Vitamin C’s use in skin care is becoming better known, particularly with topical uses. I like to experiment with skin care and so gave vitamin C a try. Honestly, it irritated my skin a bit! I also did not notice any changes to my skin but did not use it for very long because of … Read more
Natural sunblock protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays and is generally water resistant. I have not yet gotten into the habit of applying sunblock for a few reasons. One is that many of the so-called natural brands are loaded with questionable ingredients and really, I am not comfortable putting them on my body. Then many of the really natural brands contain the minerals zinc oxide and titanium dioxide which can create bright white and pasty skin. Sunblocks work in one or both of 2Continue Reading…
A natural skin cream is a blend of oils and waters that are binded together. The addition of essential oils, extracts and natural preservatives add aesthetic and therapeutic value while increasing shelf life. Natural skin cream is one of the most challenging preparations to make, as oils and waters repel each other and so an emulsification can be complex. Emulsification involves temperature control of both oil and water phases, getting the blending time just right, and preventing separation from occurring. A truly natural skin creamContinue Reading…
Witch hazel astringent is a pretty well-known folk remedy here in America. It was used by the Native Americans for its tightening, toning, and soothing properties as a decoction. In the 1800’s it became a popular remedy in the mainstream and has managed to still be a rather common preparation. It is also called witch hazel extract. Being astringent is a property of some plants, particularly those high in tannins or other chemicals. An “astringent” is also used interchangeably with the term toner (that isContinue Reading…
A question from a reader prompts my reply about Leucidal and using essential oils for preservation in natural cosmetics, particularly creams and lotions (water-based products). I think many people want this information so I turned it into a post! Enjoy and please leave comments or share! Reader question: Hi Michelle, I’m interested in your use of Leucidal and your reference to Synergy antioxidant blend. I have been studying herbalism for years, and have a small business in which I make a line of body products as wellContinue Reading…
Why make your own homemade natural skin care products? Surely there are many, many high quality products on the market. However, there are benefits for those of us who love to craft with our hands. For one, the practice of taking pieces of nature and shaping them into daily necessities is a ritual in itself. It can help us to feel one with and deeply connected to the Earth. We also will know that our finished products are vibrant and alive with the energy ofContinue Reading…
Bay rum oil is a classic fragrance for men originally made in the west Indies and is used as a cologne, aftershave and skin toner. It is made like a tincture of some very readily available ingredients. There are really 2 distinct products here: an aftershave and an oil. Both of these products can be used for deodorant purposes. Yes, many potential mates want you to smell like the spicy and natural Earth! Homemade or all natural products are not offensive like chemical products. TheyContinue Reading…
Looking to purchase natural skin products?? Scroll to the bottom where I recommend a few of my favorite companies. When I say natural skin products, I am very serious about the ‘natural’ part. Here is my definition of “natural”, in context of skin products: “of or from the Earth, can be crafted using low tech or mechanical means from plants, minerals, and other nature-derived substances. In a state of least refinement, still maintaining life and vibrancy from its Source.” I am much less apprehensive ofContinue Reading…