Body Butter Duo by The Body Shop

Body Butter Duo will appear in the Body Shop stores in May, 2011. And it is worth introducing to the fans of the brand, as well as to those who will join in, especially after such a great novelty.

Body Butter is the visit card of the British Body Shop brand. This is, indeed, one of the most noticeable brand products. Every three seconds, Body Shop oil is believed to be sold somewhere in the world. So what makes the new product so special?

This product is “two in one”. In the box, you will find two sections in the form of yin and yang, and a separate product in each. In fact, the oil will be of one kind: vanilla, rose and so on. But in each section there will be different types of texture and consistency for different skin areas.

The first section contains soft butter which many of us are accustomed to using after shower to soften and moisturize the body. In another section one can find solid oil, almost like a balm for a few rough and problem skin areas: knees, elbows, and heels.

Most of us have mixed skin with drier and normal areas. Therefore, the new Body Butter Duo fully meets the needs of the skin.

It offers various tastes: vanilla, strawberry, mango, and floral tastes. The price is about 18 euros. We are looking forward to the premiere scheduled for May 5.

Paraffin Wax Treatment

The most exclusive spas charge top dollar for this foot-loving paraffin wax treatment.

1. Melt 4 bars of paraffin wax (available at grocery and hardware stores) in the microwave oven.

2. Massage in a rich moisturizer.

3. Dip one foot into warm paraffin 3 times, pausing between layers to allow them to dry.

4. Wrap each foot with plastic wrap tight enough to make an airtight seal. This will help the moisturizer to penetrate.

5. Let set for twenty minutes.

6. Remove wrap and peel off the wax.

HINT: Also use this treatment on hands.

Shea Cream

Shea Cream is a rich concoction made with liquid shea butter. Unlike typical shea butter, liquid shea butter is not solid at room temperature. Instead, it''s more the consistency of jojoba oil, and it makes an ultra-thick cream all its own. This Shea Cream is unscented for simplicity, but you can add a total of about 25 drops of essential or fragrance oil of your choice for scent.

Ingredients:

• 26 grams liquid shea butter
• 4 grams honey
• 2 grams stearic acid
• 60 grams distilled water
• 1/4 teaspoon borax
• 1/8 teaspoon xanthan gum

Blending Procedure:

• Combine the liquid shea butter and stearic acid in a large heat proof (I use Pyrex) glass measuring cup with a pour spout. Place the mixture in a hot water bath until the stearic acid is completely melted. Remove from heat. Stir to combine the ingredients. Set aside.
• In a separate Pyrex cup, combine the water, borax, honey and xanthan gum. Place the mixture in a hot water bath for about 10 minutes to warm, then stir until the borax and honey dissolves completely. Remove from heat.
• Stir the oils/waxes together to make sure they are evenly combined.
• In the separate container, stir the water ingredients to make sure they are evenly combined.
• Begin stirring the oil/wax mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed and add the water mixture as you stir. You will see the mixture begin to thicken as you blend it. Continue mixing until until Hula Honey Cream is thick and rich. It should take about 5 minutes, maybe a little less, for the mixture to fully form. Pour into clean jars and allow to cool before capping and labeling.
• The shelf life of this product is about 1 to 3 weeks without a preservative and unpreserved, will last the longest if kept refrigerated between uses. You can extend the shelf by adding the preservative of your choice.

Mouthwash

Using a scope and magic mouthwash daily helps keep your gums healthy and your breath smelling fresh. This daily ritual also helps prevent the build up of plaque on your teeth. Alongside the regular brushing of your teeth with toothpaste and flossing between the teeth, gargles and scope mouthwash form an essential part of your daily mouth hygienic routine.

Certain essential oils are very effective in keeping your gums in tip top condition. Myrrh is traditionally used in toothpaste and scope mouthwash as it quickly heals gum disorder and heals mouth ulcers. Fennel is also recommended for use in gargles and scope mouthwash as it helps clear gum infection and keeps the mouth smelling fresh and sweet. Alongside peppermint, fennel helps counteract the bitterness of myrrh.

As the following homemade mouthwash contain essential oils, like the scope mouthwash contains, remember to spit them out after rinsing your mouth.

Myrrh and Mint Mouthwash works as scope or like a magic mouthwash ones.

This mouthwash is especially effective if you are having trouble with your gums bleeding or tend to develop mouth ulcers. The action of the mouthwash is reinforced by using tincture of myrrh as a direct topical application. Put a drop or two of tincture of myrrh on your fingertip and rub over effective area. It will sting briefly and taste very bitter but the healing effect is well worth it, like the magic one.

Ingredients in Myrrh and Mint Mouthwash.

6 tb sp (90ml) high proof brandy or vodka, 10 drops myrrh, 10 drops peppermint, 2 drops lemon, 1 drop thyme.

Preparation of Myrrh and Mint Mouthwash.

1. Pour the brandy or vodka into a 4 oz (100ml) glass bottle. Carefully add the essential oils one by one. Shake the bottle vigorously to dissolve the oils.
2. Label the bottle and the mouthwash is ready to use. To make one dose of mouthwash, add two or three teaspoons of mouthwash to half a small glass of warm water and stir well.
3. Now you can use your homemade mouthwash.

Fennel Fresh Mouthwash like a scope mouthwash.

The clean, fresh, herbal aroma of fennel is balanced with the fruity zing of grapefruit in this tangy mouthwash. Fennel also has a slight aniseed flavor, making it pleasant to use in a mouthwash as well as keeping your mouth and gums clean and healthy.

Ingredients in Fennel Fresh Mouthwash.

6 tb sp (90ml) high proof brandy or vodka, 10 drops fennel, 10 drops grapefruit, 2 drops thyme, 1 drop chamomile.

Preparation of Fennel Fresh Mouthwash.

1. Pour the brandy or vodka into a 4 oz (100ml) glass bottle. Carefully add the essential oils one by one. Shake the bottle vigorously to dissolve the oils.
2. Label the bottle and the mouthwash is ready to use. To make one dose of mouthwash, add two or three teaspoons of mouthwash to half a small glass of warm water and stir well.
3. Now you can use your homemade mouthwash.

All above homemade mouthwash are good for your gum and teeth. These homemade mouthwash are prevent the teeth from gum disease and bad breath. They works like the scope or magic mouthwash works .

Homemade Body & Hand Lotion

Lotion are moisturizer for the body. Lotions are thinner than face creams, so they spread easily over the larger areas of the body. easy to apply, they are absorbed quickly by the skin. Boy lotion are valuable in the summer when the sun has dried the skin, especially if you have been sunbathing. Here you find some best homemade hand lotion recipe which can also useful for your body. These homemade lotion is effective and best for your body because you know that what are the ingredients in the lotion.

The following are Homemade Lotion Recipes

• Homemade hand lotion by Egg and Almond nourisher

In winter your hands need extra nourishment . Try this excellent nourishment for your hands :-

1. Take one egg. Two tablespoons of almond oil. One tablespoon rose water.
2. Beat all the ingredients well. Take half teaspoon tincture benzoin, add drop by drop, mixing well.
3. Apply this lotion on your hands. Leave it on for at least 2 hours. Wash off.
4. An excellent luxury nourishment for your hands.

• Rose petal homemade hand lotion recipe

1. 1/3 cup glycerin and 2/3 cup rose water. Combine both ingredients.
2. Shake well and pour in a bottle. Store in a cool, dry place.
3. Use several times a day to massage into your hands. Makes the hands soft. It is an ideal softener during winter months.

• Milk is the best homemade hand lotion

1. Warm 2 cups of milk and pour into a bowl.
2. Add a teaspoonful of salt and stir.
3. Soak hand in warm milk and salt solution.
4. Keep massaging and rubbing around the knuckles and finger joints.
5. Wash off after 10 - 15 mintues. This exfoliates and nourishes your hand.

• Banana and Honey homemade hand lotion.

1. One banana, one teaspoon honey, juice of one lemon, one table spoon butter or margarine.
2. Mash the banana and add to it the honey, lime juice and butter.
3. Blend well together and put it in a container.
4. Apply well, massaging well with firm strokes into your hand.
5. Leave on for 2 hours, then wash off.
6. The Hands become very soft and smooth.

• Homemade hand lotion by Honey and Orange juice

1. Half cup orange juice, one tablespoon honey.
2. Mix well together and then rub into your hand and nails.
3. Leave it on for 10 mintues, Rinse off.
4. This is an ideal solution for dry, rough and chapped hands.

• By Curd we can make homemade lotion for the tan on your hands

1. Take one cup of curd, and to it add a little lime juice.
2. Beat it up and pour into bowl.
3. Dip your hands into it, all the time massaging and rubbing around the knuckles and finger joints.
4. After 10 mintues wash off with plain water.
5. This is excellent for sunburned hands or those that have been exposed to chemicals and detergents.
6. It acts as a balm, and also lightens the tan on your hands.

• Light Homemade Body Lotion recipe with Jasmine and Bergamot.

This homemade lotion is ideal to use in the winter months as an all over body lotion. The fragrance is floral and uplifting, and the light lotion is easily and quickly absorbed by the skin.

Ingredients in this homemade lotion recipe.

6 tb sp (100ml) light lotion base, 1 tsp (5ml) cornflower water, 4 tb sp (50ml) oat plant milk, 15 drops jasmine, 5 drops petitgrain, 10 drops bergamot.

Making of homemade lotion .

1. Pour the lotion base into a 8 or 10 oz (200 or 250 ml) glass bottle.
2. Pour the cornflower water into the bottle, put on the cap and shake vigorously to thoroughly mix the ingredients. Then pour in the oat plant milk and shake well.
3. Carefully add the essential oils into the bottle, one by one then put on the cap and shake vigorously.
4. Label the bottle and the homemade light body lotion with jasmine and bergamot is ready to use.

• After sun Homemade Body lotion.

This homemade lotion is also good for dry and sensitive skin in addition to use after sunbathing. After the skin has been exposed to the sun, it tends to soak up lotion very quickly.If your skin needs more lotion after one application, use plain body lotion base and return to using the after sun lotion the following day.

Ingredients in after sun homemade lotion recipe.

3/4 cup (150ml) rich lotion base, 1 tsp (5ml) rose water, 1 tsp (5ml) infused carrot seed oil, 10 drops chamomile, 5 drops neroli, 5 drops lavender, 5 drops sandalwood, 5 drops frankincense.

Making of After sun Homemade Body lotion.

1. Pour the lotion base into a 8 or 10 oz (200 or 250 ml) glass bottle.
2. Pour the rosewater into the bottle, put on the cap and shake vigorously to thoroughly mix the ingredients. Then pour in the carrot oil and shake well.
3. Carefully add the essential oils into the bottle, one by one then put on the cap and shake vigorously.
4. Label the bottle and the After sun Homemade Body lotion is now ready to use.

• Rich Homemade Body Lotion with Avocado oil.

Powerful and revitalizing essential oils combine with a rich lotion base and avocado oil to make an effective and luxurious body lotion. The fragrance is sumptuous and exotic and this is a wonderful lotion to use after an evening bath for a romantic evening. This lotion is suitable for all skin types and works especially well on mature and dry skin.

Ingredients in Rich Homemade Body Lotion with Avocado oil.

3/4 cup (150ml) rich lotion base, 1 teaspoon monoi de tahiti, tsp (5ml) rose water 1 tsp (5ml) avocado oil, 10 drops patchouli, 5 drops neroli, 5 drops rose, 5 drops vanilla, 5 drops orange.

Making of Rich Homemade Body Lotion with Avocado oil.

1. Pour the lotion base into a 8 or 10 oz (200 or 250 ml) glass bottle. Warm the bottle in a mug of hot water. Melt the Monoi de Tahiti in a small dish in the microwave and add to the bottle. Shake well.
2. Pour the rosewater into the bottle, put on the cap and shake vigorously to thoroughly mix the ingredients. Then add the avocado oil and shake well.
3. Carefully add the essential oils into the bottle, one by one then put on the cap and shake vigorously.
4. Label the bottle and the Rich Homemade Body Lotion with Avocado oil. is now ready to use.

All above are the best natural homemade lotions which is best for your skin.

Lip Balm

Lip balm are indispensable in the winter to avoid sore, chapped lips. Although lipsticks can protect your lips to some extent, many people prefer lip balm, as they usually made with out the use of animal fats. It also means you can protect your lip without coloring them as well. Home made lip balm Recipe are really effective.

Using a natural, organic base and infused oils, essential oils, and beeswax, you can create nourishing lip balm that will protect your lips against the drying effect of the cold, wind and central heating.

Making your own natural lip balm is a great gift idea and a fun way to personalize your cosmetics. Here are best homemade Lip Balm Recipe to Protect your lips from drying.

Aniseed and Lemon Homemade Lip Balm Recipe

This is a tangy, refreshing lip balm that leaves a fresh, clean taste on your lips. The base of almond and apricot oils gently lubricates and moisturizer the lips, while the vitamins E is good for regenerating the lips delicate skin.

Ingredients in Aniseed and Lemon Lip Balm Recipe

5 drops yellow color base (see preparation step 1), 2 tb sp (30ml) calendula oil, 4 tb sp (50ml) sweet almond oil, 2 tb sp (25ml) apricot kernel oil, 1 drop liquid honey, 1 tb sp (12gm) beeswax pellets, 2 vitamin E capsules, 2 drops aniseed, 3 drops lemon.

Preparation of Aniseed and Lemon Lip Balm Recipe

1. Make the yellow color base by adding one teaspoon of ground turmeric to one tablespoon of sunflower oil in a small cup. Heat over boiling water or in a microwave until it, bubbles, then remove from heat and pour into a dropper bottle.
2. Prepare a double boiler (one saucepan that fits inside another) by filling the bottom half with hot water and heating to a gentle simmer.
3. Measure out the base oils, one by one, and pour into the top half of the boiler.
4. Add the honey, beeswax pellets, and yellow color base. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.
5. As the beeswax is melting, prick open the vitamin E capsules and squeeze the contents into the oils.
6. Once the beeswax has fully melted remove from the heat. Drop in the aniseed and lemon and stir to mix them in thoroughly.
7. Pour into small glass jars or ceramic pots, and let cool for half an hour or until set. The lip balm is ready to use.

Tip :The yellow color base gives the impression of lemon, but you could use a brown color base if you prefer, as this gives the impression of aniseed. Alternatively, you can omit the color altogether in this Lip Balm Recipe

Honey and Rose Homemade Lip Balm Recipe

The delicate smell of roses combines with the sweetness of honey to make a truly sc and luxurious lip balm. The use of heating calendula oil soothes and heals chapped lips, while the rose hip oil keeps the lips smooth and moisturized.

Ingredients in Honey and Rose Lip Balm Recipe

5 drops red color base (see preparation step 1),1 tb sp (15ml) rose hip seed oil, 1 tb sp (15ml) calendula oil, 5 td sp (75ml) sweet almond oil, 1 drop liquid honey, 1 tb sp (12 gm) beeswax pellets, 2 vitamins E capsules, 5 drops rose.

Preparation of Honey and Rose Lip Balm Recipe

1. Make the red color base by adding one teaspoon of ground alkanet root to one tablespoon of sunflower oil in a small cup. Heat over boiling water or in a microwave until it bubbles, then remove from heat and pour into a dropper bottle.
2. Prepare a double boiler (one saucepan that fits inside another) by filling the bottom half with hot water and heating to a gentle simmer.
3. Measure out the base oils, one by one, and pour into the top half of the boiler.
4. Add the honey, beeswax pellets, and red color base. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.
5. As the beeswax is melting, prick open the vitamin E capsules and squeeze the contents into the oils.
6. Once the beeswax has fully melted remove from the heat. Drop in the rose and stir to mix them in thoroughly.
7. Pour into small glass jars or ceramic pots, and let cool for half an hour or until set. The lip balm is ready to use.

Tip:The red base color gives the honey and Rose Lip Balm a soft, peachy-pink tone. You can omit this altogether if you prefer an uncolored lip balm, or increase the number of drops to achieve a deeper shade of color.

Homemade Moisturizer

• Mix 1 cup liquid oil,such as avocado almond, with 1/2 cup beeswax.
• Place over low heat until the beeswax melts, remove from the heat, and whisk until cool.

Add the content of three capsules of Vitamins E and a few drops of pure essential oil for aroma (lavender, sandalwood, rose, whatever you fancy), pour into a sterile jar, and store in a dark cool place.

Homemade moisturizer for normal skin.

• Take a rose water get 1 cup of water and 1/2 cup of fresh rose petals and in a saucepan heat the water and rose petals just until boiling. then cool it and strain out the petals and add glycerin and aloe vera juice. store this in the refrigerator, now your homemade moisturizer is ready to use.

Jojoba homemade moisturizer for normal skin

Ingredients in jojoba homemade moisturizer

• 6 tablespoons jojoba oil
• 1 tablespoon vitamin E oil
• 2 tablespoons grated beeswax
• 1 tablespoon pure Aloe Vera
• 2 tablespoons rose water
• 8 drops sandalwood essential oil, & 4 drops rose essential oil.

Preparation of jojoba homemade moisturizer for normal skin

• Combine jojoba oil, vitamin E oil and beeswax in a small bowl.
• Place bowl in a shallow pan of boiling water and heat, stirring occasionally until the wax melts. Remove the bowl and let cool to room temperature. It will thicken and become cloudy as it cools.
• In a blender or small food processor combine Aloe Vera and rose water. Add the cooled oil and blend on high until it becomes thick and cloudy.
• Add sandalwood and rose essential oils and blend mixture into colored glass jar.
• Apply a very small amount to your face every evening instead of your usual moisturizer. If you have very dry skin you may wish to use this also in the morning.

Homemade Moisturizer for Oily, acne-prone skin

1. Mix 1-1/2 teaspoons honey, the juice from 1/2 of a lemon, and 3-tablespoon yoghurt. Stir in 1 whipped egg white. Apply to face and let set about 15 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water.
2. Combine 2 tablespoons of ground almonds with two tablespoons of olive oil, apply to face in a gentle, circular motion, rinse well, pat dry and add moisturizer.

Homemade Face Masks

Homemade face masks recipe are fun but messy, so make sure you have plenty of old towels around. Also, before you start, decide where you will rest once the masks is applied. Lying down is the best, as it stops the mask from slipping off the face. You can make eye pads to cover your eyes. Either soak cotton pads in rose water or couple of cooled, used chamomile tea bags and use these instead.

Below are some efficient homemade face masks that you can make and use in minutes, and will make your skin glow from the inside, so ahead and try one of the Homemade face masks.

Homemade Clay Face Masks of Sandalwood.

• Mix two teaspoons of sandalwood powder and two teaspoons of water to obtain a smooth paste. Apply to your face, avoiding the eye and lip area.
• Let the mask dry (about 15-20 minutes).
• Rinse with warm water, using fingertips to gently loosen the mask. Do not scrub skin while removing - especially if you have acne - as it will aggravate troubled spots.
• Once the mask is removed, splash face with cold water to tighten pores. Your skin will be left feeling soft, smooth and refreshed.

Homemade Face masks for Normal Skin.

Avocado Enriching Face Masks

This is one of the simplest face masks to make as it only has one ingredient! Avocado is very nourishing for the skin, and this mask is especially good for mature, wrinkled and dry skin, although it is suitable for all skin types. Make sure you use a ripe, fresh, organic avocado for the best effect.

Ingredients in Homemade Avocado Enriching Face Mask.

1 very ripe, organic avocado.

How to make Homemade Avocado Enriching Face Mask.

1. Peel the avocado and remove the stone. Chop up the avocado and put it in a small glass bowl.
2. Using a fork, mash the avocado to a creamy pulp, making sure you break down any lumps.
3. Apply the avocado mask immediately to a cleansed face, and rest for ten minutes.
4. Finally, wash off the mask with warm water apply a toner and moisturizer.

Homemade Face masks for Dry Skin.

Honey and Almond Moisturizing Homemade Face Masks

The combination of honey and ground almonds makes this smell good enough to eat! Although it feels very sticky, and takes a lot of washing off, this nonetheless a wonderful face mask, and worth the effort. The honey and almond moisturizing face mask is particularly good for mature, sensitive, or dry skin, but is suitable for all skin types.

Ingredients in Honey and Almond Moisturizing Homemade Face Mask.

1 large tsp honey, 1 tb sp ground almonds, Enough warm water to mix to a spread able paste.

How to make Honey and Almond Moisturizing Homemade Face Mask.

1. Warm the honey in a small bowl immersed in hot water until it becomes liquid.
2. Put the ground almonds into another small bowl. Add the melted honey and mix well, adding a little warm water to obtain a spread able consistency.
3. Immediately apply the mask to a cleansed face and rest for ten to fifteen minutes.
4. Finally, was off the mask with water and apply a toner and moisturizer.

Homemade Face masks for Sensitive skin

Ingredients in Chamomile and Apricot Homemade Face Mask.

40 ml Chamomile Water, 25 ml Spring Water, 10 dr Paraben, 75g/ml Green Clay, 10 ml Apricot Kernel Oil 1 or Roman Chamomile.

How to make Chamomile and Apricot Homemade Face Mask.

1. Pour the water into a bowl and add the drops of Paraben.
2. Sprinkle the green clay powder over and allow it to sink into the water without stirring.
3. Stirring can begin when the uppermost layer of Clay powder has begun to absorb the water.
4. Add the all other ingredients now.
5. Apply the mask to a cleansed face and rest for ten to fifteen minutes.
6. Finally, wash off the mask with warm water.

Homemade Face masks for all skin.

Yogurt and Oatmeal Deep Cleansing Homemade Face Masks

Yogurt has been used for centuries for its health giving properties. Here, live, organic yogurt is mixed with finely ground oatmeal and a little honey for an all purpose face mask. This face mask is suited to all skin types, and is both cleansing and rejuvenating. If you have any doubt about which face mask to use, this is the one to go for.

Ingredients in Yogurt and Oatmeal Deep Cleansing

1 tb sp finely ground oatmeal, 1 tb sp live, organic yogurt, 1 small tsp honey.

How to make Yogurt and Oatmeal Deep Cleansing

1. Place the oatmeal in a bowl. Add the yogurt and mix to a spread able consistency.
2. Warm the honey in a small glass bowl. Pour into the yogurt and oatmeal mixture and blend the ingredients thoroughly.
3. Immediately apply the yogurt and oatmeal mask to a cleansed face and rest for ten to fifteen minutes.
4. Finally, wash off the mask with warm water and apply a toner and moisturizer.

Homemade Face masks for Oily Skin

Green Clay Purifying Homemade Face Masks

Green clay is also known as bentonite, and is the most commonly used clay in the face masks. It has a slippery feel and can absorb large quantities of the water. This mask is used to draw out excess sebum, toxins, and dirt from deep down the skin and is best suited to oily skin. Green clay stabilizes the production of sebum and deeply cleanses the skin.

Ingredients in Green Clay Purifying Homemade Face mask

1 tsp apricot Kernel oil, 2 drops palma rosa, 1 tb sp green clay, Enough warm water to mix to a spread able paste.

How to make Green Clay Purifying Homemade Face mask

1. Mix the apricot oil and the palma rosa together in small dish.
2. Put the green clay in a small bowl. Add the apricot oil mixture and stir. Add just enough warm water to make a spread able paste, and work the mixture thoroughly to incorporate all the ingredients.
3. Immediately apply the mask to a cleansed face and rest for ten to fifteen minutes. The mask will tighten slightly as the water evaporates and may feel a little strange. Don't worry; it's just the mask doing it's work.
4. Finally, wash off the mask with warm water and apply a toner and moisturizer.

This above green clay face mask is best for oily skin if you don't like to make at home, you can go for ZIRH Clay face mask. It works wonder for oily skin

The above Homemade face masks Recipe are natural and very Good for your face and will make your skin glow from the inside, so ahead and try one of the Homemade face masks.

Homemade Soap Making

There are no artificial chemicals in the homemade soap and that really is the first step in being chemical-free. The ingredients are simple and there are only a few tools involved. You will need a wooden spoon; a wide-mouth, glass, half-gallon jar; several flat containers that you can line with plastic wrap (you could use several shoe boxes if desired); an enamel or iron pot in which to "cook" the soap; and a photography or dairy thermometer. The temperatUre is important when making soap, so get a good thermometer that registers as low as 95-98 degrees.

There are several rules to follow when making your soap:

1. Get your containers ready by either greasing them or lining them with plastic wrap. Do this first so that they are ready when needed.
2. Never use aluminum to prepare your soap. Always use enamel, stainless steel, or iron containers. You use the wide-mouth glass container to mix your lye solution in, but you will need a container of enamel or iron to "cook" your soap.
3. Never allow your curing soap to sit in a drafty area as this will make your finished product hard and,flinty. I cover mine with several thicknesses of newspaper and then cover with a folded blanket for several days.
4. Make sure your molds are at least 11/2to 2 inches thick. If the mold is too thin, it will cause the soap to curl. If it is too thick, it will make the soap too big and it will be difficult to hold. To add scent to your soap, add the scented oil right before you pour the soap into your molds. Any of the scented oils will do. I like to use the vanilla scent for my own personal use, but any that you prefer will do great. Try using a fruity or flower scent. Sometimes kids like the smell of peppermint and this works great too.
   You will need to add about 2 tablespoons of the scented oil to each batch. Add more if stronger scent is desired. The scented oils that you add can be of help in treating skin disorders. Lavender oil is an excellent astringent. Adding olive or almond oil is great for dry skin. Thyme oil acts as a deodorant aid. If you prefer, you don't need to add any oils. The plain soap alone is great for your skin because it has no artificial additives in it.
5. When adding the lye to the cold water, please do so slowly and carefully. I never would make it when the kids were around because I was afraid that they would get into the solution when my back was tUrned. I have since learned that kittens are very curious and you need to watch your pets when you make it. I had a very close call with one of my kittens, so please take certain precautions. Wear rubber gloves and do not breathe in the fumes. The mixture will heat up when you are pouring the lye in the water so be sure to use very cold water. Stir very slowly to avoid splattering and burning yourself. The splatters will also cause damage to countertops so you may want to do this procedure outdoors. Making the soap outdoors will also cut down on the fumes.
6. If you happen to splash any of the solution on your skin, rinse off immediately with water and then rinse the area with vinegar. Vinegar will neutralize the lye some what. Continue stirring until the lye crystals are completely dissolved. You will need to place the jar in a pan (or sink) filled with cold water to bring, the temperature of the lye solution back down to 90-95 degrees. After that temperature is reached, slowly add the lye solution to the oil.

Ways to make your Homemade soaps more attractive

In addition to carving, there are many ways to make your soaps more attractive. You can make "soap on a rope" by forming the soap around a knotted cord. To make the soap prettier, select a glass with an attractive design on the bottom and press the bottom of the glass into the soap.

Wrap the seasoned soap in pretty tissue paper, tie with a bright cord or ribbon, and then store it or give it as gifts. I like to line a small' box with tissue paper and place three to a box. It's handy to have around if you need to unexpectedly give a gift. If you plan on using your own herbs to make the soap, you would need to make a strong tea from the herb desired and cool it completely after straining. You can make it the night before and store in the refrigerator overnight. It will not make as strong a scent as the scented oils will. And the scent does disappear completely while you are using the soap.

For a coarser texture, try adding cornmeal or oatmeal that has been ground in the food processor, or grains of pumice to the mixture. This is good for people working on cars or others who need a grainy soap to remove oils from their hands. Try adding powdered herbs or spices to the soap mixture. This creates interesting colors and textures. Soap making can be fun. If you keep records of your soap making recipes, you will be able to recreate a good idea.

To create a wonderful gift for yourself or others, put together a basket with homemade soap, a bath salt or oil mixture, and then add a luffa sponge that you have grown yourself. Sources to purchase the seeds for luff a sponges are as close as your favorite seed company or store.

Luffas are a relative of the squash family and would need a trellis to climb on. The fruit is fast-growing and great to use. Right before the autumn rains start, bring the luffa indoors to dry. You might want to wipe the outer gourd with a weak bleach solution to keep black spots from forming on the outer shell. When completely dry, soak the gourd in warm water overnight so the shell will be easy to peel away. If you wish to whiten the fIber of the sponge, soak the gourd in a weak bleach solution. This will also soften the outer shell.

To soften the sponges, use them for household tasks, such as wiping down counter tops or scrubbing out sinks. When the sponge has been softened by this hard work, it will be soft enough to use for your bath. These sponges last forever and you need never buy another sponge. They are a handy gift from mother nature, if we but take the time to plant them.

Homemade Soap

This recipe is for the basic soap. To make your lye solution, add 11/2cups of lye to 5 cups of cold water in your wide-mouth jar, stirring until your lye crystals are completely dissolved. The lye heats the water up. Place jar in cold water to bring the temperature down to about 90-95 degrees. In an enamel pan, slowly melt 6 pounds of lard. Place that enamel container in cold water and bring the temperature down to about 120-130 degrees.

When temperatures for both solutions are right, slowly add the lye solution to the melted lard, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. Keep stirring continuously for about 30 minutes. Add the scented oil and pour into greased molds. Cool overnight.

If you use just one container for a mold instead of individual molds, you need to cut the soap into bars the next morning. Remove the soap from the mold after several days. Age the soap for about 2 weeks before using. Remember that aging only improves your soap.

Miracle Homemade Soap Recipe

This recipe is great for dry skin. It lathers up wonderfully. I call it my miracle soap because I use it to wash my hair with too and it is great for the skin. This soap does not get hard fast, so don't feel that you have failed if it does not harden quickly. The temperature is important for this recipe and so are the measurements and weights. You might fail if either is incorrect. Make sure you have an accurate scale to weigh your ingredients. If you don't have one, you need to add one to your equipment list. This recipe makes about 7 pounds of soap.

Ingredients needed for miracle natural homemade soap are

• 101/4 ounces of lye crystals
• 4 cups cold water
• 27 ounces of coconut oil
• 34 ounces of olive oil
• 3 cups of vegetable shortening (not lard or butter or margarine) 1 tablespoon scented oil
• 1 wide-mouth jar
• 1 enamel or stainless steel pan
• 1 wooden spoon

Measure 101/4 ounces of lye in a plastic container. Slowly and cautiously add the lye to 4 cups of cold water in the wide-mouth jar. Stir until lye crystals are completely dissolved. Place the jar in a shallow pan of cold water to start bringing the temperature of the lye water down between 95-98 degrees. The temperature cannot be hotter or colder than this for the recipe. Use the thermometer to continue taking the temperature until the proper temperature is reached.

This cooling process takes a little time, so place your shortening in the enamel pan and melt that. Add the olive oil and the coconut oil after you have melted the shortening. You may need to place this in cold water to bring the temperature to between 95-98 degrees. If either solution is too hot or too cold, you may have to heat it up or cool it down to proper temperatures. When both solutions are ready, slowly add the lye solution to the oils in a steady stream, stirring constantly.

Keep stirring until the mixture traces. This means that the spoon lifted from the soap mixture will be able to trace a design on the creamy soap. This design will stay visible for several seconds before disappearing. If you have stirred for about 30 minutes and the soap does not trace well, it is still able to be used. It will just take a little more time to harden after you pour it into the molds. Before pouring into the molds, add the scented oils. Cover your molds with a folded blanket and place them on a level surface, sheltered from any drafts.

Allow to set for 24 hours. Uncover and allow to set another 24 hours. If your scale and thermometer read correctly, you should have a batch of beautiful soap. Carefully following instructions and having equipment that reads correctly always ensures a good batch.

This recipe makes soap that is pliable when removed from the molds. At that time, you would be able to make it into different shapes, designs, and sizes. It will.have the consistency of soft cheese and be easy to roll into balls or shape into animals for the kids. You can become quite artistic in design. A mend of mine even makes hers into suggestive shapes for her husband's personal use. The soap may be easier to carve into shapes after it has had a chance to set more firmly.

Easy Natural Herbal Homemade Soap Recipe

Place 2 tablespoons finely chopped lemon verbena or lavender into 2 tablespoons warmed glycerin. Place in a warm area for several days. Strain and finely grate 12 tablespoons of unscented soap or soap flakes and melt in top of a double boiler. Remove from heat and add the scented glycerin to the melted soap. Add 1 tablespoon of honey. Mix well. Pour into greased molds. Allow to set until the soap is cool and hardened.

Fairer Complexion Beauty Masks

The masks mentioned below are very good to lighten the skin tone and add a glow to the complexion. They must be followed for the specified time and inculcated as a daily routine.

1.) Soak 4 almonds overnight. Make a very fine paste with them, using milk to grind them.

Apply this paste on the neck and face before going to bed. Wash with cold water in the morning. Repeat daily for 15 days, followed by twice a week.

2.) Take 1 tbsp of gram flour and 2 tsp of raw milk and 2-3 drops of lime juice. Mix well and apply. Wash after 15 minutes. Repeat for 4 weeks and follow up with once a week.

3.) Grate a tomato. Add 2-3 drops of lime juice. Apply and wash after 20 minutes. Do this morning and evening for 15 - 20 days. Apply well on the neck area also.

4.) Grind a cup of mint leaves to a fine paste. Apply and leave for 20 minutes. Wash. Continue for 15 days.

Foot Lotion

Our feet do a hard job for us every day, carrying our body weight and frequently walking long distances. This stimulates and refreshing foot lotion is a great way to revive and rejuvenate tired feet. Soak your feet in a bowl of hot water for ten mintues, then scurb off any dead skin. Gently rub feet with this lotion and they will fell wonderful afterwards!

Ingredients:

3/4 cup (150ml) light lotion base.
1 tsp (5ml) orange flower water.
15 drops peppermint.
5 drops lemon.
5 drops cypress.
5 drops juniper.

Preparation:

1. Pour the lotion base into a 8 or 10 oz (200 or 250 ml) glass bottle.
2. Pour the orange flower water into the bottle, put on the cap, and shake vigorously to thoroughly mix the ingredients.
3. Carefully add the essential oils into the bottle, one by one, then put on the cap and shake vigorously.
4. Label the bottle and the Pepperminet Foot Lotion is ready to use.

Storage: Most recipes require refrigeration since they don't contain preservatives. Shelf Life is approximately 1 week. Did you know grapefruit seed extract could be used as a preservative for soaps and lotions? Recommended usage is .5 - 5% of the entire volume (in ounces) of your batch.

Face masks for aging & acne skin

• To a large pinch of crushed almonds add ¼ tsp of cleansing cream or milk. Massage well on the skin. Wash off.
• Mix a few drops of the essential aroma oil Pachholi with almond oil. Apply every morning and at night. This helps to maintain the rhythm of cellular reproduction.

Use a face pack regularly. This will go a long way in keeping the skin healthy and glowing.

Packs for those suffering from acne

• Mix 2 tsp of egg white, 2 pods of crushed garlic and 1 tsp of Lacto Calamine. Apply on the face and wash after 20 minutes.
• Mix in one bottle (250 ml) of rose water ¼ tsp vinegar, 5 drops of glycerine and 2 drops of camphor. This is an excellent moisturiser.

Dark Circles Around The Eyes

To lighten dark circles under your eyes, wrap a grated raw potato in cheesecloth and apply to eyelids for 15-20 minutes.
Wipe off the residue and apply an eye cream. Shaweeds:

This is aspecialised mask that has been formulated for this delicate area. It contains Seaweed, which has a reviatalising effect on the skin . Apply it under the eyes. When it dries, wash off with water. This should be used once a day.

Deodorants

A quick look at the history of deodorants and perfumes reveals that personal hygiene arrived later than the fragrance of personal objects, such as gloves, bed linens, and clothes. Indeed, until modern sanitary ware was invented, washing was considered a bit of a nuisance rather than the daily necessity we now take for granted.

This means that deodorants and perfumes were used to mask body odors, which is still the role of deodorants today. However, by using the following homemade deodorants, you are only applying natural, plant-based ingredients to your body. These work in harmony with your skin and body, keeping you naturally fresh and clean

Geranium and Cypress Deodorant

This is a classic combination of essential oils with deodorant properties. Geranium is used in skin-care products for its delightful, sweet floral perfume and its astringent and antiseptic properties. Cypress helps reduce excessive sweating, and its fine, woody smell enhances this deodorant. The classic fragrance is deeply refreshing with hints of floral, citrus, and wood, and is suitable for both women and men.

Ingredients that use in this deodorant.

1 tsp high proof vodka
10 drops geranium
10 drops cypress
8 drops bergamot
5 drops neroli
4 drops lavender
3 drops black pepper
4 tb sp (40 ml) witch hazel
2 tb sp (25 ml) cornflower water
2 tb sp (25 ml) orange flower water

1. Measure the vodka into a 4 oz (100 ml) glass bottle with a spray attachment. Carefully add the essential oils, one by one. Shake vigorously to dissolve the essential oils.
2. Pour the witch hazel into the bottle, using a funnel if necessary, followed by the two flower waters. Shake well.
3. Label the bottle and the deodorant is now ready to use .
4. Before you use the deodorant each time, give the bottle a good shake to ensure the essential oils are fully dispersed

Citrus and Herbal Deodorant

This gentle, antibacterial deodorant uses some of the most effective deodorant essential oils, including bergamot, thyme, and clary sage. Blended with flower waters and witch hazel into a refreshing spray, this deodorant has a delicious, refreshing aroma that is suitable for both women and men.

Ingredients that use in this deodorant.

1 tsp high proof vodka
10 drops bergamot
8 drops clary sage
7 drops thyme
5 drops rosewood
5 drops lemon
3 drops lavender
2 drops mandarin
4 tb sp (40 ml) witch hazel
2 tb sp (25 ml) linden flower water
2 tb sp (25 ml) orange flower water

1. Measure the vodka into a 4 oz (l00 ml) glass bottle with a spray attachment. Carefully add the essential oils, one by one. Shake vigorously to dissolve the essential oils.
2. Pour the witch hazel into the bottle, using a funnel if necessary, followed by the two flower waters. Shake well .
3. Label the bottle and the deodorant is now ready to use.
4. before you use the deodorant each time, give the bottle a good shake to ensure the essential oils are fully dispersed.

Cold Cream

• To make your own cold cream buy two ounces of good quality white wax, two ounces rose water and eight ounces almond oil. Melt the wax over top of hot water. Remove from heat and beat in the essence and oil. Cool it and Store in jar.

Basic Cold Cream Vanishing Formula

The ingredients are available from most health food stores. Borax is found in the laundry section of the supermarket. Borax is used in this recipe as an emulsifier.

1 ounce jojoba
1 ounce grape seed oil
1/2 to 1 ounce beeswax (less for a thinner cream)
2 ounces distilled or filtered water
1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin
1 teaspoon borax
10 drops mint oil or other essential oil of choice (optional)
40 drops grapefruit seed extract as a preservative

Combine the oils and beeswax in a double boiler and melt. Remove from the heat and pour in the remaining ingredients; mix with an electric handheld mixer until the cream is thick and creamy. Makes 3/4 cup. Store in a glass jar with a screw top. Discard after 6 months (or sooner if mold begins to grow).

Carrot Facial Mask

2-3 large carrots
4 1/2 tablespoons honey

Directions:

Cook carrots, then mash. Mix with honey. Apply gently to the skin, wait 10 minutes. Rinse off with cool water.

Calendula Cream

This thick and rich Calendula Cream is perfect for the winter weather - chock full of good ingredients for your hands, cuticles, elbows, heels and other areas prone to dryness when the weather turns. People especially like it becuase of the infused calendula oil, but you can use plain extra virgin olive oil if you don''t have the herbs. If you use calendula oil, your cream will have a nice golden texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce calendula infused extra virgin olive oil (or plain olive oil)
• 1 ounce shea butter
• 1 ounce mango butter
• 1/2 ounce avocado oil
• 1/4 ounce jojoba oil
• 1/4 ounce beeswax

Blending Procedure:

• Melt all ingredients over a low flame in a double boiler until the beeswax is nearly completely melted. Remove from heat.
• Stir to melt the rest of the beeswax and to fully incorporate all the ingredients.
• Use a handheld mixer to mix the ingredients together at high speed. This will whip up the ingredients, especially the shea and mango butters, and add a bit of air to help promote more of a a whipped texture for the finished product. You can add fragrance and/or essential oil at this time (about 1/2 teaspoon or so should suffice depending on your preference), but I prefer the natural scent of the calendula by itself.
• Pour into jars while the mixture is still warm and pourable. Label and enjoy

Beauty Face Packs

Beauty Face Packs are very good as they slough away dead cells and give a glow to the dead and lifeless looking complexion. Take care not to use a scrub when you have angry looking pimples on the face. A Beauty Face Packs can at times aggravate the situation.

To make it easier use the Beauty Face Packs under the category of your skin type. The same with face packs. Use only what is suitable to your skin. Though the homemade packs are very gentle and will not cause any harm, do keep in mind, any allergies you may have

Oily Skin - Beauty Face Packs

1. After a bath, and as a base for make-up use some diluted lime juice. Dab it on very lightly on the face. Wait for 10 minutes before using foundation or make up.
2. Diluted buttermilk is also dabbed on the face and left on the face for 10-15 minutes before any other application.
3. 2 tablespoons corn starch, 2 teaspoons margosa leaf juice, 2 teaspoons sandalwood powder and 2-3 drops of olive oil. Mix. Apply with a brush. Let it dry well. Wash with cold water.
4. Slice an apple very thinly. Place these on the face and leave for 15 minutes. These soak up extra oil and also helps to close pores.
5. 1 egg white with 1 tablespoon honey. Mix both together and apply with a brush. Wash after 7-10 minutes.
6. Take 1/2 cup of green gram powder, add 1 tablespoon of yogurt. Add enough water to make a paste. Use it to scrub the face gently. Wash with cold water. Do not use soap after the treatment.
7. Take 4 tablespoons mint paste and grind fresh mint leaves, 1/4 cup ripe papaya pulp, 2 teaspoons gram flour and 1/2 limejuice. Mix and apply. Wash after 15 minutes.

Beauty Face Mask for Pimples

2 tablespoons fullers earth
2 tablespoons sandalwood powder
2 drops of garlic juice
1 egg white
rose water

Dry Skin - Beauty Face Packs

1. 1 teaspoon of cream to which 1/2 teaspoon of lime juice is added. Apply and massage well. Leave for 3-4 minutes. Wash with cold water.
2. Take 1/2 tablespoon almond oil, 1 tablespoon honey and 1 teaspoon rose water. Massage into skin. Wipe with moist cotton pads.
3. Take 1/2 cup mashed avocado with 1 egg and 2 teaspoons honey. Mix well and apply. Wash after 20 minutes.
4. Take 2 teaspoons mayonnaise with 2 teaspoons gram flour, 1 teaspoon wheat flour and 2 teaspoons honey. Mix and apply well.
5. Make a paste with 4 tablespoons wheat flour, 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon ghee. Apply and leave. When it dries, wash with cold water.

For Normal and Combination Skin - Beauty Face Packs

1. 1 mashed peach, 1 mashed plum, 2 teaspoons honey, 1 egg and Mix well and apply. Leave for 1/2 an hour and wash.
2. For a normal skin, mix the clay/kaolin, cornflower and oats together with one beaten egg white and floral water. Add 1 drop geranium oil and 1 drop neroli oil. Mix well to form a paste and apply.
3. 1 tablespoon curds, 2 drops of honey, and Apply and leave for 20 minutes. Apply on neck for lines also.

Banana Beauty Balm

Anyone who has eaten a banana knows that banana flesh is soft and emollient. Bananas are also rich in vitamins and minerals, and contain triptophan, a natural relaxant. I have enjoyed bananas in everything from whole grain cereal to breads, but my favorite place to use them is in handmade beauty treats. You can mix bananas with just about anything else with a creamy, rich texture to create a skin soothing product - especially for dry skin. This recipe uses a few of my favorite things to add to bananas.

Banana Beauty Balm is a cleanser and moisturizer in one. Banana flesh is wonderfully emollient on its own, but combined with the other ingredients in this product, a wonderful cleansing balm is formed. The chosen essential oil contains azulene, a wonderful anti-inflammatory. For best results, use high quality oil with no synthetics. Banana Beauty Balm soothes all skin types, especially dry.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 fresh banana
• 1 tablespoon fresh heavy whipping cream, lightly warmed
• 1 teaspoon honey, lightly warmed
• 1 drop German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) essential oil
• 1 tablespoon finely powdered oats (add more if product seems runny, less if it seems too thick

Blending Procedure:

1. Mash the banana to a creamy pulp using the back of a fork.
2. Warm the honey and whipping cream in a microwave for about 15 seconds. Stir to combine, then add to the banana pulp. Stir well.
3. Add the oats and essential oil and stir again. To use, massage over dampened skin using gentle, sweeping motions. Don't forget your neck area. Allow Banana Beauty Balm to remain on your skin for a few minutes while you enjoy eating the other half of the banana. Rinse well and follow with a spritz or two of rose hydrosol and a light application of extra virgin olive oil or your favorite moisturizer to soothe and prevent moisture loss. Enjoy!
4. The shelf life of this product is necessarily limited by the fresh ingredients. It should be used immediately after it is made.