Homemade Face Serum for Every Skin Concern: Glow-Boosting Recipes You Need to Try

Here are a few face serums that you can easily DIY at home and get that hydrating, from-within healthy glow.

Shivani Pathak

Shivani Pathak

13 Jun ‘25
DIY Serum Serum Skincare Antioxidants
DIY Serum Serum Skincare Antioxidants

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Let’s be honest, glowing skin is always in. Whether it’s the barely-there radiance you wake up with or the luminous finish that catches the light just right, that healthy, hydrated glow is what we’re all chasing. But when your bathroom shelf is overflowing with half-used products, each claiming to be the next miracle in a bottle, it’s easy to feel a little lost (and slightly broke). Sometimes, going back to the basics is not only refreshing, it’s downright effective. That’s where the homemade face serum for glowing skin comes in. Think of it as your skin’s personal smoothie—packed with just the right blend of ingredients, made to suit your unique needs, and without the added fillers. Whether you're on the hunt for the best face serum for glowing skin or looking for a gentler face glow serum for oily skin, whipping up your own serum is surprisingly easy and seriously satisfying. So, if you’re ready to glow from the inside out (and maybe save some money along the way), here’s everything you need to know on how to make face serum for glowing skin, completely tailored to you.

Why Choose a Face Serum for Glowing Skin?

Why Choose a Face Serum for Glowing Skin?

A face serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing skincare product packed with a high concentration of active ingredients designed to target specific skin concerns. Unlike moisturisers, which primarily hydrate and form a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, serums penetrate deeper into the skin to deliver powerful nutrients where they’re needed most. This makes them especially effective for addressing issues like dullness, uneven texture, fine lines, and dehydration. By incorporating a face serum into your routine, you’re giving your skin a concentrated dose of nourishment that supports a healthy, radiant glow from within—something that regular moisturisers alone may not achieve.

Benefits of Using a Homemade Face Serum

Benefits of Using a Homemade Face Serum

A face serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing liquid packed with active ingredients designed to target specific skin concerns. Unlike moisturisers, which primarily hydrate the skin's surface, serums penetrate deeper, delivering potent nutrients directly to the skin cells. Incorporating a face serum for glowing skin into your routine can:

  • Hydrate: Boost moisture levels without heaviness.
  • Brighten: Even out skin tone and enhance radiance.
  • Nourish: Provide targeted care for issues like dryness, oiliness, or dullness.
  • Firm: Improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Soothe: Calm irritated or sensitive skin with ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.
  • Protect: Shield skin from environmental stressors and free radical damage with antioxidants like Vitamin C and E.
  • Refine Pores: Minimize the appearance of enlarged pores and improve skin texture.
  • Boost Collagen: Support natural collagen production for plumper, youthful-looking skin.
  • Improve Absorption: Prepare skin to absorb moisturizers and other products more effectively.
  • Control Oil: Balance sebum production, helping to prevent breakouts and shine.
Pond's Anti-Pigmentation Serum with Gluta-Niacinamide Complex, 28ml

₹463.00 ₹545.00

Best Homemade Face Serum Recipes for Every Skin Type

If you’re tired of spending money on store bought face serums, get ready to mix up your own magic. Here are some tried-and-true recipes tailored to different skin types. While these are easy, home-made recipes, if you’re doubtful about any ingredient not being suitable to your skin type, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider to understand your skin and its needs better.

1. Turmeric + Rose Water Brightening Serum for Dull Skin

Turmeric + Rose Water Brightening Serum for Dull Skin

For tired, lackluster skin that’s lost its spark, this brightening face serum revives your glow with natural radiance boosters.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tsp turmeric-infused jojoba oil (infuse for 3–5 days)
  • 1 tbsp rose water
  • 1 tsp aloe vera gel (pure, no added alcohol)
  • 3 drops vitamin E oil

Instructions:

  • Whisk all ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.
  • Pour into a dark glass dropper bottle.
  • Shake gently before each use.

Shelf Life: Up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator (due to rose water and aloe vera).

Application: Apply 3–4 drops to clean skin in the morning or evening. Use sunscreen during the day to prevent sun sensitivity.

2. Cucumber + Green Tea Soothing Serum for Oily & Sensitive Skin

Cucumber + Green Tea Soothing Serum  for Oily & Sensitive Skin

This calming serum helps balance oil production while soothing redness and irritation—perfect for sensitive, breakout-prone skin.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp cucumber juice (freshly extracted and strained)
  • 1 tbsp green tea (brewed and cooled)
  • 1 tsp aloe vera gel
  • 2 drops tea tree essential oil (optional, for acne-prone skin)

Instructions:

  • Mix all ingredients thoroughly in a small bowl.
  • Transfer to a clean dropper bottle.
  • Shake gently before use.

Shelf Life: Keep refrigerated; use within 1 week.

Application: Use 4–5 drops on clean, damp skin—ideal as a morning refresher or post-sun treatment.

3. Rosehip Oil Serum for Dry Skin

Rosehip Oil Serum for Dry Skin

If you have skin that likes to stay drier than a desert, here’s a face glow serum for dry skin that’ll keep it hydrated and moisturised.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tsp rosehip seed oil
  • 1 tsp jojoba oil
  • 5 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

  • Combine all oils in a dropper bottle.
  • Shake gently to mix.

Shelf Life: Up to 6 months stored in a cool, dark place.

Application: Apply a few drops to damp skin at night, sealing in moisture.

4. Green Tea & Glycerin Serum for Combination Skin

Green Tea & Glycerin Serum for Combination Skin

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp brewed green tea (cooled)
  • 1 tsp vegetable glycerin
  • 1 tsp aloe vera gel

Instructions:

  • Mix all ingredients until well combined.
  • Store in a clean container.

Shelf Life: Up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Application: Apply to clean skin once daily.

5. Orange Peel & Aloe Serum for Acne Marks & Glow

Orange Peel & Aloe Serum  for Acne Marks & Glow

Fade acne marks and reveal a healthy glow with this vitamin C-rich, skin-brightening serum.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tsp orange peel powder
  • 1 tbsp aloe vera gel (pure, no alcohol)
  • 1 tsp rose water
  • 2 drops tea tree essential oil

Instructions:

  • Mix orange peel powder with aloe vera gel and rose water until smooth.
  • Add tea tree oil and stir well.
  • Transfer to a small pump or dropper bottle.

Shelf Life: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Application: Apply a thin layer to clean skin at night. Follow with a moisturiser if needed.

6. Chamomile & Aloe Serum for Sensitive or Red Skin

Chamomile & Aloe Serum for Sensitive or Red Skin

Soothe irritation and calm redness with this gentle, anti-inflammatory blend.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp chamomile tea (strongly brewed and cooled)
  • 1 tbsp aloe vera gel
  • 1 tsp jojoba oil
  • 2 drops chamomile essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

  • Combine all ingredients and mix until well blended.
  • Pour into a small glass bottle with a dropper or pump.
  • Shake before each use.

Shelf Life: Refrigerate and use within 7–10 days.

Application: Use 3–4 drops on freshly cleansed skin, morning or night.

7. Apple Cider Vinegar & Green Tea Serum for Acne-Prone Skin

Apple Cider Vinegar & Green Tea Serum for Acne-Prone Skin

Control breakouts and balance oil with this clarifying, antibacterial serum.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp green tea (brewed and cooled)
  • 1 tsp raw apple cider vinegar (with the mother)
  • 1 tsp aloe vera gel
  • 2 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

  • Blend all ingredients thoroughly and pour into a sterilized dropper bottle.
  • Shake gently to combine.

Shelf Life: Store in the fridge and use within 1 week.

Application: Apply with a cotton pad or fingertips at night after cleansing. Use 2–3 times a week.

8. Saffron & Honey Serum for Radiance and Bridal Glow

Saffron & Honey Serum for Radiance and Bridal Glow

Give your skin a luxurious glow with this traditional beauty blend perfect for pre-wedding prep.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp raw honey
  • 1 tbsp rose water
  • 4–5 strands of saffron (soaked in rose water for 30 mins)
  • 1 tsp almond oil

Instructions:

  • Mix soaked saffron, rose water, honey, and almond oil into a smooth blend.
  • Transfer to a small jar or dropper bottle.

Shelf Life: Keep refrigerated; use within 7–10 days.

Application: Apply a thin layer to clean skin at night. Rinse off after 20–30 minutes or leave it overnight for deep hydration.

How to Apply Face Serum Correctly

How to Apply Face Serum Correctly

To maximise the benefits, here’s how to apply face serum:

  1. Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities.
  2. Tone: Apply a toner to balance the skin's pH.
  3. Serum: Apply a few drops of your homemade serum, gently patting it into the skin.
  4. Moisturise: Follow with a moisturiser to lock in hydration.
  5. Sunscreen: In the morning, finish with SPF to protect your skin.

Frequency: Achieving glowing skin just got easier, whether you prefer store-bought solutions or a DIY approach! For those seeking targeted results, Pond's Anti-Pigmentation Serum is an excellent choice—simply use it once or twice daily depending on your skin's needs.

Alternatively, creating your own homemade face serum is not only economical but also allows you to customize ingredients to your skin's specific requirements. Whether you're battling dryness, oiliness, or dullness, there's a DIY serum recipe waiting to transform your skincare routine.

Pond's Anti-Pigmentation Serum with Gluta-Niacinamide Complex, 28ml

₹463.00 ₹545.00

Tips for Homemade Face Serum: What to Avoid, How to Store & Use Safely

Tips for Homemade Face Serum: What to Avoid, How to Store & Use Safely

Ingredients to Avoid:

  • Essential Oils in High Concentrations: Can cause irritation or allergic reactions—use sparingly and always dilute.
  • Harsh Acids (e.g., undiluted lemon juice, undiluted apple cider vinegar): Can disrupt the skin’s pH and cause burns or sensitivity.
  • Fragrances or Synthetic Perfumes: May trigger allergies or breakouts, especially on sensitive skin.
  • Expired or Low-Quality Oils: Rancid carrier oils can clog pores and harm skin health.
  • Raw Egg, Dairy, or Perishable Items: Can spoil quickly and introduce bacteria to your skin.

Storage, Shelf Life & Patch Testing:

  • Use Dark Glass Bottles: Store serums in amber or cobalt blue glass bottles to protect from light exposure.
  • Keep in a Cool, Dry Place: Refrigeration can extend shelf life, especially for oil-based or vitamin-rich serums.
  • Label with Date: Always mark the preparation date and aim to use it within 2–4 weeks.
  • Avoid Direct Sunlight & Heat: These degrade active ingredients and shorten shelf life.
  • Shake Before Use: Homemade serums may separate—shake well before applying.
  • Always Patch Test First:
    • Apply a small amount behind your ear or on your inner wrist.
    • Wait 24 hours to check for any signs of irritation or allergy.
  • Use Clean Tools & Hands: Prevent contamination by using sterilized utensils and clean fingers or a dropper.

FAQs

Q: Can I use these serums daily?

Yes, but always perform a patch test first to ensure no allergic reactions.

Q: How long before I see results?

Consistent use over 4-6 weeks should yield noticeable improvements.

Q: Can I mix and match ingredients?

Absolutely! Tailor the recipes to suit your skin's unique needs. But if you’re unsure about a combination, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider to understand your skin type better.

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Shivani Pathak

Shivani Pathak

Shivani Pathak is a Mumbai-based lifestyle writer. She has written across a diverse range of formats, including digital features, interviews, trend stories, personal essays, and listicles. Her work has appeared in publications such as Tweak India, Luxebook, DNA, Mongabay, and Indiaspend. When she’s not writing and obsessing over sentence structures, you can find her buried in a book with a cup of coffee by her side.