DIY Natural Skincare: Simple Recipes and Tips for Glowing Skin

Self-care and wellness are having a real moment, and in our current economic climate, DIY natural skincare is a no-brainer. Crafting your own skincare products allows you to take control of what goes on your skin, embrace natural ingredients, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something tailored to your specific needs. Plus, depending on what you have laying around in your kitchen or bathroom, it could be super cheap! Whether you're new to the DIY scene or a seasoned enthusiast, here’s a little guide to help you get started with natural skincare at home.

Why DIY Natural Skincare?

DIY natural skincare offers a range of benefits:

1. Ingredient Control: You know exactly what’s in your products—no hidden chemicals or artificial additives.
2. Customization: Tailor your skincare recipes to address your unique skin concerns, whether it's acne, dryness, or aging.
3. Cost-Effective: Homemade skincare can be more affordable than store-bought alternatives, especially when using readily available kitchen ingredients.
4. Eco-Friendly: Reduce packaging waste and choose sustainable ingredients for a more environmentally friendly approach to skincare.

Essential Ingredients for DIY Natural Skincare

Before diving into recipes, it’s helpful to know some key natural ingredients and their benefits:

• Aloe Vera: Hydrating and soothing, great for calming irritated skin.
• Honey: Antibacterial and moisturizing, ideal for acne-prone or dry skin.
• Coconut Oil: Nourishing and anti-inflammatory, good for dry skin or as a makeup remover. * Best paired with other oils. Coconut oil locks in moisture, it doesn't add moisture like other oils such as Jojoba or Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
• Green Tea: Antioxidant-rich, helps to combat signs of aging and reduces inflammation.
• Oatmeal: Gentle exfoliant and calming, perfect for sensitive skin.
• Essential Oils: Add fragrance and therapeutic benefits; popular options include lavender, tea tree, and peppermint.

DIY Natural Skincare Recipes

Here are some easy and effective DIY skincare recipes to try at home:

1. Soothing Aloe Vera Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of fresh aloe vera gel
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 teaspoon of lemon juice (optional for brightening)

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Apply the mixture to your face and/or body, avoiding the eye and other sensitive areas.
3. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
4. Follow with your favourite moisturizer.

Benefits: This mask hydrates and soothes the skin, making it ideal for sensitive or sunburned skin.

2. Honey and Oatmeal Exfoliating Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of ground oats
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil (optional to lock in moisture)

Instructions:

1. Combine the oats and honey in a bowl. If using coconut oil, melt it first and then add it to the mixture.
2. Gently massage the scrub onto your damp face and/or body in circular motions.
3. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.

Benefits: This scrub exfoliates dead skin cells and hydrates, leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth. We recommend our Oat Milk Bath Soak if you're wanting an ultra gentle exfoliant that also acts as a bath enhancing product. 

3. Green Tea and Honey Toner

Ingredients:

• 1 green tea bag
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Instructions:

1. Brew the green tea bag in hot water and let it cool.
2. Remove the tea bag and stir in the honey until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a clean bottle or jar.
4. Apply with a cotton pad to your face after cleansing.

Benefits: This toner helps to soothe, refresh, and provide antioxidant protection for your skin. We recommend our Soleil After Sun Mist for an all-natural, fresh and minty mist for sunburns and general coolness. 

4. Lavender and Chamomile Calming Facial Mist

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of distilled water
• 1 tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers
• 1 tablespoon of dried lavender flowers
• 1 teaspoon of witch hazel (optional for added astringency)

Instructions:

1. Steep the chamomile and lavender in hot water for about 10 minutes.
2. Strain out the flowers and let the liquid cool.
3. Add witch hazel if using and pour into a spray bottle.
4. Spritz onto your face throughout the day for a refreshing boost.

Benefits: This mist calms and hydrates the skin, perfect for soothing irritated or stressed skin. We recommend our Bloom Botanical Mist for an all-natural, floral and light hydrosol. 

Tips for Successful DIY Skincare

1. Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before using a new product to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction.
2. Cleanliness: Use clean utensils and containers to prevent contamination.
3. Storage: Store your DIY products in airtight containers and keep them in the refrigerator if needed, especially if they contain fresh ingredients.
4. Expiration: Homemade products lack preservatives, so use them within a few weeks and discard if they show signs of spoilage.

Embracing the DIY Skincare Journey

DIY natural skincare is not just about saving money; it’s a creative and rewarding way to engage with your skincare routine. By experimenting with different ingredients and recipes, you can discover what works best for your skin while enjoying the process of making your own beauty products. Plus, with each successful creation, you’ll build confidence in your ability to craft effective and personalized skincare solutions.