When it comes to easy DIY projects, body wash nearly tops the list. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it is also customizable and works to benefit your skin. If you are very careful about the products you apply to your skin, then this recipe will be of great interest to you. It doesn’t contain the typical questionable body wash ingredients that can harm the body.
Many popular body wash brands contain artificial fragrances and colors, which can cause immunotoxicity, endocrine disruption, and allergies. “Natural” brands may even contain ingredients that are harmful to your health. When researching bath and body products, make sure to read the ingredient list thoroughly to avoid any unnecessary toxins. There are several websites that can help research different brands to find out whether they are in fact safe or not. The ingredients that follow are perfectly safe for the skin, so you can feel good about soaping up with this body wash.
Castile Soap
Castile soap is the base of the body wash, providing that soapy element that cleans the skin. Made from olive oil, castile soap allows the skin to breathe and encourages the natural shedding of dead skin cells. While synthetic soaps can block or irritate pores, castile soap keeps them clean and clear. Olive oil is also rich in vitamins A and E, two antioxidants that help protect against cell degeneration. Plus, supplying the skin with more antioxidants can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil is better for the skin than the bitter version, as it contains many nutrients and anti-inflammatory properties. Similar to olive oil, sweet almond oil contains vitamins A and E. Vitamin A works to stimulate the production of new skin cells and vitamin E helps prevent cell damage and reduces UV damage to the skin caused by the sun. Plus, sweet almond oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which may help prevent premature signs of aging.
Vegetable Glycerin
Vegetable glycerin is a transparent, unscented viscous liquid that comes from plant oils, including coconut, palm, or soy. When used topically, vegetable glycerin helps to lock moisture into the skin, thereby softening and smoothing out the complexion. Vegetable glycerin has a pH level that closely matches that of the skin, making it very gentle for even those with sensitive skin.
Orange Essential Oil
Orange essential oil has a variety of uses, exhibiting antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activity. Research shows that orange essential oil may reduce pain or inflammation, help remedy skin conditions like acne, and lift mood or reduce stress. One study looked at the effects of orange essential oil on strains of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Researchers noted that when added to infected human cells in culture, low concentrations of orange essential oil killed the bacteria without harming cultured cells.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oil has cooling and soothing abilities that help refresh the skin. It works to control oil secretion, making it an effective ingredient for oily skin. Researchers note that it may help unclog pores and give the skin a youthful glow. By promoting better circulation to the skin, peppermint essential oil stimulates the skin, helping it appear younger.
DIY Citrus Mint Body Wash
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons sweet almond oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
- 1.5 cups castile soap
- 35 drops orange essential oil
- 20 drops peppermint essential oil
Instructions:
- Add all of the ingredients to a dark glass bottle, preferably one that has a pump. The reason to use darker glass, like amber, is to help keep the soap as fresh as possible. Amber glass is recommended for recipes with essential oils.
- Once you screw on the pump top, shake well to combine and it is ready to use. Shake well before each use.
