To properly prepare the cucumber, you can either put the diced cucumber in boiled water and leave it to soak overnight before straining[2] X Research source , or you can put it in a blender and then strain it through a cheesecloth to get all the liquid out. [3] X Research source Cucumber may have a cooling or soothing effect when applied to the skin. Aloe vera has been shown to improve acne and mild burns like sunburn. [4] X Research source You may also add ½ teaspoon of lemon juice to the mixture for an extra refreshing twist.
Coconut water may go bad quickly, so it’s best to make this spray in small batches, make sure to store it in the fridge, and use it up in about a week. Add the essential oils in whatever quantity you like to achieve a nice scent and consistency.
Be sure to strain the water with the citrus peels after leaving to soak overnight. You will use only the resulting water and not the peels themselves in the spray. The Vitamin E oil is used as a natural preservative, which you can add to any face spray via capsules or by purchasing a bottle of the oil. Combined with the Vitamin C in citrus used here, Vitamin E may also help to protect against skin inflammation related to sun exposure. [7] X Research source
Witch hazel or aloe vera are great additions to this spray. Just fill your spray bottle about ¾ of the way with water, then add your lavender essential oil and top off the rest of the bottle with witch hazel or aloe vera. [8] X Research source Both lavender and witch hazel may have slightly astringent properties, making this spray great for those who have very oily skin or acne. [9] X Research source
Rosewater can be hydrating for the skin, as well as providing anti-inflammatory properties, so this spray could be great for use on redness or other mild skin irritation. Try adding a few drops of essential oil like evening primrose or ylang ylang for some additional moisturizing and scent. Rosewater can be found in health food stores, or in Asian or Middle Eastern sections of grocery stores. You can even make your own by letting the petals of fresh roses simmer in water on low heat for 30 minutes. [11] X Research source
Let loose leaf green tea or a tea bag steep in boiling water for about 5 minutes. After steeping, let it cool in the refrigerator before use. Green tea may be useful in the treatment of acne. [13] X Research source Tea tree oil is a known antibacterial and antifungal, so it may help soothe mild skin irritation and acne. [14] X Research source You can also consider including witch hazel and neroli essential oil, which both have properties that may also help in the treatment of acne. [15] X Research source
Adjust the recipes for facial spray according to your size of spray bottle. If you make too much, consider storing it for a short period of time or giving some away as a gift. You can find small plastic spray bottles for this purpose in the travel items section of most big-box stores. Some prefer glass bottles to prevent the possibility of leaching from plastic.
You may want to keep a face spray meant for relaxation by your bed where it is convenient to use before sleep. If you still want to keep it cool, put it in the fridge during the day and pull it out in time for bed. Pack facial spray into a cooler with any food and beverages you might be taking out to the beach, pool, etc. That way your spray will remain cool for use throughout your day in the sun.
A cooling spray would be great for use during or after spending time outside in the sun or in other hot environments. You might use a relaxing spray after a long day or before bed to help you fall asleep.
