Let’s be honest—glowing skin is always in. Whether it’s that early-morning radiance or the kind of glow that makes people wonder what your secret is, we’re all chasing that healthy, hydrated look. But when your shelves are overflowing with half-used serums and miracle bottles that promised more than they delivered, sometimes the best solution is going back to basics.
Imagine it like your skin’s own smoothie, blended to perfection with the perfect ingredients for your skin type. If you’re struggling with dullness, oiliness, acne scars, or just want to glow even more, these home-made serum recipes are here to help you shine from the inside out—naturally.
Why Go for a Face Serum for Glowing Skin
Serums are skincare superstars—light, quick-absorbing, and intensely moisturizing. In contrast to moisturizers that coat the skin, serums are bursting with actives that penetrate deep into your skin, giving you pinpoint results.
By adding a face serum to your regimen, you’re treating your skin to a strong boost of nutrients to fight dullness, wrinkles, uneven color, dryness, and beyond.
Benefits of Using a Homemade Face Serum
Still curious if DIY serums are worth it? Here’s why they’re a game-changer:
- Moisturize dry skin without the greasiness
- Even out and brighten skin tone
- Feed with natural ingredients based on your concern
- Firm and tighten skin’s elasticity
- Calm irritation and redness without harshness
- Shield from pollution and free radicals
- Refine pores and even out texture
- Stimulate collagen for a younger appearance
- Prep skin to better absorb other products
- Even out oil-based to combat acne and dull shine
8 Glow-Boosting Homemade Face Serum Recipes (For Every Skin Type)
Whether you’re on a budget, love going natural, or just want to try something fun, these recipes are super easy to make. Just remember: Always patch-test before trying anything new.
1. Turmeric + Rose Water Brightening Serum

For: Dull, tired skin
You’ll need:
- 1 tsp turmeric-infused jojoba oil (let it infuse for 3–5 days)
- 1 tbsp rose water
- 1 tsp aloe vera gel (pure, no alcohol)
- 3 drops vitamin E oil
How to prepare:
Mix everything together and keep in a dark glass bottle. Shake before applying.
Shelf life: 2 weeks (refrigerated)
Application: 3–4 drops on clean skin. Don’t forget sunscreen in the daytime.
2. Cucumber + Green Tea Soothing Serum

For: Sensitive or oily skin
You will need:
- 1 tbsp cucumber juice (freshly strained)
- 1 tbsp cooled brewed green tea
- 1 tsp aloe vera gel
- 2 drops tea tree oil (optional)
How to prepare:
Mix and store in a dropper bottle. Shake gently.
Shelf life: 1 week (refrigerated)
Use: 4–5 drops on clean, damp skin. Great for mornings.
3. Rosehip Oil Hydration Serum

For: Dry or flaky skin
You’ll need:
- 2 tsp rosehip seed oil
- 1 tsp jojoba oil
- 5 drops lavender essential oil
How to make:
Mix all oils in a clean dropper bottle.
Shelf life: Up to 6 months (store in a cool, dark place)
Use: Apply 2–3 drops to damp skin at night.
4. Green Tea & Glycerin Serum

For: Combination skin
You’ll need:
- 1 tbsp cooled brewed green tea
- 1 tsp vegetable glycerin
- 1 tsp aloe vera gel
How to make:
Stir well and transfer to a small bottle.
Shelf life: 1 week (refrigerated)
Use: Once daily on clean skin.
5. Orange Peel & Aloe Serum

For: Acne marks and dullness
You’ll need:
- 1 tsp orange peel powder
- 1 tbsp aloe vera gel
- 1 tsp rose water
- 2 drops tea tree oil
How to make:
Mix into a smooth paste and store in a pump bottle.
Shelf life: 1 week (refrigerated)
Use: Nighttime only. Follow with moisturiser.
6. Chamomile & Aloe Calming Serum

For: Redness or irritation
You’ll need:
- 1 tbsp strong chamomile tea (cooled)
- 1 tbsp aloe vera gel
- 1 tsp jojoba oil
- 2 drops chamomile essential oil (optional)
How to make:
Blend well and store in a dropper bottle.
Shelf life: 7–10 days (keep in the fridge)
Use: 3–4 drops morning or night.
7. Apple Cider Vinegar & Green Tea Serum

For: Acne-prone skin
You’ll need:
- 1 tbsp brewed green tea (cooled)
- 1 tsp raw ACV (with mother)
- 1 tsp aloe vera gel
- 2 drops lavender oil
How to make:
Blend and store in a sterilized dropper bottle.
Shelf life: 1 week (refrigerated)
Use: 2–3 times a week at night only.
8. Saffron & Honey Radiance Serum

For: Bridal glow or dull skin
You’ll need:
- 1 tbsp raw honey
- 1 tbsp rose water
- 4–5 strands of saffron (soaked in rose water)
- 1 tsp almond oil
How to make:
Combine saffron water, honey, and almond oil.
Shelf life: 7–10 days (store in fridge)
Use: Night. Rinse off after 30 mins or sleep with it.
How to Apply Face Serum the Right Way
- Begin with fresh, lightly dampened skin
- Apply 3–5 drops and pat or press gently into the skin
- Seal with your usual moisturiser
- Use SPF in the morning after using your serum
DIY Serums: Store, Use, & Avoid
- Store serums in clean, airtight containers
- Keep water-based serums refrigerated
- Use glass dropper bottles—not metal
- Always patch-test new recipes
- Discard if the texture or smell changes
Also Read : Best Anti-Aging Serums for Your 30s: Start Early, Age Gracefully