Essential oils have numerous health benefits and can be incredibly relaxing. Used in both aromatherapy and skin care, essential oils can help you create spa-like experiences in your very own home. Treat your feet right with an invigorating peppermint foot cream and slough away dead skin cells with a DIY sugar scrub. You can even use whipped body butter to establish a smooth skin tone. 

Although the aromatherapy shower mist recipe in this article doesn’t turn back the hands of time, it can transform your shower into a full-on steam room. Spray the mist in your steamy shower and the aromas will transport you to a relaxing oasis. The best part is that you don’t even have to leave your bathroom!

Typically, spa scents are made with a custom blend of essential oils. Because you are making this aromatherapy blend, you can also customize to your liking. If you prefer more eucalyptus essential oil than peppermint essential oil, alter the recipe. You can also use essential oils that help contribute to more alertness and energy to help you get your day started. A relaxing blend of essential oils, including lavender essential oil, may be beneficial for winding down before bed. 

What Is A Shower Mist?

A shower mist is basically a spray that you spritz into the water or steam of the shower, which transforms it into a spa-like experience. The steam from the hot water creates a natural diffuser, spreading the aromas of the essential oils in the shower air. While showering, you’re surrounded by the shower steam and an amazing fragrance. 

A shower mist is about more than a pleasant aroma, though. The essential oils in the shower mist have therapeutic properties, which you benefit from during your steamy shower. A few spritzes in your shower may help relax the body, calm the mind, wake you up, lift your spirits, regulate emotions, and rejuvenate your senses. 

Shower Mist Vs. Shower Steamer

You may have heard of a shower steamer. In fact, you can click here for our DIY recipe! They are scented discs that you place on the shower floor. As hot water flows onto them, they release their aroma into the shower air. A shower steamer is very similar to a shower mist, as both release the aromas from essential oils that you choose. Shower steamers are not for everyone, though, especially if you use oils or butters to make them. They can cause the shower floor to become a bit slippery, which is dangerous if your balance is not 100%. 

A shower mist is also a lot easier to make. All you have to do is pour the ingredients in a bottle, screw on the cap, shake the bottle up, and you are good to go. A shower mist also does not depend on humidity, so you can use the same recipe whether the humidity level is 0% or 100%. Shower steamers are a lot harder to make if you live in a humid environment. Finally, there is no setting time for a shower mist. Use it as soon as you make it, unlike shower steamers, which occasionally take days to set. 

DIY Shower Mist

Ingredients:

• 20 drops lavender essential oil
• 15 drops orange essential oil
• 5 drops frankincense essential oil
• 1/4 cup high-proof grade alcohol (such as Everclear)
• Distilled water

Instructions:

• Add the essential oils to an eight-ounce spray bottle and then pour in the high-proof grade alcohol. 
• Should you choose to use other essential oils, that is also fine. The general recommendation for this recipe is 30-40 drops of essential oils. You can keep the high-proof grade alcohol and distilled water measurements the same in that eight-ounce bottle.
• Fill the rest of the bottle with distilled water (leaving a small amount of space at the top to prevent overflowing), screw on the cap, and shake well to combine. 
• Put your spray to use! Spritz the shower mist in your hot shower and reap the benefits.

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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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Have you been thinking about adding more natural items to your skin care routine? If you have, then this Epsom salt body scrub is a great place to start. After purchasing all of the ingredients, each jar you make ends up costing around two dollars. How incredible is that?! Not only can this be an excellent item to add to your skin care routine, but it also makes for a great gift for the upcoming holiday season. Decorate the jars to make the product a little more festive. 

Normally, people put Epsom salt in their baths to help soothe sore muscles and inflammatory skin conditions. Believe it or not, Epsom salt makes for a highly efficient body scrub. After you take a shower, gently massage wet skin with a handful of the scrub in this recipe. The coarseness of the salt crystals works to slough away dead skin cells. Epsom salt’s anti-inflammatory properties help prevent irritation during the exfoliating process. Rinse away the body scrub and then follow with a moisturizing body cream. 

Epsom Salt Benefits

Epsom salts are a type of mineral salt found in nature. This type of salt is rich in magnesium and sulfate, and the salt is very coarse, but it is not meant for cooking. Skin care experts note that you can use Epsom salt to remove dead skin from the face, body, and scalp. Some people also use it on the skin to relieve itchiness from poison ivy or mosquito bites. It also helps to soften skin affected by psoriasis, which causes scaly patches on the skin. 

Coconut Oil Benefits

Coconut oil may help prevent and treat skin rashes, such as atopic dermatitis. One study found that coconut oil extract was able to improve skin barrier function. Scientists believe that coconut oil works to strengthen the skin barrier for infants with a low birth weight, potentially protecting them from health complications. Coconut oil may also help to reduce inflammation that results from UVB rays. Cellular studies indicate that coconut oil exhibits anti-fungal, antibacterial, and antiviral activity. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

The antimicrobial and antiseptic properties in peppermint essential oil may help reduce the appearance of pimples and other blemishes. Because it contains menthol, it offers a cooling sensation when topically applied to the skin or scalp. Researchers note that applying peppermint essential oil topically (only when properly diluted to avoid skin irritation) stimulates blood flow to the skin, which may enhance skin tone. Finally, peppermint essential oil helps regulate sebum production, making it great for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin. 

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

According to lab studies, eucalyptus essential oil may increase the production of ceramide, which helps moisturize skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent UVB-induced collagen degradation. Researchers have observed that cineole, the active compound in eucalyptus essential oil, has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects. Additionally, topical application can help ease inflammation and aid wound healing, thanks to the antimicrobial properties. 

DIY Epsom Salt Body Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut oil
• 1/2 cup Epsom salt
• 20 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil

Instructions:

• In a medium bowl, mix together coconut oil, Epsom salt, and the essential oils. Make sure the ingredients are thoroughly combined. 
• Spoon the scrub into a glass jar and screw on the lid. Decorate with some ribbon or label. Increase the size of the batch in order to give this scrub as a gift during the holidays.

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The leaves are changing, the days are shorter, and the weather has a certain chill that seems to cut through your layers. You may also feel a slight tickle in the back of your throat, which can induce panic. There’s nothing quite like a cold threatening to mess with your plans and take you out of commission for a week or so. 

We’ve got you covered with a simple DIY throat spray made with all-natural ingredients. It may help soothe the pain of a sore throat and promote quicker recovery. The best part is that it only takes a few minutes to prepare. It goes great with peppermint tea, but you can use green tea, black tea, or even Throat Coat tea if you prefer those varieties and flavors. Continue reading to learn more about some of the ingredients. 

Szechuan Peppercorns

These peppercorns are commonly used in both Chinese cuisine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Szechuan peppercorns contain anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation or irritation. Some studies found that compounds in these peppercorns exhibit antimicrobial effects, which may help combat viruses and bacteria. Finally, Szechuan peppercorns have a numbing effect, which may help relieve pain and discomfort, especially in the mouth and throat. 

Manuka Honey

Manuka honey exhibits antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and antioxidant properties. Researchers attribute these health benefits to the active ingredient: methylglyoxal (MGO). This is created in Manuka honey because of dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is high in Manuka flowers. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects offer relief from a sore throat. The honey can help fight against the bacteria that cause pain in the throat. In fact, research confirms that people who use Manuka honey have a decrease in the presence of Streptococcus mutans, which can cause sore throats.

Peppermint Tea

Hot herbal teas are great to consume when you have a sore throat. They promote hydration and offer soothing benefits. Peppermint tea is rich in polyphenols, a group of powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation. It also contains menthol, a compound that offers a cooling effect by interacting with calcium channels in the body. Some traditional medicinal practices used peppermint to treat various conditions, including symptoms of sore throat. 

Apple Cider Vinegar

According to studies in human cells, apple cider vinegar proved effective against E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. It also acted against methicillin-resistant S. aureus, which is a significant threat to humans. Laboratory studies found that apple cider vinegar exhibits antimicrobial properties against certain bacteria and yeast. Currently, however, there are not enough human trials to back up that statement. Although there is anecdotal evidence for apple cider vinegar reducing sore throat symptoms, scientific studies are necessary to prove its efficacy. 

DIY Throat Spray

Ingredients:

• 2 peppermint tea bags
• 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Manuka honey
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 3 drops peppermint oil
• 3 drops lemon oil
• 5 drops clove oil

Instructions:

• Bring one cup of water to boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Turn off the heat once the water is boiling and add the tea bags and peppercorns. Allow them to steep for five to 10 minutes. 
• Stir in the remaining ingredients and then pour through a fine mesh strainer and collect the liquid in a bowl or cup. Allow the liquid to cool. 
• Get two four-ounce glass spray bottles and divide the mixture between these two bottles, using a funnel to pour in the liquid. Screw on the tops and store in the refrigerator for up to one month.
• When ready to use, shake well and then spray towards the back of the mouth as often as needed.

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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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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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Just like anything in life, there is no magic, cure-all solution to immediately fix feelings of nausea. Your first course of action is to determine the cause of the problem. That can make it easier to choose the right natural remedy. Even if you don’t fully know why your stomach is upset, the natural remedies in this article may still provide relief. A few common causes of nausea are detailed below.

Motion Sickness 

Some people are very susceptible to motion sickness, no matter the mode of transportation. If you are traveling by car, get out for some fresh air to help relieve nausea. You can’t necessarily roll down the window on a plane or train, though. Motion sickness occurs when the inner ear, brain, and eyes receive mixed signals and cannot properly communicate with each other. You experience nausea as a result.

Pregnancy Nausea

It’s likely that you cannot wait to meet your bun in the oven, but that cute baby can cause some serious nausea. Pregnant women may experience morning sickness during the first trimester. It usually goes away after the early stages of pregnancy, but some women can experience it throughout all three trimesters. 

Cancer Drugs

Patients receiving chemotherapy, radiation, and conventional cancer treatments tend to get nauseous. These drugs are very hard on the body and can affect certain parts of the brain that control vomiting. Experts state that chemo drugs may irritate the stomach and gastrointestinal tract. Nearly 80% of chemo patients experience nausea. 

Food Poisoning

Sometimes, you just know when food poisoning is gonna hit. Something you ate was off, but it can also creep up out of nowhere. Suffice to say that food poisoning is no fun and it can cause serious nausea, indigestion, and vomiting. It occurs when you ingest harmful microbes, viruses, bacteria, or certain chemicals. 

Once you know the cause of your nausea, you can have an easier time choosing the right remedy. Below, you’ll find five natural remedies to relieve nausea. 

Essential Oils

There are various essential oils that may help relieve nausea. Peppermint essential oil is one of the most popular oils for nausea relief, but lemon is also helpful, especially during pregnancy. These oils have antimicrobial properties that work to fight harmful pathogens when you inhale their aromas. A 2021 study involved cancer patients who applied peppermint oil below their noses for nausea relief. A separate controlled group only used anti-nausea medication. The peppermint group experienced less nausea and vomiting than the other group. 

Ginger

Whether you have a sore throat, nausea, or upset stomach, ginger may be the right natural remedy for the job. Ginger tea, ginger chews, and fresh ginger all work well at relieving various types of nausea, including pregnancy nausea. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends ginger as a safe alternative to nausea drugs in pregnancy. Some studies have found that ginger is more effective at relieving nausea than dimenhydrinate, an antiemetic drug. 

Move It (If You Can)

If you experience nausea from a stomach ache or overeating, exercise may help. A gentle workout, such as yoga or walking, increases circulation to your muscles and organs, including the ones that aid digestion. That boost of circulation may help improve digestion, which can then help relieve nausea. Just make sure to avoid bending over, as that will not feel good. 

Acupuncture

Acupuncture and acupressure work their magic by activating energy meridians in the body. During an acupuncture appointment, the acupuncturist administers thin needles to specific points in the body. One of the most popular nausea pressure points is on the hand, between the thumb and index finger. If you do not want to engage in acupuncture, you can apply pressure in this area for three to four minutes per side and repeat as needed. Sea Bands may also work to relieve nausea, as they are bracelets that apply pressure to an anti-nausea point on the inside of the wrist. 

Peppermint Tea

Similar to peppermint essential oil, peppermint tea may help ease nausea. It is safe to drink, even for children, and may also help relieve digestive problems, such as gas, bloating, or irritable bowel syndrome. If you have acid reflux, try not to consume a lot of mint, though, as it can relax the esophageal sphincter and worsen symptoms.

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Everyone has their day in the sun during summer. Some people are less fortunate than others and go home looking like freshly boiled lobsters. You’ve seen that bright red skin that stands out from 100 feet away. Although sun exposure is beneficial, sunburn is not. When the skin is burnt to a bright red, you need immediate relief. The soothing sunburn ice cubes in this article can help promote faster healing and provide relief. 

As a quick note, it’s important for everyone to lather up with a skin-safe sunscreen when going out in the sun. If you plan to stay in the sun for long periods of time, make sure to seek shade when possible, hydrate all day long, and reapply sunscreen every couple hours. That may not seem like the most fun thing to remember, but it can help keep your skin safe. For when you let yourself cook a little longer in the direct sunlight and get burnt, you will need to soothe the skin immediately.

Sunburn Soothing Ice Cubes

There are many cooling sprays, after sun gels, lotions, and other natural remedies that can help soothe sunburns. They only last for so long in the fridge before they go bad, though. They are easy to make, but you still have to spend the time to prepare them. Why not have something that won’t go bad and is always cooling and soothing? 

Aloe vera is a great plant to have at your house. It is a low-maintenance succulent and the gel inside the plant has soothing properties that can help accelerate the recovery of sunburns. Researchers note that aloe vera contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflamed skin. 

Regarding the soothing ice cubes, many experts do not recommend placing ice on sunburns. The reason for this is because the cold acts as a vasoconstrictor, which reduces blood flow to the area and slows healing time. If you add vasodilating herbs to the ice cubes, though, they can help increase blood flow and solve that issue. Plus, you get the cooling relief from the frozen cubes. 

Comfrey

This plant stimulates tissue repair and works to help the body form healthy skin cells. It is also beneficial for sore joints and damaged skin. Studies have shown that comfrey can help soothe and heal damaged skin. And just like marshmallow root, which is also in these soothing sunburn cubes, comfrey is a demulcent that helps provide a protective barrier over tissues. 

Lavender

Lavender is an all-around soothing herb that is especially gentle on the skin. It lends itself to a variety of DIY skin care products, so a lot of DIY enthusiasts keep lavender essential oil on hand. Lavender may help disinfect wounds and cuts and acts as an analgesic to soothe pain. It is frequently applied to burns to help soothe the skin and promote faster healing. Lavender also helps to increase circulation to the skin, which accelerates recovery time. 

Calendula

Calendula is very similar to lavender, in that it is a great all-around herb. It is very gentle and great for all skin types. Many studies confirm that it can help soothe inflammation and reduce the severity of cuts, burns, sunburns, rashes, and cuts. Calendula may also help move lymphatic fluid and improve blood circulation.

Marshmallow

Slippery marshmallow works to coat and cool irritated skin, while simultaneously adding moisture. The roots, flowers, and leaves of marshmallow root all exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. You can use leaves and flowers for the cubes (below) or you can use the roots.

Peppermint

Peppermint has a natural cooling effect, making it a great addition to soothing sunburn cubes. The mint plant is also a vasodilator, which stimulates circulation and helps create a warming feeling. If you combine mint with cool or cold ingredients, it feels refreshing on the skin. 

Herbal Ice Cubes To Soothe Sunburns

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water 
• 1 tablespoon each: lavender flowers, comfrey leaf, peppermint leaf, marshmallow root, and calendula flowers
• 1/4 cup aloe vera gel

Instructions:

• Pour the water into a small pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. 
• Add the herbs to the pot, cover with a lid, and remove from heat. Allow the herbs to steam for 15 minutes. 
• Strain the herbs out, which will leave you with about one and three-quarter cups of tea. Put that herbal tea in the fridge to cool. 
• Once the herbal tea is no longer hot, add the aloe vera gel and stir to combine. Pour this mixture into ice cube trays and freeze. 
• Pop out an ice cube after coming home with a sunburn and apply it to the affected area. You can wrap the ice cube in a paper towel if you need to.

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Heading to the beach, pool, or lake this summer? What would a day by the water be without a little color? The goal is not to turn into a lobster; rather, it should be to get a subtle kiss from the sun in the form of a tan.

Spending a lot of time in the sun can be dangerous if you don’t take the proper measures to protect your skin. You can continue to apply sunscreen (preferably a safe mineral version) and spend trade off between sun exposure and time in the shade. Should you want to absorb some free vitamin D and tan, you may want to use a tanning oil. 

How Does Tanning Oil Work?

Essentially, a tanning oil helps to accelerate the process of tanning when you are out in the sun. Tanning oils attract more UV rays to help you achieve a deeper tan by allowing your skin to absorb them at an increased rate. When you apply a thin layer of tanning oil to the skin, you lower the skin’s refractive index. The result is a nice looking tan, but how healthy is this process for your skin? 

Most tanning oils lack SPF protection, even if you use natural oils, including coconut oil, sunflower oil, or olive oil. Most tanning oils have 15 SPF or less, but that is not enough to protect your skin from UV rays. Without proper SPF protection, the skin is not protected from sun exposure. Tanning is inherently “not great” for your skin, but you can tan smartly. If you want to tan, try to use an SPF of at least 30 and reapply every couple hours. Don’t forget to find shade so you aren’t in the sun for too long. 

A quick note: tanning is ultimately caused by an increase of melanin pigment formation. That only results from damage to the skin from harmful UV rays. Just keep that in mind when you decide to tan. 

Sun Protective Natural Ingredients

It is very important to understand that natural oils do not offer the same sun protection as natural oils. A 2021 study found that raspberry seed oil sits around 2.6 SPF, while carrot seed, coconut and wheat germ oils range from 0 to 2.8 SPF. A previous study from 2010 looked at the SPF of carrier oils and essential oils. Carrier oils ranged from 2 to 8 SPF, while essential oils ranged from 1 to 7 SPF. Olive oil and peppermint essential oil scored the highest. The only downside is that the study wasn’t conducted on human skin.

Even though the DIY tanning oil recipe in this article is not the same as regular sunscreen, it is healthier than a store bought tanning oil. This tanning oil contains olive oil, which has oleic acid and supports clearer skin. It also helps repair sun damage and may soothe dry skin. Plus, olive oil has high levels of squalene, which protects skin cells from aging. 

This tanning oil also contains avocado oil, which helps increase collagen production. Avocado oil is also rich in UV-protectant carotenoids, which offer mild protection from sun damage. Carrot seed oil offers vitamin A and vitamin E protection, which help fight off UV rays. Finally, raspberry seed oil is rich in antioxidants and doesn’t leave a greasy film after application. 

DIY Tanning Oil

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red raspberry seed oil
• 1/2 teaspoon carrot seed oil
• 10 drops sandalwood essential oil (optional)
• 10 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
• 1 teaspoon bronze mica powder (optional)

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients, including the optional ones if using, to an amber glass bottle and shake well to combine. If you have a bottle with a pump or pop top, that is ideal. 
• Use as needed for mild sun exposure to help get a golden tan without burning the skin. 
• As a reminder, this is not a replacement for sunscreen and should not be used as such.

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Nobody wants to look at a picture of themselves and see a whole lot of yellowing their smile. At the same time, harsh whitening strips can irritate the gums and teeth, especially if you are more sensitive to those strips. You don’t have to carefully place whitening strips on your teeth now that you have this homemade toothpaste recipe that helps to whiten teeth. It contains activated charcoal, which is mildly abrasive and helps get you a brighter smile. 

Avoid Harsh Teeth Whitening

If you want a gorgeous smile that’ll stand the test of time in family photos, chemical whiteners may not be your best bet. According to research, chemical whitening strips may cause gum irritation, tooth sensitivity, or permanent enamel damage. What’s even more interesting is that scientists don’t quite know how these strips work exactly, or the effects they have in the long run. 

At-home whitening treatments tend to contain hydrogen peroxide, which helps remove stains or general discoloration. Hydrogen peroxide can be beneficial in certain situations, but it may not be the best ingredient for oral care. Hydrogen peroxide bleaching agents damage dentin, the tooth layer underneath enamel. If you have weaker teeth, you have a greater risk of developing tooth decay. Even though you see a product in stores, that doesn’t mean it is good for your health. 

Whitening Teeth The Natural Way

There are many excellent toothpaste recipes that contain natural ingredients. Some companies offer great options in stores, but they can be quite expensive. If you are on a homemade kick and want to add more DIY recipes to your collection, this toothpaste is a great option. This whitening toothpaste contains beneficial ingredients and stays the same consistency at any temperature. The reason for that is because this recipe does not contain coconut oil, a popular ingredient in DIY oral care recipes. It contains MCT oil, which is derived from coconut oil, but stays liquid at different temperatures. 

This natural toothpaste is not as sweet as the conventional toothpastes you’re familiar with, nor does it foam. It doesn’t contain baking soda, so it won’t be salty like other natural options. This recipe contains a small amount of essential oils for flavoring. 

Essential Oils In Toothpaste

For the record, not every essential oil is safe to put in your mouth. Some are safe for adults and not for children. The quantity of the oil(s) you choose also plays a role. Cinnamon or peppermint essential oils are irritating and you should use these options sparingly, especially when compared to orange essential oil. Essential oils are completely optional for this homemade whitening toothpaste, but they can make it taste better. You may want to use grapefruit or lemon essential oil. 

Before we get to the recipe, we must discuss activated charcoal. It is a great ingredient for whitening teeth because it helps remove surface stains. Incorporating it into a recipe is much better for your teeth because it isn’t as harsh as using it with water alone. Activated charcoal also helps to improve the pH level of your mouth, making it more alkaline to protect against cavities and gingivitis. 

Homemade Natural Whitening Toothpaste

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup calcium carbonate powder
• 3 tablespoons xylitol powder
• 1/4 cup MCT oil
• 2 teaspoons activated charcoal powder
• 20 drops essential oil of choice (optional and see above information)

Instructions:

• Before you begin, make sure that the xylitol powder is finely ground and not coarse. If necessary, add it to a coffee grinder and blitz until very fine. 
• Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl and whisk to combine. Transfer the mixture to a glass jar or squeeze tube and use as needed when you brush your teeth. 
• Store in a cool area and do not allow water to get into the jar or tube of toothpaste. 

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