Natural Beauty
The beauty industry in the global market is worth $511 billion dollars in 2021. The beauty and personal care market hit a staggering 716.6 billion. The beauty industry petals their toxic chemical-filled dream creams, that promise ageless beauty, wrinkle-free skin, glowing youthfulness. The fact is that no chemical compound can reverse aging skin, all these chemicals do is cause irritation deep in the skin, which in essence makes the fine lines and wrinkles temporarily diminish. The only way to really make a difference in the appearance of your skin is with a healthy diet, a healthy lifestyle, staying out of the sun, and nourishing your skin with natural ingredients. While some of the drug store creams and potions have short-term results, in the long run, these products may have serious consequences. There are hundreds of chemicals in beauty products and your skin absorbs 60% of those chemicals, and they go through the bloodstream. Many of the chemicals used cause monumental health and hormonal issues. The beauty industry is largely unregulated, and the product doesn't need to meet FDA approval before it hits the aisle of your favorite store. There have only been 11 cosmetics ingredients banned in the USA since 1930 compared to our European counterparts which have banned 1378 ingredients. Many of these man-made chemicals in your skincare products are endocrine disruptors, carcinogenic, and irritants.
Chemicals to watch for
- DMDM Hydantoin- This chemical is a formaldehyde preservative that is used in lotions. There is no evidence at this time whether DMDM Hydantoin causes cancer, but, we know that formaldehyde does.
- Retinyl Palmitate- A clinical study by the National Toxicology Program showed that mice exposed to this chemical developed an extremely large number of tumors after exposure to sunlight. Retinyl Palmitate is a Vitamin A derivative that is used in many sunscreens and anti-aging lotions.
- Butylated Hydroxyanisole- (BHA) Used as a preservative and stabilizer, it is regularly used in lotions as well as lipstick. It is an endocrine disruptor and is expected that it is a human carcinogen.
- Parabens- A preservative used in skincare products, parabens are organic compounds that have caused concern because parabens were found in breast tumors. However, there is no hard evidence that paraben is what caused the tumors. Many health practitioners are calling for parabens to be removed or greatly reduced in beauty products.
- Triethanolamine- A chemical used to balance the PH in body lotions and cosmetics. This chemical is moderately dangerous and it is advised that it should not be used long term. It is toxic to the immune system, a skin irritant, and has been linked to cancer in animal studies.
- Synthetic Perfumes and fragrance-Sometimes harmful things come masked in beautiful scents, those scents are not from nature, they are harmful chemicals that include diethyphtalate. This chemical is an endocrine disruptor and toxic to your organs. It is used in lotions and it emits harmful VOCs causing respiratory issues, allergies, and asthma.
- Petroleum- Many beauty products are petroleum-based. Recent studies show that petroleum causes kidney issues, brain and nerve damage, and cancer.
Go Natural
Going natural will not only save you big bucks, but it might save your life or serious health issues down the road. If eating fruits and veggies are good for your body, it goes without saying they are good for your skin as well. Using organic fruits and vegetables and using high-quality butter and carrier oils and essential oils is recommended for making your own lotions, beauty creams, and bath products.
What oil is best for my skin?
Blemish Prone and Acne
Pumpkin seed oil. This oil has lots of vitamin A, C, zinc, magnesium, potassium, linoleic, and linolenic acids which prevents sebum oxidation. Pumpkin seed oil is also high in linoleic acid and brings the skin back into a balanced state. This oil has been widely studied in the treatment of acne and showed that breakouts were less severe when used in a 1 month to 3 month period. The vitamin C in Pumpkin seed oil increase collagen production making skin firmer.
Hemp oil- High in linolenic acid and vitamins A and E this oil is a dry oil and should be blended with oil such as pumpkin seed oil to make it more moisturizing. This oil prevents flaky, itchy skin. When used on blemish-prone skin it controls the production of oil which clogs pores. Hemp oil reduces inflammation and provides relief for tired, stressed skin. It is recommended by dermatologists as a natural alternative treatment for psoriasis, eczema, and atopic dermatitis.
Oily Skin
Grapeseed oil- Rich in antioxidants like vitamins D, C, and E, beta carotenes, and polyphenols. This light-textured oil absorbs quickly. It is also anti-inflammatory and high in linoleic acid. It is helpful to manage breakouts, lightens discolorations in the skin. Grapeseed oil is antimicrobial, which will help fight breakouts, and is slightly astringent which helps control the inflammatory response that happens with conditions such as eczema and rosacea.
Jojoba oil- This oil comes from the shrub Jojoba native to the Southwest. This oil is literally a wax that resembles your own sebum. This oil helps balance the oil production of your skin. It is filled with fatty acids and antioxidants which protect and moisturize the skin. Jojoba is a soothing oil that can help with irritation, redness, and discomfort. An added benefit for Jojoba is that it can be used as a makeup remover and does a wonderful job at removing residue.
Dry Skin
Apricot Kernel oil- this extremely moisturizing oil is quick-absorbing. It is pressed from the kernels of the Prunus armeniaca. Apricot Kernel oil is similar to almond oil and peach oil, which are also extracted from the kernels of the respective fruit. It supports the skin barrier and locks in moisture. This oil improves skin tone and brightens to give skin radiance.
Coconut oil- Brimming with fatty acids, this oil has lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties and reduces inflammation. It also contains linoleic acid which works to soothe and repair skin. A study found that Coconut oil may prevent and help treat skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis. This oil has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties and has protective skin barrier capabilities.
Anti-Aging/Mature Skin
Argan oil- This oil increases cell regeneration, and reduces fine lines and wrinkles, no wonder it earned the name "liquid gold." Argan oil is rich in antioxidants carotenes and phenols, that protect from free radical damage. It provides excellent protection from sun damage. It has wonderful healing properties it helps with inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis, and rosacea. Aragan oil can be used to treat skin infections because it is antibacterial and anti-fungal. This oil is also great to treat stretch marks by improving skin elasticity.
Seabuckthorn oil- This oil is derived from a shrub that grows in Asia and Europe. This oil is full of Omega 3,6, and 9. Buckhorn also contains an array of vitamins like B1, B2, K, C, A, and E, folic acid and powerful antioxidants, and minerals. This oil is ideal to treat acne as it signals your sebum to stop producing extra oil. Seabuckthorn oil repairs oxidative damage and hydrates skin and increases collagen production. With regular use, you will see brighter skin and smoother refined skin.
Rosehip seed oil- This oil is acquired from the rosa canina that grows in Chile. Don't confuse Rosehip seed oil with Rose oil which is obtained from rose petals, whereas Rosehip seed oil is pressed from the fruit and seed of the rose plant. This oil has long been revered for its healing properties. Loaded with fatty acids and vitamins, it helps to protect from sun damage helping with hyperpigmentation caused by the sun, hormonal changes, and medication. It boosts the longevity and health of skin cells.
Sensitive Skin
Avocado oil- The oleic acid in this oil increases collagen metabolism and beta carotene, protein, lecithin, fatty acids, and vitamins A, D, and E helps moisturize and protect your skin from damaging UV rays and can also help with dry skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Borage seed oil- Comes from a wildflower (Borago Officinalis) or Starflower. This oil needs to be combined with another carrier oil in order to use on your skin. Choose an oil that suits your skin type. Borage seed oil is extremely high in linolenic acid which serves as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant these ingredients are used in skincare products and promote a healthy skin barrier by replenishing the lipids in the stratum corneum, and increasing hydration of the skin.
Make your own face oil
- You need to pick a carrier oil, pick one from the list above that suits your skin type and problem.
- Pick an essential oil from the list below that is suited to your skin type.
Directions
Fill a 1-ounce glass bottle (amber bottles help protect from sunlight which causes oils to break down.) with your carrier oil, and add 6 drops of essential oil, screw-on lid and shake.
(Never put essential oils directly on your skin without first diluting with a carrier oil.)
Brown Sugar scrub
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup oil, you can use Jojoba, Coconut, Olive, or Grapeseed. An essential oil may be added if you would like.
Directions
- Combine the brown sugar and oil in a mixing bowl.
- Mix the ingredients well. You may have to add more sugar or oil until the consistency you desire.
- Add 1 to 2 drops of essential oil if you desire, and stir. Scoop into a plastic container with a lid.
Coffee Scrub
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup caffeinated coffee grounds
- 2 Tbsp hot water
- 1 Tbsp Coconut oil, warmed
Directions
- Add coffee grounds with hot water in a mixing bowl mixing thoroughly.
- Add coconut oil, adding more coffee grounds or oil until desired consistency.
- Put in a container with a lid.
Green Tea Scrub
Ingredients
- 2 green tea, tea bags
- 1/2 cup of hot water
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup coconut oil or other oil, melted
Directions
- Add tea bags to hot water and steep until it is cooled.
- Add brown sugar to a bowl and add coconut oil and mix well.
- When the tea has cooled, add it to the sugar and mix thoroughly.
- If the mixture is crumbly, add more coconut oil, If it is too wet, add more brown sugar.
- When desired consistency is reached spoon into a container.
Honey Sugar Scrub
Ingredients
- 1/2 cups brown sugar
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 Tbsp honey
Directions
- Add the brown sugar, coconut oil, and honey to a bowl.
- Mix well adding more oil if it is dry.
- Once the consistency is the way you want it, put it in a lidded jar.
(Use these scrubs on your body, not your face. Do not use on skin that is sunburned, chapped, or broken.)
Body Butters
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup of Shea butter
- 1/4 cup of coconut oil
- 2 Tbsp Almond oil
- 2 Tsp Vitamin E
- 2 Tsp Ginger
- 1 Tsp Cinnamon
- 1 Tsp Vanilla
Directions
- Combine the Shea butter, coconut oil, almond oil, and 1 tsp ginger in a microwave-safe dish.
- Melt the ingredients in the microwave at 30 seconds intervals until completely melted.
- Let the mixture cool for 20 minutes. Place in the refrigerator for 15 minutes or until it begins to set.
- Remove from the refrigerator and place the ingredients in a mixing bowl and with a hand mixer or in a blender blend in the remaining ingredients adding the ginger, vanilla, vitamin E, and cinnamon until fluffy and smooth. ( It should look like cake batter.)
- Scoop the body butter into a wide mouth jar with a lid. It can stay at room temperature, or you can keep it in the refrigerator.
Vanilla Latte Whipped Body Butter
Ingredients
- 1.7 ounces shea butter
- 1.2 ounces grapeseed oil
- .5 ounces cocoa butter
- 1/2 tsp. cornstarch
- 15 drops coffee essential oil
- 15 drops of vanilla extract
Directions
- Measure out the shea butter, grapeseed oil, and cocoa butter.
- Put the grapeseed oil and cocoa butter in a mixing bowl. Place the bowl down in a hot water bath. Stir until both ingredients are incorporated.
- Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
- Using a hand mixer, whip the shea butter until nice and fluffy.
- Slowly add the cocoa butter, grapeseed mixture to the shea butter and continue mixing with a hand mixer until it forms soft peaks. If it is too runny, place it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, then use the mixer again until soft peaks form.
- Add the cornstarch and continue mixing until thoroughly mixed, be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl.
- Add the essential oils and mix until it is mixed in well.
- Let the body butter rest for 20 minutes, then whip again, if runny place in the refrigerator for 15 minutes then whip once more.
- Let the mixture sit for 12 to 24 hours at room temperature. Place in a glass jar with an air-tight lid.
DIY Bathbomb
Ingredients
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup citric acid
- 1/2 cup Epsom salts
- 3/4 cup corn starch
- 2 tbsp. sweet almond oil
- 3 tbs. witch hazel
- 1 tsp green mica powder
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil
Materials needed
- Bath bomb molds
- Large mixing bowl
- Glass spray bottle with water
Directions
- Put all the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Mix the dry ingredients until combined and all clumps are gone.
- Pour the almond oil, essential oils, and witch hazel into a small glass bowl, and wish until incorporated. Slowly pour the liquid mixture into the larger mixing bowl with the dry ingredients.
- The mixture will fizz as the liquid touches it.
- Mix with a fork until mixed thoroughly and it is moist.
- Prepare your bath bomb molds. Use a spoon to fill the molds halfway full. Using a silicone spatula press down firmly on the mixture in the molds.
- Spray each mold with one spray of water and press down again firmly on the mold to make sure they are firmly packed. (If you don't press down hard enough and pack the mold well, the bombs will fall apart.)
- Divide the remaining mixture and put it into the molds and again press down firmly. Spray the top with the water and press down firmly again.
- Close the molds and allow them to sit for 24 hours, then remove them from the molds.
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