Perhaps you’ve begun to incorporate more organic foods into your diet, but how organic are the health and beauty products you put on your skin?
Take a moment to go read the labels on the back of your favorite cleanser, moisturizer, toner, or sunscreen. It’s entirely possible that the chemical products that you’re putting on your face are doing more harm than good. If you see more unrecognizable chemicals than all-natural ingredients, perhaps your skincare routine could use an organic update!
Making your own skincare products really isn’t as complicated as it sounds, although it does require an open mind and a little commitment. Since cleanser is an essential part of any skincare routine, regardless of skin type, here are some natural skin cleanser recipes that you can make at home. If you’re not exactly sure what skin type you have, take the She Knows Skin Type Quiz.

Oily Natural Skin Cleanser
Oily skin can be caused by everything from hormonal changes to environmental conditions, diet, and genetics. Try this cleanser recipe if your skin is oily.
- Add 1/2 an orange peel into water and boil
- Allow to infuse for about 20 minutes
- Let the water cool and pour into a jar
- Add 4 cloves
- Apply daily to cleanse your skin with a cotton ball
- Mixture stays good for about 4 days when stored in the refrigerator
Dry Natural Skin Cleanser
Many people suffer from dry skin, especially as they age. However, environmental factors, like temperature and humidity, play a role too. Try this cleanser if your skin is dry.
- Mix the following ingredients into a plastic container
- 1 tsp. raw honey
- 5 tbsp. whole milk
- 5 tsp. extra virgin olive oil
- Shake the mixture well and apply to your face using fingertips
- Allow to set for about a minute and rinse off
- Use daily
- Mixture stays good for about 4 days when stored in the refrigerator
Combination Natural Skin Cleanser
The most common skin type is combination skin, which is typically characterized by an oily T-zone (forehead and nose) and dry or normal cheeks. Here’s a recipe to try once per week if you have combination skin.
- Mix a few drops of lemon and a tablespoon of honey in your hands
- Massage the mixture into your face for 2 minutes
- Rinse and use weekly
- This is a single-use recipe

Sensitive Natural Skin Cleanser
Sensitive skin is particularly difficult to care for because sensitivity can be caused by so many things. Chemical ingredients, acne, detergents, and even hair products you use can make your skin sensitive. If you’re prone to breakouts or irritation, try this sensitive skin cleanser recipe.
- Cook 1 cup of organic oats into 2 cups of organic milk over low heat
- Allow the milk to cool
- Apply mixture to skin using a cotton pad
- Use the mixture once per week to soothe redness and irritation
- Mixture stays good for about 3 days if stored in the refrigerator
After using any of these cleansers, it’s important to follow up with a natural moisturizer to soothe your skin and give it a smooth, youthful-looking texture. We recommend Smooth Skin 202 for day use and Smooth Skin 201 for night use.
As you may have noticed, many of the best DIY skincare recipes contain common ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, like honey, aloe, yogurt, oats, and natural oils. For even more great recipe ideas, check out the blogs on Wellness Mama and Keeper of the Home.