Like lavender or tea tree)
Ratios:
For sensitive skin: Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 4 parts water
For normal/dry skin: Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 2 parts water
For oily skin: Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 1 part water
Note: One “part” is any measurement you chose to use. So, if you’re following the sensitive skin ratio, you’ll mix 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar with 4 tbsp water. I typically follow the oily skin ratio, and make 16 oz total. This means, I use 1 cup filtered water, and 1 cup apple cider vinegar.
Using brewed tea: Brew your favorite organic herbal tea like green tea and use it in place of filtered water. If you do this, you will need to store your toner in the refrigerator.
Adding hydrosols: Hydrosols are gentle “flower waters” that have nourishing properties. They are made during the process of making essential oils. During distillation, the essential oil is separated from the water, which leaves behind a nourishing, herbal water with small traces of essential oils. To add a hydrosol to your toner, use 1 tsp per 8 oz of toner. This will not be in place of your filtered water, rather as an addition.
Adding essential oils: Essential oils are natural oils obtained through distillation which have the characteristic fragrance of the plant or other source from which it is extracted from. Adding essential oils increases the nourishing properties of your toner depending on which one you use. I recommend using tea tree oil for additional anti-inflammatory benefits, or lavender oil for a more aromatic, soothing experience. Use 2-3 drops per 8 oz of toner.
Directions:
Mix the ingredients together and store in a glass or plastic container. This toner is shelf stable and does not need to be put in the fridge.
To apply: Using a cotton square, lightly rub the toner on your face and neck. You can also store this apple cider vinegar toner in a spray bottle and spray a light mist directly on your skin to freshen your skin throughout the day. Do not rinse it off after use. You can apply this multiple times a day to freshen skin. As a reminder, this should come AFTER you clean your face.
IMPORTANT: No matter what your skin type is, do a patch test on your skin to see how your skin responds. I also recommend using the sensitive skin ratio first before increasing the amount of apple cider vinegar you use. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ratio to figure out whats best for you skin. Overtime, if you feel the solution seems to be too weak, slowly increase the ratio of apple cider vinegar to water. Do not increase more than a 1:1 ratio of apple cider vinegar to water.
If you’re looking to improve your hair and scalp, check out how to make an apple cider vinegar hair rinse.
Will you be giving this apple cider vinegar facial toner a try? Let me know what your special “blend” is and how it works for you!
Live empowered,
Used argan oil instead.. works GREAT!! =]
Green tea, apple cider vinegar & argan oil**
Thanks Erin!! I’ll have to try that. 🙂
Hi! how many times day can we use it on our skin?
Hi J2! There’s really no limit, and since everyone’s skin is different – it need will be different for different people. So – as much as you think your skin needs! 🙂
how about if the skin type is a combination of all three?
and will the acv help even if it’s filtered? thanks so much!!! 🙂
Start with the most sensitive ratio, and work up depending on how your skin reacts. I only can really recommend the unprocessed, unfiltered ACV because some of the nutrients/benefits are lost in further processing. I haven’t personally used filtered ACV – so I can’t attest to how it works. Thanks for your comments! 🙂
Hi Noelle
What are your thoughts on brewing the green tea with distilled water so the finished toner doesn’t need to be kept in the fridge?
Thanks. Leesa 🙂
Hi Leesa!! I personally haven’t done that – but you could absolutely try it. I’ve looked into it, and wasn’t totally confident in it not becoming contaminated just because there’s nothing preserving it like there is with apple cider vinegar. Also, the ratio may affect it, and there could be contamination issues if the kettle, utensils, or tea itself is contaminated. If you try it – I would make a toner that would last no more than 30 days, and keep it in a cool, dark place. Then, see how your skin does! 🙂
My 18 year old daughter is a whiz at making at home beauty products she introduced me to Apple Cider vinegar as a toner and holy within a week my pores are way smaller , skin overall is looking amazing , and I have problem skin , I’m 45 years old with a few wrinkles peeping in but I combat them with Coconut oil as a night time moisturizer after the apple cider vinegar and in the morning I use the apple cider vinegar /toner and Oil of Olay Regenerist micro sculpting cream before my makeup and it’s only been a week but hot diggity damn I am thrilled at the results especially with the apple cider toner 🙂 love it 🙂
So glad to hear that Michelle!
I got my mixture, I’m gonna give it a try ! My skin is kinda bad and I try more and more to resist buying products full of chemicals, so I really hope it will work !! Plus, my brother always makes fun of me when I make DIY facials and stuffs like this, so it would feel so good to tell him that it worked !!
Hi….Ive also heard of this ACV toner. I just bought some but I believe it isnt the raw. So I understand…the RAW is the best to use?
Yes!
Hi noelle
Ive try this ACV toner i used 20ml acv with 80ml water… i used for 4days now but ived noticed to have dark lines like im using a mask on my face… its my first time so i dont know what to do is it because i dont use moisturizer…. pls help.
Hi Janin! If it’s not working for you, stop using it. Good luck!
If we don’t wash off the acv will our face smell all day? That stuff stinks like feet I don’t wanna smell all day!?!?
As per the post, the smell dissipates when it dries.
Can I use VITAMIN C serum after applying ACV toner on my face?
Yes.
Hi Noelle! I have just recently discovered your blog and was most interested in this post. I am a young teen with mild acne on her forehead. I don’t have acne or any other skin problems with any other part of my face besides my forehead. I have recently been starting to break out more thanks to warm weather and school. I definitely want to try this method out, maybe on a 1:1 ratio. I was wondering if you had any other advice for me and my forehead. Thanks! 🙂
Hi Aliza! I would definitely give the toner a try. If you still have issues, please comment again and I’ll email you directly with some other more acne-specific protocols.
Hey wondering does it matter if the acv has to be dillouted as ive been just applying on from the bottle as I’m hoping I’ll see a stronger and quicker improvement for my skin. Plus do you believe in honey as a household product for helping damaged skin, refereeing to raw hone not processed make believe honey
Definitely recommend diluting it according to the post above!
reply to Aliza: Are you using hair spray? This might be why only your forehead breaks out. That’s what it was for me.
hi i have been using an acv & rose water toner plus homemade moisturiser for a while now and although my skin feels smoother and ive had no large spots (had a spell of adult acne) on close inspection my pores appear as liads and loads of tine blackheads! do you know which of the following might cause this? acv, rw, aloe vera, vitamin e, almond oil & glycerin. thanks x
Do some research on blackheads and see what might be causing it specifically for you. Typically they are dry skin breakouts. Try a different moisturizer.
How long does this keep for if you just use ACV, water, and tea tree oil?
As long as it takes you to use it! 🙂
Hi Noelle!
I think im gonna try the ratio for the sensitive skin, so is it okay if i just only put filtered water and acv on a small container?
Hope u’ll answer. Thanks!
Yes!
Woooow!!! My skin had never been this glowing, my friends are positively commenting. I used ACV, its high time ai added some tea tree oil
I use a 1:1 ratio of ACV + Witch Hazel. Works wonders for my oily skin and large pores ?
Hello can we use this everyday as a facial spray?
Yes!
I use Bragg apple cider vinegar as a toner on my face in the mornings to remove the oil that has collected there during the night. I use it straight out of the bottle. I don’t dilute it with anything and I don’t add anything. I like it. I think that my face is so oily that using it straight doesn’t irritate it at all. It really gets rid of the oil. If you have really oily skin I recommend it !
I used this amazing toner and I LOVE IT. It worked so well I wish I had this recipe a while ago. It dried up my pimples better than any acne product I have bought, ever.
Jess – I’m so happy it worked well for you and I LOVE hearing experiences like yours! It’s one of my favorite ways to “freshen up” after a work out and it’s the last thing I do before going to bed! 🙂
Can I apply this ACV toner before applying my daily moisturizer? Will it be ok having this ACV toner under the sun?
Hi Faz! This toner works like any other toner, so – yes, it is OK to do before applying moisturizer. Let it dry before going outside and exposing your skin to the sun. Hope that helps!
Thanks for responding Noelle! Previously, I made lime toner & my skin dried out a bit. Then, I made lemon toner, & apply VCO to moisturise my skin. It looked better. But I read in a blog that it’s not ok to have lemon juice on your face under the sun. So, hopefully ACV is a better option for that.Thanks Noelle! Love your blog.=)
I will second that!!!
How long before the toner goes bad?
Whatever the shelf life is of the apple cider vinegar you purchased. 🙂
Hello can i use this toner in the morning
Absolutely! You can use apple cider vinegar toner in the morning and at night in your skin care routine.
can you mix ACV with witch hazel?
Hi Victoria! While I’m not an expert on witch hazel, you can absolutely mix it with ACV for toner. I would use it with caution as it’s an astringent and a bit more “rough” on the skin. It’s great for complexions more prone to be oily. Make sure you read the ingredients on the one you buy – many include alcohol and other additives. Get “distilled” witch hazel or witch hazel hydrosol which is just water and witch hazel.
I’ve tried the green tea and ACV. Can you add witch hazel to that combo, like 1/3 of each?
Hi Tabatha! While I’m not an expert on witch hazel, you can absolutely mix it with ACV for toner. I would use it with caution as it’s an astringent and a bit more “rough” on the skin. It’s great for complexions more prone to be oily. Make sure you read the ingredients on the one you buy – many include alcohol and other additives. Get “distilled” witch hazel or witch hazel hydrosol which is just water and witch hazel. Also, doing 1/3 each would mean you’d have 2/3 astringent and 1/3 water, so – that might be a bit strong. To reduce that, you could do 1/2 cup water (or tea), and 1/4 cup ACV and 1/4 cup witch hazel, which would give you a 1:1 ratio. I’ve also seen recommendations to do 3 parts water, 2 parts witch hazel, and 1 part apple cider vinegar. Hope that helps!
Hi, I’ve been using the ACV toner for years but I’ve been super frustrated because some months I will use it with the ratio of 1 part acv and 4 parts water and my skin would break out and be red, and then I’ll add a bit more water and it would start to clear up, but then if i try to emulate it again and add the extra water, my skin won’t respond the same and it will break out again? I’ve tried ratios of 1:4, 1:5 and 2:5. Sometimes my skin will respond well, but other times it will break out and my cheeks will be red. I have dry- combination in winter and combination skin in summer. I’m currently using a ratio of 1:3 as my skin started to break out again with 2:5 ratio, but it’s so difficult finding the right ratio! 🙁
Hi Tyler! Thanks for sharing your experience. Have you done any work “inside” your body regarding your skin issues? Without knowing much about you or your situation, I can’t offer any definitive advice, but I can tell you that most all issues related to the skin begin in the gut. Our skin is our largest detox organ – meaning that if we are affected by toxins, it shows up on our skin. A majority of skin reactions are associated with food intolerances and/or environmental allergies. Try keeping a journal of foods you eat, and note how your skin reacts. Let me know how it goes!
I can definitely do more to improve my health! I’m prone to getting stomach ulcers and low blood pressure, so I’m going to focus on detoxifying my body of toxins! I’m also only 16, so hormones definitely play a part in my acne. Thanks so much for your help! Xx
Tyler: I had a similar issue. I had to channel my internal alchemist and what I came up with was a stronger ACV solution for my nighttime routine and a more diluted mixture for my daytime routine.
i think it depends on the type of ACV you’re using. check the ingredients and/or processing method of the ACV brands for any possible allergens. Also, your skin has times of year where it performs poorest and is highly susceptible to allergic reactions.
Thank Belqis! Yes, definitely… as discussed in the article, I only recommend raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar. Good point about our skin changing throughout the year! Appreciate your comments!
thanks for taking the time to respond. I’d like to personally thank you for the recipe. I work far from home and commuting in summer in Egypt is horrible. I added 1 part ACV and 1 part rosewater + a few drops of rosemary oil. works like a charm!!! my sister even got herself a bottle of my new homemade toner, thanks to you! 🙂
Awesome! You are so welcome! 🙂
Do you shake the container before each use?
I don’t shake, I turn it upside down and right side up a couple times just to make sure the contents are mixed well! 🙂
how long to i have to leave it there? and how many times i weeek can i used it ?
Hi there! If you are using a cotton pad, you’ll dab the cotton pad in the ACV toner, and then wipe the cotton pad across your face. You will NOT rinse this off. Just let it dry.
How many times depends on your skin. Go ahead and try it after your cleansing routine at night and see how it makes your skin feel. You can also eventually use it in the morning to “freshen” your face, or after times you’ve sweat or your face has gotten dirty. In other words – as much as you need! Hope that helps… let me know how it goes for you!
Does this work on african americans? If so is it ok to put Vaseline on my face aferwards? Also is organic ACV okay to use?
Absolutely! I typically don’t recommend vaseline as a moisturizer. Try a natural oil like jojoba oil (see DIY Moisturizer Recipe here!), or if you’re looking for a natural humectant, try Aloe Vera.
can you put a moisturizer on top of the acv toner?
Absolutely! Just make sure to let the toner completely dry.
Has anyone had problems with worsening breakouts when its first used? I’ve been using a 1:2 ratio for a couple of weeks and my skin is breaking out much worse than it did with the chemical laden toner. I have oily skin; I will try the 1:1 ratio. I haven’t changed any of my other beauty products
Hi there! I’m SO sorry you seem to be having more breakouts. I would NOT recommend moving towards using more ACV. Why don’t you back off to trying a 1:4 or 1:8 ratio? It sounds like you have very sensitive skin. Have you been under any more stress lately? Eaten foods that you might be sensitive to?
I like to use it with some witch hazel and it works wonders 😀
Awesome! Thanks for letting me know!
hi noelle , it is ok to add lemon to apple cider and water toner? or not recommended?
thanks
sharon
That should be fine, Sharon. Be careful with your ratios, however – as lemon juice has citric acid. Let me know how it goes!
would you use coconut oil to cleanse at night and toner afterwards? Then in the morning just the coconut oil cleanse without the toner?
I do use coconut oil, and then the toner at night. I would not recommend using coconut oil again in the morning. Stick to cleansing with oil nor more than once a day. You can just use a norwex cloth and water – or your toner to freshen up in the morning or when needed! 🙂 Let me know if you have any more questions!
Hi Noelle!!I’ve been on organic though not ACV,just noticed some gray-eczema like stuffs on my skin can this ACV also help?
Possibly! Try it and see how it works for you.
Noelle, I LOVE your blog!!!! I have been utilizing the the OCM and the toner ^^ since Monday night and it has been doing extremely well with my crazy sensitive skin that is so stressed on my chin and some parts of my cheeks.
I have been doing a 90% / 10% coconut oil and castor oil with a tad of hydrosol and the toner (ACV and green tea) is prepared after my face has settled from being washed so it has been different every time. It has never felt like this in what feels like a lifetime. I even found the same name brand of apple cider vinegar at my natural health food store.
I started the toner with 1:4 Monday night and felt that a little dilution wouldn’t hurt. So Tuesday morning I did 1:6 and I felt cozy with it. I had make-up on yesterday so I mixed 1:5 and it worked like a charm. I am fairly new to the coconut oil craze and I am obsessed!! 🙂
To see the results like this from something so natural and simple like this has me amazed!
JL, that’s amazing! I am SO excited for you.. hearing your story just made my day. Thank you so much for keeping in touch and for being a part of the movement!
hello. i am also using coconut oil as my face wash. will that affect my using of acv as a toner? thank you for this!
Rachel – actually, it’s the perfect combination! 🙂
I found the ACV that is used in this toner at my local Publix supermarket!
Awesome! Yes – it’s becoming much more commonplace now! 🙂
I just saw this same recipe on Pinterest and whipped it up because it said it tightens pores! Then, after 2 days of using it, I realized I had no clue if it actually was a legitimate toner and if it was actually doing anything for my skin. My skin felt softer, but I wasn’t positive. So I did backup research and found this! I plan on keeping using this toner for a long time! 🙂 thanks for sharing!
Maysie – That is fantastic. I’m so glad you are starting to see you skin improve! Too funny about the research, I totally agree – it’s always important to research things on your own, and make sure there is validity behind ANYTHING you read on the internet. Luckily, if you’ve read any of my other articles on the site, you’ll know research and knowing both sides of the story is incredibly important to me. 🙂 So glad to know you had a good experience!
Maysei lol same as what i did..just tried twice now @ evening and goin great!! Aper
Love your blog and definitely going to start using this. I’ve used white vinegar mixed with water for “soaks” after chemical peels, but haven’t considered using the ACV with water for toner. I have one question. How long will this last in the bottle? is it stable once you combine with water? Won’t go rancid? Can it be kept in the bathroom or need the fridge? As you can see I know very little about DIY skin care, but the ones I do use (make my own vitamin C serum), I do daily so I don’t have to add preservatives.
Is ACV a preservative in itself? Thanks for any help, as I’d like to keep this in the bathroom and the size bottle would probably last a good month using it daily.
Great questions Mary! ACV can be kept indefinitely at room temperature. Fermentation is a natural preservative – so the only advice I would give you is to keep it in a cool, dark place. I also recommend keeping it in a glass container (sealed, of course) as opposed to plastic. So no, you do not need to put this in the fridge! I keep mine in my bathroom “medicine” cabinet. Hope that helps! Let me know how it goes!
So good to know! My main concern was the added water affecting it, as I know that is often the culprit but I realize that’s no problem and thank you so much for getting back so quickly. I’m going to make some 4 parts water to 1 part ACV and see how that goes for a week or two. I’m pretty sure I’ll be able to move to 3/1 but don’t want to rush it.
This article is so interesting and I’m thrilled I found it. Thanks again. Bookmarked your site to be visited again soon!
Oh, and let me say you look fantastic Noelle. You yourself are the best motivation for your healthy lifestyle.
Forgot to add I have a dark glass bottle all ready and waiting. I save old Stevia bottles. 🙂
Thanks again!
Mary – thank you so much for the encouragement! So glad you like the blog – I write it with the sole purpose of helping people like you! Looking forward to hearing how it works out. 🙂
Hello there
New to this blog but was trying to find info online on why my natural toner developed a “scoby” (a Mother) after 6 months or so.
I kept it sealed in an aluminum spray container and awY from heat and sun.
Is this normal?
To be expected?
Besides being visually unappealing, does the s only diminish (or maybe even enhance) the properties of the toner?
Thank you in advance for your help!
Hi Chantale! That’s totally normal, and won’t harm you. If it bothers you, just remove it. I don’t have any solid evidence on if this enhances the chemical properties of the concoction, but, it might! 🙂
Mix ACV with tap water or spring water for toner?
Melanie, I would only use filtered water. Tap water can contain added toxins including fluoride, heavy metals, pharmaceutical drugs, arsenic, etc. so filtered water is best – for both drinking and putting on your skin! 🙂
Hey I have the Natural ACV,I don’t get the one ur talking abt here at stores.So can i use natural ACV? I have’nt tried it but.
Hi Sammy. Not quite sure what apple cider vinegar you use – but as long as you use a raw, unfiltered, apple cider vinegar – it should work fine.
Giving this a try with chamomile and green tea
Witch hazel
Tea tree and lemon oil
And apple cider vinegar.
Thanks Deb! 🙂
Hi,I have combination skin, T zone easy to break out, especially forehead, it is very annoying…because they come so quickly and going so slowly, cheek skin normal. I have started using ACV, 1:1, then I read your blog, I’m not sure which ratio is the best? either 1 part ACV and 1 part water or 1 part ACV and 2 parts water, I do find that it is a little drying using 1:! ration, any advice for me? TIA for any input 🙂
Hi Mrs H! Two ideas. Do these breakouts occur in combination with your cycle? Or, have you noticed they come and go with the consumption of specific foods? Because the skin is your largest detox organ, the two most common reasons acne occurs is because of hormonal imbalances (hormones have to be detoxed), and food intolerances (acne is a common response to a sensitivity to a food.) Have you tried removing foods like dairy and gluten? As for the ACV, if you are feeling a bit dry, try using a 1 part ACV and 2 parts water. You can also add a few drops of essential oils to the solution like tea tree oil – and that may help. Let me know how you do! 🙂
I have combination skin myself, Ill get dryness easily but get permanent breakouts on my forehead and chin it seems. I’m 21 now and feel like acne should be better than it was when I was still a teen, but it’s stubborn and flares up when I’m sweaty in the summer time and again badly when college classes and homework pick up again. I also have sensitivities to lactose and fatty foods so I avoid them best I can.
What would you reccomend as an effective affordable solution for someone of my skin type? I did buy ACV prior but it’s not raw it just says natural with water added.
Hi Nikki! Simply use the recipe for sensitive skin (the most diluted!) and see how you do! Make sure to test it on a small patch of skin first. I think it should absolutely help. Get the raw ACV, however – because it has all the beneficial enzymes that you’re looking for.
Hi! So I’ve been using the ACV as my cleanser and coconut oil as my leave-in moisturizer. Is that not good? I just started about two weeks ago and I like it. I did notice recently that my skin was getting flaky in certain areas but I figured that the ACV was getting rid of accumulated dead skin cells? I’ve changed the ratio and that seems to help. If I were to use the coconut oil as cleanser and then the ACV as toner… could I then use the coconut oil again as moisturizer?
I’m still learning!! A beginner natural products user!
Hi Belle! Beautiful name. 🙂 I haven’t heard of using ACV as a cleanser, as I’m not sure it’s really able to remove dirt deep in your pours as the oil cleansing method. Why not try following the instructions here for how to clean your face with coconut oil, and then seeing how your skin does? ACV is typically used as a toner for the reasons mentioned above. You may find your skin isn’t as flaky if you cleanse with coconut oil. And yes – you can use coconut oil as a moisturizer still. Let me know how it goes!
I stumbled across your blog while trying to see if I could add essential oils to the ACV to make it more effective. I use a method similar to the OCM, but instead of EVOO or coconut oil and Castor Oil, I only use Organic Pumpkin Seed Oil (for about 6 months now). I began using an ACV toner about 3 months ago in addition to the oil cleanse after reading something on pinterest.
I’m 28 and only within the last few years began having acne issues. Prior to using the pumpkin seed oil, my forehead and temples were just a mass of tiny bumps, now they are as smooth as can be, but now all of the sudden my cheeks break out all the time and so does my back, but my back breakouts aren’t all of the sudden. A little over a year ago, I went to a derm who prescribed all sorts of topical meds for my face and my back but they just dried my skin out like crazy so I decided I wanted to do something totally natural, which lead me to the pumpkin seed oil and subsequently the ACV.
Since I’ve started my regiment, as i mentioned, my skin has cleared up in some ways but also hasn’t in others, its strange, but I’m not using raw and unfiltered as you mentioned so i think I’ll try that and see how it goes.
Hi Dru! Thank you for letting me know your experience! Because our skin is our largest detox organ, breakouts can be a sign that something else is going on in the body. You could have a sensitivity to gluten or dairy, or be dealing with blood sugar dysregulation – so, experimenting with your diet may help. I definitely recommend using the raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar. Let me know how it goes, ok? 🙂
How long will it last in the spray bottle ( acv and water) ? How long will it last in the fridge if I mix it with green tea?
Hi Sterlyn! ACV has a shelf life of 3-5 years, but – according to their website, it can be used indefinitely if kept out of sunlight. For the green tea, it won’t go “bad” – but some of the benefits will degrade overtime. Fermentation is a natural preservative – so, as long as you are using it daily, you should be fine. 🙂
Is it fine if i will use american garden brand?
Hi Chris! I would recommend against that. Only use raw, unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar.
Hello,
Thank you for the information very helpful, I will definitely try the ACV toner but will jojoba oil work as well as a moisturizer afterwards?
Thank you for your time!
Hi Monica! I definitely think jojoba oil will work well afterwards. Let me know how it goes! 🙂
I have dry skin. Is this just for acne? And when you say one part ACV and four parts water, what are you using? Tablespoons?
Hi Missy! I have dry skin too, and this works great. So, no – it’s not just for acne. It’s for all skin types. A “part” means any measurement. Typically with this recipe, I use 1 part ACV: 2 parts water. Using 1/4 cup measurement, my recipe is usually 1/4 cup ACV and 2 parts (1/4 cup + 1/4 cup = 1/2 cup) water. You could also use a tablespoon, and that would work just fine! 🙂 Does that make sense? Let me know how it goes!
Thank you so much for the quick response. I understand it now. The recipe I used before was two tablespoons and 1/2 cup water. I like that but wanted to make sure it was the “right recipe” for dry skin or if I should dilute it some more.
Hi..I m gng to try it right nw hoping for the positive result…
Great! Let me know how it goes.
why does the ACV need to be raw?
I just made a 2:1 ratio and spritzed it on my face…i guess i should have been expecting the strong smell but i figured the water would dilute it enough since it’s not mentioned in the post or comments…..do you just get used to it? Or is there something I can do to minimize it…apart from just adding more water i mean. Thanks!
Hi Claire! The raw apple cider vinegar is unheated, unfiltered, and unpasteurized. This means it still contains all the enzymes and nutrients that are incredibly beneficially for your skin. I DO think you’ll get used to it. I don’t notice it anymore. I add a few drops of essential oils to my mixture, which definitely helps. While you’ll smell it initially, the scent will disappear once it drys. Hope that helps. 🙂
Hello,
I am going to try this for the first time. I been using regular vinegar at a ratio of two tablespoons per QT of water. I have a severely depleted imune system and a bit due to Graves disease and rejection of a titanium plate put in my back last year. I developed a recurring staff infection on my face by both sides of my mouth, most likely from tainted raw cocoa butter. I developed severe scalding from the staff, do you think this will help more than regular vinegar with healing and hopefully minimizing the scarring? The dermatologist also said to stop usibg coconut oil as it clogs poors and causes blackheads. Do you find that to be true?
Hi Melody! I can’t speak to your medical issues, as I’m not a doctor. But, if you’ve been using regular vinegar and it has worked well – I think using raw apple cider vinegar will be even better. Raw apple cider vinegar contains many beneficial enzymes and nutrients that are great for your skin. As for what your dermatologist said, unfortunately – I can’t speak for his/her opinion. I do know, however, that there is nothing in the scientific literature that states coconut oil “clogs pours or causes blackheads.” In fact, it works for MANY people as a moisturizer and face cleanser. For SOME people, it can cause something called comedogenic acne. Please read How to Clean Your Face With Coconut Oil for more instruction on that! Let me know how it goes, ok?
Good morning Noelle and Merry Christmas!
Reading my post here in the light of day in not such an ungodly hour after a few hours sleep, I am laughing historically at my typos! I was exhausted after a 20 hour day and didn’t re-read for errors. Sorry about that.
I understand you can’t comment on the medical aspects, I am just trying to save my skin and looking for advice. Hopefully the new antibiotic will kill the staff and I will never use raw cocoa butter on my face again. I will have my shea butter tested. My immune system won’t change due to the Graves disease and until they remove the titanium it will be even worse than normal. I don’t think I helped matters letting myself get underweight.
Anyway, I have been using coconut oil for about a year now as a moisturizer and have had fantastic results. At 40 I still get checked when I purchase alcohol. I had started noticing the tell tail signs of fine lines at my mouth and eyes and went on a mission to find the miracle prevention and found coconut oil. To date no crows feet, no mouth lines, and remarkably smooth skin on top of it. I have to contribute that to my daily routine of coconut oil and argan oil. He claims coconut oil is a preservative and clogs poors thereby causes black heads. I believe the mixture of tea tree and coconut oil I had been applying to the affected areas had kept it in check as it flaired horribly the day I was unable to apply it every hour or so. I had had to go off of antibiotics for blood tests and thought the topical they prescribed was causing the scalding. Any hints or tips to clear the scars on my face would be lovely.
What is comedogenic acne?
Thank you
Hi Melody. Again, I think you’ll be perfectly fine with switching to raw apple cider vinegar. I would test it on smaller patch of your skin to be safe. If coconut oil is working for you – keep doing it! Sounds like you have amazing results. Coconut oil is also incredible for scars. There is no definitive evidence on that – but, if you search “coconut oil” and “scars” – you’ll find many people who have had great success. Comedogenic acne is caused by clogging pours on the surface of the skin. It’s the only acne to be cause by external factors. Many products can cause comedogenic acne – including facial cleansers and moisturizers. It typically appears just after you try or use a new product on your skin. Hope that makes sense! 🙂
Hi Noelle.. should I use ACV every time I wash my face..?
Sara – that is totally up to you. I do, after using coconut oil to clean my face (see here how to do that!), and sometimes I do it in the morning or after workouts when I need a “refresh.” Let me know how it goes! 🙂
Hi there, I’ve used just straight ACV as a toner in the past by spritzing it on my face, but then followed up right away with a homemade moisturizer. Today I’m mixing ACV with green tea, and tea tree oil. I put it in a spray bottle, close my eyes verrrrry tightly, and just spritz my face as needed.
Sounds awesome! Thanks for letting me know, Mia! I bet the green tea combination is FANTASTIC. 🙂 Tea tree oil is one of my favorite “add ins” as well. 🙂
Hi…Noelle…I’m using ACV for past 10 days..it’s working awesome…I too have acne scars here and there..this works on that too or should I have to mix something wid ACV…pls help..
Sara, SO glad it’s working awesome for you! I haven’t heard of any benefits for acne scars, but I do know that it will take time to see any resolution with that. Keep at it – my gut instinct is to say that it definitely will as ACV helps to tighten pours and nourish the skin. I’ve also heard of coconut oil being GREAT for scars. So, I would recommend looking into that and seeing if it works for you! Good luck! 🙂
I always make my one with acv green tea tea tree oil & basil.Can I use my vitamin c serum and moisturiser after using this acv toner?Please help.Thanks in advance
Samiha, you can absolutely do whatever works for you. Only YOU know your face best, so I encourage you to experiment and see what works well for your skin. Keep using your ACV toner, and if you feel the vitamin C serum helps, then do that. For the moisturizer, make sure that it doesn’t have an added chemical ingredients. I recommend using a light oil like jojoba oil. I also recommend reading up on how to wash your face with coconut oil. I talk about moisturizers there! 🙂 Hope that helps!
Thanks a lot dear.I do follow oil cleansing method with vitamin e oil once a week. I use vitamin c serum usually in the morning before putting sun protection and moisturiser. I was wondering will it make any reaction like dark patches or burn in the long run as vitamin c serum & acv both have acid property.I’m bit afraid of experimenting that’s why asking.I use Aveeno triple oats moisturiser. Is that fine?
I’m not sure about the dark patches or burns, as I have no experience in that area and have never heard of that kind of reaction. As for your moisturizer, check the ingredients. If it has a lot of things you can’t pronounce, try to go with something more natural like jojoba oil. 🙂
Again many thanks for your early reply:) ya I just read ingredients of my daily moisturiser it has some sort of chemicals.OK I will use jojoba oil.so it is just applicable for acv toner or any clarifying lotion/toner?I have sensitive skin .i f I use acv toner regularly would it cause any side effects later on!
I love using ACV for a toner every morning, followed by coconut oil for my moisturizer. But my husband is begging me to stop with the ACV. He HATES the smell. I don’t want to stop. Not sure what to use in its place. Any other second choice options you want to share?
Oh no. I’m sorry – that’s no fun. The smell does go away after it dries, can you avoid him until then? 🙂 You can add some drops of essential oil to change up the smell, but – I’m a fan of ACV and don’t know of any other naturally raw and fermented products that will have the same effect. Hope that helps a bit! 🙂
HI , Noelle , I did it , but it was not good as i was expected . I have more comedone and clogged pore. Now i go back to Retin-A to get rid of them and also small bump . However do u know something bout Aloe Vera ?
Hi Jeanir. Try a non-comedogenic oil like jojoba oil with castor oil. Aloe Vera is good for the skin – but, I don’t have any experience with results personally.
Noelle, I recently developed a few comedone on my face after using a progesterone cream on my face. I’ve stopped applying the cream on my face, but do you know anything naturally that will remove or dissolve them? Thanks.
Try using the oil cleansing method. Read all about it in How to Clean Your Face with Coconut Oil. 🙂
Hi Noelle. I’ve used ACV toner for a couple of days and I’m seeing improvement. But I don’t like the smell so I put in a few drops of tea tree oil. But oil doesn’t mix with water so it just floats to the top. How do you get it to mix together?
HI Kim! Great question. I actually “flip” the bottle upside down a few times before I use it – similar to how I would do with a salad dressing that is made out of oil and vinegar. Does that make sense? Hope that helps! 🙂
Thanks! I’ve tried it and it works. The thing is the tree tree oil smell seems to dissipate quickly leaving the apple cider smell as strong as ever. Is this normal or could I possibly not be using the real thing (tea tree oil)?
Hi Kim! So glad it works. To be honest, the ACV smell is hard to overpower. The smell should completely dissipate as it dries, though. I’ve found I’ve gotten used to it. It now is the smell of “clean” to me! HA! You can also try other scents like lavender oil. Hope that helps!
Thanks for the tip Noelle. Hopefully it will make my boyfriend stop complaining about my “stink”!
first time i used it I saw a difference right away! I was wondering if it’s alright to apply the toner with my hands if i am out of cotton balls?
Madison, that’s awesome! I would probably use a cloth of some sort – even if it’s just a wash cloth. You can also put it in a spray bottle and lightly spritz it on your face! 🙂 Hope that helps.
I’ve found spritz bottles to be the best for applying toner. It just feels so clean. I use ACV, witch-hazel, purified water and tea tree oil. I’m going to try adding Argan oil since it’s non-comedogenic and smells yummy. I have pulled with 1/2 castor 1/2 olive in the past and it’s made my skin glow. I have like 95 bottles of oil for different things. My bathroom is like a pantry.
However for acne, my doc put me on a zinc, lithium and vitamin b-12 cream that has been a life saver. I hear just zinc (like diaper cream) works too. I hope everyone gets relief from their acne problems. I had that going on for about a year until I found my doctor and I tried everything (including oil pulling and ACV). It was awful. Seriously, I would pay a million dollars for this stuff and it’s essentially Densyn. Hope that’s helpful.
Thanks for sharing your experiences Nikki! Everyone is different – and it’s so important for people to be encouraged to try new thing until they find what does work. Glad you’ve found some resolution. And that’s hilarious, my bathroom has more “kitchen” items than my kitchen. HA! 🙂
Hi .. I have been using ACV toner last 8 days and its 1:1 ratio ..
I like this at night first i washed my face with facewash or normal water after that i applied ACV toner and after five min when tomer dry out i applied sweet almond oil as a mousiture …. Is this the rt way ?
And one thing i notice while applying sometimes my eyes hurt for 10-20 second and i have a normal clear skin but i have some marks or we can say some sport (not pimples but if i touced my skin some time i can feel them while touching) that i can see only when i m very near to mirror.
And last tow week ago i have been staring using oats and almond powder to wash my face once in a day.
Please let me know if i m doing anything wrong or ACV toner will fix my skin problem ?
If yes thn how long i should this toner.
Sorry for long post
Hi Angel – the routine you described sounds great! I would definitely recommend not putting the ACV toner anywhere on or near your eyes. You shouldn’t be feeling any pain. So, only use this toner around your eyes – and not on your eyelids or close to your eyes where you should feel any sting. I can’t tell you if the ACV toner will “fix” your skin problems – it will take some experimentation on your behalf to know that. For me, when I started washing my face with coconut oil and using this ACV toner, it took about 6 months for my face to completely clear up of any issues I once experienced. This was because I was experimenting with ratios, and trying to figure out if I actually needed more moisturizer or not. Good news though – you can use this toner indefinitely! I still use it every day to freshen up my skin during the day or after I wash my face with coconut oil. Hope that helps!
Thanks a lit for quick reply 🙂 I never put ACV toner near to my eyes.
For forst week i tried 2:1 Water:ACV and second week i tried 1:1 should i tried more combination or cqn can i add sweet almond oil drops to my toner itself ?
Can u pls send urs before n after pic if u can.
Pls give ur mail id i ll send my pic so that u can better understand my skin problem.
Thanks a lot 🙂
Hey!
My local grocery store didn’t have the Bragg brand so I just bought Heinz raw-unpasteurized, unfiltered all natural ACV with the “mother”…is this okay to use?
Hi Mary! Unfiltered and “with the mother” is perfect! 🙂
Thank you SO much for this recipe. I have steeping a recipe with apple cider vinegar, green tea, essential oils of: lavender, helichrysum, cedarwood, fresh german chamomile, and calendula flowers. I LOVE it!
I am not a very good English speaker so before I try this I just thought I’d ask first.
I didn’t really get what this sentence mean “Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 4 parts water”
is that one spoon of apple cider vinegar and 4 spoons of water?
Fatima – you have great English! 🙂 By that, I mean, whatever measurement you use (so, it could be one tablespoon, or one cup, for example), you use ONE “serving” of apple cider vinegar, and FOUR “servings” of water. So, if your measurement was a cup, you’d use one cup apple cider vinegar, and four cups water. If you were to use a tablespoon, you’d use one tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and four tablespoons water. Hope that makes sense! Let me know if you need any more guidance! 🙂
I have been using the OCM for about a week now and following with a personalized facial oil moisturizer I made, and I am loving it!! Would I use this toner after cleansing but before I use the moisturizer? I don’t want to mess up what I’ve been doing, since its working, but I feel I need to add a toner into the process.
Christy! That’s awesome news. And to answer your question – YES! That’s exactly how you would do it. Thanks for the feedback! Love hearing how it worked for you. 🙂
I have hormonal cystic acne along my jaw and neck and I have tried everything and nothing ever worked. I was using a 10% benzoyl peroxide face wash one day, then a salicylic acid face wash the next, along with an anti-aging lotion and it would work for about a month then my skin was back to where it was. I became a vegan 6 months ago and that helped my skin some but it still wasn’t clearing up. Two weeks ago I stopped eating all processed sugar and processed carbs and started drinking about a gallon of water a day. While all of this has helped quite a bit, my skin was still breaking out some. Three days ago I started using coconut oil to remove all of my makeup instead of just my eye makeup, and a 1:1 ratio of ACV to water after I wash my face with CeraVe foaming face wash. After I use the ACV I use a 50/50 mixture of jojoba oil and pure aloe vera for my “lotion” (this is just my bedtime regime). I am amazed at the improvement of my skin over the past three days. Some of the larger cysts have gotten noticeably smaller and some of the old acne scars have already faded. I am still getting really small pimples but after using the ACV they are gone the next morning. The only downside to using the ACV I have found so far is that my husband can’t stand the smell. It doesn’t bother me after it dries but he’s a big baby. Have you read anything about making your own vitamin C serum? I’m thinking that might be next on my list of all natural skin care things to try.
Heather,
I tried all of the same things you did with varying degrees of success. Then I started seeing a naturopath. She prescribed a zinc/lithium/beta carotene cream that she said has worked well for lots of her patients. In less than two weeks, my cystic acne was 80% better and it was bad. I don’t think you can get lithium OTC but I’ve heard a lot of people have success with just zinc and that you can use Densyn baby cream (which is really cheap).
I alternate coconut cleanser with using an exfoliant on my Mia sonic cleanser (sometimes I do both). After that I tone with witch-hazel/aloe vera (I have ACV in mine but you don’t have to) toner and then a light mask of the zinc compound. Then I reapply in the AM under my makeup. I don’t need additional moisturizer. And it doesn’t smell of vinegar. The cystic acne is almost completely gone, just as long as I keep up the routine. I find the variation helps.
Heather! I’m SO happy to hear about your improvements. It seems like you’re experiencing incredible resolution in just a short period of time, which is awesome. I would encourage you to keep at it if it continues to work for you. For me, it took about 6-7 months to really see complete clearing of my skin. As for the vitamin C serum, I’ve heard great things – but haven’t tried it myself. I would give yourself a few weeks before trying anything new, however, so you can give your skin time to adjust. As for your husband – he’ll get used to it. 🙂 If it’s clearing your skin and making you happy, I’m sure he can put up with it! Thanks for letting me know your experiences Heather!
Hi Dimple! I would recommend against doing that. Toner, in a sense, is like a second “cleanser.” So, it helps to remove any excess dirt, tightens pores, and rebalances the pH of the skin. If you try to use toner with makeup on, it will remove it. Hope that helps!
I wash my face with plain, unscented soap, then put raw organic honey on and let it sit for five minutes, rinse off with warm water and then pat dry. I then use the toner in a 1:3 ratio with two drops of tea tree eo, let that dry, then put a little jojoba oil on my face and rub it in. I do it every night before going to bed. Seems to be working well for me. I have noticed the most improvement after adding the honey to the routine though. And if your breakouts get real bad, you can add a little lemon juice to the honey before you put it on your face. 🙂
Rachel! That sounds awesome!I’ll have to give honey a try – sounds luxurious! 🙂 Thanks for your comment – so appreciate you sharing your experiences, and your support! 🙂
Hi Noelle dear,
I’m planning to use this ACV toner. Fortunately, I found your blogpost regarding the miracle and all natural toner. Well, I would just like to ask the difference between having the unfiltered or it’s counter part? Because I think what I was able to buy was not the unfiltered kind of apple cider vinegar.
I’m looking forward to using this toner.
Thanks a bunch!
Hi Joshua! Personally, I can only recommend doing it with the unfiltered apple cider vinegar. The unfiltered ACV still contains “the mother” and has all the beneficial enzymes and vitamins still in the vinegar. I haven’t personally tried using filtered vinegar, but – I don’t think it would hurt. You may just not see the same benefits. Hope that helps! 🙂
Thank you for the prompt response, Noelle.
I’ll continue to use on the filtered form and from there, I’d let you know the effects and benefits. If it doesn’t work, I’ll try to look for the Bragg ACV Unfiltered form. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to find one in the grocery yesterday.
Thanks again, Noelle.
Have a great day ahead!
Hi Noelle! I have just prepared mine, acv, water and tea tree oil. Hope this works for my post acne scars. Thanks!
Awesome! Let me know how the ACV toner works! 🙂
hello noelle,
i think i have misread this recipe. my recipe is 50 ml ACV with 100 ml water. is it okay? because Ive been using it for 5 months and luckily everything is fine for me. i hope I’m not making any mistakes.
Hi there! That recipe sounds fine! You are essentially using the normal skin recipe, so 1 part apple cider vinegar to 2 parts water. I personally use 1 part apple cider vinegar to 1 part water (so, 50 ml ACV with 50 ml water.) Does that help? If it’s working well, keep at it!
After I use the ACV facial toner on my face every night, I use the cotton pad to clean surfaces on my wall switches and small areas around my dressing table before throwing the pad away. This stretches the use of ACV and I can clean my home as I beautify my skin. Although for a more thorough household clean every week, you need a stronger concentration of vinegar.
SO smart, Joelyn! I love it! I’ll do the same from now on to help keep the mold away from the little spots that seem to attract it the most around my bathroom sink.
I just started using this toner this week. I’ve noticed the area around my mouth is a bit dry and sensitive. I am using a 1:4 ratio. Not sure if this is just my skin purging or if I need to change the toner ratio. Also I have been leaving it on for about 10 minutes and then rinsing it off with water. Is that too long? Should I leave it on longer? My skin is combination leaning more towards dry skin. I’ve developed adult acne that I can’t seem to get rid of that does get worse with my cycle. Curious to hear if you have any thoughts on how to use this toner to improve that.
Hi Theresa! I would give it a bit more time before making a final assessment. I usually recommend at least 2-3 weeks. If you find that your situation gets worse, add more water to the ratio. Just like a regular toner, the ACV toner doesn’t need to be rinsed off. You can simply put some on a cotton ball, wipe it on your face, and move on! If you need to follow up with moisturizer, you can try a pure oil like jojoba oil or coconut oil. Hope that helps. 🙂
Hi Noelle, do you recommend a certain brand of coconut oil or jojoba oil? I have never used either for skin care so not sure what I should look into. I”m assuming the coconut oil is the same for cooking?
Hi Theresa! I use this jojoba oil and I use this coconut oil. I recommend only using cold-pressed and organic oils on your skin! 🙂 And yes, the same coconut oil I use for cooking, I use for my skin. I get it in bulk!
Hi can I add grape seed oil with the.acv toner?thank you
Hi Grave! I would not. You can use grapeseed oil using the oil cleansing method described here.
Would rose absolute work in this toner too? And do you use this before using coconut oil?
Hi Sarah! Essentially, you can experiment with any essential oils that are safe for facial application! This is to be use AFTER washing your face with coconut oil. It helps to tighten pours, which you don’t want to do before cleansing. Hope that helps!
Is it safe to use it as a morning toner and then go outside?
The acids in the vinegar might not burn the skin with the contact of sun?
Ines – yes, it is safe! 🙂
Do you use sunblock after ACV and moisturizing with coconut or jojoba oil in the morning? If yes, what kind would you recommend to someone who’s prone to breakouts? Thank you.
I personally don’t, Liz. Unless there is a chance of overexposure or a burn, I typically allow my skin to get all the vitamin d it needs! 🙂 If you’re used to doing so, I recommend using a non-toxic sunscreen like Badger Sun Screen or Keys Sunblock.
Hi Noelle,
Is it normal to have some breakouts while using the ACV toner? 🙂
Well, I’m not quite troubled for having a few in the forehead. Perhaps, this has only been caused by hair that touches my forehead. Nevertheless, I am still using the toner and my colleagues have been noticing the improvement. They’ve been telling me that my face has radically improved and that it got evidently clearer.
Anyway, I still can’t find in our local supermarket the ACV with the mother so the one I’m using is the filtered ACV. Just wanna share that the filtered ACV is just as effective.
Thanks Noelle!
It is normal to still have some breakouts. The toner doesn’t solve everything, but I’m glad it’s drastically improving your skin! Our skin is our largest detoxification organ, so acne is closely correlated with issues in the gut. I would highly suggest eliminating common breakout causes foods, like soy, gluten and dairy for 30 days to see how you do! 🙂 Hope that helps!
I have been using, and loving, the apple cider with water, but the smell is not the best. I am afraid to add anything because I feel like the vinager will smell worse. Any suggestions on the best solution to mix for a better smell?
Sorry, friend. I don’t! The smell does go away once it dries, so it really only lasts a few minutes. I’ve gotten used to it and don’t smell it now. You can always dilute it more. Hope that helps!
i want to thank you for being upfront about your affiliate links. i appreciate your honesty and will certainly recommend your site 🙂
I so appreciate your feedback. Thanks ikd! Love having your support. 🙂
Hi, I was wondering if I could mix a little bit of Apple cider vinegar with my moisturizer?
Hi Nazifa! I’ve never heard of doing this before, but I don’t think I’d recommend it. Instead, I would recommend applying ACV (diluted) as a toner first, and then following up with moisturizer. They both have different properties and characteristics – for example, ACV is an astringent, so – I wouldn’t recommend mixing it with moisturizer. Hope that helps!
hi noelle!
i have been researching for the “close-to-perfect” toner. Actually this might be my first time to use a toner. im pretty much concerned about recently having breakouts in my forehead, maybe it’s because of my primer, but oddly enough only my forehead is affected.
i have an oily skin with EXTREMELY oily nose so i really dont know what kind of toner to get as im anxious to try drugstore products due to their hazardous chemicals.
im glad i stumbled into your blog while surfing for DIY toners since recently my boyfriend and i just started ACV concoction for our uric crystals problem and upon seeing your post, i just realized what a GREAT product ACV is! =) we are also using the Bragg’s raw, unfiltered ACV with “the mother” in it and i think i am definitely gonna try this toner tonight.
just a few questions though, is it ok to use the toner in the morning before applying my make-up? and by the way we live in a tropical country where we only have summer and rainy season, so i tend to have overly active oil glands over the summer.
if it’s ok to apply the toner in the morning, will the heat of the sun aggravate the “smell” of the cider through the production of sweat and oil on your skin?
and another question is, since i have an oily skin, will adding essential oil (e.g. lavender, tea tree oil) to the toner solution affect/ increase the oil production of my skin?
thank you and sorry for the long post… =)
Hi Puchie! SO glad you are going to try this ACV toner! 🙂 To answer your question – YES, you can absolutely apply it in the morning. It’s also great to do it throughout the day (if you don’t apply makeup) to “freshen up.” Allow the toner to complete dry (5-6 minutes) before applying makeup, or moisturizer. Second, I am no expert on essential oils, but, I highly doubt it would increase the oil production of your skin. Certain essential oils are actually great for acne-prone skin! I recommend reading How to Clean Your Face With Coconut Oil for further insight! And PS – check out using this Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse! SO many uses for ACV. Thanks for your comment. Looking forward to hearing how it goes!
hello again! i just used the coconut oil for cleansing tonight and i think i love it! i thought it’s gonna leave my skin feeling greasy and all the sort but boy was i wrong… not only did it effectively remove my waterproof makeup but it left my skin feeling soft too! i really am so glad to have found your blog, officially, subscribing. (^_^) i also used the ACV toner too and i pray this would be my “Zit-Zapper” =)
Hi Noelle! I just recently decided to do the natural treatment and found your blog. I started doing OCM last week and used avocado oil last night. Im positive this will help my dry skin. Now, will have to try your toner recipe – should I do the 1:4 ratio? would this recipe works well with avocado oil cleansing method? Also, Can i put in it cotton balls instead of spray (i just ordered glass jar/spray today)? TIA!
Hi Llyn! So glad it’s working well for you thus far! If you have sensitive skin, I would suggest starting with the 1:4 ratio. You can always increase from there based on what you think will be best for your skin. And YES to all of your questions! I personally use a cotton pad – but a cotton ball works great! Let me know how it goes!
hi NOELLE,
I tried to use this. It really good. Better than Dermalogical Ultra calming mist. Before this, when i use Dermalogical product, all of my face pimples become worse. The Dermalogical professional keep asking me to buy more product to settle my pimples. I tried their cream, spf……. almost to RM1000, It just makes my face worse and full of pimples and scars…
So i stop all the products for 2 weeks and start the DIY toner.. Now my face is be great… Pimples is less and only will pop out few in a week. I am just happy and greatful. Save money and good result.. Marvellous!!! But i do not use the raw, unfilter Apple cider. cos i cant find in my place.. I use Wescobee brand- ACV and honey which is made in Australia..
But i will try to find the raw and unfilter after i finish it. Thanks Noelle!!
Great! I’m so glad you’ve found great success. Thanks for the comment! 🙂
Hey Noelle I took your advice and purchased the Badger sunscreen. I am African American dark skinned, and it left my face totally white. Do you have any more suggestion. Can I mix any type of oil with the badger. Appreciate you impute. Overall I am pleased with the results of CO wash and OV toner.
Oh no, Robbin! I’m so sorry. I DO have to rub it in quite a bit for it to disappear. I believe that is how all Natural Zinc Oxide sunscreens work—and I personally haven’t found one that absorbs really well. Try Primal Life Organics Sun-Up Protector. Please let me know what ends up working for you! I’ve found this is the best option and doesn’t show up as white on the skin.
Hi Noelle, just want to know did I need to mix the toner fresh every time use? Or I can mix and put them in a conditioner for a few days?
Carmen! Great question. I mix mine ahead of time in a bottle that lasts about 3-4 months. 🙂 Apple cider vinegar is shelf stable. Hope that helps!
sorry I mean container.
Hi Noelle, I recently switched to all natural products and have adopted the coconut oil cleansing method at night. I now started using your toner (mainly for acne scars). I find that my skin is a little dry after I use the toner (I did the ratio for sensitive skin). Is that normal? If not, do you have any suggestions for all natural moisturizers I could use? And what moisturizer/sun block do you use during the day?
Hi Diana! You can absolutely use a light moisturizer on your face after the ACV toner. Working on a DIY facial moisturizer right now that should be up and rolling next week! 🙂 I would try adding a bit more water to the toner, and see if that helps the “dry” feeling. If not, consider using another oil for the oil cleansing method – like jojoba oil. Hope that helps!
Hello Noelle, I’ve suffered from acne ever since 5th grade! I’m 20 now…lol. Is it safe to use coconut oil every night as a face wash and add a couple drops of tea tree oil into the coconut oil and apply? And, can I use the apple cider vinegar after I face wash at night?
Thanks!
Hi Jessica! Adding Tea Tree Oil is a fantastic idea! Cleaning your face with coconut oil (or – the OCM) can be done every night. However, it really all depends on your skin and what works best for you. So, try it a few times, and see how your skin does. If its working great – keep doing it! Also, you can absolutely use the Apple Cider Vinegar Facial Toner every night. I recommend using it in the morning, and whenever you need a “refresh” throughout the day. Hope that helps!
I was wondering because we have to leave it on our face to dry, what do we do about the smell or the vinegar LOL
Hii,
i have black marks on right hand side of my face….I tried many product but it is not going.
Can i use ACV on my face??
Yes, you can! I’m not a dermatologist – so I’m not sure what the “black marks” are on your face. But, I would suggest getting them looked at before trying any new products. Hope that helps!
Hey Noelle!
Just wondering, what does “part” mean? Do I use a cups or tsp?
Part means you can you any specific measurement you want – depending on how much you want to make. So, if you want it to mean cup, it can! Or, if you want it to mean tsp, you can! 🙂 Hope that helps!
I’ve been using the 1:1 ratio for about a month and the ocm for about two months. Dramatic improvement. Horrible acne for most if my life (puberty) nothing ever cleared me completely. Now, my skin is clear, soft and scars are incredibly faded.
Hi Noelle, I think I have oily skin, so I tried a ratio of 1:1 and after my first day, I felt that my face gets greasy sooner than before. My face got greasy usually 4 hours after I wash my face, and yesterday it got greasy within an hour and a half. Should I try a ratio of 1:3 maybe? Or should I try out 1:1 for longer to see if it improves?
Hi Magesh! Give your skin more time. It might be “purging” some excess toxins for a few days. Also, make sure you’re using a high-quality face wash (check out how to clean your face with coconut oil) which helps to balance the lipid barrier and restore lipid balance! 🙂
Thank you Noelle!
I know the ACV toner helps with acne, will it also help my skin not getting oily? Also, can the coconut oil be applied directly to oily skin when I clean my face at night or should I wash my face before applying the coconut oil?
Magesh – YES it will! And, the coconut oil IS your face wash – so you’ll want to apply directly to your skin, rub it in, and then perform all the steps described in the post. Hope that helps!
Yesterday was the first time I tried ACV toner with a 1:1 ratio.
Hi Noelle,
I’m not sure what you mean whawhen you wrote “part (s)”, as in 1 part apple cider vinegar and 4 parts water. Is a part referring to a tablespoon, or just a portion of whatever aize container I have?
Thank you,
Annette
Annette, it means a portion of whatever measurement you choose. 🙂 Refer to comments above! Hope that helps.
Will this ACV toner helps to fade dark spots? I don’t have acne but I just want to fade my dark spots. I am hesitant to try because I am worried that it will make the spots even darker. Thanks in advance for your reply!
Hi Kaye! While I haven’t found this to be true personally (because I don’t currently have any dark spots), some people have had success with it fading dark spots. Everyone’s skin is different, so it’s best to test it on a small patch for a period of time before using in totality. Hope that helps!
HI Noelle,
I have recently adopted the DIY approach for skincare. I wash face with a gentle cleanser meant for sensitive skin at night and then use this toner. Have started 2 weeks back with the 1:4 ratio. Then I moisturize with sweet almond oil. I notice that if I do not moisturize within 10-15 minutes, my cheeks start getting dry and also a bit itchy. My skin can be categorized as combination or sensitive – or at least that’s what I think. I do get pimples/ breakouts often.. Please share your inputs if I need to change anything.. And how do I determine if I need to modify the ratio?
Thanks in advance!
Deepali
Hi Deepali! Did you used to use a toner before? Is the face cleanser new? I would back off to a 1:8 ratio and see how that does. If after a few weeks your skin still tends to feel itchy, I would nix the toner from your routine and simply do a wash + moisturizer. Hope that helps!
Thanks for your prompt response Noelle! I have never used any toner before. I used the Cerave face cleanser before switching to Olay Sensitive Foaming cleanser a couple of days back. The Cerave made my face dry & Olay seems to be really gentle! Again to reiterate, the ACV toner causes dryness/ itchiness if not followed by moisturizer (sweet almond oil) soon after.
I will switch to 1:8 ratio with ACV.. So, if it does not itch or dry anywhere (without moisturizing), the ratio works, right? Hopefully my skin will like it 🙂
Deepali – Got it! If you still feel the itchiness with the 1:8 ratio, stop using it – and see if it still happens. If it does, then it MIGHT be the new cleanser. If it stops, then I would recommend forgoing a toner all together. Let me know how it goes! 🙂
Hi Noelle, do you think it’s alright to replace the water with fresh cucumber juice? If so, how long could its shelf life be?
Hi Crystal! I’ve never done that before, but I don’t see why not. I would definitely keep it in the fridge. It’s suggested that it can last in the fridge for up to a week. Hope that helps! 🙂
Thanks Noelle 🙂
Would you know if there are precautions to be followed when using ACV as toner? I’ve read somewhere it can cause burns or other skin damage. I’m planning on trying it out for my skin as well.
Hi Laurene! I haven’t heard of that happening before with this toner, but it is definitely important to dilute it. I recommend going with the option for sensitive skin first, and seeing how you do. Hope that helps!
Do I use this in combination with the OCM? I cleanse with oil every evening. Would I do this after that every day? I don’t have Sensative skin.
Yes, and yes! After, and whenever you need refresh! 🙂
Great thank you so much! I’ve used the OCM for over a year and am in love, but I just dont know what other cleansers/natural things to use along with it that wont disrupt my skins PH or oil balance. I have used the ACV twice now and love it so far!
Great to hear!! 🙂 Thanks for the comment, and your support.
Can i use make up cream after use acv?
Yes! Just let it dry.
Hi, Can i use shea butter as a moisturer after using the ACV toner?
Absolutely! 🙂
HI, am I gonna use the toner after washing my face with a facial wash? Do I still have to rinse if off after a couple of minutes and is it advisable to use it in everyday? Thank you!
No rinsing, and you can use it every day! 🙂
I use 1 part ACV, 2 parts rose water, and a few drops basil essential oil. 🙂
Hi Noelle, I just stumbled upon your blog because someone recommended using apple cider vinegar as I get mild acne around that “time of the month” and have a few dark spots as well. I’m not sure if this question was already asked but does the water absolutely have to be distilled or can I use bottled water instead? Also, is it okay to use a facial scrub before using the ACV? I’ve seen a few comments about moisturizing afterwards and know that it’s fine as long as the ACV has dried, which is good for me because of my combination skin.
Hi Misha! Bottled water is fine. 🙂 Yes – washing your face beforehand is great. I personally would recommend trying out cleaning your face with coconut oil – or another oil depending on your skin type! Hope that helps!
Hi Noelle! I love reading your blog! Can this transition to an overall body toner, probably as a spray? What kind of body wash do you use? Summer heat and sweat lead to acne on my back, and I’m really trying to stick to more natural living to balance things out. My diet has suffered a bit in the mast few months but I am getting back on track; I’m sure that will help a bit. Thanks for all that you share! 🙂
Hi Lisa!! YAY! So happy you do. You can aboslutely use this as an all-over body toner, and can put it in a spray bottle to refresh. For body wash, I typically go with Dr. Bronner’s soap. We use the lavender soap bar in the shower. You can get them individually and in a variety of scents at Whole Foods – however, they are a bit more expensive that way. I also use Dr. Bronner’s (the liquid kind) as dish soap, and I use it in my homemade laundry detergent and homemade toothpaste recipe. So many uses! 🙂 Hope that helps!
Hi Noelle,
Thanks so much for your article – have been using coconut oil for quite a while as a moisteriser but will be trying this first thing tomorrow! 🙂
Quick question – when using a natural cleanser then acv and then oil/moisteriser in the morning – is it best to use cold, warm or hot water to rinse the face after initial cleanse? (Same question for night time routine) I hear so many different theories about cold vs hot I’m not sure which way to go!
If you’re doing the OCM, you’ll want warm water because it opens the pours – and allows the oil to become viscous and lift the oil off of the face. However, in the morning, you can use warm or cool water (if just rinsing your face with water and a Norwex cloth.) Go what feels best, and works best for YOU. Every skin is different. If warm is more appealing, try that for a few weeks – and if it doesn’t work, try cool! Hope that helps a bit!
Hi, I would like to know what is the exact quantity of water and ACV that you should use for every ratio, like for example in oz. Thank you
Hi Mery! A “part” is any measurement you have on hand. So, I can be an oz, 5 oz, or a cup. Please look through comment for further insight as it is discussed! 🙂 Hope that helps!
Hi Noelle. I have a few dark spots on my legs due to insect bites 🙁 Would the toner work? Do I expect the skin to become scaly and eventually peel or does the skin just lighten? I’ve been reading a lot of sites regarding ACV but none seem to describe the exact effect of the toner. Thanks!
Hi Akane! I would definitely recommend giving it a try! Unfortunately, I can’t tell you that it will absolutely make them disappear. But, no – your skin should not become scaly or peel. I do know that coconut oil sometimes helps with stretch marks and scars – so I would give that a go as well.
Just used this for the first time.jut got off birth control ;/ and oh my goodness my hormones and acne (have never had before) is claiming my whole face.I am definitely going to start detoxing my body in other ways from the inside but holy smokes my face!! gnar lol on your cocnut cleansing process you mention (2) types of norwex cloths; body and face…which do you prefer for the cocnut facial cleansing process.thanks in advance!
Jesse! I prefer the body cloth. Props to you for moving forward with getting to the root of the problem and working on hormonal balance. I recommend also listening to the podcast I do called The Paleo Women Podcast… I think you’ll learn a ton! Hope that helps!
Hey Noelle! Thank you so much for taking the time to explain all of this in so much detail! I started washing my face with coconut oil according to your directions a couple of months ago and I am loving the results! I think I’m now ready to start the ACV toner but I am just wondering if it could have similar results for my chest and back acne?
Hi Erin – thanks so much for your support! Absolutely! I use the ACV toner anywhere I feel I need it! 🙂
Hey Noelle! Ive been searching about using an apple cider as an effective homemade toner. And mostly, it said that it is best when its the unfiltered one. But unfortunately, I cant seem to see one here on my area and I only had the filtered one. I checked the ingredients and it said that it is made with juiced apples and diluted with water. It also had a 5%acidity. Does this still works ? Is it safe to apply it on my face ? I hope to see a response from you soon 🙂 thanks and god bless !
Hi Daryl! Would you be able to order it online? You might be able to get it in bulk and shipped to you. Until then – yes, I would try out the filtered apple cider vinegar. It might not be as beneficial or nourishing, but it WILL do the job! Thanks for your comment, and support! 🙂 Please let me know how it goes.
Hi Noelle ! Im glad to have seen your response ! Well actually, yes, I have been using the ACV as my toner and apply it every night. It has been 4 days since my first application. And now, I dont seem to see any improvements to my skin (i dont know if there is any). But rather, Ive saw some new tiny pimples and other blemishes that is starting to sorround my face. I dont know if its an indicator that the ACV is actually working in some ways or it only makes the case even worst. I got scared so I decided to stop and seek some answers. BTW, I am using the heinz ACV but the filtered one. What should I do ? Thanks in advance and god bless you 🙂 !
Hi Daryl! So – those little bumps COULD be the result of many things. When you stopped, did your bumps go away? It may be doing that because your skin is going through a detox reaction, or it may be because your skin is reacting to the ACV. I can tell you that the ingredients in the ACV are very basic, and if you were using a toner before and didn’t break out I doubt you are reacting to this toner recipe. If you feel uncomfortable, hold off until you can get unfiltered ACV, and dilute it further!
I’ve heard about the ACV toner and how good it is supposed to be for your skin. But is it only good for use with breakouts? I don’t have that problem but I do have dry, sensitive skin that has left wrinkles and no amount of moisturizer helps. Would the ACV toner be beneficial for dry skin and help wrinkles?
Hi Pat! Unfortunately, I can’t say whether it will or won’t work for your skin. I can say, it might help because it does help to restore the normal pH of the skin and break apart dead skin cells. So, give it a try. Have you tried cleaning your face with coconut oil? Check out Coconut Oil for Skin: Everything You Need to Know as well!! 🙂 Hope that helps!
Hi Noelle:
Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I have learned so much from reading your posts on ACV/Coconut Oil. I along with my 3 daughters have been using both products for about a month now and we love how our skin looks and feels. I would like to know if you’re using the ACV on your skin right after you wash your face using the coconut oil and if so, do you moisturize using the coconut oil again? I usually cleanse first with a cleanser, and then use the ACV followed by the coconut oil to moisturize, but I would like to try the coconut oil method as a cleanser preferably in the mornings before work. It seems like a quicker process. Thanks in advance for your advice!
Tamala
Hi Tamala! YES – I use the ACV toner on my skin after washing my face with coconut oil. I personally do not moisturize afterwards. Right now, I use a Primal Life Organics Vitamin C Serum after the apple cider vinegar, and I ABSOLUTELY love it! I have this DIY Facial Moisturizer recipe for people who need a serum/moisturizer, but – coconut oil works too! Hope that helps!
Hi Noelle! I was running out of toner and then I found this DIY ACV toner from your site. I was so excited about it so I went out to get the ingredients in the afternoon. Just finished cleansing my face with coconut oil and used the ACV toner and it was amazing! I am feeling the difference when applying no chemicals on my face. Will you have any recommendation for DIY natural moisturiser? Thanks! Love from Hong Kong!
Alice! SUCH great feedback! So glad it worked out well for you. I recommend this DIY Facial Moisturizer! Hope that helps!
Thank you SO much for this post! I work at a high end spa in NYC and after trying so many extremely expensive toners that didn’t work for me and burned my skin, I gave this a try. It’s been three months and my skin is smoother than ever! I love it and it’s become essential to my skin care routine.
This is AWESOME news Carly! So glad it worked for you!! It’s definitely one of my favorites. Thanks for your support!
I’ve been using the oil cleansing for about five days now and have greatly enjoyed the moisturized skin I never had before (I had extremely dry skin). I have seen a slight increase in more visible acne in my already problem areas (chin and forehead), is this the detox acne you’re describing in your piece?
Also, why do you recommend only using the cleansing once a day? Are there any adverse effects that occur with using it more than once a day?
Hi Jackie! So, it depends. If the acne you’re experiencing is something you typically get, then it probably is. It typically only lasts a week or two. Please check out Coconut Oil for Skin: Everything You Need to Know for more information on reactions and comedogenic acne. Because this cleansing method is sort of “heavy duty” – I would think that doing it too often might result in an overexposure to oils, or excess oil “build up” on the face. Once your skin balances out (oil production, etc.) you shouldn’t need to wash your face with this method more than once a day. In the morning, I recommend just simply using some water and wash cloth like the Norwex cloth. Hope that helps!
Oh my God. This is so good. I have tried so many toners commercial homemade but they irritate my skin normally but this one worked so good though I also added few drops of tea tree oil for my acne prone skin. So yeh thank you so much for this.
YAY! You are so welcome! So glad it worked out well for you!
hey Noelle, i am fairly new to your blog, but so far i am loving it!!! I bought some witch hazel from the farmers market a while ago, and i asked the lady to put a few drops of lavender essential oil in it, i think she put 2-4 drops in, so i am wondering if it is safe to add this to the ACV toner? thanx!!
Hi Sofia! From what I’ve read, YES! Witch hazel is great as a toner. Also, if she diluted the essential oils appropriately in the witch hazel, then it should be good on it’s own, or to add to the ACV toner. Make sure to make the ACV toner recipe as written – in other words, making sure to dilute it with water, etc.
Hi can i mix the ACV with honey and coconut oil?
Hi Devyne. You can mix whatever you want. However, if you’d like it to be a toner, you’ll want to follow the instructions above.
Where do i store my toner ? In the fridge ?
It’s completely shelf stable! 🙂
I love how this stuff is natural, but I can still smell the ACV even after it dries (and so can the bf). I did 4:1 vinegar to water as recommended. I can handle the smell in salad dressing… I just don’t really like it on my face. 😛 I scanned through some of the comments (you have so many!) and saw to add some drops of essential oils although the AVC will still overpower the oils. Is there anyway to put too much oils or is it a bad thing if I load up the toner w/ oils? Are there any scents that compliment the vinegar smell best?
Thanks for this post!
YES! Please be careful with essential oils. They need to be appropriately diluted when applying to skin. I personally really enjoy tea tree oil, or lavender. You can also follow up with a serum like a DIY facial serum once the toner dries. I assume after that, you definitely won’t smell the apple cider vinegar. Hope that helps!
I also found that diluting the ACV with rose water, instead of pure water, makes the toner smell wonderful. 🙂
Hi.. Noelle!! I haven’t try the apple cider toner but im going to make.. bcoz im getting tired of trying a different toner and creams for my face its not working its stressing me out bcoz of my pimples.. my question is after i use the apple cider toner is it ok to use body oil as a moisturizer? Thank you.. have a good day..
Yes it is!
Hi, may I know does it need to be kept in refrigerator?
It does not! 🙂
if I do it with green tea how long I can store it and follow it using before it spoils? and if either alone with water?
You’ll need to store it in the fridge if you do it with green tea. I would probably keep it for about 30-45 days. Hope that helps! 🙂
Hi, Noelle! I found this post while researching skin brighteners/toners, and I just wanted to comment about a few people who mentioned adding lemon juice, and someone who mentioned dark spots. Now that my skin is MATURING (lol), I’m finding that I have some fine lines, sun spots and uneven skin tone. What I’ve been doing is taking citrus peels (orange, lemon, lime), putting them in a mason jar, then filling it up with ACV. I let this sit for few weeks, or until it starts to smell really citrus-y (no vinegar smell – yay!). Once I forgot about it for a few months, and it smelled heavenly! Anyway, I drain out the fluid, mix this with one part distilled water, and use this as my toner/skin brightener. The citrus oils from the peels act as a brightener, but still have oil so your skin doesn’t get dry BUT the acid may irritate your skin, as it can act like a chemical peel if you don’t rinse. Just trial and error – I don’t rinse, but my skin is looking pretty good. I throw the peels down the disposal to clean it out – nothing goes to waste!. *Note – even though I have mature skin, my skin is oily, so you may have to add more water, depending on your skin type.
I also clean my countertops with this concoction, and spray it in my shower to keep it from getting mildewy. So. Many. Uses!
That sounds amazing! Thank you so much for sharing. Would love to try this!
Can acv be used for our night care routine..
Yep!
I just bought a large bottle of raw ACV from costco for $5 I was so happy when I saw it excited to try this and the coconut oil face wash. I also have a small bottle of tea tree oil from melaleuca? Do you know if i can use this as an add in?
That is AWESOME! I had no idea they had bottles at Costco! Great find. You can add a few drops of tea tree into your ACV toner bottle. I typically use about 5-8 drops for the 16 oz that I make. Hope that helps!
hi Noelle, this might be a really dumb question, but, I thought oils didn’t mix with water? How do I make sure I get the benefit of those few drops of tea tree or lavender oil in my acv-water mix over the whole of my face? I mean, do the essential oils break up in tiny little oil bubbles when I shake my mixing bottle?
Great question! I typically turn the bottle upside down, and then right side up before opening the bottle and applying it to a cotton pad. There is so little essential oil in the mix that you definitely smell it, but you won’t see it. Essential oils are just an added bonus – the benefits come from the ACV. You definitely do not want to put essential oils directly on your face, and you only need a small amount (diluted) when applying to skin.
Hi, can I use normal cooled boiled water instead of distilled? Or how about rose water instead of water, so 2:1 rose water to ACV? Thanks.
If that’s what you have access to – I think that would be absolutely fine. Please try it out and let me know how it goes. 🙂
As Noelle said you should only cleanse with oil once per day. I use castor,jojoba, and avocado oil to cleanse followed by my ACV toner. In the morning I cleanse with raw organic honey. Half a tbsp of raw honey and some warm water is all you need. Massage it into your skin real good and rinse. Then I follow up with my ACV toner with either lavender or rose hip essential oil. I prefer rose hip for the anti-aging benefits. Raw honey in naturally hydrating to the skin and has anti-bacterial properties, which is what makes it a great skin cleanser.
Great tips, Catherine! 🙂 Thanks.
If one uses a vitamin c serum… should the acv toner go on first? Confused as I read vitamin c needs to go on before moisturizer, but what about toner?
thanks
Hi Dee! Wash face –> toner, and then serums! Serums are considered to be high quality moisturizers. 🙂
Hi i didn’t understand what is the meaning when you say: “Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 1 part water”. what is the right amount?
thank you!
1 part = any measurement. If you’re doing a tablespoon, it’s 1 tablespoon of acv, and 1 tablespoon water. Make sense?
Hi,i have been using ACV for almost 2 weeks.for my first week i could see that my acnes stop from poping up.but for my 2nd week i could notice that they keep on coming back.and they becomes more bigger.i have been suffering for acne for almost 10yrs now.i am using 1:1 ratio.any suggestions that could help me please…i’ve been trying alot of acne products since before just to remove this acnes..???..but it really doesn’work…
Sorry to hear this! I would highly suggest experimenting with diet. Acne can be caused by food intolerances – specifically dairy and gluten. Try removing both for 30 days and see how your skin improves. Hope that helps!
Hi Badz, as another person mentioned, acne are caused by hormones. However, I do not recommend seeing a conventional doctor at all. Actually, I would avoid them at all cost, since their knowledge of hormones is terrible. I was diagnosed with endometriosis, and PCOS. I had other symptoms of estrogen dominance, that were caused by environmental toxins that I was exposed to during childhood, and later years. I had severe facial and body acne, blackheads all over my face, and hair all over. I had several symptoms of low progesterone levels, even though my doctors failed to recognize that. I was diagnosed with endo and PCOS when I was 17 years old. I had surgeries, endless cycles of birth control pills, and NUVA rings, followed by years of hair loss, nausea and extreme weight loss caused by unrelieved nausea. Then, God sent some amazing people my way, and I stopped eating all HYBRID, MAN MADE grains that are high in unnatural type of gluten due to being hybrids (mules are sterile for a reason even if you don’t believe in God), and all dairy products. I used to have organic dairy products with every meal, every day. I started eating quinoa instead of rice, and Israeli flat bread with no yeast or leavening of any kind, instead of fluffy Italian loaves I grew up with. It takes 15 minutes, and I make my bread from either pure rye flour (tastes like wheat when it is not made with that weird sour taste), or some ancient kind of grain. I use spelt and organic, sprouted Kamut wheat flour. I buy quinoa at bulk, and the rest at natural food stores around town. I eat only 2 meals per day, sometimes 3, but never more than that, and I never, ever snack. Our digestive system needs time to rest, and everything that is overworked breaks down eventually. Our “scientists” are lying to us about “small, frequent meals” because of greed. They want us sick. I eat at least one raw meal per day (fruit salads, smoothies,etc). I eat only organic eggs, and sometimes organic grass fed beef, bison or chicken. Ialso read a book about women’s and men’s hormones from Dr. Lee, and it changed my life. I started using a natural progesterone cream, and in just three months, my cycles became perfect. Every 28 days exactly! That has never happened to me in my life, and I am nearing the end of my reproductive years. In combination with my diet change, I avoid fluoride at all cost. I use filters for shower and drinking, and cooking water. It costs me about 150 dollars every 15 months for filter changes. I forgot,I also did an extensive detox regimen, especially heavy metal detox. I supplement with iodine and magnesium, and use good quality salt. On my face, I use ACV toner with sage tea or water two or three times per day. Some days, I use a little water with lime juice (NOT lemon, lemons are hybrids, and too acidic). At night, 2-3 times per week,I use a natural face powder with essential oils, clays, and baking soda to prevent or treat break outs. I use only extra virgin olive oil, and avocado oil with sweet orange essential oil mixed in for antibacterial effect, and better circulation. Acne disappeared on my body after six months, and it took about eight months for my face. However, I noticed an improvement after only few weeks of both-diet, and ACV. My skin is now totally acne free, and people cannot believe that I ever had acne. ACV has even healed and faded my many dark marks that stayed behind. My marks simply disappeared, little by little. My skin is even, and well hydrated. Please do not listen to people who mistakenly believe this modern day lobotomy doctors! They cannot even see how little they know, just like they could not see it two hundred years ago. Same idiots. God bless, and good luck!
Thank you noelle for the suggestion….i will try that.and i will keep you posted..thank you..☺☺
Badz, adult acne is usually a hormonal problem. I would suggest seeing your gynecologist or an endocrinologist about this – it may make all the difference for you. Best of luck!
Hi. Is it ok not to moisturizer after using ACV as a toner?
Yes! 🙂
Could I add aloe vera to this mix? I’m thinking yes. I have redness on my face and I’ve been using this toner for a while and thinking maybe the aloe could help with that.
Thanks!
Never tried that personally. I would stick to the recipe above!
What about the stench that Apple Cider Vinegar leaves on the skin?
As stated above, the smell dissipates once it dries.
Thanks; I guess I didn’t read all the replies thoroughly!
Well,first of all I would like to say thank you cause I’m really tired of all these marketing tricks,which promote the very expensive skin care products…the thing is, the tricks are even more skillful with every time)
This thing you’re sharing with us is GOLD!
I have only one question left – in my country there is no raw apple cider vinegar. There are good ones, they are natural , But the thing is they are filtered and not pasteurized. In your view,will such vinegar be as effective as the one mentioned in this article ?
Thanks for the brilliant info,especially for all details covered)
Your gratefull student from Ukraine)
Hi David! I would definitely recommend trying it. There will be less beneficial nutrients, but getting a basic apple cider vinegar I think will still be a good option. Let me know how it goes!
Faz –
please please please PLEASE NEVER USE LIME JUICE on your skin!!! There is a compound in limes that causes severe burns when exposed to UV light. Unfortunately I learned the hard way and have 3rd degree burns from hip to ankle on both legs.
So sorry to hear that, Frances! Thank you for sharing your experience. Important information!
All citrus oils are photosensitive and when applied to skin before sun exposure will cause burns
You have to avoid sun exposure for hours afterwards or cover the skin
Yep! 🙂
Hi! I just made my toner–ACV, green tea, Lemon juice, and lavender oil. Why do you recommend that this be refrigerated? I accidentally left it out last evening after using it. Will it still be ok to use? Thanks!
Absolutely. I don’t think a night or two will create any problems. When made with brewed tea, it should be kept in the fridge simply because there is a possibility it can grow bacteria.
I’m definitely trying this one out. great to see a well organized article on ACV toner. Hope it will work out just fine for me.I used ACV as feminine wash, and it worked well for me. didn’t know it can also work on the face
Hi… I was curious if one does want to add essential oils to this, how does the oil blend into the liquid? Oil and water? Wouldn’t it separate and have globs of essential oil floating? lol
You only should put a few drops in there. And before application, I recommend turning the bottle upside down and right side up for mixing. Hope that helps!
I have found that apple cider vinegar also can help relieve, not cure, some skin ailments such as excema and psoriasis, as long as there are no open wounds! Great post, Noelle!
I started using coconut oil to wash my face and I am seeing great results along with your complete night time routine. Do you have a morning routine? I am not sure if I should wash my face with coconut oil in the morning as well. What about sun protection? I would really appreciate it. Thank you for all your tips!!!!!!!!
In the morning, just use a little water and a cloth, and the the apple cider vinegar toner as directed above. Also, you can put sunscreen on in the morning before makeup if you’d like. 🙂 You are so welcome! Hope that helps.
How much of the rose water should go into the recipe?
Hi Chris! As stated above, 1/2 – 1 tsp for every 8oz. Let me know how it goes! 🙂
Noelle and Chris, I have read that coconut oil has sunscreen protection.
Hi Waynette! I would not recommend coconut oil as an alternative to sunscreen, as it does not provide a notable Sun Protection Factor (SPF).
Noelle and Belle, I use as a cleanser coconut oil and baking soda scrub and it works well. i am 71 and am stopped very often and complimented on my complexion, even texture, creamy and pretty much wrinkle free with no blemishes. I feel pretty blessed to have skin like mine at this age.
That’s great! Thanks for sharing, Waynette!
hello Noelle! I have started using ACV as an toner twice a day. I use a mixture of rose water, normal water, ACV and few drops of glycerin since i have dry skin. is it okay to use it that way? plus could you suggest me a good facewash/cleanser before applying ACV toner in the morning?
Hi Asfia! I personally haven’t used glycerin, but if it works for you, that’s great! You can use it twice a day or more depending on what you feel you need, and how your skin reacts. I highly recommend using the oil cleansing method for cleaning your face. Read all about it in my post about How to Clean Your Face with Coconut Oil. Hope that helps!
Hi Noelle,
Should the brand of the APV has to be Braggs? The stock here in our place is very limited so I bought Heinz instead. Let me know if this is okay.
Thanks!
Catherine
Hi Catherine! I recommend unfiltered apple cider vinegar, which is why I recommend the Bragg’s brand. I talk more about that above. 🙂
How long did it take before you noticed it was working?
In combination with the coconut oil face cleanser, about 3-4 months. 🙂
Wonderful article! I love your website, and have visited many times. Thank you for all the great things that I have learned from you. God bless
You are so welcome, Eliana!
Hi, is it ok to use regular water instead of distiller water for this toner?
You can—however, when applying to your face, I really recommend filtering it. 🙂
I’ve been using just coconut oil as a cleanser then read about the acidic level and will be making your DIY toner ASAP. I’ve also made a scrub with coconut oil, baking soda and lavender and frankiscense that I use once a week. Would you reccomend still using that? Also do you use a moisturizer after your night routine or even your morning one after you just use the water & wash cloth?
Hi Katie! I occasionally use a high-quality serum, like my DIY facial serum or C-ex after using this apple cider vinegar facial toner (which comes AFTER cleaning your face with coconut oil.) I don’t use moisturizer in the morning as my skin isn’t dry. I think the scrub you mentioned sounds great! Hope that helps!
Thanks so much for sharing this article! I have been having problems with breakouts on my chest and back for nearly a year, and nothing I’ve tried cleared the issue. I have been using a 3-1 mixture with a drop of Tea Tree oil for less than a week and my chest and back are finally clear! Its so wonderful to be able to wear a tank top and not be self conscience! 🙂
That’s awesome, Kayla! Thanks for sharing. So happy to hear that!
Hey Its really helpful. I have two queries :
1) Is it a good option when you are travelling(backpacking). I am travelling to SE Asia and I was looking for natural retorts to skin and hair. I was wondering if I can carry ACV to use it as a conditioner and facial toner?
2) And if I carry that you think, just ACV with water would work, in both cases, or should I take lavender essential oil as well to mix it for the hair rinse and tea tree for facial toner.
Also do you have any DIY ideas for lip balms that would be good for such a weather especially because I am struggling with dark lips and don’t want to spoil them in the sun.
Ankita! I absolutely think it’s great for travel and personally travel with it. I just use a small travel bottle with apple cider vinegar/water, and leave out the essential oils. However, you can definitely bring essential oils if you want to. For lip balm, I typically just purchase sticks from Badger. Love them and they are totally natural oils! 🙂 Hope that helps!
Hi Noelle
Can I mix ACV with green tea as one toner, for example: prepare green tea, once it cools down I mix it with ACV n use it as a toner?
Yep! 🙂
Hi Noell
Thank you for this information on how l can make my toner
Have use so many products seems not working, l will be making this this weekend
Where can l get Bragg ACV from.
Grocery stores, or on Amazon (see link!)
Thank you
Thank you so much for this! I drink ACV mixed with water every day. I know it’s a great detoxer for my body. As an Esthetician, I don’t know why I hadn’t thought of ACV as a natural toner! I love essential oils as well and have incorporated them into my daily skin care regimen. I just made this toner and I’m excited to use it tonight! Thanks again!
You are so welcome Roxanne! 🙂
i don’t really use a toner, so i’m thinking of using it only every night? would that be okay? i have oily acne prone skin
Yep!
Can I add rosemary to my acv?
Yes! Please follow recommended amounts in the recipe for adding essential oils.
Couple questions, I started this method of face washing after becoming overly frustrated with all of the over the counter exfoliants and cleansers. So far so good except I HATE the smell 🙁 :(, is there anything I can do to counter act the sent so my face doesn’t smell like a salad? Secondly can I use this toner after washing with baking soda? Thanks so much, glad I found this thread.
Hi Samantha! You can add a few drops of essential oil, which will help. You can also dilute it further. As for your second question, yes you can! Make sure to gently exfoliate using the baking soda, and then wait until your face dries to apply the apple cider vinegar toner. Hope that helps!
If I grow my own herbs (Chamomile, Lavender, Spearmint, and Lemon Balm) for teas…Could I add those like you say you can add the green tea?
Sure! 🙂
Can I use hydrosols and essential oils if I use herbal tea instead of distilled water?
You can! Just please use the ratios as per the recipe above.
Hi!
I usually spritz my face with rose water after a cleanse and before moisturising. I have now made an ACV and rosewater (4/1 ratio)….1 being ACV…. toner to wipe with after cleansing as you suggest. Can I still spritz with rose water after? Will it still help seal in moisture…..or is it best to just use the toner? Also…What ph is rosewater? Thanks so much!!!! 🙂
Hi Emma! Not sure about the pH of rosewater. But, the toner you are making with the rosewater should be sufficient, and you don’t need to sprits with rosewater after that. I would suggest doing without it for a few days, and seeing how your skin does. Then, add it back in and see if there are any positive/negative changes. Ultimately, there is no “wrong” answer here—only what works best for you!
Thank you Noelle 🙂
Hi Noelle ! ?? I just found your blog and thank god I came here . Unlike the others you have complete details ? I mix 2 tablespoon of acv with 2 tablespoon water then 2 tsp of lemon , 2 tablespoon of green tea , 1 tsp of castor oil . are my ingredients are fine ? I’ll be updating you if it works ❤️
Hi Veronica! I would follow the ratios as described above. So, 1 part apple cider vinegar with 2 parts water. This means, if you’re using a tablespoon, you’ll mix 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar with 2 tablespoons water. I do not recommend adding any oil other than a few small drops of essential oil, and I definitely don’t recommend adding lemon juice. Hope that helps!
Hi! Do i have to wash my face before using Acv? And do i have to wash my face after using it? And is it okay to not put Acv on my face overnight? Thank you
No, and no. You can do it after washing your face, or throughout the day as a refresh. You can put it on before bed. Hope that helps!
Hi! I tried your recipe for ACV toner and I LOVE IT!!!! My question is how long does it last? Does it eventually go bad? I used the ACV/Water/Tea Tree Oil recipe.
Thanks so much!!!
Luisa… so good to hear that! The good news is, it doesn’t go bad! 🙂 Fermentation is a natural form of preservation, so apple cider vinegar doesn’t need to be refrigerated. Enjoy!
Hi Noelle, thank you for sharing! Helps me a lot to cure my acne problems.
Anyway, is it okay to rub extra virgin olive oil in my face after spritz ACV toner and let it sit overnight? Or do you have other suggestions since EVOO did its great job on my skin and I won’t change it. Thank you
Hi Winzy. If you use olive oil as a moisturizer and it works well for your skin, it’s fine to use after using this toner. Make sure your skin completely dries before applying. Hope that helps!
Would it be an issue if I did not dilute the ACV and used as a toner? Also instead of diluting with water, can I dilute it with rosewater?
Ellie, I would definitely recommend diluting it. Applying undiluted apple cider vinegar will likely cause irritation and burning. I’ve never personally tried diluting it with rose water, but I do think it could be a good option for some people. Please make sure to dilute it using the ratios above!
Does this toner help or worsen acne in any way?
Hi shirley. Please read the post above!
Hi! I loved this post bc I recently discovered coconut oil for washing my face ? Would it make sense to apply the toner after I have washed my face with the coconut oil? And if I do use the toner afterwards is there a need for moisturizer? Thank you!
Hi Kiran! Yes—it’s best to use this toner after washing your face with coconut oil. Check out my post on how to clean your face with coconut oil for information about following up with moisturizer.
i brought acv which is ultra filtered and diluted to 5%acidity is it safe to use
Hi Karthik! If it says “raw apple cider vinegar”—then it is safe to use! I link to the one I recommend in the post above.
Hello! I was reading this post about the ACV toner and did not see anything on how to apply it? Maybe I missed that part. Do you use a wash cloth to apply? Thanks!
You can apply it with a cotton swab, or spray on your face. 🙂
Hi , i’m ivy. After applying acv toner, should i wash my face after 30mins of dryness?
Hi Ivy! No, you do not need to wash your face after using this toner as described above.
How does apple cider vinegar toner compare to using witch hazel or rose witch hazel as a natural toner? Do they have different effects? Is one better than the other? I have oily, acne prone skin.
Hi Annie! I personally have never used witch hazel as a toner, however—both can work great. There is no one toner that is better than another. Everyone’s skin is different, so what is going to be best for YOUR skin is going to be unique to you. Give each a try and see which works best!
Hi Noelle,
I’m from UAE , here i could only find american garden vinegar.
which says natural vinegar and it contains 5% acidity , that is available nearest to me .
pls advice me could i use this acv , as i need to start using it for my skin tone and melasma spots; which are increasing day by day .
thnx
aisha
Hi Aisha! If it says apple cider vinegar, it should be fine! It sounds like what you have is pasteurized apple cider vinegar, which isn’t raw. This means, you’ll potentially have less benefit using it, as it won’t have some of the enzymes and beneficial nutrients. It still can work though, so I would recommend giving it a try to see if it works for your skin. Good luck!
thanks so much Noelle
i will surely give it a try .
you are one lovely lady 🙂
thnx
Aisha
Would you recommend using this toner for subclinical acne located on the forehead?
I recommend using a toner as part of a natural skin care routine—yes! I can’t say whether it will be right for your skin condition or not. But, I think it’s definitely something to try!
Will the raw unfiltered acv clog a spray bottle? Also, are purified and distilled water the same? Thank you!
Sherri! It will not clog a spray bottle. There will be some strings of living bacteria that you may want to rinse out once you’ve gone through a bottle, but it will not clog. As per Google—the only difference between distilled and purified water is distilled water goes through distillation while purified water goes through other processes such as reverse osmosis, ion exchange, Ozonation, sand filtration. Just make sure it’s not tap water, and you’re good to go! 🙂
Can I use filtered water because I only have that and tap for the mix for my oily skin
Filtered water is great!
Hello, I love the idea of this. However, does the apple cider vinegar have to be unpasteurized? I am pregnant, and can only use products that are pasteurized. Thank you!
Hi Kristin! If you feel more comfortable using the pasteurized apple cider vinegar, that’s fine! However, the raw apple cider vinegar is only full of beneficial enzymes and bacteria, which are great for skin. There is no literature that shows raw apple cider vinegar isn’t safe to put on your skin during pregnancy.
Hi can we mix the hot brewed tea and the apple cider vinegar? Or do I wait for the tea to cool down before mixing the two?
Hi Isha! Let the tea come to room temperature before mixing it with the apple cider vinegar.
Hi Noelle, first of all thank you for sharing and your blog are awesome 🙂 !
I have started trying ACV toner about 3 weeks ago from the sensitive ratio, then normal ratio and now oily ratio just to experiment, and started coconut oil cleansing 2 weeks ago after reading your blog. My acne has gone,but it is still not stable yet as sometimes I still can see some little acne pop out here and there. However I noticed my pores are getting slightly bigger, which I don’t get it. If ACV helps in dissolve dead skin, and OCM cleanse my skin, I will supposed my pores should be getting smaller instead? … So far I quite happy that my skin is getting clearer, but the only thing is the bigger pores got me into concerned. Also may I ask, if I am going to exfoliate my skin with coconut oil and brown sugar or baking soda (which is better?) Do I follow the OCM steps like apply warm cloth to clean off ? And if after that I wanna do a facial mask that needs to be rinsed off, I will apply ACV toner last right? If the facial doesn’t need to be rinsed off, then i will apply ACV toner before I apply the mask? ^_^
Thank you Noelle xoxo
Hi Alva! I would recommend giving it another few days to see if anything changes. If you still feel like they are bigger, try using a different oil other than coconut oil. Try one of the oils that is good for oily skin. As for the exfoliation, brown sugar or baking soda both work great. Again, experiment with one and see how it works for you. To do the exfoliation, simply do the exfoliation once a week or so before you do the oil cleansing method. If you’d like to do a face mask like my homemade face mask for acne, you’ll want to apply it to clean skin—so do it after cleaning and toning. Hope that helps!
Hi Noelle ^-^ yes I will give it more time and see how it goes as I’m still experimenting on the ACV toner because I really have no idea what my own skin type is :p and I’m not sure maybe with the different ratio of ACV toner will does any effect on the pore itself (like too strong to the skin). While my skin is sensitive and easily has rashes or small red bumps triggered by any product that is not suitable but also tend to be oily sometimes and acne prone yet it seems to be dry occasionally too ?lol. I did feel that my face was very dirty and full of dead skins. The first time I tried coconut oil cleansing, that night I felt my skin is Breathing! for the first time! haha 🙂 I will be patiently and see how it all go by slowly trying on the exfoliation and your homemade facial mask and also see if I need to change to another oil. I will let you know again ^_^ thank you Noelle for your supports to all of us out here, you absolutely did help! Cheers xoxo
Hi Noelle
I use AVC few months ago (Braggs) mixed this up with water and Rose water. I applied the toner twice a day and this did not make my skin better as it made it worse. I have stopped using this now. As I have sensitive skin, can you advise if I should use it again or avoid using.
Thanks
Hi Gurks. If it didn’t work for you skin and your skin is very sensitive, you should not continue to use it.
Hi Gurks. I have super sensitive oily skin. After getting off Proactiv my skin went crazy. After trying almost everything I have found that Mario Badescu acne facial cleanser, 50/50 acv and water mix, and alpha hydrox oil free formula (gel like lotion) has worked for me. The acv toner I only use at night the the wash and lotion I use morning and night. My acne for sure got worse before getting better. Took two months before seeing good result. The face wash is light and not too harsh. The acv seems too dry out the acne and the lotion keeps skin from producing too much oil. Acv is great but it should be used in combination with other great products. Hopefully you give these a try and see result! Remember to try products for at least a month to see if it’ll work. Acne does get worse before it gets better because the skin brings everything to the surface and not until everything is out of your pores will your skin start to heal.
It could be the rose water. I learned the hard way that products with rose water/extracts/pedals are extremely irritating for my skin. I’ve been told that this is quite common for people with eczema and/or dry skin.
Hi Noelle,
I stopped using shampoo and conditioner several months ago and noticed a great change in my hair. I’m mixed race and have frizzy hair from my dad’s side and fine hair from my mom’s. I’ve been putting oils, shampoos, conditioners, leave-in conditioners, hair sprays, and any number of store bought products since I was a little girl, and my hair had always been frizzy and tangled. I read that once you stop using those products, it takes about a month for your hair to balance on it’s own, and sure enough, it did! I loved it! But recently I’ve noticed that my hair has been getting either very dry or very oily, regardless of how often I wash it. In addition, I could definitely use a new skin care product. So I’m going to try the coconut oil for skin, apple cider vinegar toner, and acv hair treatment and see what happens. Thanks so much for the ideas, and if you’ve got anything else to hopefully keep hair smooth and shin naturally, I could use it! 🙂
Awesome! Please let me know how it goes.
Hi Noelle,
I just came across your wonderful page, great blog! 🙂 I just want to share my 2 cents on this wonderful toner. I’ve been using ACV for about a year now. Usually, I don’t suffer from acne, except the once a month loner here and there on my face, however, since I’ve been using AVC toner my skin has gotten brighter, even toned, and glowing. I do add to my mixture witch hazel, aloe vera gel, tea tree oil, and sake (rice wine unfiltered), and of course distilled water. This is what works great for my combination/oily skin. The best DIY skin care I’ve made after my Vit C serum 😉
Thanks for your great work!
Awesome! Love hearing that Karla!
Hi karla,
i would love to have your toner recipe, is there anyway I can get it?
Hi, I was wondering if I could use soap scents because the acv is a bit too strong for me but I don’t have any essential oils on hand..
Hi Corinna! I don’t have any personal experience with soap scents, so unfortunately I can’t answer that question. You can try to dilute the apple cider vinegar with a bit more filtered water if it’s something you dislike. Hope that helps!
This is such a great, educational blog! Thank you. Can I ask how long it can take before one starts seeing results with this toner?
Thanks Cori! All depends on how your skin responds. Anywhere from immediately to 3-4 weeks. Hope that helps!
is it necessary to dilute the acv i never have
Yes. That is why I recommend it above.
Hello, I am wanting to try this recipe but do not see a ratio for combination skin. What ratio would you recommend for my skin type? Thanks!
Hi Crystal! I’m not sure what you mean by this… I don’t know your skin type?
Hi! Yes, very informative article on the benefits of ACV. I use it as a toner and under my arms before I apply my organic deodorant as I find the sodium bicarbonate can darken my armpits somewhat. My pores have reduced and acne going. A fantastic product x
hi I just started yesterday, and my skin feel healthier, but i cant stand the smell, I hope to get used to it, but is there any way to make the smell go away once it is on your face? I don’t where makeup and in the morning I only use acv and water. I smelt like vinegar for an hour!
Hi Rylie! I’m so sorry to hear that. I don’t have the same experience, so I’m not totally sure what you’re experiencing. You can dilute the toner with more water, and add essential oils. Hope that helps!
My skin is very very sensitive due to usage of bad steroid creams…and also damaged.. Will this be helpful for me?
It might! Please test a small area of your skin for a few days using the sensitive skin ratio to see if it does.
Can we add lemon drops into it? And what is the shelf life? In and out of refrigerator?
I wouldn’t recommend lemon essential oil as it can make the skin more sensitive to the sun. Lemon oil should really be diluted in a carrier oil, and putting it in a toner doesn’t dilute it properly and can still lead to direct (undiluted) contact with skin. This toner is shelf stable as it’s just water and apple cider vinegar.
Citrus oils should not be used on your skin if you are going to be in sunlight. I wouldn’t use it on face.
Hi Noelle,
why can’t I use tap water? Is there anything I could do to tap water to make it useable?
Thanks:)
Hi Ping! Tap water can contain “chlorine, fluorine compounds, Trihalomethanes (THMs), assorted hormones, pesticides and even trace amounts of prescription drugs.” This is not something I recommend putting on your skin, as your skin is your largest organ and will respond based on what it is exposed to (both inside and outside.) To make tap water useful, you can simply filter it, which will eliminate most (not all) contaminants. 🙂 Hope that helps!
Hi, I just tried the toner today and was wondering if it’s ok to follow up with coconut oil afterwards as a moisturizer as the weather here is already cold and drier?
Absolutely!
Hi! I was wondering what kind of moisturizer do you use to follow up? Right now I use Shea Moisture African Black Soap to cleanse, and ACV and filtered water to tone. However, my skin is very very oily, so I know that I need a moisturizer to use after, but I am unsure of a natural moisturizer that would work well. I have tried coconut oil in the past, but it just makes my skin break out.
Hi Ashley! I typically don’t use moisturizer afterwards as I don’t need it after cleaning my face with coconut oil. Once in awhile, I’ll use my DIY Face Serum as a light facial moisturizer. Hope that helps!
I also subscribe to the idea that natural is always better and have used a combination of these ingredients for years for various remedies. As far as the water is concerned, yes filtered is better than tap, but I always also distill my water by boiling it to remove any kind of microbes and purify the water even further.
So are you showering in filtered water too? Or covering your face when you shower? Just curious 😉
Hi Kasia! Yes, I filter my shower water with this filter. It’s helped my skin not be so dry. Hope that helps!
Here’s a suggestion – instead of using a cotton pad just use the corner of your face cloth. The face cloth should be wet. (ie, after you’ve just cleansed with oil) (and steamed your face with a hot wet face cloth, and gently wiped the oil off) — put a few drops of straight ACV on the corner of your cloth and then pad your face and any other parts .. neck, chest, back of hands, arms, .. wherever.
Another suggestion is to make a tincture with your ACV with an herb that is super high in minerals and extremely good for skin — like Nettle, or Horsetail. … it is best to use recently harvested and dried herbs — which you can or should be able to find and collect yourself …or just buy the dried herbs… you would need to learn more about that but should be able to find on line! .. very easy.. .. Dried herbs using in an ACV tincture will have a much longer shelf life (indefinite) because you are not introducing “water” into the mix as you would be if they were fresh. .. you can store your ACV tincture in a dropper bottle and just place a few drops (or more) on the corner of your cloth as mentioned above.. 🙂
Hello,
After reading many articles and comments about facial care with coconut oil and ACV, I concocted this mixture and routine. The mixture is one part Bragg ACV, one part distilled water, one part aloe vera gel. Every morning and night, apply a liberal amount of cold pressed coconut oil to my face and rub it in well. I then use a wet hot faucet soaked washcloth and apply to my face and neck. I do this twice. At this point in the morning, I then shave. After, I soak a cotton ball with my ACV/Aloe Vera mixture. After it dries, I put a tiny bit of coconut oil in the palm of my hand, rub both hands together and apply to my face, eyes and neck. It feels great and refreshing and know I am doing good as the night routine always shows dirt on the cotton ball. Rather it there than on my face! I am a 72 yr old man in New Orleans, LA. Can’t say I look any better, but it sure feels clean!!
Thanks for sharing, Richard! Glad it works so well for you!
Hi! I tried the sensative skin ratio one time, but it made my skin get red and blotchy. Is this normal or should I discontinue the use?
Hi Jordyn! I would not recommend trying it again on your face with the current ratio. If you’d like to try it again, please dilute it (cut it in half with filtered water) and see how your skin responds.
Do you use it every night? Thank you
Yes.
Hi noelle
Can i mix Acv with aloe vera ge,i have sensitive and dry skin
Hi Vishali! Not sure. I’m sure you could, however, I don’t know what good that would do. I recommend just apply aloe vera gel, and using the acv toner separately.
After putting the AVC with water, it should be rinse or no?????
As described above, no. 🙂
Hey hi i wanna knw can i use ACV as a toner twice a day or whenevr i wash my face??? And does ACV helps in making ur skin hade lighter???
Thank you.
Yes, and no. 🙂
Hi I was wondering if it will help unclog pores, I’ve been having big white heads appear on my face and have tried so many things like using manuka honey, burts bees pore cleanser, rinsing my face with water throughout the day, eating better and they still seem to appear. I’m going to try using manuka honey in the morning and then the ACV after and throughout the day, and then coconut oil And the Acv before going to bed, do you think using manuka honey might be too much to the routine you described? I refuse to use any store bought products, burts bees was the only I’d try.
Hi Allison! As described above, this ACV toner does help to freshen skin and clear away dead skin cells, which can help to keep pours clear and open. To “unclog” pours, I recommend doing the oil cleansing method to clean your face (see here: How to Clean Your Face With Coconut Oil.) You can try a honey face mask, or a clay mask as a deeper cleansing method a few times a month.
Thank you for taking the time to respond to me! I also wanted to know if it’s okay to only apply the acv to certain spots on my face since I only breakout on my forehead and sides of my nose. Also one more question, when my face starts to feel oily again throughtout the day should I just apply more acv? Thank you so much!!!
Hi Allison! Yes, and YES! I use the apple cider vinegar toner to “freshen” my skin throughout the day.
Might I also suggest a lighter oil such as grape seed or hemp seed instead of the coconut
Hello,
Is it bad to use a generic store cleanser to wash your face with before applying this toner? Or should one just splash their face with water then use this?
Hi Nicole! As per the advice above, I recommend using the oil cleansing method as a cleanser. See How to Clean Your Face With Coconut Oil.
Hi Ms Noelle! How are you? 😀
I wanna thank you for this great info about ACV. It’ll be my first time to try so there are things that I’m not sure if it’s okay.
Q1: Instead of like tea tree oil, can I use virgin olive oil for the toner (acv, water, olive oil)?
Q2: After ACV toner, without rinsing it off, can I apply my oatmeal facial mask directly? My concern is that I have combination dry skin so I think ACV could make it more dry. At least oatmeal mask can help moisturize my skin.
Q3: I have lots of skin tags on my face (including body), will ACV ‘help’ them fall off or do the worse?
I hope you can help me out 😀
Hi llham! I wouldn’t recommend adding olive oil to the toner. If you’d like to use a few drops of another essential oil, that would be fine! As for what to do afterwards, you can apply makeup, a face mask, or moisturizer. Just wait for the toner to dry and you’re good to go! As for the skin tags, you’ll have to experiment to see how your skin responds. Please test this on a small patch of skin so you have solid information.
Thanks! ????
Gonna try your workouts too 🙂
????????????
???? all the way from Southeast Asia
Hi Noelle, if I do a coconut oil face wash and use the ACV Toner, in what order should I use them?
Thanks and happy new year!
Wash your face first, then use the toner. 🙂
Hi Noelle,
I was wondering if is safe for me to use the ACV toner while using Tretenoin?
If so, how long should I wait between each product’s application?
Hi Wendy! Unfortunately, I have no personal experience or expertise on Tretenoin, or how it might affect the skin in relation to the application of this toner. I would recommend talking to your physician about the side effects, and how it might interact with apple cider vinegar.
Hi noelle I have noticed a slight difference in my skin while using the acv but sometimes I will experience a slight sting on some parts of my face when I use it, is it something to be concerned about or should I just dilute it with more water? Thanks !
Hi Allison! If it bothers you and becomes uncomfortable, please dilute it more. If not and it’s very minor, it’s nothing to worry about. I would recommend monitoring your skin to make sure it doesn’t become red or irritated. Hope that helps!
I know it says it can be stored on a shelf for months but after just two weeks I start to see these lines in the water clumped together almost fuzzy like, is that just from the cotton ball?
Hi Allison! Sorry to hear that! There’s no way for me to be able to tell what was in your water, but I can tell you that I’ve never had any issues with raw, apple cider vinegar going “bad.” ACV after opened does not need to be stored in the fridge, and adding filtered water doesn’t change that. If you’re unsure about it, I would clean out the bottle you are using with hot water and soap, rinse thoroughly, and make a new bottle. Hope that helps!
Hi, may I ask will my face smells like ACV after I apply it? Or maybe after 20 minutes or so? And may I ask the sensitive skin that you mentioned above is where? Behind our ears, I persume? And also the filtered water is that mean drinking water? The ACV if I use Bragg brand, its okay right?
Hi there! The apple cider vinegar smell dissipates once it dries. The sensitive skin ratio is the most diluted ratio. The brand I linked to is what I recommend. Good luck!
Hi Noelle,
I just want to ask, what moisturizer and cleanser are you using when you use ACV toner? Is it OK to use essential oils like extra virgin olive oil as a moisturizer instead?
Hi Vanessa! I use coconut oil to clean my face, and I follow up with this DIY facial serum. Hope that helps!
Fantastic! Been looking for an ACV toner with as little ingredients as possible and I’m very happy that all you need is a little water. Love the idea of brewing tea–what type of herbal tea do you think would be most beneficial for skin elasticity? Also–I used lavender oil in mine and applying it before bed… man I really think I’ve been getting some quality sleep!
Thanks again!
Hi Salima! YES—totally love using lavender oil for that very reason! As for as for the herbal tea, I recommend starting with a simple organic green tea. Hope that helps!
Great article, I also love using apple cider vinegar on my skin and feel it has made a huge improvement to my skin tone. Just love the stuff!
Why do you prefer glass over plastic for the toner? It mentions above you can store in plastic bottle…I was just confused. Also, I have an aluminum spray can or bottle, is that ok? Can I just simply apply the toner on my hands and rub on my face. ..lol some days I’m lazy.
Personally, I do not recommend keeping anything acidic or any oils in plastic containers. It’s well known that plastic can leach hormone-like chemicals, so when we’re talking about long-term storage and what you’re going to be putting on your face—glass is the best option. I wouldn’t recommend putting this on your hands and then applying to your face. Instead, just use a cotton ball or pad and rub it on that way. Hope that helps!
I have been using this concoction for quite a while now. I always make my blend with ACV and green tea and add essential oils. I have very dry skin and use coconut oil as both cleanser and moisturiser. I love it. My skin is much better. I always add colloidal silver to my batch at least 1/4 cup. It is an amazing preservative and antiseptic. The first time i made this without CS and it only lasted couple of weeks then went a bit yuck. Now that i use CS it lasts for ages and i store it in a dark green bottle on my drawers/dressing table.
I’m a little confused about the order of coconut oil and then ACV. It seems like the ACV would strip all the wonderful moisturizing benefits of the CO? If I remember correctly, you said that when you wash with the CO, you usually don’t need a moisturizer afterwards.
Hi LeighAnne! Wash first, tone second. The toner doesn’t strip the benefits whatsoever. If you need moisturizer after the toner, I recommend my DIY Facial Serum. You may or may not need the moisturizer. Hope that helps!
Apple cider vinegar is so very useful and help in many ways….Thanks a lot for posting the benefits and uses of ACV. More Power and God Bless you all always.
Roshni
Hello Noelle,
Love how you are so kind to everyone! I am about to start using the ACV toner and oil cleanse after having started making my own face cream this weekend with Indian Sandlewood, Neroli, Geranium and Myrrh – it smells Amazing! I began my research because the skin around my eyes is dry and wrinkly and after having a baby I feel a bit tired all over – can I just check 2 things: One – if I put the ACV toner in a spray bottle and spray my face with my eyes closed and some of it lands on my eyelids and around my eyes is that harmful to the skin around my eyes or does it just depend on the person?
Two – I would like to use rose water as a toner – can I mix it with the ACV and use the toner in the morning before my moisturiser and at night after the oil cleanse…? Thank you Kindly, Amanda x
Hi Amanda! So glad things are working out for you! For the spray bottle, I would recommend covering your eyes with your hand, or a small cotton pad to avoid getting it on your eyelid and into your eyes. As for the rose water—yes! I would use some or all of the water in the ACV recipe as rose water. Please let me know how it goes! One quick change—cleanse, tone, and THEN moisturize with a light moisturizer.
I have a question about the use of hydrosols in place of filtered water. I want to try rose water instead of filtered water to make this toner smell better and I hear that rose water in itself has plenty of skin benefits. But I am a little confused as to whether I swap it out for water (ratio-wise) or add 1tsp per 8oz of toner as mentioned.
Hi Fallon! Rose water has astringent properties, so you’ll want to dilute the ACV with filtered water, and use rose water in smaller amounts as per my recipe above to change the scent.
Hydrosol, a liquid which is a by product of steam distillation, also works well as a liquid. You can buy them from various stores online or make your own if you have a steam distiller. I personally used saint johns wort hydrosol that I made last season. I cannot comment on using tea however since I have not made this recipe with that variation.
what’s the difference between ACV + water and ACV + hydrosol/brewed tea in terms of shelf life? (why does latter need to be refrigerated?)
According to food safety rules, brewed tea isn’t shelve stable and will eventually become susceptible to bacteria growth, as food pathogens can survive in brewed tea. This is why I recommend storing in the fridge if you use brewed tea as your water.
awesome, thanks for the super-quick response, noelle!
so i have another question, if you’d be so kind as to inspire me with your badass goddess-guru guidance :]
in reference to this section of your (hella-dopetastic) article:
– Adding a hydrosol: Brew your favorite organic herbal tea like
green tea and use it in place of filtered water. I recommend you
keep your toner in the refrigerator if you go with this option.
– Adding essential oils: Add hydrosols to make the experience a
more nourishing one. Use 1 tsp per 8 oz of toner. You can also
add tea tree oil for additional anti-inflammatory benefits, or
lavender oil for a more aromatic, soothing experience. Use 2-3
drops per 8 oz of toner.
… are you using “hydrosol” synonymously with brewed tea? i’m just a bit confused because you list them separately in the “optional” section:
Optional:
– Brewed herbal tea
– Hydrosols (Like rose or orange)
– Essential oils (Like lavender or tea tree)
… and if they’re NOT synonymous, what’s the difference? slash which do you use *in place of water* as opposed to *in addition to already diluted ACV*?
»» sorry for the painstakingly technical (&obnoxious) questions ;D ««
Hi Lisa! Congratulations… after years of this recipe being up, you are the first person to point out this massive confusion! LOL. hydrosols are different from brewed tea. It should have read “add brewed tea” and then “add hydrosol or essential oils”, as the information about adding hydrosols was combined with essential oils. I’ve decided to go ahead and clarify and give each it’s own category. Hope that helps!
haha, that’s my crazy brain for ya. meticulous as a mf.
thanks for clearing that up, and for your insane dedication to this blog! seriously, though – how many years has this post been up, and you’re STILL responding to regular comments with hyper speed and dopetastic authenticity?!? you rock, chickadee.
»» disclaimer: creepy fangurL vibes continuing & coming on strong(er) in 3, 2, 1… ««
i was obsessing to my bf about your blog slash vibes in general for like an hour today (&yes, he loved every second of it). not only are you super knowledgable, but you’re also accessible, funny and authentic as hell. way to rep team awesome, noelle. more of you on the interwebs, plz ;]
p.s. if you ever need an editor or partner in crunchy-granola DIY crime, give me a shout. i’d be honored to extract, distill & vitamix fun words with you.
Hello Noelle,
Thank you for letting us know the wonder features of ACV. I would like to know if ACV also helps for perspiring facial skin and is it necessary to apply moisturizer as in summers my face becomes too sticky due to oil & sweat.
Looking ahead to hear soon from your end.
Hi Amit! Toner helps to freshen skin. It will not stop perspiring. You don’t have to apply a moisturizer afterwards. It all depends on your skin and your individual needs! 🙂
Thank you for reply Noelle. Will you help me to control facial perspiration.
This is great. I’m gonna try it starting today. Btw, what are your thoughts on using grapeseed oil on face?
It all depends if it works for you! Cold-pressed, organic oils are best.
Hi Noelle, your blog is just awesome. I’m 29 and suffering from acne , black and white heads for 3 years. I have combimation senstive skin. I have tried so much things for my skin but nothing worked. can you help me that how can I treat my skin with acv toner and coconut oil? I have also so many acne spots on my skin. Losing hope to see my charmed fresh skin again.
Hi Hina! Yep—all the information is in the post above! Experiment and let me know how it goes!
Hi Noelke
Just found your blog which intrigues me
I’m curious. I considered myself as plain Jane… ie no make up. But with aging I noticed facial skin changes. Would you recommend I have to use all for steps.. Clean… Tones…. Serum.. Moisten?
Yes! Those steps exactly, preferable with safe, anti-aging active ingredients. I personally use Countertime, so I cleanse, then tone, and then follow up with a serum and moisturizer both day and night.
Hi I love this post as its very informative but I did not see that it’s talked about the smell. It’s very strong and I’m wondering if I’m supposed to take it off before school. I don’t want to smell like Apple Cider Vinegar.
Hi Lindsayy! As stated in the post, the smell dissipates once it dries. You can try using my DIY Facial Serum afterwards which will leave your face smelling wonderful!
Is the ACC good for people with rosacea? I have oily skin and acne on mainly my chin. I have been using Argan oil to cleanse my face. Conserned about wiping the ACC because of my rosacea so just misting it on my face might be better?
Hi Samantha! I would recommend spot testing it on your skin to see if it works for you. Please start with the sensitive skin ratio. Let me know how it goes!
Hi.. I tried this DIY Toner as soon I finished reading this vlog. I followed the measurements above and instead of water, I used green tea and then argan oil and rose water on it.. On my first month, Ia am really impressed with the result. I have oily skin type. When I wake up in the morning, you can actually fry on my face. But after using it in a month, the oil was gone and I notice that my face whitens so I kept doing it since I thought it would be the answer to my oily-acne-prone face until on my 2nd month, here’s the oily face again and then breakouts more than I did before like almost everyday there’s a new pimps on my face. I never add anything other than my skincare routine before. Cleanse with clean&clear anti-black whitedhead soap, St. Ive’s apricot scrub, garnier micellar water then DIY toner, lastly neutrogena hydroboost moisturizer. Then sleep.. Now I don’t know if I need to continue this DIY toner as it may not good on me or I need to give it a little more time? I just hate those spots left on my face after the pimps has gone 🙁 Been trying to find solution with this breakouts but haven’t found anything that prevent them from coming back.
Hi Reysie! I recommend using something like a safe SOS spot treatment when breakouts do occur (occasional breakouts can happen because of stress, diet, hormones, etc.). For scarring, try an Overnight Resurfacing Peel.
Hi I’m 15 years old and I use honey as my cleanser and I started using apple cider vinegar as my toner 2 days ago. Is it okay if I don’t put moisturizer after I apply the toner? Because my cheeks feel itchy when I put my moisturizer (pond’s white beauty day cream).
Yep! Totally OK. Let the toner dry, and try using the more sensitive ratio. Also I recommend sticking with natural oils for moisturizer, like this DIY Facial Serum.
Before read these article I was using unfiltered acv I did not dilute the acv but I didn’t experience any red or itching on my face. it is safe to use pure? My face is more glowing and my acne scar are disappeared a bit more
Hi Miriam! I personally don’t recommend it, but if it is working for you then you have that option! Try using 1 part water with 1 part apple cider vinegar and see how your skin responds to that long term.
I just started using the acv toner today but i used 2 tsp of acv, 2/3 cup of water and a few drops of raw honey. If i am using honey do i need to rinse off the toner or its still fine too be left to dry
Hi Moyo! I personally wouldn’t recommend leaving honey on your face.
Hi, may I know what can I do to lessen the sting smell on my ace after apply this ACV toner? Because my friend said to me that I smells like durian or like sweet and sour. I just felt so embarrassing. Is there any way to get rid of the smell?
Hi Lim! Strategies are discussed in the comments above.
Hi Noelle
is it okay for me to use coconut oil as my cleaner I have a very oily skin
Yes!
Thanks for sharing Apple Cider Vinegar benefits. It can be used as Facial Toner, i never knew. Thanks a TON!!
I just started using 1 tablespoon of ACV in 8 oz of water for a hair rinse, and so far so good, so I wanted to try it on my face to see if it helps clear up my acne, but I can’t stand the smell of it. I just hold my nose for the 2 minutes I leave it on my hair, and the smell seems to be gone as soon as I rinse it out. But I can’t imagine being able to tolerate it on my face if you’re not supposed to rinse it off. How long does the smell last on your face?
It dissipates once it dries. Good luck!
Do you have to use filtered water with the ACV?
I highly recommend it.
Hi there! Was just wondering if the brand for ACV is called Barnes naturals is it still advicible to be used as a toner ? As it only stated about unfiltered, organic and with the “Mother” but not raw or unpeasturized.
unfiltered is the word you are looking for! 🙂
Hi Noelle, I will definitely be trying this out. Will the ACV leave a funny smell on my skin?
Hi Noelle, just discovered this page and I’m already in love! I’ll be trying these methods soon (just finished watching your skin care video :D), but I was wondering- what are your opinions on micellar cleansing water?
You know… I’ve never personally used it. But if it works for you… then great!
Hi Noelle, I wanted to try this and had purchased an Organic Apple Cider at Whole Foods a month ago to rinse my hair with. Is this ok to use as a toner for face?
Thank you!
No. You don’t want to use apple cider. Make sure it’s unpasteurized (or raw) apple cider vinegar.
Hi Nicole! I checked and yes it is raw apple cider vinegar.
Thank you!
Hi Noelle!
Is it safe to mix acv with baking soda, water, and honey as a toner?
And is it okay not to rinse after?
It has a slight burning sensation though. Thanks!
I would not, no. The recipe above is all you need for an effective toner.
Is it oj to use the ACV raw?
I’m not sure what your question is here. Unfiltered apple cider vinegar is raw. Please see the one I linked and talked about at length above.
hi Noelle thx for your recipe, but I was wondered how long can the APV could keep three days? a week? a month?
As stated in the post, it’s completely shelf stable.
Hi I’m using Acv for about 2 months it results good. If I use it daily will it cause any damage to my skin.?? & also I’m not using any moisturizers after removing acv. Will it be an issue??
Nope! 🙂
I have always have to buy oily skin products because my skin is so oily, but I found a product that is for oily skin, and has anti-aging properties I have been using the Made from Earth Skin Correcting Toner and now have smooth, dry and soft skin. The effect is it plumps up wrinkles, making them less obvious. My dermatologist pronounced my skin “glowing!”.
Can you tell me the steps to use this? Do I cleanse my face, then use the ACV and then apply my moisturizer? I only use a 3 step cleaning process on my face.
Also, I bought the Wal Mart brand ACV, is that a problem?
As long as it’s raw apple cider vinegar (with “the mother”) as indicated above it should be great.
Hi Kira! Yes! 🙂
Hi, it is okay to use Nivea Creme(Moisturizer) after I used toner on evening and then on morning, it is okay also to use sunblock day-cream after toner?
And it is okay to use Lipton green tea as brewed green tea on toner?
Thanks for answering.
Sure! For the green tea, I’d recommend using organic only.
Hi! I’m 17 and I’m using one cup for both, so the oily one, and is it supposed to burn when you apply it? Because it only burns in a couple of places on my face. Not like a super burn, but as if there’s alcohol in there too.
Tingling is fine. Burning, no.
can i use rosemary essential oil?
Sure!
I use the oily skin ratio and trust me, i’ve loved nothing better. I use it in the mornings after shower and in the night right before bed.
Hello Noelle, I have used lightly sparkling spring water as a toner but tonight I have just tried ACV with sparkling spring water…by mistake! I usually drink this solution as 2 tbls in sparkly. But accidentally got the wrong bottle from the fridge! then after I cleansed with it I googled if it was ok and found your blog. I will let you know how it goes as I have sensitive skin
hi! can i wash my face with water after applying the mixture? the smell bothers me alot..thanks
Sure! You can splash water on your face. I wouldn’t wash with a face wash, however.
I’ve been using ACV as a toner without diluting it for several weeks and LOVE IT.
However, I see you strongly suggest diluting it. Am I causing harm?
How much water and ACV do I use?
1 cup of water and 1 cup of ACV??
I’m going to try this tonight
Thanks
Yep! See recipe above.
Hi Noelle
Can I use a hydrating face wash before toning with ACV?
Or is it too drying for the skin?
Sure! I recommend a different method for cleansing, but cleansing comes before the toner.
Hi Noelle, I’ve been using the coconut cleansing method and will start the acv but I’m a bit confused , so I have to put on moinsturizer after the toner?
Not if your skin doesn’t need it. Just an option.
Apple cider vinegar also comes in rescue to get rid of Skin Wart. Apple cider vinegar has many benefits and you are bang on with Facial Toner. More Power to you.
Does your face have to wet or dry when you apply the toner? Thanks!
Dry. 🙂
i was looking for something to help me reduce dark spots and i stumble on your blog. I would like to try this method i do have a combination skin so i was thinking if its alright to use 1part ACV and 2 or 4 parts of water? When you said try to test on skin how would i know if its harmful on me, is it like my skin will turn red or itchy? I usually apply my skin care like this Cleansing oil > Cleansing foam > toner > essence > serum > day/night cream > moisturize when will be the right time for me to used the ACV? in this blog it says not to wash off but some said (other sites) that ACV should not be left on the skin for long. Sorry if i ask a lot. Hope to hear from you soon.
This is a toner, so you’d use it in place of your toner in your routine. You can also just use this on it’s own, as described above. Reactions could be anything: redness, burning, itching, breakouts, etc.
Yes! I agree. Apple Cider Vinegar is amazing!
I normally have oily skin, have large pores and am pimple prone. I was breaking out, had bad skin tone and was starting to develop fine lines. I bought the Made from Earths Apple Cider Vinegar Toner (its 100% organic) and have been using twice a day and my skin has improved substantially! I’m very impressed with how much smoother my skin has become. I now have NO PIMPLES. My skin was previously pink in complexion from the chronic inflammation. It’s actually calmed my skin now.
Hey! I love the toner! I made a huge batch and have been using it for about a month now and have noticed a film in the solution. The ACV is still good and so I wasn’t sure if this was normal or not?
Totally normal. It’s actually beneficial bacteria—the same as what you see in unfiltered ACV (also known as “the mother) and in kombucha!
I haven’t tried this recipe yet but how do you get filtered water? Can I use bottled water instead? I don’t have a filter. Also, I have acne prone skin and currently use the Clinique 3-step system it has worked for me for years but I still see large pores and blackheads. Is it possible this will help me with that? Thanks.
Yes, you can buy filtered water, and yes, it can help! Good luck!
Thanks for sharing the tips. Never knew apple cider vinegar ha such benefits.
Hello can I still apply moisturizer after using acv as a toner? Thank youuu
yes!
Would you still use moisturizer on your face, after the toner?
yes!
Is it possible to make this into a solid? I love this toner and will be traveling full time with just a carry on and was wondering if it was possible to make it into a solid so I can travel with it in my carry on!
No
Hi Noelle! I had heard a bit about ACV as a toner and have listened to almost every episode of your and Stefani’s podcast, so when I found this post I knew I had to try it. I have pretty sensitive skin that seems to only have become more sensitive and acne prone in the past few years (I bought Stefani’s “Clear Skin Unlocked” and it’s helped me immensely, but I thin recent stressful life events have made my skin take a step backwards). I diluted the ACV 1:4 as instructed, did a spot test on my forehead, and after 24h, went for it. Well, it felt like mild burning! Not my forehead where I spot tested it, but my cheeks and my lips. It wasn’t exactly painful, in fact it felt the way that some face masks have made me feel in the past—hot and tingly. I dealt with it for about half an hour and then after some googling turned up quite a few stories of people who had diluted the vinegar and still got chemical burns. Not just irritated skin—scabbed, bleeding, and eventually scarred skin. I got nervous and washed my face with Cetaphil and cold water. My face is a little red and the “burning” has subsided. I did a little math and found that diluting a acid with a pH of 3 will only raise the pH to ~3.6, which is still much lower than 5. Is it possible to get a chemical burn from such a mild acid? Have you heard of any stories like this?
My current plan is to refrain from using the ACV toner for the next few days, then perhaps dilute it even more and spot test on my cheek. The benefits of it sound so great and I’d love to try it fully but I am scared! Am I being overly cautious and letting google horror stories get to me, or do you think that some people could have a dramatically bad reaction to this?
Thanks so much for all you do—I really love your work!
Personally, I have NEVER heard of a chemical burn from apple cider vinegar. I think the people who experience a burning sensation are likely doing some sort of other treatment to their skin (chemical peels, microdermabrasion, etc.) that is contraindicated to certain topical treatments. Tingling is A-OK! Red, highly irritated skin and painful burning is not. I have been working a lot more in the skincare industry since joining Beautycounter, and there are a lot of treatments (like our Charcoal Mask or Overnight Resurfacing Peel) that causes the same tingling. When clients purchases these products, specifically, the Overnight Resurfacing Peel, I make sure they aren’t doing any sort of chemical peels or high-end treatments with their dermatologist. Don’t give the google horror stories space in your life. Do what works for you, and if you feel like something isn’t normal, do something else or talk with your dermatologist! 🙂
I just made my first two versions of the toner. One for my face and one for my acned, hyperpigmented back. I’m darker skinned. I found by accident that my back acne may have been a result of a lack of Vitamin D (I also have cavity prone teeth). Born in the Southern hemisphere but immigrated as a child to the Northern hemisphere and my vitamin D intake apparently suffered alot. I started supplementing with high dose Vitamin D for my teeth earlier this year which had the side effect of completely resolving my back acne breakouts. I’m now mostly dealing with hyperpigmentation spots left from acne and much much less acne. Anyway, after all that explanation, for my face, I did a mix of 1 to 2 ACV and distilled water, plus Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid powder). For my back, I made the same mix and also added a couple drops of tea tree oil.
I may next time replace the straight distilled water with Rooibos tea. I have used a Rooibos toner from South Africa before and Ioved the soft brightening effect on my complexion it gave. Will first have to see how this first batch goes.
Have you found that this makes your skin quite red at all? I’ve been using 1 part acv 1 part water for a little over a week now both morning and night after cleansing. I find my skin goes red afterwards but it’s also working really well and my skin is looking amazing. Is this normal or should I be diluting it more ? I’d say my skin is sensitive as well.
Definitely use the ratio given for sensitive skin if you have sensitive skin! I do not, and use 1 part water to 1 part acv and never have any redness.
hey I’ve been using on my under eyes, i did try diluting it with water first but found it annoying as it would make it so watery and would drip down my face. it doesnt sting my face or anything if i use it undiluted so thats what I’ve been doing. my apple cider vinegar is raw but it does have manuka honey in so maybe thats why? is it damaging to use it undiluted or is it just so it doesnt sting.
I don’t recommend using raw apple cider vinegar on your skin without diluting it. This toner should have a water-like consistency, and you can apply with a cotton ball.
Can we apply Apple cider vinegar without any mixture directly on face? Do we have to wash it?
I’m sorry, I have no idea what you’re asking.
Is it okay to use soap based cleanser and coconut oil cleanser at the same time?
I wouldn’t. That would be washing your face twice?
I’ve been struggling for years with adult acne and have been on the hunt for solutions. I was told about apple cider vinegar from a friend, but could never find a good “recipe”. I’m going to try this for 30 days and I’ll report back. If it works, you’re a true godsend!
hi
can I use facial mask after use acv as a toner?
I would recommend cleansing, using the mask, then using the toner + moisturizer.
Nice Blog, provides great ideas about how to take care of your beauty. Toners are a must before using cleansers to remove dirt, makeup and to maintain the pH level of skin. Thank you for sharing this article. 🙂
Hi! This is the first time I’m going to use acv toner and I would like to know if it’s ok to use alovera soothing gel as a moisturizer, or do you prefer vco. Thanks.
Use whatever moisturizer works for you!
can you mix ACV with castor oil? Before putting the acv mixture, can i still use eskinol facial cleanser?
I’m sure you can mix it—however I wouldn’t recommend deviating from the recipe if you’d like it to be a toner. Yes—cleanse before toning!
I read use this after washing face but also have read you can use it several times a day. What if you wear makeup, would it be ok to spritz on the face with makeup?
I wouldn’t do it when you have makeup on, no. You want to apply it directly to skin.
Hello. What do you mean by “one part” ACV with “4 parts” water? Part as in? How many tbsps?
As described above in the post: Note: One “part” is any measurement you chose to use. So, if you’re following the sensitive skin ratio, you’ll mix 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar with 4 tbsp water. I typically follow the oily skin ratio, and make 16 oz total. This means, I use 1 cup filtered water, and 1 cup apple cider vinegar.
This js my forst time trying this. I heard it works with dark spots as well, is this true ?!
It won’t do anything to change the color of your skin.
I literally just discovered your blog this week because I ran out of the rather expensive toner I had been using and was searching for a good DIY one to make in its place. I found this through Google and loved the simplicity. I made the version for sensitive skin, added in about 1 tsp of Cortas rose water, 1 drop tea tree and 3 drops lavender essential oils. I just made it today so I don’t know yet how it works for me, but I can’t wait to see! Thanks for sharing your awesome recipe and website!
Thanks for sharing! Love hearing about others good experiences 🙂
Hi Noelle,
Will it be okay to apply acv at night and keep it overnight?
Keep it where?
Hey Noelle,
Wondering if I am able to dilute white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar and do I wash it off the next morning?
Hi Annabelle! No, you need to use apple cider vinegar. Please follow instructions above! No need to rinse.
Hi dear Noelle
I have ance scars and pores.
I have bought apple cider yesterday so it is a first day I have used for so how long will I see the result.
If you can share with your email is it best in order to guide me.
Hi Noelle,
After doing couple research, I found your blog. Thank you for your time. I am 28 now, till last year I did not have a single pimple on my face. But from December I see acne on my cheeks. After using acv it got reduced. But once in a while I see a large pimple on my cheeks. Does acv also reduce the acne spots? And coming to coconut oil cleansing. Could you please tell me how to use coconut oil as a cleanser.
It does not reduce acne scarring or spots. Something like a safe Overnight Resurfacing Peel will help that. Check out my other post How to Clean Your Face With Coconut Oil.
Hey I have extremely bad cystic acne and scarring everywhere. How long did it take for you to see results from using acv?
Truthfully, I don’t think this is going to be the solution to cystic acne, and it won’t do anything for scarring. Read my post about Hormonal Acne: The Root Cause and How to Treat it Naturally, and email me directly if you want specific help for scarring treatments.
Hey , I put a lil more Apple cider vinegar than water is that fine?
First thank you so much for your recipe.. i currently don’t use a toner i will definitely give it a try but before i do i want to make sure i am doing it right . I currently use serum then collagen And final my moisturizer. when do i use the toner?
A toner is the “prep” step. It always goes right after cleansing!
I am loving the natural DIY beauty recipes, especially when they are budget friendly! I have been using this toner for almost a year now and noticed positive results, but my husband doesn’t like the smell. Is there another recipe, maybe without the vinegar, that would have similar results?
Hey Chelsea! I love Primally Pure’s Everything Spray.
Can I use Olive oil instead of lavender oil
No, if you don’t have one of the essential oils, just leave it out since it’s optional.
Will this work for blackheads and acne scarring?
I recommend something with more active ingredients for that, like this charcoal mask, and this safe overnight resurfacing peel for scarring.
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