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Herbal Tonics For Toning: Basil Acne Tonic
Herbal Tonics For Toning: Basil Acne Tonic
Always follow your cleansing routine by toning your skin with a mild skin freshener or
with a medium strength skin tonic. Toning removes greasiness remaining from cleansing
preparations, closes pores, refines the skin and if you intend to make-up, it leaves a
smooth clean texture which will hold the foundation and powder for long.
Basically skin tonics freshen the skin. The cheapest toner is simply to splash your face
with cold water. Skin tonics are generally composed of infusions of herbs, flowers,
vinegar, rosewater and witch-hazel. Stronger skin tonics or astringents dry the skin
removing all traces of oil on the skin. They are suitable for greasy skins. A void using
very strong astringents for any type of skin, as the harsh action of the alcohol toughens
and coarsens the skin and prevents it from functioning normally.
Normally you should use your tonic or astringent with a piece of cotton wool, but if your
skin is looking sluggish, pat it on with a brisk slapping movement. Toning stimulates the
blood supply to the skin. Moisten folded cotton wool with your skin tonic and pat on the
cheeks, the neck and chin. A void any areas with broken veins.
Homemade Herbal Skin Tonics Recipes for Toning
Here are a few Skin tonics recipes which are easy and quick to make. Try them and give
your comments.
Steep basil leaves in water for 10 to 20 minutes. Cool, then apply to face with a white
cotton ball. Keep tonic refrigerated. Recommended shelf life: 90 days.
Strong astringent lotions contain alcohol. Surgical spirit, too, is a good astringent but
it smells too much. I do not recommend the use of strong astringents as they over-
dry the skin, leaving it tight and dehydrated. Always use a milder tonic or astringent.
Here are a few home-made astringent preparations for you.
Chamomile Astringent
Ingredients:
1/2 cup chopped fresh mint (or 2 tbsp dried)
2 tbsp dried chamomile flowers, crushed
4 cups water
Instructions:
Combine ingredients in a small saucepan. Boil for 10 minutes, then remove from
heat and allow to steep for 5 minutes. Strain liquid into a jar, cover and refrigerate.
Will keep 2 weeks refrigerated. Apply with/ cotton balls to skin. Especially good for
very oily skin
Peel and seed the tomato. Mash the pulp with the cornmeal. Massage skin
thoroughly with the mixture. Leave on for a few minutes. Rinse with cool water.
Eggwhite Toner
Clean face thoroughly using any natural cleanser. Apply raw eggwhites to the skin
and leave on for at least 15 minutes. Wash off with tepid water.
This toner is an excellent choice for oily skin, and is a great substitute for rubbing
alcohol.
Ingredients
Preparation
Witch hazel is a gentle astringent, apple cider vinegar will help restore your
skin's natural ph balance, and lavender soothes sensitive skin.
Instructions:
Apply to face and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse off
Cucumber toner
Ingredients
1/4 of Vodka
Preparation
Use blender or foot processor to combine all of the ingredients until the mass
is smooths and consistent
Dab it on the face and neck using fingertips
The ingredients in this toner act as astringers that tone your skin and remove the
dirt and impurities.
You could store it in a refrigerator in a plastic container with a lid, and use it the next
day.
Ingredients
Preparation
Ingredients
Preparation
Add lemon juice and witch hazel and store in a glass jar in the refrigerator
Watermelon toner
Ingredients
Strain the mashed watermelon pieces through a gauze or paper towel. Add
other ingredients to this juice, and mix
Use a cotton ball to dip it into the mix and apply on the face.
This toner could be saved for later use. Keep it in a glass jar and close tightly, and
keep refrigerated. It can be used up to 10 days after it was made.
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Protein Toner
Beat together 1 tblspn milk, 1 tsp honey and 1 egg. Apply to face and neck. Leave
on as long as desired. Rinse off with warm water followed by a splash of cold.
Witch Hazel
Use an extract of witch hazel as an astringent, a skin freshener and to soothe skin
irritations.
Lemon
a strong astringent, dilute with water before using, being careful to keep away from
eyes.
Lemon Toner
Combine all ingredients. Pour into a clean bottle or decorative cosmetics container.
Shake well before using. Apply with a clean cotton ball.
Lecithin Toner
Dissolve lecithing granules in jojoba or almond oil. Apply to face and throat as a day
or night cream.
Pine Toner
1 part roses
1 part lavender
1 part rosemary
1 part sage
2 parts mint
Add 2 ounces of the above herbal formula to 2 ounces of apple cider vinegar. Put in
an airtight glass jar, let steep for about 2 weeks. Strain and add 1 1/2 cups pure
distilled rosewater. Pour into a decorative, airtight decanter and use daily.
1 ounce vodka
Sage Astringent
Strawberry
Mash strawberries, use as an astringent and cleansing facemask.
Violet
Simmer violet flowers in a little milk to make a softening and mildly astringent face
lotion.
Use a soft cotton ball to massage mixture into the skin after cleansing. Follow with a
moisturizer if desired
Purée ingredients in a blender at low speed until sell mixed and fluffy. Apply to face
and neck; rinse with tepid water after 30 minutes. If mask is too runny after
blending, refrigerate for one hour. Make mask the day you plan to use it.
I put mine in the fridge for about a half an hour so its chilly and it feels sooo good..
and makes your skin look great!
1 handful strawberries
1 heaping tablespoon heavy cream
Mash strawberries by hand or in a blender. Add heavy cream and mix well. Spread
thickly on face and neck (a shaving brush is handy for this) and let your skin benefit
for 10 minutes. Tissue off, then splash face and neck with cool water.
1 orange peel
1/2 cup orange flower water
2 cups white vinegar
Mix orange peel and vinegar and let it steep for 1 week. Remove orange peel and
add 1/2 cup orange flower water. Splash on face after washing with soap and water.
This tightens pores, soothes sunburn, and can be used as a natural deodorant, also.
Mix in a clean glass bottle, then let set for 2 days. Remove cucumber. Keep lotion in
a cool place or the refrigerator to use as a splash.
Mix all the ingredients together in a large air-tight bottle and let it stand for 48 to 72
hours, shaking frequently.
Lemon Astringent:
Mix the following ingredients together in a large bottle for 24 hours, then strain and
use for greasy skin.
4 tablespoons lemon juice or juice of 2 large lemons
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
8 tablespoons witch-hazel
2 tablespoons alcohol
Camphor Astringent:
Mix together in a large bottle 1/2 cup rose water, 1/2 cup witch-hazel, 1(2 cup
distilled water, 1 tablespoon camphor spirit and 2 drops blue coloring. To make the
astringent stronger, add a pinch of alum. Strain and use to tighten and tone the skin.
This recipe is especially good if you suffer from large pores and spots. It can also be
used as an after-shave lotion by men.
Watermelon Toner
2 Tablespoons fresh watermelon juice
1 Tablespoon vodka
2 Tablespoons witch hazel
2 Tablespoons distilled water
Strain the watermelon juice to get rid of seeds and fruit pieces. Combine all ingredients
in small bowl and stir well. Pour into clean containers with tight-fitting lids. To use: pour
a small amount on a clean cotton pad and apply to face. Store in fridge between uses to
retain freshness. Will keep approximately one week.
This is a refreshing toner for normal skin. Chop up a small sized fresh cucumber and
liquidize it with half a cup of yogurt. Apply the mixture for 5-10 minutes, and wash it off.
The remainder can be stored in the fridge for future use.
Green tea tightens and calms skin. It also contains a strong antioxidant that fights
signs of aging. This toner should be applied before a moisturizer.Bring water to a
boil. Place the tea leaves or tea bag in a glass or bowl. Pour the boiling water over
the leaves or bag and steep for 2 to 3 minutes.Strain the green tea into a bottle, and
let it cool.Apply to skin with cotton balls. Do not rinse.
Toner
Mix turmeric juice with milk and lemon juice to use as a toner. Delicately massage
over the face and neck for half an hour and wash with lukewarm water every
night before going to bed.
Purée watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender. Strain the liquid using a
sieve, and discard the solids.
Combine the reserved juice with remaining ingredients, stir and pour into a glass
bottle. Dab on face using a cotton ball.
This is rich in sugar and vitamins A, B and cup Watermelon has astringent properties,
and the super high water content makes it an excellent skin refresher.
2 parts rosewater
1 part witch hazel
Mix ingredients together. Because witch hazel is a drying agent, adjust these
proportions to make a mixture best suited to your own skin.
Wrinkle Remover / Skin Toner
2 tablespoons vodka
1 tablespoon fennel seeds
1 1/2 teaspoons honey
Strain mixture. Use a cotton ball to apply to face and neck as a toner.
Tone Up Tea
1 cup distilled water
1 heaping tablespoon dried green tea leaves
1 heaping tablespoon dried chamomile flowers
1 tablespoon rose hydrosol
1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
3 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
3 teaspoon lemon juice (optional addition for oily skin)
Heat distilled water until boiling. Remove from heat and add green tea and chamomile.
Steep for 15 minutes and strain out plant material. Add rose hydrosol, aloe vera and
vinegar (and lemon juice, if using) and stir well. Pour into a clean bottle and label. Shake
well to ensure the mix. Store in refrigerator for best results and use within 3 weeks.
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Sugar Scrub
About once a week I make a facial scrub from sugar and a few other simple items.
Honestly, this will leave your skin very soft and silky. The scrub is good to use on
arms/legs etc. as well. Take equal parts of white cane sugar (do not use organic
sucanat, it doesn't work too well in this recipe) and either vegetable glycerine or
avocado oil and combine them together in a bowl. If you want to, add a little
something extra like aloe vera, orange oil or lavender. Mix up the ingredients and
scoop some of the scrub into your hand. Massage it onto your face/legs/etc. for a
minute or two. Leave the mixture on for about four or five minutes before rinsing.
(Don't scrub for too intensely, and don't use it every day or your skin will get blotchy
and red)
Summary:
Ingredients:
(* All ingredients are approximate, use more or less to suit)
2 cups Sea Salt
1/2 cup Corn Meal
1/2 cup light oil
1 TSP Soapnut or liquid soap (opt)
EO or FO (for summer I use citrus scents like lemon, orange, grapefruit)
Powdered colorant (opt)
Instructions:
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Summer Salt Scrub Recipe
Summary:
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Mix all the ingredients and enjoy! A perfect body scrub for all skin types.
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Mix all ingredients well. Apply after your shower, then rinse. I think the cinnamon keeps
the sugar from becoming hard.
Mash the banana. Add the yogurt. (if necessary, mash to strawberries and add them.)
You may also combine all of the ingredients (except sugar) in a blender. Add the sugar
and mix well.
Sugar Scrub
1 cup water
2 1/2 to 3 cups sugar
1 teaspoon coconut butter
6 drops of orange essential oil, ylang-ylang essential oil, and Jasmine perfume oil
(Perfume oil isn't as expensive as essential oil. You can find these products at a health
food store) Find an air tight container. Add the water and 1 cup of sugar, letting sugar
dissolve. Using your judgement, slowly add the rest of the sugar until the mixture looks
pasty, but feels soupy. Melt the coconut butter in a microwave and add it to the mixture.
Stir well, and add oils. For best results after washing with the sugar scrub, use lotion on
you skin.
I was reading your recipe for the sugar baby hands. I love to use baby oil & table
sugar as a body exfoliant. I cleanse with baby bath and pat dry. Then I apply baby
oil gel:) Makes for silky soft skin...lasts over 24 hours.
Exfoliant
For a smooth no blackhead or whitehead face, I use brown sugar, the not so fine one, I
mix it with any kind of cooking oil, because cooking oil is a natural oil from like
vegetable, etc. Then I scrub it in my face, I do it once a week, it really works and it is
cheap, I use it all over my body too. You can use salt but I never tried it because it's too
sharp for the face.
Exfoliator
Ground up chick peas make a great exfoliator. Just drain them from the can, mash them
up, rub on your face and rinse off.
Combine and store in airtight container, excellent shower scrub for feet and legs.
Ingredients
Apricot oil, 1/2 tsp
Castor oil, 1 tsp
Beeswax, 1/2 tsp
Sea salt, 1 Tb sp
Almond powder, 1 tsp
Baby Shampoo base, 2 tsp
Melt the beeswax, castor oil, and apricot oil together and mix well. Remove from
heat. Add sea salt and almond powder. Stir in the shampoo.
2 Tbsp almonds
2 tsp milk
1/2 tsp flour
1/2 tsp honey
Grind almonds in a blender. Add milk, flour and honey, mixing until a thick paste is
formed. Rub onto skin, rinse with warm water followed by the pH balancer.
Ingredients
Sea salt, 1 Tb sp
Rolled oat, 1/4 cup
Milk (buttermilk or goats mil) Powder, 1/4 cup
Cornmeal, 1 Tb sp
Rose petal powder, 1 Tb sp
Put all ingredients in food processor and process until fine. Add fragrance/essential
oils drop by drop while processing.
Method
Do a dry brush first with small circular motions from the feet upwards with a loofah,
small towel or soft brush.
Have a warm shower to open your pores and soften your skin.
Make a paste in a small container from one of the body scrub recipes below.
Apply it with your hands working in a small circular motion from your feet upwards.
Rinse off.
Rest for 20 minutes after your body scrub and drink lots of water.
Tips for an enjoyable body scrub experience
Hold a small towel as if drying off to rub the mixture into hard to reach areas like
your back.
If you are using body scrubs with oil in them, they can be a bit messy so do them in
the shower. Take care to avoid slipping.
If you are not using a scrub with oil in it you can apply it while standing in the bath. I
sometimes take a long bath to soften my skin and then stand up and apply the
scrub. Rinse off in the bath and then have a shower to get rid of any residue.
Never rub too hard as you may damage your skin. Just a firm even pressure is
enough.
Body Scrub Recipes
Basic Scrub Mix
1/2 cup wheatgerm
1/4 cup fine oatmeal
1 tablespoon rice flour
Combine ingredients and store in an airtight jar.
When you want to use homemade body scrubs just put 2 tablespoons in a bowl and
mix it with a wet ingredient to make a gritty paste.
Use one or more of any of the following wet ingredients; natural yoghurt, milk,
cream, honey, egg yolk, fruit
This scrub is gentle enough to use on your face as well as your body, just ensure the
grains are very fine.
Mediterranean Delight
Ingredients;
2 tablespoons sea salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 drops lemon essential oil (optional)
Chocoholic Heaven
Ingredients;
2 teaspoons drinking chocolate
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 cup warmed runny honey
Poppy Seed Body Glow
1 cup honey
½ cup poppy seeds
sprinkling of dry herbs
(whatever you have mint, parsley, thyme, rosemary)
Cookies and Cream Body Polish
1 cup oatmeal
1 cup cream
2 drops vanilla
Orange and Poppyseed
1 cup poppy seeds
1 cup sweet almond oil
3 drops of orange essential oil
Warm Asian Scrub
4 tablespoons of ginger powder
4 tablespoons of rice
Small amount of warm water to mix
While showering invigorate your skin with the paste. Use the inside of the lemon rind
to rub heels and elbows.
Walnut Scrub
2 tsp of walnut powder a little coarsely ground 2 tsp of coconut milk 1 tsp of jojoba
oil This scrub is good for those with ageing skin and those with mature skin.
A body scrub
¼ cup red masoor dal ¼ cup walnut powder ¼ cup almond powder ¼ cup of honey Mix
all with required quantity of milk and scrub back well. Use vegetable loofah dipped in
almond milk after the above pack is scrubbed for an extra shine.
Mix the both, and take to your bath, use to wash face & body. This is an excellent scrub
and will remove your dead skin cells, leaves you feeling clean and glowing. Makes your
skin so smooth.
Skin Softner
Mix half a cup salt and half a cup vegetable oil. Stir and rub into skin. The salt exfoliates
the dead skin cells and the oil makes it soft.
Exfoliate your skin once or twice a week and your face as needed to remove dead,
flakey skin. Hands and feet require more frequent exfoliation in the winter. You'll find
that your heels flake and crack more in the winter. Follow exfoliation with a rich
moisturizer. You don't need to spend a king's ransom on special hand and feet exfoliants.
You can create your own concoction with salt or sugar and a carrier oil such as sweet
almond oil. This blend exfoliates and moisturizes at the same time. Add a little essential
oil, and you have your own high-priced product for pennies on the dollar. Rub into your
hands and feet in a gentle circular motion, and rinse well. For extra-deep conditioning,
exfoliate right before bedtime, moisturize, and don gloves and socks while you sleep.
Make-Up Remover
Just get a cotton wool pad and a blob of olive oil. Wipe around your face and it will easily
remove any make up. It will also make your skin feel silky soft. Wash off with a splash of
cold water and remove all of the olive oil.
I swear this is the best and cheapest make up remover! Just try it!
Mix all ingredients. Dampen skin in shower and massage mixture all over. Rinse with
warm water. Rinse immediately with cold water to boost circulation.
50 percent white cane sugar (note that organic sucanat, while the best choice for
food, doesn't work as well for this recipe)
50 percent vegetable glycerin to moisten the sugar (I used avocado oil since I was
out of vegetable glycerin --as is my health food store-- and it proved to be a
successful substitute)
small amounts of aloe vera gel, vitamin C crystals, or anything healing that dissolves
in water
1 or two drops of essential oil if desired (Larry recommends combining orange and
lavender)
enough ground hibiscus powder for pink color (if desired)
Combine the ingredients in a bowl. Scoop some of the scrub onto your hand and
massage gently onto your skin for a minute (the scrub will actually tighten onto your
skin like a masque). Leave on for 3 to 4 minutes before rinsing.
The use of vinegar with a variety of plants or essential oils for cosmetic purposes can
be traced back to the Romans and was fashionable during the nineteenth century as
vinegar de toilette.
Vinegar has a tonic action that promotes blood circulation in the small capillaries that
irrigate the skin. It is also antiseptic, preventing the proliferation of bacteria, viruses,
or yeast that trigger infection. It can dissolve excessive fatty deposits at the surface
of the skin and reduce scaly or peeling conditions. Lastly, vinegar regulates the pH of
the skin. Vinegar is most effective when used with lavender, rosemary, rose, or elder
flower. It is essential to use top-quality white wine or cider vinegar. Dry any fresh
plant material for two days before using.
Measure and mix only dried plant material and then add the vinegar. Apple ciders
composed entirely of liquids can be used at once. Those containing plant material
must be left to macerate. Prepare the latter in a screw top jar and leave on a window
sill as instructed, strain, and then bottle. To use, add 1 teaspoon of apple cider to a
cup of bottled or spring water to wash your face or pour 3-4 tablespoons into a bath.
Aside from natural herbal applications, try a dry skin face exfoliation. All you need is
a small, dry, natural bristle brush. Avoiding areas of broken skin or irritated areas
simply brush lightly in circular motions all over your face. This is perfect to do in the
morning if you experience any puffiness, it will reduce it and your face will feel
smooth and rejuvenated.
- Once a week, rub your skin with baking soda while in the shower, for a smooth,
silky feeling. You can also do this on your face to remove black heads.
- Vinegar can work wonders for smelly feet and armpits. Mix water and vinegar
50/50, and use in place of deodorant: it will keep the unpleasant sweat smell away,
without any irritation. As for your feet, if you suffer with athlete's foot, a week of
vinegar foot bath will help a lot, sometimes completely getting rid of your condition.
- A great treatment for dry skin is avocados: mash it, smooth it onto your face, and
rinse off after 20 minutes.
Mix all ingredients together. Take a hot shower to moisten your skin and open your
pores. Using wide, circular motions, rub the coffee exfoliant onto your skin with
strong, even pressure. Shower off, pat skin dry, and apply a thin layer of your
favorite body lotion.
The Ingredients
2 Tbsp. ground oats
2 tsp. brown sugar
2 Tbsp. aloe vera
1 tsp. lemon juice
The Instructions
Mix all ingredients in a clean bowl until you have a smooth paste. Gently massage
onto damp skin, and rinse off with warm water. You can triple the recipe for a
fantastic smoothing body treatment.
Ground Oats: use rolled oats and a clean coffee grinder or blender to grind the flakes
to a fine powder Oatmeal is highly absorptive, hypoallergenic, and helps to soften
skin. Oats have the best amino acid balance of all the cereal grains (amino acids
work as water-binding agents in skin care products). Oats have also been clinically
shown to help heal dry, itchy skin. Oat grains and straw appear in shampoos, dusting
powders, moisturizers, and cleansing bars and more.Aloe Vera - The juice of this
plant helps reduce pain, gel from plant helps prevent infection and speeds healing of
burns, drink helps reduce size of kidney stones.
Before you start preparing this scrub, grind the oatmeal using a coffee grinder or
food processor. It has to be of sandy consistency, flaky and light otherwise it will
scratch the skin.
Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl. Mix until it resembles a paste
It should be applied on moist skin, the best time is after you took a shower. It will
help the skin cells slough off faster.
Use circular motion and massage gently using your fingertips.
Rinse off with warm water.
What do these ingredients do?
Oatmeal is hypoallergenic. In case you have sensitive skin, using the oatmeal is
highly recommended because it is soothing and there is no risk that it will irritate the
skin. Oatmeal is benefitial to oily skin as it is extremely absorptive and picks up on
excess oil. It helps dry and itchy skin and is widely used in cosmetics.
Aloe vera gel is gentle on skin, it speeds its healing and reduces the possible
irritation and pain.
The next brown sugar scrub contains lemon which is a great natural disinfectant. It
opens up the clogged pores and cleanses them thoroughly so your skin can "breathe"
better.
Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl. Mix until it resembles a paste
It should be applied on moist skin, the best time is after you took a shower. It will
help the skin cells slough off faster.
Use circular motion and massage gently using your fingertips.
Rinse off with warm water.
You could always mash a handfull of strawberries, add an essential oil of your choice,
a bit of oatmeal, a bit of honey and use it as a scrub. There are no specific amounts,
add oil until you get the pasty consistency.
Strawberries act similar to honey, they dissinfect the skin, smooth it out, and
decrease the appearance of dilated pores.
If your hands, feet and elbows are dry, this homemade body scrub will get them back in
shape and give soothing relief: Mix a half cup of Epsom salts, one tablespoon olive or
canola oil and a few drops of lemon, lime, grapefruit, or orange juice. Apply to the dry
areas of your skin, rub gently in a circular motion, then rinse off.
8 ripe strawberries
3 tablespoons kosher salt or coarse sea salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
Lightly mash strawberries. Add olive and salt. Don't overblend or mixture will be too
runny. Rub over feet to smooth rough calluses. Rinse.
This is similar to Moom Sugar sold in health food stores. However, Moom Sugar does
contain chamomile.
Turmeric exfoliator
Mix half freshly grated young coconut with one-fourth teaspoon of turmeric powder
or grated turmeric root and gently rub the mixture all over your body. Leave it on for
five minutes before wiping it off with a wet, warm cloth.
Mix all together and put in jar with tight lid.* Found in health food stores.
Place vanilla bean in decorative 12 ounce ( 1 1/2-cup) container with lid. Set aside.
Stir sugar, oils and spice mix together in mixing bowl. Pack mixture into decorative
container, adding a seashell scooper to the top, if using.
*Oils include canola, light olive oil, sweet almond, avocado, apricot, jojoba,
macadamia, rose hip, grapeseed, suflower or safflower oil or a blend of the above.
For smooth skin that glows, apply well-stirred scrub to moixtened skin and gently
exfoliate withs circular motions. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. This product is
NOT for facial use. Caution: The scrub can make the shower or tub slippery.
Rinse well with water and pat dry. Mask should be applied up to 3 times a week.
The yogurt in this recipe is an exfoliating agent, and the honey helps moisturize any
skin type.
Add honey to cold cream. Whirl slivered almonds in a blender until they are as fine
as freshly-ground pepper. Mix with cold cream. Massage into skin with fingertips. For
deeper cleansing, massage scrub into skin with a complexion brush for 5 minutes.
Rinse with cool water.
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons wheat germ (NOT toasted)
Heat honey slightly; add wheat germ. Mix thoroughly. Apply to face and rub gently
over affected areas for 3 to 4 minutes. After rubbing, leave mixture on face for 15 to
20 minutes. Rinse with 30 to 40 splashes of very hot water. Use for a week or 10
days - less if skin improves rapidly.
Place peels, oats, and almonds in a blender and whirl until the mixture is a fine
powder. Store powder in an attractive container in the bathroom.
To use, place a bit of the grains in the palm of your hand and moisten with a few
drops of warm tap water. Rub the paste onto your face with a gentle circular and
upward motion. Rinse off with tepid water and pat dry. You can finish your cleansing
by rinsing your face with one of the facial rinsing lotions or smoothing on a facial
cream.
To use, wet a clean washcloth with very warm water and lay it on your face for a
minute OR first steam your face with an herbal vinegar. Apply the oatmeal mixture
to your face, being careful to avoid the sensitive area around your eyes. Let mixture
dry on your skin completely.
If your skin is young and firm, you can gently rub the dried mixture off with a clean
terry washcloth or towel. Lean over the sink and rub your face in brisk, but gentle,
circles with the cloth. Rinse with warm water, pat dry, and apply a fresh facial
cream.
Grind oatmeal in a blender until soft but still flaky. DO NOT powder it. Combine
oatmeal with farina and salt. Splash face with hot water to wet it thoroughly. Pick up
mixture with moist fingers. Rub face with the powder. Be gentle, but rub all of your
facial skin. Rinse with hot water (15 splashes will suffice). Apply Vinegar Rinse. Use
for 5 to 8 days, then return to a milder cleanser.
Combine in a blender. Blend until coarsely ground. Keep in a jar by the sink. Use a
handful of the scrub with water to gently clean your face.
Use mint to refresh delicate skin; hollyhock petals or okra leaves provide emollient
action for dry complexions.
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Using a double boiler, melt almond oil, lanolin and cocoa butter until it forms a smooth texture. Remove
the mixture from heat and add the rose water and honey, and blend. Allow to cool before apply the
homemade mixture to your face. Store any unused mixture in the refrigerator.
Using a double boiler, melt the wax and almond oil just until smooth. Add the rose water and let cool
before applying to your face. Store any unused mixture in the refrigerator.
Melt the white wax and olive oil in a double boiler until smooth. Add the vinegar and water to the
homemade mixture and let cool before applying to your face. Refrigerate any unused mixture.
In a blender, combine cucumber, egg white and olive oil and blend until smooth. Apply the
homemade mixture to the face and relax for about 20 minutes. Remove with a dry cloth. Refrigerate any
unused mixture.
Place the apples in a blender and blend until smooth. Next, add the apples to the olive oil and heat in a
double boiler over a low flame. Remove the mixture from the heat and add the rose water. Let cool before
applying. Refrigerate any unused mixture.
Never apply the creams to your upper eyelids since it can cause puffiness.
If you would like your homemade night cream to have a wonderful scent, you can add a drop of your
favorite essential oil to the mixture.
It is best to throw away any unused night cream after 4-6 days.
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Beat egg yolks in cold bowl. Add oil very slowly at first. Beat with rotary beater,
mixer or blender. Gradually add more oil. As mixture thickens, add vinegar and
fragrance. Beat until thick. Apply to face with upward and outward strokes all over
face and throat. Leave on for 20 minutes. Remove with damp cloth. Follow with skin
freshener.
Combine in a glass or enamel pan the cocoa butter, glycerin and stearic acid. Melt
over low heat. Remove to mixing bowl and add ammonia. Stir until milky. Add boric
acid to warm water. Add to first mixture. Mix with beater for 10 minutes at high
speed. Perfume and color as desired. Age for 2 weeks before using.
Preheat oven on lowest setting. Finely grate the ginger just enough so that you have about
an 1/8 teaspoon of ginger "juice." To obtain the juice, squeeze the freshly grated ginger
over a small bowl. Place the ingredients (including the ginger) in a glass container and
heat just until the cocoa butter is melted and the oils are blended. Pour into a clean, dry
container and store in a cool dry place. You can add a few drops of orange or other
essential oil for a nice twist.
Ingredients:
Preparation
Use no more than 3 times a week. Follow with a moisturizer. Cover and refrigerate
immediately. Shelf life: 4 days.
1 oz of glycerin
3 tablespoons of honey
3 tablespoons of wheat germ oil
1 oz witch hazel
1/2 oz of rose water
Combine all ingredients and whisk slowly until they are all combined.
Use a container with a lid to store this product, keep it at room temperature.
It can be used for a month and is applied around lips and eyes.
VITAMIN E CREAM
2 tsp. plain yogurt
1/2 tsp. honey
1/2 tsp. lemon juice
3 capsules vitamin E (equivalent of 300 units)
Combine yogurt, honey and lemon juice. Open the vitamin E capsules and fold contents
into the mix. Gently massage into skin; Leave on skin for 15 minutes. Shelf life: 3-4
days.
Homemade Nourishing Creams
Cocoa Butter Cream:
Heat the following ingredients together over a water bath, stirring them thoroughly:
2 tablespoons cocoa butter
2 tablespoons emulsifying wax
1 tablespoon beeswax
4 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon almond oil
When the ingredients are completely melted, remove from the heat and stir until the
cream is cool. Add a few drops of perfume while stirring. This cream leaves the skin
smooth without being greasy.
In case waxes are not easily available mix 2 tablespoons lanolin and 8 tablespoons
almond oil (or sesame or safflower oil) and melt these together over a water bath. It is
really good for dry skin and neglected areas such as elbows, knees, feet and neck. If the
cream has to be applied on oily skin, add 2 tablespoons rosewater (or ordinary soft
water).
Honey Cream:
Honey is very useful for a dry, coarse and sensitive skin. To make a nourishing honey
cream for sallow skin, mix 3 tablespoons lanolin, 1 tablespoon honey and 1 teaspoon
lecithin in a bowl and melt over a water bath. Slowly add 4 tablespoons warm water to it,
beating continuously until it cools.
Melt that waxes in an enamel pan over a water bath, then add the avocado and almond
oils. Now add the heated rosewater drop by drop, stirring constantly. Remove from the
heat and continue stirring till it is cool. While it cools, you may add a few drops of
perfume. Both almond and avocado oils are fine and rich for the skin.
Comfrey Cream:
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon lanolin
2 tablespoons white emulsifying wax
6 tablespoons beeswax
6 tablespoons almond oil, herb lotion, or infusion
Melt the oils and waxes together over a water bath, cool and store in a refrigerator. Take a
couple of teaspoons of this cream, melt it and add a teaspoon of any herb lotion or
infusion of your choice.
Beat Unibase, glycerin and water with an electric mixer. Blend in cologne and food
coloring. Store in a clean tightly-capped jar.
Yields 10 ounces.
Place over low heat until the beeswax is melted. Remove from heat, then whip with a
whisk until cool.
Slowly heat the almond oil, beeswax and rose oil. Beeswax is the thickener, so the
more you add, the thicker the cream. It is best to start with just a little. If, after the
mixture has cooled, you decide you would like it to be thicker, simply reheat it and
add more beeswax. If you find that the cream is too thick, reheat and add more
almond oil. If you would like to add vitamin E to the cream, cut open a vitamin E
capsule and add gel inside to the cream.
Pour boiling water over lemon balm leaves in a clean bowl. Steep for 10 minutes.
Strain through a fine sieve, collecting liquid in a clean bowl. Allow to cool; discard
lemon balm leaves.
Melt beeswax and lanolin in a heatproof glass set in simmering water. Stir in wheat
germ oil.
Add herbal infusion by teaspoonful and stir until well blended. Remove glass from
water.
Add propolis powder to tepid cream and carefully stir it in until blended. Let cream
cool completely.
Stir cream thoroughly and transfer it to clean containers with tight-fitting lids. Store
up to 3 months.
Yields 10 ounces.
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Homemade Cleansing Creams for you
Cleansing creams are used not only to lift the dust, but also to remove stale make-up.
Make-up has a waxy base which cannot be properly penetrated and cleansed simply by
using soap and water. A cleansing cream or lotion is essential for this. Cleanser should be
applied with an upward movement and kept on the skin for about half a minute, so that it
could dissolve the make-up. Then remove with a tissue or damp cotton wool. Remember,
stale make-up and the day's dirt and grime not only clog the pores of the skin causing
blackheads, but also eventually coarsen the skin. Here are a few cleansing creams which
are very easy and quick to make.
An Easy to Make Cleansing Cream
Ingredients:
1/2 tablespoon beeswax
1 tablespoon emulsifying wax
4 tablespoons baby oil
2 tablespoons coconut oil
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon borax
1 tablespoon witch-hazel, and
a few drops of perfume
Mix the waxes and oils into an enamel bowl and melt slowly ill a pan of boiling water. In
a separate bowl heat the water and borax until the borax is completely dissolved. Then
add witch-hazel, but do not leave it on the heat too long otherwise it will evaporate.
When the waxes have melted, remove both bowls from the heat and mix in water, stirring
continuously. When the cream begins to cool, add the perfume. Beat until the mixture
thickens and cools. Use of baby oil (which is a mineral oil) does not penetrate the skin
and spreads easily and liquifies readily.
Rose Water Cleansing Cream
Galen, a Greek physician of the 2nd century, made this cleansing cream with the
following ingredients:
Steep chamomile in water for 20 minutes Strain liquid. Mix liquid with powdered
milk and add to running bath water.
Soft-Water Bath:
Use of rain-water is very beneficial. If you cannot get rain-water, soften the bath water by
simply adding a little sodium sesqui carbonate.
Vinegar Bath:
If you have an itchy, dry skin, add a cup of vinegar to the bath water. This is very
effective.
Honey Bath:
Add a spoonful of honey to your bath, it will not only relieve tiredness and sleeplessness,
but will also leave the skin feeling smooth and satiny.
Starchy Bath:
A few tablespoons of laundry starch and a teaspoon of glycerine added to bath water
leave your skin feeling beautifully smooth, tight and soft.
Herb Bath:
Lavender, hyssop, mint, pennyroyal, borage, yarrow, rosemary, balm or camomile are
useful herbs, which can be used in bath water either separately or in a mixture.
Bath Salts:
These are very easy to prepare. Mix two cups of ordinary washing soda with two
tablespoons of potassium carbonate and a few drops of an aromatic essential oil (lavender
and pine). Keep this mixture in a large jar and use about a tablespoon in each bath.
For hands.
4 ounces paraffin
1/4 cup baby oil
In a small saucepan, heat the ingredients together until liquid. Cool to comfortably
warm and "paint" each hand or dip both hands at once into the mixture. Wrap in
plastic wrap. Leave on 10 minutes; then peel off.
Mix all together into a paste with water. Massage on face; rinse off.
Mix together all ingredients in a clean microwave-safe container. Heat the mix
gently, stirring together all the ingredients. Place the container in the microwave for
1 minute on HIGH, or heat it gently in a double boiler or water bath on the stove top.
Let the mixture cool completely. Place the suntan oil in clean jar or container with
tight-fitting lid.
Oils:
Corn, safflower, soy, olive, peanut, apricot kernel, almond, avocado or walnut, or
any combination
Herbs:
for dry skin: Alfalfa, rose, chamomile
for oily skin: Lemongrass, witch hazel, marigold
for stimulation: Peppermint, rosemary, thyme
for relaxation: Sage, catnip, chamomile
1 mashed avocado
Juice from 1/2 lemon
1/2 cup plain yogurt
Petroleum jelly
Mix together the avocado, lemon juice and yogurt. Slather over hands; leave on for
10 to 15 minutes, then rinse off. This will gently slough off dull skin and will
gradually fade age spots, also. After rinsing, lavish on petroleum jelly or super-rich
hand cream and then wear white cotton gloves for one hour or overnight for
maximum hydrating.
NOTE: do not use this slougher more than twice a week as it can be irritating. Also,
do not apply it to cuts or sores as it may sting.
Soak the gum of tragacanth overnight in distilled water.Strain and beat with an egg
beater. Add glycerin and bay rum and mix well with egg beater. Pour into sterilized
bottles, then cork or cover with tight-fitting lid.
Overnight Softening Formula recipe
Mix all ingredients together with your hands. At night, before bedtime, coat hands.
Put on a pair of white cotton gloves. In the morning, remove gloves and rinse gloves
and hands. Apply hand lotion or cream. Repeat the process every night for one
week, then once a week for a month, then once a month.
Combine all ingredients, then melt in a glass container in the microwave. Stir well,
and continue stirring until the mixture cools. Allow to cool completely, then stir a
little more. Spoon into small jars with lids.
4 tablespoons flaxseed
1 quart water
3 ounces glycerin
Juice of 3 lemons
1 teaspoon carbolic acid
Simmer flaxseed and water for 30 minutes. Strain. Add glycerin, lemon juice, and
carbolic acid. When the lotion is cool, store in clean attractive bottles.
Mix milk (or cream) and honey in a small glass or enamel pan. Warm until the honey
melts, then remove from heat. When it is cool enough to tolerate, apply to face and
neck (or your entire body if you have time). Let it stand for 15 minutes, then rinse or
shower off with warm water. The mix can be made in larger quantities, and it will
keep for a week if refrigerated.
Lavender Lotion recipe
1 ounce glycerin
2 teaspoons oil of lavender
Put all ingredients into a blender and combine until light and fluffy. When all
ingredients are thoroughly blended together, put the mixture intp an airtight
container or jar until ready for use.
Mix the body lotion and rose oil together thoroughly and pour into a decorative
bottle.
Mix the body lotion and geranium oil together thoroughly and pour into a decorative
bottle.
Blend almond oil into avocado. Dab around eyes and leave on for 5 minutes.
Rinse.Whirl both ingredients in a blender.
To use pour a small amount of oil onto a clean white cotton ball and gently wipe over
your upper and lower eyelashes and eyelids. This removes all traces of mascara.
Make-Up Remover
Using baby oil to remove make-up is great but wash your face well with soap and
water afterward or also your pores will get clogged.
Mix well, then apply around the eyes. Cover with cool, damp cotton or gauze for 10
to 15 minutes.
Add glitter to aloe vera gel. Add essential oil, if desired. Stir to blend, then store at
room temperature in a small, airtight jar or container.
NOTE: Some are sensitive to essential oils. Test body glitter on inside of arm before
applying to face. DO NOT USE NEAR THE EYES
Melt ingredients together over very low heat until liquid. Remove from heat. Beat as
the mixture cools to emulsify. Store in an airtight jar and keep in the refrigerator
since coconut oil has a very low melting point. After use, follow with an astringent
1/2 cucumber
1 egg white
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1/2 cup oil*
Wash the cucumber, but do not peel. Cube and blend with remaining ingredients.
Apply morning and evening, and gently wipe off with tissues.
1 egg
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon castile soap or mild unscented shampoo
1/2 cup water
Combine all ingredients in a blender and whip until smooth. Use shampoo
immediately, and follow up with a hair rinse. Save any remaining shampoo in the
refrigerator and use the next day.
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Slide feet into mixture and rub, beginning at
toes, working up to heel and ankle. Do one foot at a time, rinsing in a separate bowl
of warm water.
Mix all ingredients to form a paste. Slather on (especially on back and chest areas)
and leave for 10 minutes. Massage in; rinse off.
Mix table salt and buttermilk into a paste. Work well into the area where pores tend
to be enlarged. Remove with warm water and repeat several times a week until the
condition clears up.
This is the strongest acid rinse. Mix a fresh batch every five days. It becomes stale
after the fifth day and should be discarded.
Add lemon juice to warm water in bowl. Soak feet for 15 to 20 minutes.
This restores the acid layer that helps protect against bacteria.
Mix all ingredients. Keep in a clean glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid. Apply over
face and throat with a clean cotton pad.
Boil for 15 minutes. Strain, then cool before using. Wipe the liquid over face with a
fresh cotton square or spritz it on your face with a pump-type plastic or glass
container. Let it remain for 30 minutes, then rinse with cool water and then pat dry.
Boil the water, then remove from heat and toss in the rose petals. Steep 5 minutes,
so rose oils diffuse into water. Lean over pot at least 10 inches from surface and
drape towel over head. Close eyes; steam 5 minutes with breaks as needed. Rinse
with cool water, then pat dry.
Ingredients:
Preparation:
Notes:
Don't handle the ingredients with your hands, which have oils that carry
bacteria.
This is a cleanser, which means you should use it at the start of your regular
skin-care regimen.
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp glycerin
1/2 cup distilled water
Mix the ingredients together until smooth. Pour into a jar and place the jar inside a
double-boiler pot (do not use direct heat on the jar). Bring the water in the outer pot
to a boil and heat the mixture until it is clear and has thickened. (If it thickens too
much, add a bit more water). Remove from heat and let cool. This is a good all-over
facial cleanser and should keep for 7 to 10 days.
Seaweed Lotion recipe
Mix well; store in tightly covered jar in refrigerator. This is especially soothing during
the hot summer months.
Rub mixture over hands for at least one minute, scrubbing as you would while
washing up.
Use a paper towel to brush any excess sugar from your skin. Slide your hands into
the gloves, and leave them on overnight. By morning the oil should be absorbed, and
your hands ready to make their debut!
1 lemon, sliced
1 cup white wine
1 tablespoon sugar
Place lemon slices and wine in a glass or enamel pot and bring to a boil over medium
heat. Boil for one minute. Remove from heat, stir in the sugar, and let cool. Strain
the mixture and store in a tightly capped bottle. Use as a skin refresher and after
using a skin lightening mask.
Makes 8 ounces.
1 ounce lemongrass
1 ounce cornmeal
1 ounce witch hazel
1 ounce rose petals
Blend lemongrass, cornmeal, witch hazel and rose petals, then mix 1 ounce of this
mixture with 1 quart boiling water. Let steep 20 minutes. Strain into bath water.
Soak at least 10 minutes. Use two times a week or more.
1 tablespoon licorice
1 tablespoon fennel seeds
1 tablespoon mint leaves
1 tablespoon comfrey leaves
1 tablespoon parsley
To use, bring 1 quart water and 1/2 ounce herbs to boil. Put steaming pot on the
table, and put your face over the pot, at least 10 inches from the water. Cover head
and pot with a towel. Relax for at least 5 minutes.
You can also use this mixture in a vaporizer while you sleep.
Pour boiling water over the soap and stir until soap is completely dissolved. Cool.
Store in a pump-type dispenser or a squeeze-top plastic container
Melt the wax in a small bowl in the top of a glass or enamel double boiler over
medium heat. As soon as the wax is melted, slowly add the oil, stirring gently. Add
strained cucumber and blend thoroughly.
Remove the pot from the heat and cover with a clean towel. Let the mixture cool
very slowly to prevent crystals from forming in the wax. Stir mixture once or twice
until cool.
When the mixture is completely cool and smooth, store it in a tightly capped glass
container in the refrigerator. It will keep for two months.
To use, smooth a bit of cream every night around the tender skin of your face and
neck.
Mix strawberries and cornstarch together to make a paste and apply it to your face,
avoiding the delicate area around your eyes. Leave on for 30 minutes, then rinse off
with cool water.
Mix mayonnaise, tea and lemon juice in a blender. Pour into a storage container and
squeeze contents of vitamin E capsules into it. Keep refrigerated no longer than 1
week.
Mix well, and use the same as you would any cleansing grains.
1 ripe tomato
3 or 4 tablespoons oatmeal
Powder oatmeal in blender, then remove. Purée tomato in blender. Remove.
Combine powdered oatmeal and tomato, then apply to face. The mixture will be
sloppy, so wear a plastic shower cap to protect hair. Even better, use right before
shampooing your hair. Lie down, and after 20 minutes or so, rinse off the conditioner
with very hot water - as hot as you can stand it - to help dissolve excess oil. Follow
with your favorite acid mantle.
1 cup water
1 tablespoon vinegar (any type)
Mix water and vinegar in a bottle. Apply up to 1/4 teaspoon of mixture to face after
each cleansing. Let dry naturally, without patting.
Pour vinegar into warm water. Splash your face thoroughly. Let dry without using a
towel. Acne sufferers should try this also, but be sure to start with a perfectly clean
face.
Mix the ingredients and store in a tightly capped, sterilized glass bottle.
To use, moisten a clean cotton ball and clean your face with this solution after
washing and before applying moisturizer. Your skin should feel tingly while using this
clarifier.
Mix well in a clean glass bottle. Apply to face with fingers. Remove with tissues. Keep
in a cool place
Chamomile Steaming Face Cleanser recipe
Mix in a heatproof bowl. Hold face 10 inches from water for 8 minutes; follow with a
tightening mask.
Combine vinegar and water and gently wipe your face with the mixture. Let this rinse
dry on your skin.
4 tablespoons glycerin
40 drops oil of orange
4 tablespoons lemon juice
This is marvelous for those hot summer days! I like to use it ice cold from the
refrigerator. It's an instant cool-down.
Add vitamin C tablet to the boiling water, then pour over citrus peels. Let the
mixture cool, then strain and pour into a clean container. Store in the refrigerator.
Drop the apple into a blender and chop. Add honey and sage and refrigerate for 10
minutes. Pat the mixture onto the face with a light tapping motion, tapping until the
honey feels tacky. Leave mask on for 30 minutes, then rinse.
Apricot Mask recipe
2 apricots
2 tablespoons plain yogurt
Purée in a blender. Apply to face, avoiding eye area, and leave on for 10 to 20
minutes.
If apricot is dried, soak it in water for 3 hours. Mash fruit and honey together, then
apply to skin. Leave on for 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse off with hot water.
Peel and slice avocado and purée it in a blender with the honey. Apply the mask to
your face by patting it gently and then continuing to pat until the mask feels
extremely tacky to the touch. Relax and leave the mask on for 20 to 30 minutes and
then rinse off with warm water.
Mash avocado into a thick paste. Add egg white. Apply to face; leave on 15 to 20
minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water.
Mash avocado into a paste and add vegetable oil. Apply to clean skin. Leave on for
10 to 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
Avocado Moisture Mask recipe
1 ripe avocado
4 tablespoons plain yogurt
Purée avocado and blend with yogurt. Apply mixture to face. Leave on for 30
minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water.
Mix and apply to skin. After 20 minutes, remove with warm water.
Mix all ingredients. Apply mixture to face and leave on 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse with
tepid water.
Mash the banana in a bowl and add honey and sour cream. Blend well Apply to skin
and leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
Blend avocado with egg yolk and buttermilk. Apply to face and throat and leave on
for 5 minutes. Spread on a little more. Leave on for another 5 minutes. Rinse with
tepid water.
Mix all the ingredients into a paste and apply to the skin in light, upward strokes.
Leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with Skin Bleaching Tonic.
Cleanse face, steam, splash with cool water and pat dry. Massage with the dry
cornmeal. Rinse off. Then apply a mask made by whipping the eggs and brushing on
face. Leave on for 20 minutes; rinse off.
1/2 cucumber
1 egg white
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon mint
Purée ingredients in a blender and refrigerate for 10 minutes. Apply the mixture to
your face and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse with hot, then cool water.
1 cucumber, cubed
3 ounces milk
4 teaspoons mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon kelp powder
1 teaspoon fuller's earth
Cleanse face, steam, splash with cool water and pat dry. Massage with the dry
oatmeal. Rinse off. Then apply a mask made by mixing yogurt and banana; spread
evenly on face. Leave on for 20 minutes; rinse off.
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons honey
Mix ingredients together until a light paste is formed; apply to face and neck,
avoiding eye area and mouth. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes; rinse off thoroughly
with tepid water.
The enzymes in the papaya help soften skin by removing dead surface cells.
1/2 papaya
1/2 teaspoon lemon or lime juice
1 teaspoon honey
Mash the ingredients together. Apply to clean face, leave on for 10 minutes, then
rinse well.
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon warm milk
1 teaspoon honey
Mix together. Apply to face and throat. Lie down and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse
off with warm water.
Fruit Punch Refresher recipe
Mix; leave on face for 10 minutes. Rinse with cold club soda.
1 ripe peach
1 egg white
Mash peach to a pulp or puree in blender. Beat the egg white just until stiff, then fold
the peach purée into the egg white. Apply thickly to face and neck with fingertips.
Let dry for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
Crush green grapes to a pulp. Add honey or egg yolk. Leave on damp skin for 15
minutes; rinse.
1 tablespoon yogurt
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon honey
Mix gently and let stand until paste reaches room temperature. Smooth mask onto
clean face, and lie down for 20 minutes. Rinse off with tepid water. Apply astringent
and moisturizer.
Combine all ingredients and store in a sterilized glass jar for 1 week. Shake
occasionally to mix contents. Strain and pour into a tightly capped bottle.
Herbal Face Steam recipe
1 quart water
1 handful any herbs*
Juice and peel of 1/2 lemon
Bring water to a boil. Add juice and peel of lemon and herbs. Turn off the heat and
take the pot to a table. Cover your hair with a shower cap or towel and drape
another towel over your head and the pot, holding your face about 10 inches above
the water. Keep your eyes closed and let the steam do its magic cleansing for about
15 minutes. Afterward, rinse with COLD water to close the pores.
* Use any herbs you have available: rosemary, thyme, mint, marjoram, basil,
parsley, cloves, caraway, anise or fennel seeds, chamomile, lavender or elder
flowers.
Combine milk and egg white. Slowly mix in egg yolk and honey. Apply to face. Leave
on for 5 minutes; rinse.
There is nothing more revitalizing than a peach and honey mask, which will leave
your skin feeling soft and silky.
Mash the peach (or nectarine) and honey together. Add a little lecithin powder or
yogurt until you have a workable paste. Pat evenly over your face and neck and
around the eyes. Lie back and relax for about 10 minutes.
Rinse off with warm water, pat dry, tone and moisturize. This delicious mask leaves
the complexion feeling soft and supple.
Whip until creamy. Store any extra in a wide-mouth jar for future use.
1 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons finely crushed almonds
1 teaspoon powdered clay
4 tablespoons uncooked oatmeal or cornstarch
Mix together, adding little water if mixture is too thick to spread. Apply to face.
Gently massage face, using an upward, circular motion as you rinse.
2 egg yolks
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Mix ingredients together. Wash your face, spread on the mixture, leave it on for ten
minutes, then wash it off.
Mix all ingredients into a paste and apply to the skin in light, upward strokes. Leave
on for 20 minutes. Rinse with Skin Bleaching Tonic.
Blend ingredients in a blender until just combined. Apply to skin, making sure the
mixture is thick enough to stay on blemished areas. Add a bit more oatmeal to
thicken the mask, if necessary. Leave the mask on for 10 minutes, then scrub off
with a clean washcloth dipped in warm water.
2 fresh tomatoes
1 tablespoon peppermint leaves
1/2 tablespoon dried fresh yeast
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Boil the tomatoes in hot water, let cool and then peel the skin. Crush the tomatoes
and remove the seeds. Add the remaining ingredients.
The pulp of a tomato aids the complexion, while lemon juice, which is used in
cosmetic products, contains vitamin C and can act as a bleaching agent.
1 tablespoon tapioca
2 tablespoons honey
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
In a small saucepan over low heat, mix tapioca and orange juice. Stir in honey and
let the "pudding" simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat
and cool. Spread the mixture over your face and neck and let dry for 20 minutes.
Rinse.
Papaya Anti-Wrinkle Facial recipe
Mix together the papaya and aloe vera gel to make a smooth paste. Apply to your
clean face and neck and let sit for 5 minutes. Rinse with cool water.
This formula an be drying if it is left on for longer then 5 minutes. The natural fruit
acid and enzymes remove dead skin cells and skin will look and feel younger and
smoother.
Puree all ingredients. Smooth it over the face and neck; leave on for 20 minutes.
Rinse with cool water.
Whip peach and egg white together in a blender until smooth. Gently pat the mixture
all over the face. Relax for 30 minutes, then rinse off with cool water.
For that famous "peaches and cream" complexion, try this mask.
Peel and pit the peach. Mash peach. Add cream until smooth. This mixture is a bit
runny, so you may want to lie back in your bath for 10 minutes or so. Rinse with
warm water.
Peel-Off Mask recipe
Heat together gently to dissolve the gelatine. Let cool until almost set Apply to face,
let dry completely, then peel off.
Combine all ingredients. Apply to face, avoiding eye area. Leave on for 10 minutes.
Spread in a thin layer over skin. Leave on for 5 to 10 minutes and then rinse with
warm water. Pat skin dry.
This tropical mask gives complexions a healthy glow. Bromelian, an enzyme found in
fresh pineapple, removes dead skin cells.
6 plums
1 teaspoon almond oil
1 egg yolk
1/3 cup avocado, peeled and mashed
1/3 cup milk
Beat the egg yolk until fluffy. Add milk and avocado, mixing thoroughly with the
yolk. Apply to face and leave on for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse with hot water.
Super Dry Skin Formula recipe
Whip ingredients together. Store in a container. Smooth over damp skin after a
shower or bath.
Mix to make a paste and pat onto the face with gentle, upward strokes. Let dry on
the skin for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
Mix together and massage into face. Rinse with cool water.
1 ounce oatmeal
1 ounce comfrey leaves, ground
1 ounce almond meal
Blend oatmeal, almond meal and comfrey leaves and mix 1 tablespoon of this to 1
quart warm water. Strain into bath water. Soak at least 10 minutes.
ROSE WATER
1 C. rose petals
1/2 C. rubbing alcohol
1 1/2 C. water
Simmer rose petals in water for 10 minutes. Strain. Add alcohol (optional, but acts
as a preservative. See Note.). Keeps in fridge for up to 2 weeks with alcohol, or, 1
week without. Note: Rosewater without a bit of alcohol will quickly develop a residue
on its surface. If you don't wish to use rubbing alcohol, you may substitute Vodka.
Rose Water recipe
Measure the distilled water into a thoroughly-cleaned mixing bottle. Add the vodka.
Mix in the flowers so that they are completely wet. Add the oil.
Let the mixture stand in a covered bottle in a cool, dark place for one week to allow
the scent to age. If you like, you can leave the petals in the mixture for a pretty
visual effect.
Here is a special recipe for brides to be used daily at the time of bath for ten days
before marriage. The following ingredients are mixed to a paste and rubbed
thoroughly. They cleanse and stimulate the skin leaving it soft and shiny.
1 ounce beeswax
1/2 cup baby or mineral oil
Melt the beeswax in a microwave or a double boiler. Stir in the mineral oil. Remove
the mixture from the heat and stir until cool.
Mix the corn syrup and warm water, using just enough warm water to thin the corn
syrup.
Have child or adult gargle with the mixture. It is very safe if a child swallows it.
Anti-Dandruff Lotion
Mix all ingredients together. Part hair down the middle, front to back, while it is still
damp after shampooing. Wet a cotton ball with the lotion and dab it on your scalp
along the part. Part hair an inch to one side of the other and repeat application.
Repeat again until entire scalp is treated.
Aromatherapy
Holiday Mood:
2 drops frankincense
2 drops myrrh
2 drops cinnamon
2 drops pine, cedar or juniper oil
Place into an aromatherapy lamp or light bulb ring. You can also blend with 8 ounces
of water in a spray bottle, then mist in the air.
Place into an aromatherapy lamp or light bulb ring. You can also blend with 8 ounces
of water in a spray bottle, then mist in the air.
Calming:
3 drops lavender
3 drops Mandarin
Place into an aromatherapy lamp or light bulb ring. You can also blend with 8 ounces
of water in a spray bottle, then mist in the air.
Place into an aromatherapy lamp or light bulb ring. You can also blend with 8 ounces
of water in a spray bottle, then mist in the air.
Steep basil leaves in water for 10 to 20 minutes. Cool, then apply to face with a
white cotton ball.
Blackhead Wash
Use 1 tablespoon of this mixture with a little hot water to make a paste. Rub gently
into the affected area. Rinse with cold water.
Blemish Remedy
Mix and chill mixture in the refrigerator. Apply to blemishes with a clean cotton ball.
The witch hazel soaks up oil to speed healing. The rose water softens the skin.
ROSE CREAM
Rose Petals -5
Lime water - 5 drops
Gram Powder - 2spoons
Herbal Turmeric Powder - 2pinch
Make a fine paste of the above ingredients with some water. Clean the face and
apply the paste. After 20 minutes wash it off with milk and again clean the face with
pure water. When the process is repeated for 15 days, the face will become soft and
smooth.
Rose cream is also used for the clearing of black spots left after the pimples.
4 ounces rosewater
1 1/2 teaspoons glycerin
1 1/2 teaspoons sodium borate
2 ounces geranium water
1 ounce camphor water
Heat these ingredients carefully and slowly until beeswax has melted. Store in a
tightly-closed tin. Apply balm two or three times a day. Avoid wetting lips as much
as possible.
Healing Hand Lotion
For skin that is dehydrated and taut or the most severe rough, dry skin conditions,
here is one of nature's remedies.
Body Scrub:
1/2 cup fine sea salt
1/3 cup body lotion
Oatmeal Bath (found in most health food stores)
Mix body lotion and sea salt. While in your shower, massage the mixture all over
your body. You can concentrate on the problems areas: back of arms, elbows, knees,
and feet. Then shower as usual with a cleansing type of body oil or cleansing gel. If
you like to take baths, try an oatmeal bath.
Important note: If your skin becomes extremely irritated, skip this step.
Moisturizer:
1/3 cup aloe vera gel
While skin is still moist, apply aloe vera gel all over your body.
Protective Barrier:
Oil-based body lotion, cocoa butter, pure lanolin or shea butter
Apply one of the above. Take your time with this application and work it into your
skin. Concentrate a little more on the problem areas.
Reverse and control symptoms of old age before it's too late. Follow the four simple
steps below.
Steaming:
3 chamomile tea bags
1 tablespoon fennel seeds
1 (1-quart) pot
In pot, brew tea bags and fennel seeds. Bring to boil and let steep for 5 minutes.
Remove tea bags and bring to boil again. Remove from stove.
Place your face (skin should be free of all makeup and cream) over the steam,
keeping your eyes closed. Use a large towel to cover your head and the pot. Save
the tea solution. Chilled, it makes a great skin tonic.
Scrub:
2 tablespoons almond meal
1 tablespoon oatmeal
2 tablespoons cleanser
1 mixing cup
Mix almond meal, oatmeal and cleanser. On moistened skin, gently massage mixture
in small circular motions. Begin at the base of the neck, work up the throat area and
then the face. Avoid the under eye area. Rinse with lukewarm water.
Moisturizer:
1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
Apply aloe vera gel on base of the neck, throat and face area.
Masque:
1/3 cup dark clover honey
1/3 cup powdered seaweed
1 ripe avocado, puréed
1 ounce macadamia nut oil
1 mixing bowl
Mix clover honey, powdered seaweed, avocado and Macadamia nut oil in a bowl.
Apply mixture to base of the neck, throat and face and leave on for 20 to 30
minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water. Apply a few drops of Macadamia nut oil as a
finishing step.
Heat the mixture gently until the cocoa butter and beeswax have melted; stir well.
Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, if desired. Cool completely,
then store in a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Stretch Mark Massage Oil
Blend the melted cocoa butter, flaxseed oil rose hip seed oil and wheat germ oil.
Transfer the mixture to a clean jar. As it begins to cool ad solidify, add the essential
oils. Allow the mixture to cool to a comfortable temperature before using it. Massage
the oil into your skin once or twice daily.
Bath Recipes
Cleopatra Milk Bath
2 Litres of milk (non-fat for oily skin)
3 teaspoons of honey
10 drops of essential oils added to
1 tablespoon of a carrier oil such as sweet almond.
Mix all together and run it under the tap to disperse.
Add rose petals for the most beautiful looking bath!
Hop in and enjoy!
Tropical Oasis
2 cups of coconut milk
3 drops each of tangerine and ylang ylang
Freshly picked flowers of your choice
Combine oils with milk and add to bath water. Add flowers, hop in and indulge your
senses.
Sea Salt Bath –
You should have a section that gives information about sea salt and using it in a
bath. I hope you don't already, (I didn't get to search your whole site). Anyway, It is
wonderful pouring a cup or so of sea salt into a hot bath. It's quite soothing and it
"sucks out" skin impurities. It is in most cases very inexpensive.
Herbal Heaven Bath Tea Bag
In a small muslin bag add a handful of your preferred blend of dried herbs;
NB: If you don’t have any muslin just add your herbs to a bowl, add 3 cups of boiling
water, cover and let it steep for 5 minutes then add it to your bath.
Some suggestions;
Peppermint, echinacea and lavender
Oats, chamomile and calendula
Lemon grass and green tea
Peppermint, green tea and rosemary
Place it in your bath, hop in and relax.
Vanilla Rose
4 vanilla pod seeds
2 handfuls of rose petals
Place vanilla into the bath and scatter petals across the surface. Indulge!
Sleepy Time
1 tablespoon of sweet almond oil or any carrier oil
5 drops of lavender essential oil
Combine oils and add to bath water.
The Little Mermaid Seaweed Bath
1 cup of seaweed (kelp, dulse or nori)
To buy seaweed try seaveg.com you can get enough seaweed for about 4 or 5 baths
for around $18.00.
1 tablespoon carrier oil
3 drops of Juniper essential oil
3 drops of Lemon essential oil
Make the bath very hot. As the water is running add your seaweed. Let it steep. Mix
your carrier oil and essential oils together. When your bath is cool enough to enter add
your oils. Soak for at least 20 minutes. While you are soaking massage you body with the
seaweed. Afterwards drink lots of water and relax. Do this slimming and detoxifying bath
once a week for 1 month for best results.
If you have never had a milk bath you need to experience this
heavenly treat. Milk soothes and softens while honey contains vitamins, minerals and
amino acids that nourish the skin
Spa Living for Health’s Body Bliss
The Steps
Step 1 – Dry Skin Brush
Step 2 – Shower and Exfoliate with a “Banana Smoothie Body Scrub”
Step 3 – Thai style milk bath
Step 4 – Moisturize & Massage
Step 1
Dry brush your skin with a soft bristle brush, dry face washer or loofah.
Gently work from your feet upwards over your entire body. Use circular motions. You
will need to do this for 5 minutes to get your circulation going and loosen dead skin
cells.
Step 2
Shower and exfoliate with a banana smoothie body scrub.
Ingredients
1 banana, mashed
1 tablespoon of powdered milk
1 tablespoon of oatmeal
2 teaspoons of homey
Method
Combine all ingredients to make a smooth paste.
Shower first to dampen skin.
Apply body scrub to your entire body with small circular motions.
Rinse off thoroughly.
Step 3
Relax in a Thai style milk bath.
Ingredients
2 cups of coconut milk
Juice of 1 lime
Handful of rose petals or flowers of your choice (optional)
Method
Disperse milk through bath water.
Disperse lime juice through bath water.
Add flowers and hop in.
Breathe deeply and soak for 15 minutes or until bath water cools.
Step 4
End your spa body treatment with an Ayurveda inspired warm oil massage.
What you will need
¼ cup of a cold pressed vegetable oil
Good choices are; sweet almond (medium), sesame (heavy), olive oil (heavy).
Plastic or glass bottle or jar to hold oil to be warmed
Pot of very warm water
Old towel to stand on
Paper towel
little ray of sunshine summer home spa
summer home spa menu
Energize, detoxify and smooth with an all over "dry skin brushing".
Get your body zinging with a zesty "lemon and sugar body scrub".
Smooth and cool your face with a "banana and strawberry smoothie mask".
Soak tired feet in a "citrus foot bath" and follow with a "salty scrub".
what you will need
long handled soft bristle body brush or a dry face washer or towel
small tub for feet
meditation or soothing music CD and player
reclining chair and cushions for comfort
2 towels
3 lemons
1 orange
1 tablespoon of olive oil
2 tablespoons of white sugar
6 strawberries
1 banana
1 tablespoon of sea salt in a small bowl or container
favorite moisturizer and body cream
go spa!
1. Begin by taking a moment to signal the beginning of this time for yourself. Light a
candle or turn on some relaxation music and say to yourself "I am now on a summer
home spa retreat".
1. Set up your spa and start to gather the objects you will need.
2. Make your summer home spa treatments;
banana and strawberry smoothie mask
Mash banana and 6 washed strawberries together to form a paste, add a squeeze of
lemon and mix well. Put mask into the fridge to cool until needed.
cucumber eye compress
Cut a couple of slices of cucumber for your eyes and put into fridge to cool.
citrus foot soak
Slice 1 lemon and 1 orange and set aside for foot soak.
salty scrub
Place 1 tablespoon of sea salt into a small bowl and set aside for foot scrub.
lemon and sugar body scrub
Squeeze 2 lemons and add 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to
form a paste.
3. Move to the bathroom with body brush and body scrub in hand.
4. Brush your body in small, slow circles beginning at your feet and making your way
up. Use a firm but not hard pressure. Brush for 5 minutes your skin should be
slightly pink from the increased blood circulation.
5. Hop into the shower and work the body scrub in small circles all over your body.
6. Rinse off and towel dry, smother yourself in your favorite body lotion.
7. Set up your foot soak; fill your small tub with tepid water and add the lemon and
orange slices, take the tub, sea salt and a towel over to your recliner chair.
8. Get ready for your mask; retrieve your mask and cucumber slices from the fridge.
Take them and a towel over to your recliner chair. Set them down in a place where
you can easily use them while sitting.
9. Make yourself an iced water with a straw and place it within easy reach.
10. Slide into your recliner and place your feet into the foot soak.
11. Place a towel over your chest and apply your mask to your face and throat. Place
the cucumber slices over your eyes and relax.
12. Breathe in to the count of 8 and breathe out to the count of 4. As you breathe
out imagine a blanket of white light wash over you from the top of your head to the
tips of your toes. Repeat 3 times.
13. After 15 minutes with your mask still on, remove the cucumber slices and sit
forward slowly. Take the citrus slices and rub them all over your feet and lower legs.
Lift your feet, one at a time, slightly above the water and rub with sea salt. Rinse off
in the water. Dry your feet.
14. Stand slowly and make your way to the bathroom to rinse off your mask. Before
rinsing, slowly massage the mask into your skin and then rinse thoroughly. Pat dry
and slather on your favorite moisturizer.
15. Make yourself a herbal tea and return to your day by saying softly to yourself
"my summer home spa retreat is over and I feel refreshed and alive".
detoxifying winter home spa
winter home spa menu
Cleanse your mind with a guided meditation.
Get your circulation pumping and smooth your body with an all over "dry skin
brushing".
Take a relaxing "detox bath".
Hydrate your face with an "avocado moisturizing mask" and "chamomile eye
compress".
Tame dried out hair with an "avocado hair treatment".
Chill out afterwards, curled up in a robe with a hot cup of chai.
what you will need
long handled soft bristle body brush or a dry face washer or towel
meditation or soothing music CD and player (if you do not have a suitable CD try the
free online meditations at Learning Meditation and listen through your computer)
towels
Epsom salts
1 avocado
½ cup of coconut milk
2 chamomile tea bags
favorite moisturizer and body cream
ingredients for chai; water, milk, honey, black tea leaves, green cardomon pods and
ginger root
go spa!
1. Begin by taking a moment to signal the beginning of this time for yourself. Light a
candle or turn on some relaxation music and say to yourself "I am now on a spa
retreat".
2. Set up your spa and start to gather the objects you will need.
3. Make your winter home spa treatments;
avocado moisturizing mask
Mash ½ an avocado and add 1 tablespoon of coconut milk, mix to form a paste. Put
mask into the fridge until needed.
avocado hair treatment
Mash ½ an avocado and add remaining coconut milk until mixture is the consistency
of conditioner.
chamomile eye compress
Steep 2 tea bags in a small amount of hot water. Leave to cool slightly.
detox bath
2 cups of epsom salts.
chai
Makes enough for 2 cups.
1 cup of water
1 cup of milk
2 teaspoons of honey
2 teaspoons of black tea leaves
1 green cardomon pod, crushed
¼ inch of ginger root, peeled
Boil water with milk. As it starts to bubble add sugar, tea, cardomon and ginger.
Reduce the heat and turn it up again. Bring to the boil 3 or 4 times. Strain and drink.
4. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and sit or lie in a comfortable position for your
meditation. Play your guided meditation or relaxation music.
5. Move to the bathroom with body brush, face mask, eye compress and hair
treatment in hand.
6. Brush your body in small, slow circles beginning at your feet and making your way
up. Use a firm but not hard pressure. Brush for 5 minutes your skin should be
slightly pink from the increased blood circulation.
7. Run your bath and add the Epsom salts.
8. Hop into your bath and apply your face mask, hair treatment and eye compress.
9. Bathe for 15 – 20 minutes.
10. Hop into the shower and thoroughly rinse off the mask and shampoo your hair.
11. Towel dry, smother yourself in your favorite moisturizer.
12. Slip into a comfy robe and make yourself a cup of chai, curl up and read a book.
13. Return to your day by saying softly to yourself "my winter home spa retreat is
over and I feel refreshed and alive".
Homemade Spa Gift Recipes
Bath
Choose one recipe and make one gift or use all three recipes to make up a
homemade spa gift basket. You could even add some extra spa accessories such as a
bath pillow, candle, towel or anything else bath related. I have used a rose theme
but you could easily substitute the rose with dried lavender and lavender essential
oil.
Oh Honey! Bath Oil
(Makes about 120 ml – just under ½ cup).
75 ml almond oil
5 ml honey
20 ml vodka
60 drops of essential oils (your choice)
Mix ingredients together and put into small glass jars or vials.
Instructions: Use 1 tablespoon in your bath water.
Cleopatra Milk Bath
(Makes about 6 cups – 12 baths)
1 cup cornstarch
1 cup baking soda
4 cups dried milk
10 drops Rose essential oil
4 tablespoons dried rose petals
Mix ingredients in a large bowl and divide into glass jars or little calico bags.
Instructions: Use 2-3 tablespoons in your bath
Pretty in Pink Bath Salts
(Makes just under 4 cups – 8 baths)
800g Epsom salts
4 tablespoons dried rose petals
2 teaspoons pink clay
20 drops Rose essential oil
Mix dry ingredients together in a large bowl. Add essential oils and put into an
airtight container. Leave for a week so that the bath salts absorb the oils.
Instructions: Add 2-3 tablespoons to your bath
If you do not have pink clay you can color the salt with food coloring. Just
add 5 to 10 drops into the salt, put into a container with a lid and shake it
until the color is mixed through. Follow recipe as usual omitting the clay.
Face
Choose one recipe and make one gift or use all three recipes to make up a
homemade spa gift basket or gift box. You could even add some extra spa
accessories such as candles, essential oils or anything else spa related.
Ultimate Scrub Mix
(Makes about 1 cup)
Suitable for all skin types
½ cup fine oatmeal
¼ cup rice flour (for sensitive skin omit rice flour and double oatmeal)
1 tablespoon pink clay (suitable for all skin types)
Combine ingredients thoroughly and place into airtight container.
Instructions: Put 2 teaspoons of mixture into bowl and add enough wet ingredient
(yoghurt, milk, egg yolk or fruit) to form a paste. Smooth onto face and gently
massage in small circles. Remove completely with warm water. Store scrub in a cool,
dark cupboard.
Note: Combine this scrub with a handwritten note of ingredients to add so that the
person receiving the gift can whip up their own fresh scrub.
Ultimate Mask Mix
(Makes about 1 cup)
Suitable for all skin types
½ cup fine oatmeal
½ cup pink clay
2 tablespoons almond meal
Combine ingredients thoroughly and place into an airtight container.
Instructions: Put 1 tablespoon of mixture into bowl and add enough wet ingredient
(yoghurt, milk, egg yolk or fruit) to form a smooth paste. Smooth onto face and
spray regularly with water to keep it moist. Remove thoroughly with warm water
after 15 minutes. Store scrub in a cool, dark cupboard.
Note: Combine this mask with a handwritten note of ingredients to add so that the
person receiving the gift can whip up their own fresh mask.
Facial Oil
(Makes about 2 tablespoons – 1 small vial)
2 tablespoons sweet almond oil (organic, cold pressed)
2 drops of chamomile or lavender essential oil
Combine oils in a small vial and shake until well blended.
Instructions: Apply a few drops to face and massage into skin. Can also be used for
nails and hair.
Taking the time out to make a homemade spa gift adds a special dimension to gift
giving. I hope you enjoy. And don't forget to add a little love!
RECIPES:
Ingredients:
Directions:
Steep green tea in boiling water. Set aside to cool. Peel papaya wedge and remove
seeds. In blender or food processor, blend papaya and pineapple until pureed. Pour
into glass bowl and combine honey and green tea. Mix well. Apply to face with fan
brush or finger tips. Recline and rest for 10 – 15 minutes. Remove completely with
tepid water and soft facial cloth. Store in covered container in refrigerator for up to
one week.
Ingredients:
Directions:
Place almond oil and beeswax in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1
minute or until mixture melts. Whisk honey into beeswax mixture; stir well. Set
aside to cool completely. When cool, pour into small containers with lids. Apply to
lips as a moisturizer or on top of lipstick for extra shine. Makes about 1-1/2 cups.
Face Masks have an deep cleansing action on the skin, removing impurities, wastes
and dead skin cells. Use the homemade facial mask to suit your skin identify your
skin type before you apply the homemade face mask. Do this by placing your face
about 10 inches above a pot of very hot or recently boiled water (remove from stove
before steaming).
Apply a facial mask after you get out of the shower to save time. Your face and neck
are already clean, plus the steam from the hot water softens the skin making it
easier for the facial mask to do its job. Always apply moisturizer after using a facial
mask.
Whether you have dry, oily, or normal skin, a facial mask is a fun, easy, and
inexpensive way to pamper yourself without leaving home. Below are five recipes for
facial masks that you can easily make at home. All of the ingredients used in these
recipes are sold in supermarkets or in health food stores . Use a stainless steel or
glass bowl for mixing ingredients, because aluminum may react chemically with
some ingredients.
Homemade beauty care recipes like face-packs, facial masks and scrubs based on
herbs and natural ingredients help improve the skin disorders and detoxify. It is best
to try out a few of the homemade facial masks suited to your skin type and discover
far yourself, which of them is the most beneficial to you.
Whereas Indian women are attracted towards makeup, the European women are
getting more and more inclined towards using the herbal and natural therapy. These
beautifying things do not affect the skin adversely.
Homemade facial masks helps in providing natural oil and moisture to the skin. If
you just look carefully you will find many of the ingredients of facial pack in your
kitchen.
Hair care is much similar to the skin care, scalp being the part of
a specialised skin. PH balance matters while utilising products for
hair care. Aromatheraphy oils are capable of being effective to the
hair follicles and overall health of hair.
For split ends, rosewood, sandalwood and Vetiver will do the trick.
For graying hair, coriander, sage and lemon can halt the progress.
You can select a good PH balanced shampoo and conditioner and add
essential oils to it. But the best treatment is to apply medicated
hair oil to the scalp.
RECIPES
Hair loss
To 4 oz. coconut oil, add:
10 drops chamomile.
10 drops coriander
10 drops rosewood
10 drops birch
Dandruff:
CLEANSING LOTION
THE EXFOLIATORS
Mix three drops of essential oil with 30ml (1fl oz/6 tsps) sweet
almond oil and slowly add equal amounts of finely ground oatmeal and
coarse desiccated coconut until you have a thick paste. Massage with
the paste in small circular movements all over damp skin,
particularly around the forehead, nose, chin and neck, then leave
for a few minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water. Pat skin
dry and moisturize immediately. Use this gentle essential-oil
exfoliation twice a week for truly polished skin, free of dull,
dead, flaky surface.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--- RICH FACIAL MOISTURISERS
· 2 drops violet and 3 drops rose in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) apricot
kernel oil plus 1 vitamin E capsule.
· 2 drops each Neroli, mimosa and rose in 30ml (lfl 02/6 tsps) wheat
germ oil.
To firm skin ·
3 drops frankincense and 2 drops mandarin in 30ml (1
fl oz/6 tsps) wheatgerm oil.
· 2 drops each rose and lavender and I drop Neroli in 30ml (1 fl
oz/6 tsps) wheatgerm oil.
To improve texture
LIGHT MOISTURISERS
To treat sallowness
To Treat Acne
To clear blackheads
Mixing your own essential-oil face pack has a lot of benefits. They are easy to make,
and more effective as essential oils are more in touch with the skin. A small preparation
with the combinations to use our specific requirements is the added advantages. Not to
mention the glow the skin gets after this beautifying aromatic experience. The best oils to
fix to the skin surface for a deep facial treatment are:
Only mix enough masks for one application: it won`t keep for more
than an hour or two. Any leftovers can be spread on elbows, knees or
upper back. To mix an Essential oil mask, place all ingredients in a
small bowl and stir well with a teaspoon. You will need a powdery
ingredient to give the right paste-like consistency.
· Oatmeal.
· Ground almonds.
· Rice flour.
(An addition of warm honey will add to the effect)
· Fuller`s earth
· Kaolin
· Bran
(More finely grained the ingredients are, better the effect. A bit
warmed up mask can also do wonders)
Moisturizing
6 drops essential oil in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) carrier oil mixed with
enough powdery ingredients to make a sticky, thick paste.
Cleansing
6 drops essential oil in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) hot water mixed with
enough powdery ingredients to make a smooth, thick paste.
You can also easily make masks using a facial moisturizer mixing
with that of powdery ingredient.
Remember also that you can apply several different masks in patches:
a moisturizing one over dry cheeks, an oil-control mix for nose and
chin and a firming mix for the jaw and neck, for instance. After
removing the mask, you may like to apply a little massage oil to the
skin, or a blend of 15 drops rose oil in 30 ml (lfl oz/6 tsps)
jojoba. Here are some recipes for the most common types of mask so
you can perfect mixing them before you go on to experiment alone.
Moisturizing mask
· 2 drops each frankincense, rose, Neroli in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps)
apricot oil with 1 tsps warmed, melted Honey, mixed with enough
finely ground almond to Make a soft paste.
Apply on face till it dries up.
Relaxing mask
Energizing mask
Anti-aging mask
2 drops each Neroli, mandarin and orange in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps)
evening primrose oil with I tsps of warmed, melted clear honey,
mixed with enough ground almond to make a smooth paste.
However, don`t use them just before you plan to go out as the heat
and steam can leave a high colour on the cheeks and make skin look
shiny for a couple of hours afterwards. Since they are so relaxing
it is best to use them before going to bed. Also, any moisturizer
you apply afterwards will get to work on warmed, softened skin and
immediately become an extra beneficial night cream.
Stay under the towel with your eyes closed until the steam cools
then add more boiling water to the bowl to evaporate off any
remaining essential oils. Afterwards, gently pat your face dry and
immediately apply a moisturizer to trap the extra steamy water in
your skin.
RELAXING FACIAL
2 drops of ylang-ylang and 3 drops jasmine.
INVIGORATING FACIAL
2 drops of peppermint and 3 drops lavender.
Handling Trouble Spots
With the basic guidelines provided you can change, mix n match to
treat your trouble spots. For example, for an oily skin throughout,
the essential oil for oily skin can be mixed in moisturizers,
exfoliators, cleanser etc.
For a particular dry patch of skin, you can create the heavy
moisturizer with essential oils for dry skin. Each trouble patch of
the skin can be treated accordingly. Thus you can customize your own
product. Otherwise there are no such thin as cleanser for dry skin,
cleanser for oily skin…etc in the market.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunblock
Our esthetician experts say "If you can see your shadow, you need sunblock." However,
did you know the active ingredients in sunblock often dissipate after the season? So,
always use a sunblock, but, don't purchase in bulk or save that last little bit in the bottle
for next season. Buy as you go, in order to always have a fresh batch, or, make your
own.
Note: This recipe will leave a white nose "lifeguard style."
1 Tbs zinc oxide
1 1/2 tsp light sesame oil
1 Tbs rosewater
Mix together the zinc oxide and sesame oil. Heat the mixture gently, using a double
boiler, and stir well to mix. Remove from heat and slowly add the rosewater, as you
continue stirring. Allow to cool completely, and store in a clean container with a tight lid,
in the fridge. Yield: 2 oz. Keeps: Up to 10 days in the fridge.
*****************************************************************
Southern buttermilk facial Recipe
Submitted By:
Tracy of Columbus, GA
Summary:
This mask always leaves my face feeling soft and rehydrated. Especially in the
winter.
Ingredients:
3 Tablespoons fresh buttermilk
2 1/2 teaspoons oatflour
For an extra hydrating and skin loving boost to this formula, add flaxseed oil or
carrotseed oil
Instructions:
Mix buttermilk and oatflour together. Apply to your face and let dry. Rinse with
lukewarm water and pat dry.
****************************************************************
FOOT SOAK RECIPES
Honey Cleanser
This mild organic cleanser is terrific for feet because of its natural moisturizing and
antibacterial qualities. Wet your foot and apply 1 tablespoon organic clover honey to
a warm, wet washcloth rub entire foot thoroughly, being sure to get between all toes
and around toenails. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Foot Soaks Foot soaks are an excellent way to care for the skin as well as add to
your total sense of well being. They soften dry skin and energize tired feet. After
soaking, moisturize with a good organic moisturizer (see our article on organic
moisturizer recipes if you would like to make your own).
Citrus Scrub
Mix 1 cup Epsom Salt, 3 teaspoons organic olive oil and the juice of one small lemon.
Immediately massage soles of feet (don’t give the Epsom Salt time to dissolve),
giving extra attention to any areas of thick skin. Rinse with warm water.
Process almonds in a blender or coffee grinder until finely ground. Set aside. In the
same blender, pulse your oatmeal until of the same consistency. In a bowl, combine
ground oatmeal, cocoa butter, honey and ground almonds. Rub into your clean feet,
step into cotton socks, and leave on overnight. The next morning, remove the socks
and rinse feet in cool water. Pat dry. We recommend you not remove the socks until
you're standing in the tub!
******************************************************************
Beauty Water Recipe
Submitted By:
Simohn of Santa Fe, NM
Summary:
Water applied with cotton or hands
Ingredients:
1 egg white
1 T glycerin or honey
1 1/2 tsp vodka or witch hazel
2 drops lemon essential oil
2 drops lavender essential oil
2 drops thyme essential oil
Instructions:
Mix together all ingredients. Place in a clean container and keep in the refrigerator.
At night before retiring, pour a tsp. in the palm of your hand or on cotton ball and
rub over face and neck, letting it dry. If desired, in the morning, an hour before
bathing, repeat the operation, also letting the liquid dry.
Regular use of this preperation for four weeks will give the skin an extraordinary
beauty and freshness.
***********************************************************
Coconut Sugar Body Polish Recipe
Submitted By:
Angelica of Inglewood, CA
Summary:
Body Polish
Ingredients:
3/4 of cup of sugar
1/4 cup of grated coconut
1/4 cup of coconut milk powder
1/4 to 1/3 cup of Sweet Almond Oil
Coconut fragrance oil
Instructions:
Combine all dry ingredients and blend evenly. Add Sweet Almond oil a little at a time
until sugar mixture is moist. Add a few drop of fragrance until you are satisfied with
the fragrance strength. You can also add pineapple and/or strawberry fragrance oil
for a nice tropical blend. Makes about 8oz.
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Homemade Cleansing Creams, Milks and Scrubs
1) Apricot Butter Cold Cream (For Dry Skin)
10 oz apricot kernel oil
2 oz cocoa butter
2 oz beeswax
Heat all in top of double boiler until wax and butter are melted. Beat with a wooden
spoon until smooth and cooled. Transfer to jars, cap and refrigerate.
2) Buttermilk and Fennel Cleansing Milk (For Oily Skin)
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 Tbsp crushed fennel seeds
Heat the milk and fennel seeds in top of double boiler for 30 minutes. Turn off heat,
let steep for 2 hours. Strain, cool, pour into bottle and refrigerate. Keeps for 2
weeks.
3) Chamomile Cleansing Milk (For Dry and Sensitive Skin)
1/4 cup cream
1/4 cup milk
2 Tbsp chamomile flowers, fresh or dried
Simmer ingredients in top of a double boiler for about 30 minutes, do not allow milk
to boil. Turn off heat and let sit for about 2 hours, strain. Keep refrigerated. Apply
with cotton balls to the face. Variations: Use elderflowers, sweet violets or lime
blossoms in place of chamomile
4) Cornmeal Cleanser (for Oily Skin)
Castile soap
1 Tsp Cornmeal
Wet face. Pour a little castile soap into the palm of your hand, add cornmeal. Mix
meal and soap into a lather, wash face, being careful to avoid the delicate skin
around the eyes.
5) Honey Cleanser (For Dry Skin)
Castile soap
1 Tsp Honey
Wet face. Pour a little castile soap into the palm of your hand, add honey. Mix honey
and soap into a lather, wash face.
6) Honey Almond Scrub
2 Tbsp almonds
2 tsp milk
1/2 tsp flour
1/2 tsp honey
Grind almonds in a blender. Add milk, flour and honey, mixing until a thick paste is
formed. Rub into skin, rinse with warm water followed by the pH balancer.
7) Honey 'n Oats Scrub
1/2 cup uncooked oatmeal
1 Tbsp honey
1 Tbsp cider vinegar
1 tsp ground almonds
Moisten face with a warm washcloth then apply mixture to face avoiding the
sensitive area around the eyes. Let mixture dry, then remove with a warm, damp
washcloth.
8) Lemon Cleansing Cream (For Oily Skin)
1 Tbsp beeswax
1 1/2 Tbsp Unpetroleum Jelly (available in natural foods stores)
3 Tbsp jojoba oil
1 Tbsp witch hazel
1 Tbsp strained lemon juice
1/8 tsp borax
6 drops essential oil of lemon
Melt beeswax and unpetroleum jelly over low heat. Add warmed jojoba oil to wax
and jelly mixture, blending for 3-5 minutes. Mix witch hazel and lemon juice, warm
gently, mix in borax until dissolved. Slowly add this to the wax mixture, beating until
cool and creamy. After completely cooled, add lemon oil, spoon into clean jar.
9) Milk and Honey Cleanser:
Mix 1 tsp warm honey with 1 tablespoon milk or cream. This recipe should be
prepared fresh each time.
10) Peppermint Patty Scrub: (For Oily Skin)
2 cup rolled oats
1 cup almonds
2 tsp dried lavender
2 tsp dried peppermint
2 cup white cosmetic clay
Grind oats, almonds and herbs to a very fine powder in blender or with a mortar and
pestle. Mix ground herbs with clay, store in covered container. To use: mix 1 heaping
tsp of mixture with water to make a paste. Massage into skin then rinse well with
warm water.
11) Sesame Oil Cleanser: (For Dry Skin)
Apply sesame oil to face and neck. Remove oil and makeup with a washcloth that
has been soaked in hot water and wrung out. Finish with a rinse of the pH Balancer.
12) Sweet Butter Cleansing Cream: (For Dry Skin)
Whip sweet, unsalted butter, transfer to container with a tid lid. May be stored at
room temperature away from heat sources or refrigerate.
Cleansing Grains
1) Almond Cleanser
Grind almonds to a fine powder in a blender. Wet face then rub on almond powder.
Rinse. Store powder in a tighly sealed container.
2) Orange & Oats Scrubbing Grains
1 cup dried orange peel
1 cup cooked oatmeal
1 cup almonds
Place peels, oats, and almonds in food processor, blend until mixture is a fine
powder. Place some in the palm of your hand and moisten with a few drops of warm
water. Rub paste onto face with a gentle circular motion. Rinse with warm water.
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Home spa recipes
Olive oil hand soak
All you need is ½ cup of warmed olive oil (not hot, be careful!) and a dish where you
can place both your hands. Dip them in warm olive oil and let them soak in all the
wonderful fats olive oil has to give. This will help moisturize and revive your hands,
and help the nails, too.
Or, try Potato hand masque
Peel and cook 2 larger potatoes. Mash them and add a bit of butter (or olive oil) and
a capsule of Vitamin E. Apply on the hands and let it dry. Rinse off with luke warm
water.
The honey based facial scrub is a perfect way to cleanse your face. Not only does
it open clogged pores, honey has a high antibacterial power that will leave your face
smooth and bacteria free. Ingredients:
1 teaspoon of honey
2 teaspoons of finely ground almonds (not salted ones, just regular)
1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice
Gently rub the face, don't press too hard, you'll scratch yourself :)
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