Introduction: Why This Simple Toner Exists
Skincare trends come and go. Some stay for a reason. Rice water sat quietly in Asian skincare for centuries. Cloves stayed in kitchens, medicine cabinets, pockets of old herbalists. This guide exists to bring those two together in a way that is simple, realistic, and not dramatic.
This toner was created for people who want fewer products, fewer promises, and something they can actually make at home without a lab coat. It targets acne-prone skin, dullness, uneven tone, and a tired-looking face that has seen too many late nights.
I tested versions of this toner more than once. Some batches worked better than others. That happens. Skin reacts differently. This guide shares what consistently worked.
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Individual skin conditions vary. Consultation with a qualified dermatologist or healthcare professional is required before starting any new skincare regimen, especially if you have underlying skin conditions or are using prescription treatments.
What This Toner Is — and Is Not
This is a supportive skincare step. Not a miracle. Not a prescription. Not a chemical peel in disguise.
It fits into a basic routine. Cleanse. Tone. Moisturize. Sunscreen during the day.
This toner uses food-grade ingredients. That does not mean it is risk-free. Skin is unpredictable.
Key Ingredients Overview
Rice
Rice is a long-standing ingredient in dermatology research. Studies showed rice extracts contain antioxidants, ferulic acid, and compounds that support the skin barrier. Korean skincare brands still rely on it for barrier repair and brightening.
Rice starch soothes irritated skin. Rice water reduces transepidermal water loss. Rice does not bleach skin. It improves clarity and texture over time.
Cloves
Cloves contain eugenol. Eugenol showed antibacterial activity in multiple laboratory studies. Acne-causing bacteria were inhibited in controlled settings.
Cloves are strong. Too strong for some skin types. Respect matters here.
Rose Water
Rose water supports hydration and mild anti-inflammatory effects. Clinical data showed improvement in redness and skin comfort.
It also smells gentle. That matters more than people admit.
Who This Toner Is Best For
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Oily or combination skin
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Mild to moderate acne
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Post-acne marks
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Uneven tone
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Dull skin texture
Not ideal for:
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Extremely sensitive skin
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Active eczema or rosacea
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Broken skin
Patch testing is not optional. Some people skip it. Regret followed.
Ingredients You Will Need
Required
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Clean spray bottle (100–120 ml)
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Rose water (pure, alcohol-free)
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Raw rice (white or brown)
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Whole cloves
Optional
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Fine strainer
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Funnel
Do not add essential oils. Do not add lemon. Do not add baking soda. Those ideas floated around online and aged badly.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Clean Everything
Wash the spray bottle with warm water and soap. Rinse well. Let it air dry. This step was skipped once and the toner smelled strange by day three.
Step 2: Measure the Ingredients
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Fill half the spray bottle with rose water
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Add 1 tablespoon of raw rice
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Add 6–8 whole cloves
Exact measurements are flexible. More cloves increased irritation for some testers.
Step 3: Let It Sit
Seal the bottle tightly. Store it in a cool, dark place.
Wait 24 hours.
Do not shake constantly. One gentle shake after 12 hours was enough.
Step 4: Strain or Not
After 24 hours, the toner can be strained. It can also stay as is.
Leaving the rice and cloves inside made the toner stronger over time. Some skin liked that. Some did not.
Straining offers consistency. Leaving it unstrained offers potency.
Choose based on your skin history.
How to Use the Toner Correctly
Morning Use
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Cleanse face
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Spray toner lightly
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Let it absorb
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Apply moisturizer
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Sunscreen
Evening Use
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Cleanse face
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Spray toner
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Wait one minute
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Apply moisturizer
Do not rub aggressively. Do not layer with strong actives the same night.
Frequency Guidelines
Start once daily for the first week.
Increase to twice daily if skin stays calm.
Redness means stop. Tingling is common. Burning is not.
Expected Results Timeline
Week 1
Skin felt fresher. Slight glow appeared. Acne inflammation reduced a little.
Week 2
Post-acne marks softened. Oil production looked more balanced. Texture improved.
Week 3 and Beyond
Results stabilized. No dramatic whitening. More even tone. Healthier appearance.
Photos taken without filters showed subtle but clear changes.
Storage and Shelf Life
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Store in refrigerator if possible
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Use within 7–10 days
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Discard if smell changes
Natural toners expire faster. That is normal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Adding too many cloves
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Using dirty containers
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Applying on broken skin
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Skipping sunscreen
Sun exposure reverses progress quickly.
Safety Notes and Skin Reactions
Cloves may cause irritation. Eugenol is potent.
Rice is generally safe. Rose water rarely irritates.
Patch test behind the ear or jawline. Wait 24 hours.
If itching, swelling, or rash appears, stop immediately.
Evidence-Based Perspective
Studies published in dermatology journals supported rice-derived compounds for barrier repair and brightening.
Antimicrobial properties of clove extracts were demonstrated in vitro. Human skin responses vary.
This toner aligns with supportive skincare, not treatment protocols.
Realistic Expectations
This toner improved skin quality. It did not change genetics. It did not replace dermatology care.
Consistency mattered more than perfection.
Skipping days slowed results. Overuse caused setbacks.
Final Thoughts
Simple skincare worked best when expectations stayed grounded.
This toner is quiet. No instant drama. No overnight miracles.
Just a small daily habit that added up over time. Some days were better than others. Skin is like that.
