There are many things that you can do to improve self-care. Many people find that great forms of self-care include meditation, exercise, bubble baths, playing video games, reading, and more. However you engage in self-care is your prerogative, and we are all for it! It is an essential component to your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. 

Creating your own cuticle salve with natural ingredients is a great way to enhance your self-care routine. The process of creating your own beauty or skin care products can be a relaxing experience in and of itself. Not only will this cuticle salve improve your overall nail health, but it may also leave your hands feeling soft and rejuvenated. Whip it up by completing a few simple steps and it’ll be ready in under an hour! It is great to use during dry weather. 

How Shea Butter Helps Your Nails

Shea butter is full of essential fatty acids and vitamins A and E. All of these nutrients help provide hydration to dry and brittle cuticles, which can help prevent cracking and bleeding. Because shea butter has emollient properties, it helps to increase moisture levels in the skin. This ensures that your cuticles remain supple and soft. Shea butter also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe any irritation or redness around the cuticle. That makes shea butter especially beneficial for anyone with discomfort that stems from dryness. 

Almond Oil For Your Nails

Similar to shea butter, almond oil also contains vitamin E, which works to promote the growth of healthy cuticles. At the same time, it may help prevent breakage of both your nails and cuticles. Some preliminary research suggests that almond oil may improve blood circulation to the nail area, which encourages faster regeneration and healing. Additionally, almond oil offers anti-inflammatory properties that may relieve redness or irritation. The nourishing properties in almond oil make cuticles easier to manage by softening them. Regular use of almond oil may contribute to stronger, healthier nails and reduce the likelihood of hangnails or other common cuticle problems. 

Vitamin E Oil Supports The Cuticles

In addition to the vitamin E present in both shea butter and almond oil, we decided to add more to the cuticle salve with vitamin E oil. Just like your skin, your nails require moisture to remain healthy and strong. Vitamin E oil is incredibly hydrating and helps restore dry cuticles by enhancing moisture in the nail bed. In order to produce healthy nails, keratin dead cells have to receive a continued blood supply that is rich in vital nutrients. Vitamin E oil helps supply the blood with the right amount of nutrients necessary for healthy growth. 

Beeswax Benefits Cuticles

Beeswax is a common ingredient in various beauty products, especially cuticle care products, lip balms, and other products that promise hydration. It can keep the nails and cuticles healthy by forming a protective barrier that prevents damage. Not only does this protective layer maintain hydration, but it also protects against the elements. Beeswax also works to keep the cuticles supple and healthy by providing hydration via the emollient properties. 

Homemade Cuticle Salve

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup shea butter
• 1/4 cup almond oil
• 1 teaspoon beeswax pellets
• 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
• 5-10 drops essential oil of choice (optional for fragrance)

Instructions:

• Combine the shea butter, almond oil, and beeswax pellets in a microwave-safe container and microwave for about 45 to 60 seconds (or until everything is melted). Just make sure to monitor it closely so it doesn’t overheat. 
• Once the mixture is melted, remove the container from the microwave and stir with a wooden utensil. Add the vitamin E oil and optional essential oil and stir to combine. 
• Pour the mixture into a storage jar and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. This is a crucial step, as it solidifies into the salve, which you can apply easily. 
• Store the salve in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It can last for several months, but if it changes in scent or texture, go ahead and discard it.

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If we know one thing about winter, it is that the weather is colder and skin can dry out easily. The constant changing of environments does not do the skin any favors. Being bundled up outside in the cold and then going inside to the warm, dry heat is a recipe for dry skin. Fortunately, you can pamper your skin and bring it back to life with the homemade body butter in this article. It is filled with natural ingredients that help to leave the skin feeling soft, radiant, and supple. 

What’s The Difference Between Body Butter And Lotion?

Both body lotions and body butters work to moisturize the skin below the neck. Each of these skin care products can help soften skin and minimize dryness, but they work differently. The primary difference between lotion and body butter is the texture. While lotion has a higher water content and more liquid consistency, body butter is thicker and creamier. Body butter also tends to have a higher concentration of heavy moisturizers, such as shea butter. Body lotion tends to be formulated with glycerin, or other lightweight hydrators. 

Generally speaking, body butter is ideal for dry or rough skin. The ingredients work to replenish the skin’s natural oils and protect them from stressors that increase irritation or dryness. Below, we’ll detail two ingredients that make this body butter highly nourishing for the skin.

Shea Butter

Shea butter comes from the kernels of shea trees, which are native to sub-Saharan Africa. To this day, most shea butter still comes from this region. Shea butter helps promote hydration because it contains several types of fatty acids, including oleic, linoleic, palmitic, and stearic acids. These work to improve the skin barrier and protect the skin from damaging environmental pollutants. Shea butter also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, making it great for nourishing inflamed or upset skin. Additionally, shea butter is thought to offer mild protection from the sun, although it is not a replacement for standard sunscreen. 

Coconut Oil

Promoted for its ability to moisturize dry skin, coconut oil offers many compounds that help improve overall skin health. It exhibits antibacterial, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties when applied topically. Studies have shown that it may help relieve symptoms of atopic dermatitis or eczema, which can cause itchy rash. The anti-inflammatory properties work to improve skin barrier function and prevent moisture loss. And while coconut oil may not be able to remove stretch marks, it is possible that topical application may help reduce their appearance. More research is necessary on that topic, though. 

Whipped Gingerbread Body Butter

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup raw shea butter
• 1/2 cup coconut oil 
• 1/4 tsp  gingerbread spice
• 4 drops ginger essential oil
• 4 drops cinnamon essential oil
• 2 drops clove essential oil
• 2 drops vanilla essential oil

Instructions:

• Add the shea butter and coconut oil to a heat-safe bowl or measuring cup. Melt the two ingredients in the microwave for one minute. 
• Remove and stir well. If the shea butter and coconut oil are not fully melted, heat in the microwave for an additional 30 seconds. Remove and stir well again to combine.
• Transfer the melted mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour. 
• Remove from the refrigerator and use the stand mixer to whip the mixture on high for five minutes. Stop to scrape down the sides every minute and continue blending until you have a light, fluffy cream. 
• Add the gingerbread spice and essential oils and mix on low to incorporate. Spoon the mixture into a jar, cover, and store in the fridge. Use as needed.

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If you want to enter the world of DIY beauty products, lip balms are the perfect entry point. They are not extremely difficult to make, and you can customize their flavor using different essential oils. In the case of the recipe in this article, we chose an essential oil that evokes the holiday spirit. All you need is a double boiler and four ingredients to make this lip balm!

When people look at DIY recipes, they often see a double boiler on the list of required items or tools. You don’t need a double boiler, but you can get one if you plan on making a lot of homemade beauty products. You can make your own double boiler variation in two easy ways. Both ways involve a pot that contains an inch or so of water in it. Place that pot on the stove over medium heat. Once the water is warm, place the ingredients you need to melt inside a heat-safe glass jar or measuring cup. Don’t let the water boil and stir until fully melted. The other option is to place a heat-safe glass bowl over the top of the pot with water. The heat that builds up in the pot will help melt the ingredients in the bowl above. 

Shea Butter

Shea butter boasts a long list of moisturizing and nourishing compounds. One of the best benefits is that it is enriched with emollient properties and health fats, which the skin can easily absorb for optimal hydration. Even the driest of skin types are no match for shea butter’s moisturizing properties. Applying shea butter to your lips supplies them with extra nutrients without weighing them down. Shea butter doesn’t leave your lips feeling greasy or textured either. Plus, the humectant properties work to prevent moisture loss during the winter months. 

Beeswax

You are probably familiar with the many beeswax lip balms in existence, and for good reason. Beeswax is an excellent ingredient for lip balms because it helps to seal in moisture and protect against dryness. It works to create a barrier between your lips and the environment, making it ideal for cold, windy weather. Like shea butter, beeswax is a natural substance that is not likely to cause allergic reactions or irritation. Finally, the anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe chapped or irritated lips. 

Coconut Oil

Just like shea butter and beeswax, coconut oil offers impressive moisturizing properties, making it ideal for chapped lips. The reason that lips are susceptible to moisture loss is because the skin is so thin. They are more exposed to the elements than other parts of the skin, so they rely on you for protection. Coconut oil is considered to be an emollient, which is a non-cosmetic moisturizer that helps keep the skin moist. Emollients trap moisture into the skin, which is good news for your lips because they lose moisture easily.

A Quick Note

One thing to note is that if you cannot get the Christmas Spirit essential oil, you can make a similar blend. All you need is three drops of cinnamon bark essential oil, three drops of orange essential oil, and one drop of Idaho blue spruce essential oil. You only need seven drops because you don’t want the scent to be overpowering, although you can add more if you so desire. 

All-Natural Holiday Lip Balm

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon beeswax pellets
• 1 tablespoon organic coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon shea butter
• 7 drops Christmas Spirit essential oil
• Lip balm containers

Instructions:

• Create a double boiler by adding two inches of water to a pot and place it on the stove over medium heat. 
• Combine the beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter in a heat-safe glass jar and sit it inside the pot. Slowly bring the water to a boil and reduce the hit so that the water simmers. 
• Once the ingredients are fully melted, stir well and then carefully remove the pot from heat. Add the essential oil and stir to combine. 
• Carefully pour or spoon the melted mixture into the lip balm containers. Allow the balm to harden at room temperature, and then it is ready for immediate use.

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Making your own lotion seems like a daunting task, but it’s a lot easier than you think. It also requires a lot less ingredients than what you see on the ingredient lists for store bought lotions. Some DIY enthusiasts prefer lotion bars, body butters, or other similar creations, but this one is just as effective and useful. It uses unrefined coconut oil, sweet almond oil, and shea butter to help nourish the skin.

Most store bought lotions contain emulsifying wax to blend the carrier oils with distilled water. This can be a little difficult to do at home and it requires preservatives to keep from going bad. The DIY lotion in this article skips that step entirely by eliminating the water. What you are left with is a combination of nourishing ingredients that easily penetrate the skin. You can extend the shelf life by using vitamin E oil, as it is an antioxidant that helps other oils not go rancid as quickly. 

The recipe is a water-free, incredibly moisturizing lotion that will last for years without preservatives. This one is oil-based, so it feels more like a body butter. That makes it great for anyone with dry skin. Read on to learn more about it. 

Choosing A Carrier Oil

Sweet almond oil is an excellent, middle-of-the-road carrier oil because it is suitable for every skin type. It isn’t as heavy as coconut oil and more moisturizing than grapeseed oil. You can replace it with another carrier oil of your choosing, should you be allergic or averse to using sweet almond oil. Jojoba oil, avocado oil, or olive oil are excellent options. 

Because this DIY lotion is oil-based (not water based), you don’t need to use as much. Because there is no water in this recipe, it tends to have a longer shelf life than other homemade lotion recipes. The ingredients are shelf-stable and there is no water to dilute them. 

Essential Oil Safety

How many drops of essential oil should you add to your homemade lotion? That entirely depends on the essential oil and your preference. If you add the optional shea butter, 45 drops of essential oil will be a 1% dilution. Generally speaking, a 2% dilution is considered safe for skin care products like lotion. If you prefer a stronger scent, you can double the amount to yield a 2% dilution. If you want a lighter scent and have more sensitive skin, cut the amount in half. You can even use less than that! You can omit essential oils if you plan to use this on little ones, especially babies. 

Certain essential oils are harsher, so you can use smaller amounts. Wintergreen, cinnamon, and lemongrass essential oils are a bit harsh, while grapefruit and lime essential oils are phototoxic. If you don’t want to worry about anything, these are skin-friendly essential oils to use:

• Sweet orange essential oil
• Geranium essential oil
• Lavender essential oil
• Frankincense essential oil 
• Tea tree oil
• Patchouli essential oil

DIY Lotion

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sweet almond oil
• 1/4 cup unrefined coconut oil
• 1/4 cup beeswax pellets
• 2 tablespoons shea butter (optional)
• 45 drops essential oils of choice (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil (optional)

Instructions:

• Add the sweet almond oil, coconut oil, beeswax pellets, and optional shea butter to the top of a double boiler. Alternatively, place a heat-safe glass bowl on top of a saucepan with simmering water over medium-low heat.
• Stir the ingredients occasionally until completely melted. Remove from heat and add the essential oils, vanilla extract, and vitamin E oil, if using. Stir to combine. 
• Pour the mixture into a glass jar or tin for storage and allow it to cool at room temperature. Small mason jars are great for this. Store in a cool, dark place for one to two years. 
• A little goes a long way, so don’t go crazy when you apply this to the skin.

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As you prepare to soak up the sun during the upcoming summer season, make sure that you protect your skin from the sun’s rays. You’ve likely seen more sunscreen sprays and lotions available with summer on the horizon. Maybe you looked at a few, but didn’t think it was close enough to summer to splurge on sunscreen. Did you know that traditional sunscreen may pose a threat to your skin and the environment? Natural sunscreen is not only effective, but also great for your skin and environmentally friendly. 

Natural sunscreens use mineral-based ingredients like titanium oxide or zinc oxide to block the sun’s rays. These types of sunscreens contain ingredients that are gentler on the skin. They also provide more moisture without irritating the skin, which means you are less likely to experience a reaction. Chemical-based ingredients, on the other hand, absorb UV rays instead of blocking them. These ingredients have been known to cause skin allergies or irritation in young and sensitive skin. 

Natural sunscreen also provides broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. That means that they have higher sun protection factor (SPF), so you can soak up the sun for longer without needing to reapply every hour. You still have to reapply natural sunscreen for optimum skin safety, though. Let’s take a closer look at some of this recipe’s ingredients below.

Zinc Oxide

This is the mineral of choice when it comes to blocking UVA and UVB sun rays. One study found zinc oxide to be effective against a broad range of solar spectrum in experimental models and outdoor settings. It is the only active ingredient in sunscreen that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for infants under six months. Most commercial sunscreens that don’t leave a white residue use nano-sized zinc oxide. Unfortunately, one study found that nano-sized zinc oxide absorbs easily into the skin and can cause unknown problems. Nanoparticles of both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide may cause potential photocarcinogenecity, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity. 

Carrier Oils

Not only do carrier oils work to condition the skin and help improve moisture content, but some of them also provide SPF qualities. Great choices include coconut oil, carrot seed oil, mango and cocoa butters, and avocado oil. The SPF value of avocado oil, coconut oil, and olive oil sit around 8, while almond oil sits around 5. Most nonvolatile oils sit between an SPF value of 2 and 8. That means that olive oil and coconut oil have the best SPF values, which is helpful when it comes to selecting carrier oils in the formulation of sunscreens. For this recipe, you will only need coconut oil and shea butter, both of which offer sufficient SPF value.

Natural Sunscreen Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup shea butter
• 2 tablespoons beeswax pastilles 
• 2 tablespoons of zinc oxide powder (non nano!)
• 1 tsp cocoa powder (this will vary according to skin tone, but test on your skin at time of blending to adjust if necessary)

Instructions:

• Place a small saucepan filled with a few inches of water over medium low heat. 
• Add the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax pastilles to a heat-safe glass jar and place it in the saucepan on the stove. Leave the jar in the saucepan, stirring occasionally until completely melted. 
• Remove the saucepan from the stove and add the zinc oxide powder and cocoa powder to the jar. Stir to combine, ensuring that there are no powder lumps (30 seconds of stirring should suffice).
• Pour the sunscreen mixture into a glass storage container and allow it to cool at room temperature. Cover when cooled. 
• The sunscreen will maintain firmness as long as you keep it out of direct sunlight and not outside in temperatures that exceed 90º Fahrenheit.

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During pregnancy, the body undergoes a lot of changes beyond the growing bump. In addition to the hormonal shifts and hunger cravings, many pregnant people develop stretch marks on their belly, thighs, hips, breasts, and more. There is no miracle solution to prevent these pregnancy stretch marks, but there are moisturizing oils, butters, and balms that may help reduce the appearance. 

Stretch marks are scars that occur under the skin. They appear when the skin stretches quickly, for example, during pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss, and puberty. Using a natural stretch mark cream while pregnant helps hydrate and moisturize the belly as it expands. That may help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, but there is one thing to remember: stretch marks are perfectly natural, even if you dislike the look of them. In this article, we’ll cover some ingredients that may help reduce the appliance of stretch marks during or after pregnancy. 

Coconut Oil

As previously mentioned, stretch marks scar under the skin. According to studies, the skin can easily absorb coconut oil, whereby it may prevent free radical damage. This is due to the lauric acid content, which easily penetrates the skin’s layers and has a positive effect on collagen production. Coconut oil is highly emollient and works to keep the skin moisturized. That makes the skin more elastic and less prone to stretch marks. The anti-inflammatory properties also aid with the healing process of existing stretch marks over time. More studies are necessary to prove whether or not coconut oil can reduce stretch mark appearance, though.

Sweet Almond Oil

A great source of nourishment for the skin, sweet almond oil is an excellent moisturizing agent and may help the skin look more youthful. It may be a great home remedy for stretch marks as well. Stretch marks can be accompanied by dry skin or general irritation, and almond oil can help keep those symptoms at bay. Sweet almond oil works to enhance skin barrier function, penetrating layers of the epidermis, which may benefit stretch marks. 

Shea Butter

Shea butter works to hydrate the skin and improve skin cell growth. Skin that is more healthy and supple is much less likely to scar. Stretching that causes stretch marks, especially during pregnancy, can be quite extreme. Although keeping the skin moisturized will help reduce the appearance, it will not prevent stretch marks from occurring. That means that shea butter cannot prevent stretch marks, but it can help minimize the amount of damage. Areas of skin that already have stretch marks may benefit from shea butter application. Shea butter contains triglycerides and esters that help lock moisture in and improve skin barrier function.

Cocoa Butter

Recent research found that civilizations have used cocoa butter since 445 A.D. for its medicinal properties. Cocoa butter contains catechin, a naturally occurring antioxidant that exhibits antibacterial properties. Cocoa butter also penetrates the skin more easily than other butters. It’s the only butter that can reach down to the middle layer of the skin, the dermis. This layer possesses the connective tissue, which is responsible for collagen and elastin production. By enhancing the production of these two proteins, cocoa butter may encourage skin regeneration and help reduce or prevent stretch marks. 

DIY Belly Butter For Stretch Marks

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons each: sweet almond oil, coconut oil, shea butter, cocoa butter
• 1.5 tablespoons beeswax
• 3 teaspoons vitamin E oil
• 20 drops neroli essential oil (optional)
• 15 drops helichrysum essential oil
• 15 drops lavender essential oil
• 10 drops lemon essential oil

Instructions:

• Add the sweet almond oil, coconut oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, and beeswax to the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat. Stir as the ingredients melt. 
• Once melted, stir the mixture and pour into a four-ounce container. Allow the mixture to harden completely. 
• Remove the hardened mixture and place into a bowl, where you’ll mix in the vitamin E oil and essential oils. Mix well to combine and then put the mixture back into a glass container, preferably one with dark glass. 
• Apply this butter at least once a day and allow it to soak in for 15 minutes before putting clothes over it, because it is quite oily. Store in a cool, dark place.

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In skin care products, there are two types of ingredients: the high-tech, lab-made molecules, and natural ingredients from plants. Honey falls under the latter category and it’s been used for both medicinal and beauty applications for thousands of years. Ancient Sumerian tablets indicate that humans used honey in cosmetics as early as 2100 BC. It’s fair to say, then, that honey is one of the oldest natural skin care ingredients. 

What Is Manuka Honey?

There are many types of honey, with one of the most prized varieties being Manuka honey. This semi-opaque, creamy honey is made from the nectar of the Manuka plant. Native to New Zealand and Australia, the Manuka bush blooms small whitish pink flowers. Most honey that you purchase is made from a variety of different flower nectars, but Manuka honey is exclusively crafted from Manuka flowers. Because of that distinction, Manuka honey has a rich golden hue and high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In fact, various studies confirm that Manuka honey has a higher pH and sugar content than other honeys, and researchers believe that those attributes enhance the antibacterial activity. 

The Antibacterial Properties

In the late 1800s, researchers discovered that honey contains glucose oxidase, an enzyme that converts sugar into a mild, bleach-like antiseptic you probably have at home: hydrogen peroxide. What makes Manuka honey so valuable is that in addition to hydrogen peroxide, it contains methylglyoxal. This compound is an even stronger antibacterial agent than hydrogen peroxide. Some studies suggest that it may fight against strong bacteria like Staphylococcus or E.coli. What does that mean for your skin? The antibacterial activity in Manuka honey may help combat blemishes, infections, and even impetigo. 

Keeps Skin Hydrated And Soft

Honey is probably not the first ingredient you think of in regards to moisturizing the skin. Manuka honey may be very effective at battling dry, cracked skin because it exhibits emollient and humectant properties. Emollients fill the spaces between the cracks to promote softer skin, whereas humectants draw moisture from the air into the skin to boost hydration. Manuka honey is also useful for fighting flaky skin and general irritation, both of which are symptoms of dry or dehydrated skin. 

May Reduce Signs Of Aging

Manuka honey exhibits anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which work to fight bacteria and promote healing. Additionally, Manuka honey provides optimal moisture, which is vital if you want to reduce signs of aging. Dry and cracked skin is more prone to wrinkles, discoloration, age spots, and fine lines. The antioxidants in Manuka honey also promote healing and may even enhance collagen production, which keeps the skin looking younger. Plus, the bleach-like qualities from the hydrogen peroxide in Manuka honey may help clear up skin discolorations. 

Manuka Honey Body Butter

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup each: coconut butter, coconut oil, and shea butter
• 1 tablespoon Manuka honey

Instructions:

• Put the coconut butter, coconut oil, and shea butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Keep on the heat until fully melted. 
• Remove from the heat and pour the mixture into a heat-safe bowl. Allow the mixture to sit until it is opaque. You can accelerate this process by putting the mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes. 
• Once the mixture is ready, use a hand mixer to whip it up. Add the Manuka honey and continue whipping with the hand mixer until light and fluffy. 
• Transfer the body butter to a glass container and store in the fridge until ready to use.

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Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that typically presents dry, itchy patches on the skin. The inflammation, itchiness, and redness can lead to cracked or swollen skin, or even blisters. Dermatologists typically prescribe steroid creams to help control the condition, but you can go a more natural route. Homemade eczema creams harness the power of natural ingredients to moisturize the skin and calm inflammation. 

Believe it or not, homemade creams can be very effective at reducing eczema symptoms. The reason for this is because they contain nourishing, moisturizing ingredients that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Some of these ingredients include shea butter, coconut oil, oatmeal, and aloe vera, all of which help relieve itching and promote healing. In fact, research shows that shea butter contains beneficial compounds that exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. 

Please note that if eczema symptoms are severe or persistent, you may require over-the-counter or prescription-strength creams/ointments. Those products often contain active ingredients like immunomodulators or corticosteroids, which work to control symptoms and reduce inflammation. If you want to go the more natural route before resorting to those treatments, the following creams may provide relief. 

Baby Butter Balm

A baby’s skin is very sensitive, so prioritizing gentle and safe ingredients for eczema treatment is paramount. When using the following cream on a baby’s skin, make sure to do a small patch test before applying to the affected area. 

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup shea butter 
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon ground oatmeal 

Instructions:

• In a small heat-safe bowl, melt the shea butter and coconut oil in the microwave or in the top of a double boiler. You can also make your own version of a double boiler and melt those ingredients that way. 
• Once the shea butter and coconut oil are fully melted, remove from the heat source and allow it to cool for a few minutes. 
• Add the ground oatmeal to the melted mixture and stir to combine. Transfer to a clean, airtight container and allow it to solidify at room temperature. Use when ready. 

Soothing Oatmeal Cream

Known for its soothing properties, oatmeal has been used for centuries to remedy skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. Oats contain compounds, such as beta-glucans, that work to reduce itching, calm inflammation, and relieve dry or irritated skin. 

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup oats
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons raw organic honey
• 10 drops lavender essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

• For the oats, you can either use regular rolled oats or you can add them to a food processor and blend them into a powder. The choice is yours. 
• In a large bowl, combine the oats, coconut oil, and honey, mixing until thoroughly combined. Add the lavender essential oil (if using) and mix again. 
• Apply a small amount of the cream to the affected areas and gently massage into the skin. Leave the cream on for a few minutes so that the ingredients can penetrate the skin. 
• Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. Store the remaining cream in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. 

Aloe Vera & Olive Oil Eczema Balm

Olive oil is a natural moisturizer that works to hydrate the skin and enhance skin barrier function. The antioxidants and healthy fats in olive oil work to nourish and soothe dry, itchy skin. Aloe vera exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and itching, all the while providing a cooling sensation. A six-week study compared the effectiveness of Olivederma (a combination of olive oil and aloe vera) and betamethasone (a corticosteroid) for eczema treatment. The study found that both the Olivederma and betamethasone reduced eczema severity, but Olivederma showed greater improvement.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon cocoa butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup aloe vera gel
• 10 drops rosehip oil (optional)

Instructions:

• Add the cocoa butter to the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat and stir occasionally until melted. 
• Once the cocoa butter is melted, pour in the olive oil and remove from heat. Pour the aloe vera gel into the mixture and stir to combine. 
• Add the rosehip oil (if desired) and then transfer the mixture to a clean, airtight container. Allow it to cool completely before you use it. Store in a cool, dark place.

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Beach trips, days at the lake, and backyard barbecues are synonymous with two things: summer and sunburns. If you don’t protect your skin, it can burn within 30 minutes of being out in the sun. And if you’ve suffered a bad sunburn, then you understand how miserable it can be. It is possible that some of your efforts to protect your skin fall through the cracks, and you end up with a sunburn. Fortunately, you can soothe sunburnt skin with the after sun lotion in this article. 

We want to be clear and say that this after sun lotion is not a miracle cure. It will not make your sunburn vanish within an hour, nor will it undo the damage done to your skin. It can, however, provide some relief and replenish your skin with moisture. Additionally, this after sun lotion may accelerate your recovery, hydrating your skin in the process. As a quick note, try to stay out of the sun while recovering from a sunburn. 

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera and sunburns go together like peanut butter and jelly. For thousands of years, different civilizations have used aloe vera to treat various skin conditions, such as burns and minor wounds. Some people refer to aloe vera as the “burn plant” because it is highly effective at soothing burns and sunburns. However, when applying aloe vera topically, it can quickly evaporate from the skin, so you may not absorb all of the medicinal properties. For this reason, it can be beneficial to mix it with something that provides a barrier to lock moisture into the skin. That brings us to the next ingredient.

Shea Butter

A go-to in many DIY beauty recipes, shea butter provides excellent moisturizing properties and other noteworthy benefits. If you have dull or dry skin, shea butter can help it retain moisture by forming a protective layer on the skin’s surface. That ultimately reduces water loss and keeps the skin more supple and hydrated. Shea butter also contains vitamins A and E, both of which contribute to a more youthful appearance. Who doesn’t want that? Lastly, shea butter works to promote cell regeneration, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Coconut Oil

If you apply coconut oil to the skin after some time in the sun, it can provide a cooling feeling and may even relieve sunburn symptoms. The saturated fats in coconut oil are excellent for moisturizing the skin. Plus, dermatologists agree that coconut oil aids every aspect of a sunburn. Not only does it have a soothing feel after application, but it also deeply hydrates the skin to repair damage done by the sun. 

Lavender Essential Oil

Great for calming the intensity of a sunburn, lavender essential oil is gentle enough for you to topically apply it with a carrier oil on damaged skin. Because of the linalool and linalyl acetate content, lavender essential oil works to reduce the pain of a severe sunburn. Lavender essential oil also contains antibacterial, carminative, and anti-fungal properties, all of which help to accelerate the healing process of a sunburn. 

DIY After Sun Lotion

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup shea butter
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil
• 3 tablespoons organic aloe vera gel
• 1 tablespoon rosehip oil
• 30 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• You will need a stand mixer or a hand mixer to make this recipe. 
• Break up the shea butter into small chunks and place in the mixer. Whip on high for 20 seconds and then stop to scrape down the sides. 
• Add the coconut oil and whip for 20 seconds before stopping to scrape down the sides. Add the aloe vera gel and then whip for another 20 seconds. 
• Repeat this process when you add the rosehip oil and then the lavender essential oil, adding them one at a time and then mixing well. The after sun lotion should be creamy and easy to remove with a silicone spatula. 
• Store in a glass jar in a cool, dry place. Apply to sunburnt skin without being too aggressive. It’s best to apply the lotion after a cold shower.

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Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that can cause itchiness, dry skin, blisters, scaly patches, rashes, and skin infections. Itchy skin is the most common symptom of the condition, which affects more than 31 million Americans. Within that statistic, people experience different forms of eczema, including contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and dyshidrotic eczema. 

Many people with eczema use the word “flare-up” to describe one or more acute symptoms from prolonged itchiness. If flare-ups reach a certain point, antihistamines, corticosteroids, or topical steroid creams are the usual treatment options that healthcare providers recommend. Some people don’t want to resort to these medications and prefer to experiment with natural solutions to manage the condition. While the ingredients in this body butter do not cure the condition, they may calm flare-ups and reduce itchiness on eczema-prone skin. You can learn more about some of the ingredients below. 

Coconut Oil

Working to soften dry, brittle skin (a common symptom of eczema), coconut oil helps prevent skin breakups that invite microbes into cracks. As most of you know, coconut oil is a great moisturizer because the skin can easily absorb it. One randomized, double-blind study from 2014 found that virgin coconut oil had a greater effect than mineral oil in 117 patients with mild eczema symptoms. Compared to extra virgin olive oil, virgin coconut oil was able to better moisturize dry skin and remove the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in 126 eczema patients. 

Shea Butter

Another wonderful moisturizing ingredient, shea butter is rich in beneficial fatty acids that rejuvenate the skin. In fact, the fatty acids in shea butter work to accelerate the renewal of skin cells, in addition to supporting circulation. Shea butter contains a few derivatives of cinnamic acid, which exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. The vitamin E in shea butter benefits the skin by promoting softness and providing relief from dryness. One research study found that 74% of patients with eczema reported a significant relief from symptoms after using a cream containing shea butter. Researchers believe that shea butter’s ability to prevent trans-epidermal water loss was a primary reason for this relief. 

Calendula Oil

If you have eczema, including calendula oil in your skin care routine is a great idea. It is rich in anti-inflammatory properties that work to reduce both itchiness and swelling in affected areas. Researchers note that calendula oil can help disinfect wounds, minor cuts, and mild skin irritations, primarily due to the inherent antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Calendula oil also works to stimulate the production of collagen, which can assist with the healing process. In fact, one study monitored eczema patients who used topical applications containing calendula. Many participants reported that it soothed irritation, itching, and helped improve the healing process. 

Castor Oil

Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which works to draw dirt, dead skin cells, and microbes from the skin. It also helps stimulate lymphatic flow and encourage the growth of healthy tissues. By promoting optimal circulation, castor oil works to remove cellular toxins, which in turn reduces inflammation in the body. According to researchers, castor oil is very effective at hydrating and moisturizing the skin. In fact, it may relieve pain and treat infection, making it an ideal ingredient for eczema patients. Lastly, the antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties in castor oil have been thoroughly documented.

Anti-Itch Whipped Body Butter

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons raw, unrefined shea butter
• 5 tablespoons virgin, unrefined coconut oil
• 1/2 tablespoon castor oil
• 1 tablespoon calendula oil
• 1 tsp vitamin E oil
• 15 drops lavender essential oil
• 7 drops tea tree oil (therapeutic grade)

Instructions:

• In the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat, add the shea butter, coconut oil, and castor oil. Stir occasionally until everything is thoroughly melted. 
• Remove from heat and pour the melted mixture into a heat-safe glass bowl and allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for an hour. You can place the bowl in the refrigerator and chill it for 20 minutes, or until it starts to solidify.
• Using an electric hand mixer, whip the partially solidified mixture for a few minutes. Add the calendula oil, vitamin E oil, and lavender and tea tree essential oils and whip for another several minutes, or until the mixture is nice and fluffy. 
• Spoon the body butter into an airtight glass jar and store in a cool, dark place. It will keep fresh for one to two months, or longer if you store it in the fridge. Just keep it away from direct sunlight.

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