DIY Bath Bombs AKA Bath Fizzies

Bath bombs also known as bath fizzies are fun and inexpensive to make. Additionally they make great gifts for any occasion. Bath bombs can be easily customized to your favorite scent and color. The main ingredients are baking soda, citric acid and water however by adding special oils you can easily make a moisturizing bath bomb to nourish and hydrate the skin. You can also make muscle relieving bath bombs and detox and stress reliever bath bombs.

Below is a simple recipe to get you started:

Moisture Bath Bomb
Ingredients:
1/2 cup Citric Acid
1 cup baking soda
1/2 cup corn starch
1/4 cup Epson Salts

Wetting agents:

2 3/4 tablespoon almond oil (if allergic to nuts consider olive oil or grape seed oil)
3/4 tablespoon of water
1/4 teaspoon of Borax
1 1/2 teaspoon lavender essential oil or fragrance oil

Instructions:

Mix all the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Thoroughly mix with a wire whisk for about a minute. Because of the dust it produces you may want to cover your nose and mouth with a mask or bandana.

Mix the wetting ingredients in a small bow and mix. Quickly stir in the wetting mix into the large bowl of dry ingredients stirring quickly to eliminate unnecessary fizzing. Stir for at least a minute.

You mix should hold together when pinched between your fingers. It should not stick to your fingers, be doughy or overly wet. Important: if your mix is too wet mix up 2 parts baking soda to one part citric acid and add to mix. If you just add more corn starch or Epsom salts or whatever you lessen the fizz in your bath bomb.

Molding - in order to keep costs minimal and for first timers I suggest you mold these into 1 inch bombs. Fill a tablespoon full of mix and compress, then pop out the mix and mold into a ball. Although they may not be perfectly round, after drying about a half hour you can roll them in your hands and smooth them out. There are endless possibilities for molding such as purchasing molds, old Easter egg shells, silly putty shells, melon molds, etc. However if you wish to purchase molds then get them at       or Amazon.com

Colorant - there are options if you wish to color your bath bomb such as food coloring or powdered colors.

The possibilities are endless for making bath bombs. Consider adding Shea butter, cosmetic clay, aloe powder, milk or goat milk powder, etc. Fragrances are endless too! You can watch the video at Complete Skin Care Therapy

Get all your ingredients at Mountain Rose Herbs

For a soothing bath bomb recipe to treat dry skin, visit Complete Skin Care Therapy

Properties of Essential Oils in Skin Care Products

Many skin care products use essential oils in their ingredients. For instance I saw a Paul Mitchell Tea Tree line of shampoo and conditioner recently advertised. It made me wonder if people really knew the significance of what tea tree oil has to offer and other essential oils in skin care products. Tea tree oil has natural antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties and is very effective countless skin aliments, skin spots, acne and dandruff. Thus by understanding the properties of tea tree oil I could understand why they would choose tea tree oil to combat dry scalp.

This seems like a pretty good deal, $43.99 for 2 whole liters.   Color safe and great for all hair types including african-american.  Paul Mitchell Tea Tree line of shampoo and conditioner.









Understanding the properties of essential oils will give you a great advantage when selecting skin care products for you skin type or skin ailment. Below are common essential oils and their propeties which are commonly used in skin care products.


Carrot Oil - has a strengthening effect on blood cells thus improving tone and elasticity to the skin. Avoid carrot oil if pregnant due to its stimulating properties.

Chamomile - can ease anxiety, tension and anger when used in aromatherapy. It will calm the mind and is helpful with insomnia. It is an excellent skin cleanser and can relieve dry and itchy skin. Chamomile smoothes out broken capillaries and improved elasticity. It is very suitable for sensitive skin too. Because chamomile is an emmenagogue (any substance that induces or hastens menstrual flow) it should be avoided in the early stages of pregnancy. Some of the properties of chamomile are: sedative, emollient, emmenagogue, antidepressant, and antiseptic.

Geranium - is a good overall cleanser for all skin types, it tones pales skin and increases blood flow. In addition it balances sebum production. Properties of geranium are: antiseptic, astringent, and deodorant to name a few. This oil also is known to regulate the hormonal system so best not to use if pregnant. Also, it may cause irritation to sensitive skin types.

Jasmine - A luxurious and highly effective treatment for dry sensitive skin but generally good for all skin types. A blend with Mandarin and Lavender increases skin elasticity and softens stretch marks and scars. In aromatherapy, Jasmine eases severe depression and is calming to the nerves and warms the emotions. Some of its properties are: antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, emollient and sedative.

Get your essential oils at Mountain Rose Herbs!

Lavender - useful for all skin types as it promotes growth of new cells and performs a balancing act on sebum. It is also effective on acne, eczema and psoriasis due to its healing properties. In aromatherapy it can bring down high blood pressure, calm palpitations and provide relief from insomnia. Properties of lavender are: emmenagogue (so avoid during first months of pregnancy), antidepressant, antiviral, bactericide, and deodorant to name a few.

Lemon - brightens dull complexions by removing dead skin cells (a natural hydroxyl acid). Lemon will smooth out broken capillaries and a very effective cleanser on greasy skin and hair. Promotes a soften effect on scar tissue and guards against brittle fingernails. In aromatherapy it produces clarity of thought and a refreshing a cooling feeling when feeling overheated or bothered. Lemon may bother sensitive skin types.

Patchouli - is a tissue regenerator helping re-growth of skin cells. It will cool inflamed skin conditions, rough and cracked skin and sores and wounds. It is also helpful for acne, eczema, fungal infections and scalp disorders. In aromatherapy it promotes grounding and balancing effect. Patchouli will sharpen the wits thus making the mind more objective and banishes lethargy. This oil may cause loss of appetite which is fine if you need to change your eating habits.

Rose - is good for all skin types but especially for mature and sensitive skin types. It is a soothing tonic and it has a constricting action on the capillaries thus valuable for broken thread like veins. In aromatherapy is calming to the womb and pre-menstrual tension. It also has a beneficial action to help infertility and helps with sexual difficulties. Additionally it has a soothing effect on the emotions. It will lift the heart and eases nervous tension and stress. It is an ultra feminine oil and will give a woman positive feeling about herself.

Essential oils are very potent and for the most part they are not applied full strength to the skin. Essential oils are blended with carrier oils such as avocado, almond, and jojoba to name a few. They can also be blended with soaps, butters, and lotions. It is necessary to understand the proper usage and effects of each essential oil in order to get the wonderful benefits they have to offer.

Here are some great books to get your started!
 

Over 600 Natural, Non-Toxic and Fragrant Recipes to Create Health - Beauty - a Safe Home Environment get The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy


Under $14.00 and would make a great gift for the naturalist in your life.

The Essential Oils Handbook: All the Oils You Will Ever Need for Health, Vitality and Well-Being. Under $10.00!




 
 
 
 
Carol Belanger author of 300+ Skin Care Recipes


For more skin care articles and skin care recipes visit Complete Skin Care Therapy

How to Brighten a Dull Complexion

Did you ever notice that some people just have a glowing complexion? It is not their makeup that gives them that glow it is the canvas on which they started. A great complexion that has a natural glow starts with proper skin care and a healthy diet.

The condition of your skin can be a good indicator of your overall health. For instance a poor diet and bad habits such as smoking and too much alcohol can lead to a dull complexion, baggy eyes and even a yellowish tint. Additionally an improper skin care routine or no skin care program at all can lead to premature wrinkles, sagging skin and patches of dry skin.

First and foremost understanding your skin type is the first step for proper skin care. By understanding your skin type, i.e. dry, combination, oily, sensitive, you can begin to select the right ingredients that are the most beneficial to your skin.

Cleansers - Get a facial cleanser specific to your skin type. Your skin care cleanser should thoroughly cleanse but not over dry the face. If after washing your face your skin is overtly dry and tight, you should consider a different skin care cleanser. Usually a dry skin type should select creamy cleansers, oily complexions should consider a foaming face wash, for sensitive skin and combination skin types consider a cleanser that has a low pH of 7 or less. Read more about caring for a Combination Skin Type.

Toners - are used to restore ph balance and remove the last bits of cleanser left behind. I am a firm believer in toners. If purchasing a toner be sure to select the one that is right for your skin type and has the most natural ingredients. Homemade toners are easy to make. Green tea toners are superb and are high in antioxidants. Other herbs that can be for toners are elderflower and sandalwood for dry skin, fennel or lemon balm for oily skin, and chamomille for combination skin. Apply with cotton ball or pad and do not rinse.

Herb toner recipe: 2 Tablespoons dried or 1 Tablespoon fresh herb depending on your skin type (see note above), 2/3 cup distilled or purified water.

Green tea toner: 2 teaspoons green tea leaves and 1 cup water.

Naturally the above recipes will have to be sifted to remove the leaves. Refrigerate and it should last up to a week.

Moisturizers - should be used to hydrate and protect the skin. A daytime moisturizer should have an SPF of at least 15, and your nighttime moisturizer should be rich in emollients. Not matter what skin type you have a moisturizer is a must; dry skin needs lubrication and hydration and oily skin needs hydration.

Cleanse, tone and moisturize are the basics of a good skin care routine in order to brighten a dull complexion. Additionally there are other treatments that can be used that promote circulation, slough off dead skin cells and bring a natural glow to your face.

Exfoliation - is a method of removing the dead skin cells on the upper layer of your skin and increasing circulation to promote new skin cells. Once used only in exclusive spas at a costly amount, exfoliation is a simple technique that you can do at home. There are a couple of homemade options for an exfoliation treatment, just add one of the following ingredients to your cleanser: cornmeal, sugar, oatmeal, etc. Sugar is great if you have sensitive skin. These ingredients are inexpensive and eco-friendly and will surely brighten a dull complexion and leave your skin feeling smooth and silky.

Microderamabrasion - is a form of advance exfoliation. The actual surface layer of the skin is removed and new skin cells are exposed. The type of procedure will lessen the appearance of scars and dark spots on the skin. There are a variety of microdermabrasion products on the market that range from creams, kits, and cloths. Read more about microdermabrasion treatments.

AHAs and BHAs known as Alpha and Beta hydroxyl acids - are very popular in anti-aging products. They work very much like a microdermabrasion treatment as they slough off the top layers of the skin thus promoting new skin cell growth. Another added benefit is that they stimulate the production of collagen and elasticity in the skin. When selecting an Alpha or Beta hydroxyl acid be sure to select the right one for your skin type.  Read more about how to select the right AHA/BHA for your skin type.

Proper cleansing and one the procedures listed above will help promote a healthy glow; however, it is imperative that you eat healthy too. Your complexion can tell a lot about your life style and eating habits. Additionally, your diet and skin care products should contain anti-oxidants such as Vitamin A, E, C, and beta carotene to name a few.

For great skin care products at 15% off visit Skin Energizer!  They even have an online assistant to help you select the right products for your skin type.

For more skin care articles and recipes visit Complete Skin Care Therapy

Combatting Winter Dry Skin Patches

Patches of dry, flaky and itchy skin are common during the fall and winter months. While they can appear on almost any part of the body there are typically common on the legs, face, and hands. While there are many skin conditions that cause dry patches such as eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections, this article will deal with dry skin patches due to environmental factors, such as cold weather and low humidity and the lack of hydration to the skin.

Below are some simple steps to help you treat dry skin patches:

1) Limit the time you spend in the bath or shower. If you like extremely hot showers, adjust your water temperature down. Showers and baths strip the body of its natural oils thus causing the skin to become overly dry.
2) Apply an emollient rich cream on dry patches while skin is still damp. Continue to apply cream frequently throughout the day. I have used Eucerin and I also find that body butters work great too. Other options are Vitamin E and oils such as olive oil, avocado oil, tea tree oil, grape seed oil, etc. where a little dab will work wonders
3) Evaluate your soap. There are varieties on the market that can provide moisturizing ingredients. If you use a deodorant soap use only in areas that need it, underarms, etc. These types of soap are harsh and very drying. Better yet consider making some homemade soap rich in essential oils that offer so many benefits to the skin. They make great Christmas presents too! Get some exquisite soap recipes - Vanilla, Honey Oatmeal Soap and Lavender and Honey!

4) Exfoliation is recommended for dry patches if the area is not inflamed or has broken skin. Exfoliates will slough off the dead skin on top thus allowing your moisturizer into the lower layers of the skin.

5) Hydrate from the inside! Drinking water is vital to good health and good skin. Most people do not realize the importance water plays in their overall health.

6) Diet - unfortunately fresh fruits and vegetables are scarce in the northern climates, however try to follow a diet that is rich in Vitamin E, A, C, essential minerals and omega-3 fatty acids or consider vitamins and supplements.

Remedies for dry skin patches:

1 drop tea tree oil
1/2 teaspoon almond oil
Rub into dry patch. Great for those small dry patches!
Another option is to add tea tree oil right into your moisturizer.

Aloe Vera gel has wonderful properties thus it is widely used in skin care products. Apply directly to the dry patch. Be sure to purchase 100% aloe Vera gel or better yet grow you own plant.

Soak a washcloth in milk and lay on dry skin patch for five minutes. This is soothing if the dry skin patch is itchy too. The lactic acid in milk is well know for its hydrating properties and a gentle alpha hydroxyl acid exfoliate.

How do you treat dry patches of skin? I would love to hear your remedies!
For more skin care articles and skin care recipes visit Complete Skin Care Therapy!

For the best skin care products at 15% off visit Skin Energizer