Sometimes, money is tight and you cannot afford to buy elaborate gifts for everyone. If you have a little determination and a love for all things DIY, then you can make some very cool homemade beauty gifts. Not only are these more inexpensive, but they are often more heartfelt and personal than a T-shirt or vest. 

This holiday season, you can create a luxurious body wash that makes you smell like Christmas cookies. Fair warning: we do not take responsibility for anyone who tries to take a bite out of their shoulder or other body part. You may smell like cookies, but resist the urge to eat yourself! 

Normally, when you have a body wash that smells so strongly, it typically contains problematic ingredients. One of those ingredients is methylisothiazolinone, which can irritate the skin, lungs, eyes, and cause immunotoxicity and neurotoxicity. Another toxic ingredient is lilial, which is a known endocrine disruptor. Many popular skin care products that have fun scents usually contain ingredients that receive terrible ratings from the Environmental Working Group (EWG). Not the recipe in this article, though! You can learn more about the ingredients in our Christmas cookie body wash below. 

Almond Oil

Almond oil is an emollient, meaning it is excellent for soothing dryness or irritation. Emollients form a film on the skin’s outermost layer, which helps enhance the skin barrier. Almond oil, and other emollients, attract moisture to the skin, prevent the loss of moisture, and help soften scaly or irritated skin. Because it is lightweight and non-irritating, almond oil is generally safe for sensitive skin. It can also help manage chronic skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and acne. 

Vegetable Glycerin

Used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, vegetable glycerin helps improve hydration, relieve constipation, and moisturize the skin. Also known as glycerol or glycerine, vegetable glycerin is a clear liquid made from coconut, soybean, or palm oils. It is popular in skin care products because it has moisturizing properties. According to research, applying vegetable glycerin to the skin can improve smoothness and supplements. Some studies found that using creams containing glycerin increased hydration in as little as 10 days. 

Essential Oils

In order to create that addictive Christmas cookie aroma, you will need a few essential oils. When purchasing essential oils, make sure that you get organic, pure varieties. You do not want diluted essential oils or oils that have other ingredients. Pure essential oils can play a significant role in supporting the overall health of the skin. Many of them exhibit diverse healing and antioxidant properties, but the key to benefitting from those properties is with proper usage. Make sure to properly dilute essential oils in carrier oils to prevent irritation or reactions. Always do a small patch test to avoid complications.

Christmas Cookie Body Wash

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons almond oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin 
• 1 cup castile soap
• 20 drops ginger essential oil
• 15 drops lemon essential oil
• 15 drops vanilla botanical extract
• 8 drops nutmeg essential oil
• 8 drops cinnamon essential oil
• 6 clove essential oil

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to an eight-ounce amber glass bottle in the order in which they are listed. 
• Screw on the lid and shake well to combine. Use when ready. Make sure that you shake well before each use, as the ingredients can often separate. 

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Some people start purchasing Christmas gifts in July, while others wait until the last minute. Maybe those people buy gift cards to save time and please the masses. Let us be clear about something: there is nothing wrong with a gift card. If you want to make gifts a little more personal this year, while simultaneously saving a little money, consider making gifts for the people in your life. 

No, you don’t have to join an assembly line and craft an entire train set from scratch. We are referring to some classic homemade beauty products that are beneficial for the hair and skin. In the following list, you will see everything from body scrubs to candles, which do not include harmful fragrances. Some of these recipes even share similar ingredients, so you can get more bang for your buck and diversify your DIY gifts. We hope you love these holiday gift ideas, but we really hope the people you give them to love them even more!

3-Ingredient Facial Moisturizer

Customize your facial moisturizer to your skin’s needs. Keep that glow alive with a simple blend of carrier oils and essential oils. Moisturizing with oils may be counterintuitive, but certain oils benefit the skin and can prevent dryness.

Click here to make the moisturizer. 

Vanilla Pumpkin Sugar Scrub

Pumpkin puree has several uses outside the kitchen! Your skin can absorb the nutrient from pumpkin when you apply it topically. Incorporate pumpkin into your sugar scrub and enhance the health of your skin with coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla extract, pumpkin spice, and natural raw sugar. 

Click here to make the sugar scrub.

Sinus Relief Candle

The winter months can be brutal on your sinuses, especially with colds going around. Open up those nasal passages with an all-natural candle that contains tea tree oil, peppermint essential oil, and eucalyptus essential oil. 

Click here to make the candle. 

Peppermint Lip Balm

Chapped lips are very common in cold weather, but not anymore with this DIY lip balm. Made from ingredients that nourish the skin on the lips, this DIY recipe is moisturizing and holiday-themed. Consider painting the lip balm tins like candy canes to make them more festive. 

Click here to make the lip balm.

Apple Spice Sugar Scrub

Lather on a big dollop of this apple spice sugar scrub on your skin for maximum hydration, exfoliation, and moisture during drier weather.

Click here to make the sugar scrub.

Cinnamon Soy Candles

Skip the bags of scented pine cones at grocery stores or arts & crafts stores and make these DIY fall-inspired cinnamon soy candles instead. They will make the whole house smell amazing!

Click here to make the candles.

Citrus Mint Body Wash

Ditch the toxins and fragrances and awaken your senses with this DIY citrus mint body wash, which is made with all-natural ingredients.

Click here to make the body wash.

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It’s time to refresh your senses with a deliciously customizable DIY body wash. Not only does it help you get squeaky clean, but it is also free of toxins! Certain bottled soaps or skin and hair care products can contain various parabens, dyes, and other chemicals that can harm the skin and penetrate into the body. If you are conscious about what you put on your skin, then you click on the right article!

Most popular body wash brands contain artificial colors and fragrances, which can cause allergies, endocrine disruption, and immunotoxicity. The term “fragrance” can hide between 10 to 50 chemicals, most of which do not have to be disclosed. The reason for that is because they are considered trade secrets under the U.S. Fair Packaging and Labeling Act. In a 2009 study, an expert on pollutant exposures and related health effects noted that 30.5% of the U.S. population reported skin irritation or headaches when exposed to scented products. Although more brands have started to list all of the ingredients in their products, many chemicals remain hidden to the masses. 

The Body Wash Ingredients

Before you get all of your ingredients together, make sure that you grab a bottle for your soap. You can reuse an old bottle of body wash if you want, but it is better to use amber glass, as this recipe contains essential oils. Dark glass helps essential oils retain their health benefits, due to reduced UV exposure. Like other body wash recipes that we have published, this one contains liquid castile soap. Because we recently described the benefits of castile soap (click here for recent post), we will not detail the benefits. Instead, you can read about the benefits of other ingredients below. 

Almond Oil

Almond oil is an excellent carrier oil that is beneficial for all skin and hair types. Research has shown that hand cream containing almond oil can help relieve hand dermatitis. Another study found that almond oil was able to relieve symptoms, such as itchy skin, redness, burning, and stinging. Some people like to use almond oil as a daily moisturizer because it helps to improve complexion and skin tone. Thanks to the antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, almond oil may benefit people with acne-prone skin. It works to reduce redness and inflammation, while also helping to cleanse pores. 

Orange Essential Oil

Citrus essential oils, such as orange essential oil, are praised in the beauty world because they can be an alternative to vitamin C serums. When used in aromatherapy, orange essential oil helps to reduce stress or improve mood. In topical uses, orange essential oil may help to relieve pain or inflammation and improve acne. Orange essential oil may also increase blood flow, which is why it is used by massage therapists. It may also help to promote clarity, radiance, and smoothness, which helps to reduce signs of uncomfortable skin conditions. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

Well regarded for its healing properties, peppermint essential oil is a great natural alternative to some traditional remedies. If you dilute it properly, you can apply it to the skin. It is highly concentrated, so applying it without dilution can cause irritation or allergic reaction. That’s the case for most essential oils, by the way. Peppermint essential oil contains menthol, which is the active compound that can make the skin feel energized and refreshed. It helps to promote circulation and stimulate the skin, giving it a youthful glow. It may also work to open up clogged pores and better manage your acne. 

DIY Citrus Mint Body Wash

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons almond oil
• 1.5 cups liquid castile soap
• 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
• 20 drops peppermint essential oil
• 35 drops orange essential oil

Instructions:

• Pour all of the ingredients into a glass bottle, screw on the pump top, and shake well to combine. 
• Make sure to shake well before each use. Please enjoy.

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Wouldn’t it be great if you could use a body wash that actually helps the skin retain moisture? It can be difficult to select the right body wash because many varieties contain ingredients that dry out the skin, even though the soap promises to do the opposite. Instead of experimenting with different soaps and watching your money flow down the drain, invest in a few quality ingredients and make the honey lavender body wash in this article. 

Believe it or not, this homemade soap comes together in just five minutes flat! No need for a double boiler in order to melt some wax. All of the ingredients are in liquid form, so all you need to do is combine them in your soap bottle with a pump dispenser. Ideally, use fractionated coconut oil because that does not solidify if the temperature gets a little cold. The last thing you want is for your body wash to solidify when you want to get clean!

Liquid Castile Soap

Castile soap is a vegetable-based soup that does not contain animal products, chemicals, or synthetic ingredients. You can use it to wash your hair, clothes, skin, and more. Because it is hypoallergenic, castile soap is a great option for people with sensitive skin. Castile soap can help clean the skin while simultaneously replacing some of the skin’s lost sebum with vegetable oil. One review examined the chemical profiles of different antioxidant and antimicrobial vegetable oils. They found that some of the oils in castile soap may help get rid of acne. 

Raw Honey

Why use honey in homemade soaps? Well, honey is a natural humectant, which is a substance that attracts water. In personal care products, humectants work to hydrate the skin, hair, or nails. Honey also works to coat your skin in a dewy sheen, helping to rejuvenate every pore with each wash. For people with dry skin, honey works to hydrate the skin, drowning it in moisture. For those with oily skin, honey works with the ebbs and flows of your skin to help control oily production and contribute to a more balanced skin tone. Finally, people with sensitive skin will love honey in their body wash because it offers anti-inflammatory properties that help mitigate redness or irritation. 

Fractionated Coconut Oil

Both fractionated and regular coconut oil are beneficial for the skin, but fractionated coconut oil penetrates the skin more easily. It also does not leave a greasy film on the skin. Because it acts as an emollient, it works to soften and hydrate the skin. Researchers note that fractionated coconut oil exhibits antioxidant and antibacterial activity, which can further promote healthier skin. 

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender essential oil, which is derived from the lavender plant, can benefit the skin in many ways. Studies have shown that it has the ability to reduce acne, improve skin tone, and reduce early signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines. Lavender essential oil exhibits anti-fungal properties, which may help reduce inflammation and keep eczema at bay. It may also be used to reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms, as it helps to cleanse the skin and reduce redness and irritation. 

Homemade Honey Lavender Body Wash

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup liquid castile soap
• 1/4 cup fractionated coconut oil
• 1/4 cup raw honey
• 30 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Pour all of the ingredients into a bowl and stir to combine. 
• Using a funnel, pour the ingredients into an amber glass bottle with a soap dispenser. The reason that you use amber glass is to help preserve the essential oil’s properties. 
• Use when ready and make sure to shake well before each use.

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Sometimes, you come across a beauty product that can only be described as “tasty.” It smells so good that you want to take a bite! This homemade grapefruit mint body wash is one of those recipes. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also works to boost the health of your skin. After soaping up in the shower, your skin will feel silky smooth. Let’s take a look at the ingredients that elevate this body wash (and your skin) to the next level. 

Castile Soap

Liquid castile soap originally contained laurel oil and olive oil. After laurel oil became unavailable, it was exclusively made with olive oil. Nowadays, liquid castile soap contains other oils, including coconut oil. Castile soap is made more ethically and is way more environmentally friendly than a lot of other soaps out there. In addition to being biodegradable and nontoxic, castile soap does not strip away the skin’s natural oils. Instead, it helps to clean the skin while hydrating it at the same time. 

Almond Oil

Almond oil is a nourishing oil that is suitable for every skin type. It assists with cleansing the skin while adding moisture simultaneously. Almond oil is a rich source of monounsaturated oleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid and linoleic acid, a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid. Researchers note that almond oil is also a rich source of vitamin E, providing nearly 261% of the recommended daily value per 100 milliliters. 

Witch Hazel

As an astringent with anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, witch hazel may help soothe inflammation and fight acne. It is commonly applied to the skin and scalp to reduce skin irritation. Roughly 45% of Americans have sensitive skin, and some research indicates that topical application of witch hazel to sensitive skin may help treat broken, irritated, or inflamed skin. One study found that using a lotion with 10% witch hazel extract helped reduce skin inflammation and effectively treated erythema. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint essential oil exhibits a long list of benefits for skin health. It contains antimicrobial, antibacterial, anti-itching, and anti-inflammatory properties. The primary compound (menthol) in peppermint essential oil may exhibit anti-inflammatory effects when applied to the skin. Researchers note that menthol has cooling effects on the skin, which can help diminish the sensation of itching triggered by histamine. 

Grapefruit Essential Oil

Grapefruit essential oil is bursting with vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps to brighten and hydrate the skin. It even works to support the production of collagen. Grapefruit essential oil also contains other antioxidants that work to protect the skin from harmful free radicals. It also contains fruit acids, which help exfoliate the skin. Finally, it has d-limonene, which exhibits antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective ingredient to help fight acne.

Grapefruit Mint Body Wash

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 2/3 cup witch hazel
• 1/4 cup liquid castile soap
• 1/4 cup almond oil
• 20 drops grapefruit essential oil
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil
• Foaming soap dispenser

Instructions:

• In a large bowl or glass measuring cup, add all of the ingredients and stir well to combine. 
• Place a funnel into the foaming hand soap bottle and pour the mixture into the dispenser. Leave an inch or so of room at the top for residual foam. 
• Pump, soap, and enjoy!

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If your skin is dry, then it lacks moisture. What causes this lack of moisture, though? To correct the problem, you apply moisturizer, but that doesn’t seem to relieve dry skin. It’s more likely that there are other, more surprising, causes for your dry skin. In this article, we aim to highlight some of these causes, so that you can address the problem accordingly. 

Dermatologists agree that dry skin is caused by an impaired skin barrier and a deficiency or dysfunction in the healthy fats in the skin’s top layer. This outermost layer is made up of natural oils and dead cells, which trap moisture to keep the skin supple and soft. If there isn’t enough water in this layer, however, the skin dries out. The good news is that dry skin is not really a major concern, as it can happen to people of all ages at any time, on any area of the body. 

Although your first thought may be to lather on the moisturizer, you may want to first get to the root of the problem. What is causing that dryness? Read on to find out. 

Hard Water

If tap water has a high concentration of minerals, such as magnesium and calcium, the U.S. Geological Survey classifies that as hard water. Those minerals leave a film on the skin that dries out. Heavy metals turn the skin’s oils into a thick substance that can clog glands, which aggravates acnes and rosacea. They also make it so the skin cannot absorb moisturizers. You can invest in faucet filters or skin care products that contain vitamins A and C to help counteract the hard water problem. 

Overzealous Hand-washing

Ever since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, people started washing their hands a lot more than they did before. Clean hands are great, and you should wash your hands. The problem is that constant hand-washing will not help dryness. In fact, it increases the risk of cracked or dry skin. That can be a problem if you work in an industry that requires frequent hand-washing, such as healthcare or food service. Try to use lukewarm water instead of hot water and opt for moisturizing soaps. Gently wash your hands and finish with a lotion or moisturizer. 

Fragrances Cause Irritation

If you see the word “fragrance” on a lotion, soap, or other skin care product, you should avoid it. Dermatologists note that fragrances have a tendency to irritate dry skin or make it worse. Fragrances are common sources of allergens, including those that cause contact dermatitis, and endocrine disruptors. It may take a few exposures or applications before your skin reacts, or your skin may react the first time. Always check the ingredients on your skin care products, especially if you deal with dry skin. 

Soap May Zap The Skin’s Moisture

A lot of soaps, shampoos, and detergents can zap the skin and scalp of moisture. These products are made to remove oil, which is not something you want if you deal with dry skin. Choose your face washes, body washes, and laundry detergents carefully. A moisturizing body wash is better than a harsh soap, so long as that body wash doesn’t have harmful fragrances. Additionally, watch out for harsh detergents and fabric softeners if you have dry skin. 

Genetics

Researchers note that you can inherit dry skin. Thanks a lot, parents. One study observed mutations in genes that control filaggrin, which plays a role in forming and hydrating the skin barrier. The findings indicated that people with these mutations suffer from drier skin and have a higher risk of developing eczema. If you have dealt with dry skin throughout your life, or it runs in your family, be diligent with moisturizing. Ceramides and lipids, which you can find in moisturizers, help build and strengthen the skin barrier. 

Long Hot Showers Can Dehydrate The Skin

How great does it feel to stand under steaming, hot water for a long time? It’s quite relaxing, especially if the weather is colder. Standing in that hot water can cause skin issues, though. If you take long, steamy showers or baths, you can dry out the moisture in your skin. Limit your showers to no more than five minutes and try to keep the temperature lukewarm. Apply a moisturizing cream within one minute of exiting the shower because moisturizers work best on damp skin.

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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.

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Face washing is an easy task, but there are different levels. Some people have multi-step face washing rituals, while others simply splash water on their face and call it a day. Caring for your skin involves understanding what type of cleanser is best for your skin. It also means that you have to know how often to watch your face. 

To be clear, face washing is an integral component to your skin care regimen. Failure to cleanse regularly can lead to several issues, including blemishes, excess oily production, and breakouts. If you don’t wash your face, pores will clog and your risk of developing acne increases exponentially. Additionally, not washing your face can prevent the skin from absorbing other products that you apply to your face. 

According to a 2017 survey of 1,000 adult men and women, more than half of the people said that they did not wash their face before bedtime. The conductors of the survey also noted that nearly 80% of Americans make at least one skin washing mistake. You see, face washing not only benefits how your skin looks, but also how it feels. Read on to learn about how often you should wash your face, and how to cleanse it correctly. 

Why Is It Important To Wash Your Face?

If you want your skin to appear healthy and young, you need to wash your face. Facial skin is always exposed to the environment, so it easily collects dirt, oil, and other debris. If you don’t remove those substances, facial skin becomes irritated and you can develop other skin problems. Without washing your face, the skin appears dirtier, drier, greasier, and older-looking, according to dermatologists. 

How Often Should You Wash Your Face?

This is the big question of this entire article! Generally speaking, most dermatologists agree that you should wash your face twice a day, once in the morning and once at night before bed. Washing your face in the morning removes any impurities that may settle on your skin overnight. It also helps whatever moisturizers you apply to go on with ease. Similarly, washing your face at night helps remove all of the grime and skin care products you applied earlier in the day. Then your skin is refreshed before your head hits the pillow. 

Although those are the recommendations for face washing, you don’t have to wash your face that often if you have sensitive skin or certain skin conditions. In fact, dermatologists can often prescribe a regimen that best suits your skin’s needs. If you have dry or sensitive skin, rinse your face with warm water in the morning and cleanse it once at night to remove dirt. If you have an active flare-up of rosacea or eczema, you may only need one face wash at night to reduce irritation. Again, everyone’s needs are different, but the general recommendation is two face washes per day. 

The Right Way To Wash Your Face

First of all, consider your skin type and wash accordingly. After that, identify what your daily activities are, your makeup habits, and the types of products you use. If you wear makeup, you may require a makeup remover or balm prior to washing your skin. Once you have all of that information locked down, follow the steps below:

• Rinse your face with lukewarm water.
• Apply a gentle facial cleanser to your fingertips and massage it into your face in a circular motion for 30 seconds. Relax your face and don’t be too vigorous. Additionally, pay extra attention to your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) and jawline. 
• Rinse your face with lukewarm water and then pat dry with a clean towel. 

Most cleansers are formulated to mimic the pH of the sky, so as not to dry out the skin or compromise the skin barrier. A lot of people just use regular body wash or hand soap to wash their face. Those soaps can easily strip the skin of moisture and cause irritation. For that reason, use a cleanser that is specifically designed for facial skin, but choose one that fits your skin type. If you have dry or sensitive skin, consider a gentle or creamy cleanser. If you have oily skin, you may benefit from a gel or foam cleanser. People with dull skin may require an alpha hydroxy acid or glycolic-based cleanser to remove dead skin cells and give your skin a healthier glow.

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For people who live in extremely cold climates, the fall and winter months can be extremely challenging. The beginning of fall, however, is that pleasant transition between the hot summer and the inevitable frigid temperatures and snow-covered roads that are to come. People who live in warmer states don’t have to deal with the snow; rather, they just experience the same colder, dryer weather that everyone experiences during the fall and winter. 

When the weather is cold and dry and the inside air is dry from indoor heating, your skin suffers. Your skin needs moisture and while eating hydrating foods can help with this process, you often need to apply hydrating ingredients. The body wash in this article, for example, contains all-natural ingredients that work to replenish moisture and fight dryness. One of the standout ingredients is green tea, which contains potent antioxidants that fight the effects of aging. Several studies confirmed that green tea may even protect skin from skin cancer caused by sunlight. You can learn more about that below. 

Green Tea

Green tea fights skin cancer by promoting DNA repair. Researchers attribute this ability to the powerful antioxidant known as EGCG, which fights DNA damage from UV rays. As a result, EGCG may combat premature signs of aging, especially when applied topically or ingested. Green tea also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to the high content of catechins, which are powerful polyphenols. The polyphenols help to reduce redness, irritation, and swelling by hydrating and soothing the skin. Additionally, the polyphenols also offer antibacterial properties, which may help to fight infection and unclog pores. 

Honey

The use of honey in skin care is not a new concept, but recent studies confirm anecdotal evidence about honey application to the skin. One of the primary benefits of applying honey on the skin is the anti-inflammatory nature, which may help with skin conditions like acne or psoriasis. A 2017 study confirmed that honey from the stingless bee exhibited a strong anti-inflammatory effect, and other reviews support that study. An older study also notes that honey may help improve the overall appearance of the skin. Honey may just keep the skin looking young and prevent infections on the skin that contribute to early signs of aging. 

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has a reputation of being a magical elixir for skin and hair care. The number one reason that people love coconut oil for the skin is the fact that it promotes hydration. The medium-chain fatty acids work to reduce dryness and help the skin retain moisture. After applying coconut oil on the skin, it forms a protective barrier on the skin, shielding it from environmental toxins and pollutants. Similar to honey and green tea, coconut oil also helps to fight the effects of aging. Not only does it soften the skin, but it also works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

DIY Moisturizing Green Tea Body Wash

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons green tea leaves
• 2 tablespoons shea butter
• 1/2 cup liquid Castile soap
• 1/4 cup raw honey
• 15 drops essential oil of your choice

Instructions:

• Add the coconut oil to a small saucepan over medium-low heat and melt. Once melted, add the green tea leaves and allow this to simmer over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring frequently.
• Add the shea butter to the saucepan and stir until melted. Remove from heat and allow it to sit for five minutes at room temperature. 
• Once the mixture has cooled slightly, whisk in the remaining ingredients to thoroughly combine. 
• Pour the mixture into a soap dispenser and use when ready. Make sure to shake before each use. 

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The great thing about homemade body washes is that they are very easy to make. Dare we say that the recipe in this article is tasty? We aren’t saying that you should give this soap a taste test, but the scent is powerful and zesty, almost like a dessert. Not only does it smell great, but it also nourishes the skin in the best way. We’ll explain how it does this by highlighting some of the standout ingredients below. 

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a small tree and the extract from the tree is a popular astringent. You can purchase witch hazel online or in stores in the skin care section. Many people use it as a toner, or they incorporate it into homemade moisturizers, lotions, and cleansers. Witch hazel has been used as a home remedy for various skin conditions for centuries. The astringent properties help remove excess oil, making it a great product for people with oily skin. 

Witch hazel also aids with inflammation reduction. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, including tannins and gallic acid, work to reduce redness and soothe skin. In fact, this is why it is a popular home remedy for sunburn relief. For people with acne, or those who are prone to breakouts, witch hazel works to dry out blemishes and remove excess oil and bacteria. Finally, it may work to reduce itchiness and inflammation that results from insect bites, eczema, psoriasis, and more.

Castile Soap

Castile soap originated in Castile, Spain, and the original soap was made from pure olive oil and sodium carbonate. Over the years, though, the formula has evolved to include various plant-based oils and lye. Sometimes, Castile soap contains coconut oil, walnut oil, almond oil, and hemp oil, but olive oil-based soap is still the most popular. It is a biodegradable, ethically produced, vegan soap that is free of harmful chemicals. In addition to being an eco-friendly soap, Castile soap is very hydrating. It works to cleanse and moisturize the skin, which researchers attribute to the high glycerin content. Although Castile soap is a great body wash, it also works as a makeup remover, facial cleanser, and shaving oil. 

Almond Oil

There are two main types of almond oil: bitter and sweet. These two varieties are derived from the almond tree that is common in Mediterranean countries. Manufacturers extract the oil from almonds by grinding them, and they may use heat or chemical solvents to refine the oil. Cold-pressed almond oil is also available and is much better for the skin and beauty applications. Almond oil is both an emollient and a moisturizer, so it helps to keep the skin hydrated. Emollients work to smooth out the skin, filling in cracks or gaps that can cause dryness, while moisturizers supply the skin with water. 

One study found that emollients including refined almond oil were able to relieve itching and improved skin barrier function. Additionally, another study found that a moisturizer containing almond oil was able to relieve symptoms of eczema. Another study found that almond oil may reduce premature signs of aging by protecting skin from the damaging effects of UV radiation. 

Homemade Grapefruit Mint Body Wash

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 2/3 cup witch hazel
• 1/4 cup Castile soap
• 1/4 cup almond oil
• 20 drops grapefruit essential oil
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil
• Foaming hand soap dispenser

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a large mixing bowl and mix well to combine. 
• Place a funnel into the foaming hand soap dispenser and pour the mixture into the dispenser via the funnel. You should be able to fill two 8.5-ounce dispensers with this mixture. 
• Make sure that you leave about an inch of room at the top of the dispenser for residual foam. Screw on the top and use when ready.

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