Hey lovelies, summer is on the horizon, and it’s the perfect time to embrace a natural, DIY approach to skincare. If you haven’t yet established a consistent routine, fear not! I’m here to guide you through creating a fun, cost-effective DIY skincare routine that you can enjoy right at home. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into making some amazing natural skincare products to enhance your beauty routine.
1. Cleansing with Honey
The foundation of any skincare routine is cleansing. A honey cleanser is an excellent start for your DIY journey. Honey, a natural humectant with antibacterial properties, keeps your skin moisturized and healthy.
How to Make a Honey Cleanser
Wedderspoon Raw Premium Manuka Honey 17.6 Oz. NEW ZEALAND HONEY BEES ($35.97)
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup raw honey – Preferably organic and unprocessed, as it contains more beneficial properties.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or jojoba oil – These oils are great for dissolving makeup and impurities without stripping the skin’s natural oils.
- A few drops of essential oils (optional) – Tea tree oil for acne-prone skin, lavender for soothing, or rose oil for hydration.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base: In a small bowl, gently warm the honey and coconut oil (or jojoba oil) just until the coconut oil melts and can be easily mixed. You can do this by placing the bowl in a larger bowl of hot water. Avoid using direct heat or microwave as it can destroy the beneficial properties of the honey.
- Add Essential Oils: Once the honey and oil are mixed into a smooth consistency, add a few drops of your chosen essential oil. Mix well to ensure the essential oils are evenly distributed throughout the cleanser.
- Transfer to a Container: Pour your honey cleanser into a clean, airtight glass jar or container. Ensure the container is sterilized to prevent any bacterial growth.
- Label and Store: Label your container with the date made. Store your honey cleanser in a cool, dry place. It doesn’t necessarily need to be refrigerated, but keep it away from direct sunlight and heat.
Usage:
- To Use: Scoop a small amount of the honey cleanser into your hands and gently massage onto your damp face. The warmth from your skin will help soften the mixture, making it easier to spread.
- Rinse Off: After massaging over your face for a minute or two, rinse thoroughly with warm water. You may use a soft washcloth for removal if you prefer.
- Frequency: This cleanser can be used daily, both morning and night, as part of your skincare routine.
Benefits:
- Honey is naturally antibacterial, making it effective for acne treatment and prevention.
- It’s full of antioxidants, which are great for slowing down aging.
- Honey is extremely moisturizing and soothing, so it helps create a glow.
2. Exfoliation: Sugar and Coconut Oil Magic
Next up is exfoliation, a game-changer in skincare. It helps remove dead skin and unclogs pores, leaving your skin smoother and brighter. A simple mixture of sugar and coconut oil can work wonders as a natural exfoliant.
DIY Natural Exfoliant Recipe
Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil 54 fl oz. Virgin Coconut Oil from non-GMO ($28.59)
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar – Acts as a gentle exfoliant, removing dead skin cells without causing irritation.
- 1/4 cup of coconut oil – Moisturizes the skin, providing a barrier to protect the skin after exfoliation.
- 1 tablespoon of honey – Has natural antibacterial and soothing properties to enhance skin healing and brightness.
- Optional: A few drops of your favorite essential oil – For a pleasant scent and additional skin benefits. Lavender for soothing, tea tree for acne-prone skin, or rose for hydration.
Instructions:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the brown sugar and coconut oil. Stir until you get a consistent mixture. If the coconut oil is solid, you might want to slightly warm it up to soften, but ensure it’s not hot.
- Add Honey: Incorporate the tablespoon of honey into your mixture. Continue to stir until all the ingredients are well combined and have formed a uniform paste.
- Essential Oil: If you’re using essential oils, add a few drops into the mixture and stir well. Be mindful of the amount, as essential oils are potent.
- Storage: Transfer your exfoliant to an airtight container. You can store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator if you prefer a cooling effect upon application.
Usage:
- Application: Gently massage the exfoliant onto your damp skin in a circular motion. This is suitable for both face and body, but be gentle on sensitive areas.
- Frequency: Use 1-2 times a week, depending on your skin’s sensitivity and needs. Over-exfoliating can lead to skin irritation.
- Rinse: After exfoliating for a few minutes, rinse off with warm water and pat your skin dry with a towel. Follow up with your regular moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
Tips:
- Always patch test a small area of your skin before applying any new product, even natural ones, to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction.
- If you have specific skin conditions or sensitivities, consult with a dermatologist before trying new skincare recipes.
This recipe is customizable based on your skin’s needs and what you have available at home. Enjoy your natural, glowing skin!
3. Toning with Rose Water
A natural DIY rose water toner can balance your skin’s pH levels and tighten pores. Rose water is known for its hydrating and soothing properties, making it an excellent choice for your DIY toner.
Natural DIY Toner Recipe
HERITAGE STORE Rosewater 12 oz. Rose Water Spray for Face Made Without Dyes or Alcoho ($13.39)
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of witch hazel – Acts as a base for the toner. Witch hazel is known for its astringent properties, which can help tighten the pores and smooth the skin. It’s also great for calming inflammation and redness.
- 1/4 cup of rose water – Adds hydrating and soothing properties to the toner, and gives it a pleasant scent. Rose water is beneficial for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (optional) – Helps to restore the natural pH balance of the skin, making it beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin. However, if you have sensitive skin, you might want to omit this or use it in a smaller quantity.
- A few drops of essential oil (optional) – Depending on your skin type and concerns, you can add essential oils for additional benefits. For example, lavender for soothing, tea tree for acne, or geranium for balancing.
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a clean bottle or jar, mix the witch hazel, rose water, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Shake well to combine.
- Add Essential Oils: If you’re using essential oils, add a few drops into the mixture. Shake the bottle again to ensure everything is well mixed.
- Store Properly: Keep your DIY toner in a cool, dark place. If you used fresh ingredients or if your home is particularly warm, consider storing the toner in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life.
Usage:
- Application: After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with the toner and gently apply it all over your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Alternatively, you can also pour a little into your hands and pat it directly onto your skin.
- Frequency: Use morning and night after cleansing and before applying moisturizer.
- Shelf Life: If stored properly, your homemade toner should last for up to 6 months. Always check for any changes in smell or appearance that might indicate it’s time to make a new batch.
4. Spot Treatment Varieties
Spot treatment is a tailored part of your skincare routine, depending on your specific skin concerns. For acne-prone skin, a tea tree oil spot treatment is a great option due to its antibacterial properties.
DIY Tea Tree Oil Spot Treatment
Mix a drop of tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil. Apply it directly to acne spots using a cotton swab and leave it overnight. Rinse off in the morning.
Essential Oils Set. Peppermint, Tea Tree, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Lemongrass & Orange ($9.95)
5. Brightening Serum with Vitamin C
For dark spots or hyperpigmentation, a homemade brightening serum using vitamin C can be effective. Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant, lightens dark spots and evens skin tone.
How to Make a Vitamin C Serum
Combine a teaspoon of vitamin C powder with a tablespoon of aloe vera gel. Apply the serum focusing on areas with dark spots, leave for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse off.
6. Hydrating Avocado Honey Face Mask
For dry patches, an avocado and honey mask is perfect. Avocado, rich in healthy fats, nourishes the skin, while honey provides hydration.
DIY Avocado Honey Face Mask Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado – Avocados are rich in vitamins, minerals, and natural oils that deeply moisturize the skin, reduce inflammation, and help to keep the skin soft and smooth.
- 1 tablespoon of raw honey – Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it helps retain moisture in the skin. It also has antibacterial properties, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin.
- 1 tablespoon of yogurt (optional) – Yogurt contains lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid, which gently exfoliates the skin, leaving it smooth and refreshed. It’s also soothing and can help to reduce redness and irritation.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Avocado: Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl. Mash the avocado with a fork or blend it until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the tablespoon of raw honey to the mashed avocado. If you’re including yogurt, add it now. Mix all the ingredients together until you have a uniform paste.
- Apply the Mask: Before applying the mask, make sure your face is clean and slightly damp. Apply the mask evenly over your face and neck with your fingers or a brush, avoiding the eye area.
- Relax: Leave the mask on for about 15-20 minutes. This is a great time to relax and let the natural ingredients work their magic on your skin.
- Rinse Off: Rinse the mask off with warm water, and gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel. Follow up with your favorite moisturizer to lock in the hydration.
Tips:
- For an extra cooling and soothing effect, you can chill the avocado in the refrigerator before making the mask.
- If you have leftover mask, you can store it in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, but it’s best used fresh due to the natural ingredients.
- Always do a patch test on a small area of your skin before applying any new product, even natural ones, to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction.
7. Moisturization with Natural Oils
Moisturizing is key to keeping your skin hydrated and healthy. Create your own moisturizer or use natural oils like jojoba, coconut, or shea butter as part of your skincare routine.
DIY Moisturizer Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup shea butter – Acts as an excellent base for the moisturizer due to its rich, emollient properties. Shea butter is deeply moisturizing and contains vitamins A and E, which are fantastic for skin health.
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil – Is known for its hydrating and antibacterial qualities. It’s also solid at room temperature, which helps give the moisturizer a creamy consistency.
- 1 tablespoon jojoba oil – Mimics the skin’s natural oils, making it an excellent moisturizing agent without clogging pores. Jojoba oil is also rich in vitamin E and B-complex vitamins.
- Optional: A few drops of essential oil for fragrance and additional skin benefits – Lavender for soothing, tea tree for acne-prone skin, or frankincense for anti-aging properties.
Instructions:
- Melt Shea Butter and Coconut Oil: Combine the shea butter and coconut oil in a double boiler or a glass bowl over a pot of simmering water. Heat them until they are completely melted and blended together.
- Cool the Mixture: Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, place it in the refrigerator to cool further but not solidify, about 5-10 minutes.
- Add Jojoba Oil and Essential Oils: Once the mixture has cooled slightly but is still liquid, stir in the jojoba oil and a few drops of your chosen essential oil(s).
- Whip the Mixture: Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, whip the mixture for several minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. The texture should resemble that of whipped cream.
- Store: Transfer the whipped moisturizer into a clean, airtight glass jar. Store it in a cool, dry place.
Usage:
- Application: Apply a small amount of the moisturizer to your face and body as needed. A little goes a long way, so start with less and add more if necessary.
- Shelf Life: Because this recipe contains no water, it should last several months at room temperature. However, if you notice any change in smell, texture, or appearance, discard the product.
Tips:
- If you live in a very warm climate, the coconut oil may cause the moisturizer to soften significantly. Consider storing it in the refrigerator if necessary.
- You can adjust the oils based on your skin type. For oilier skin, consider using more jojoba oil and less coconut oil.
- Always conduct a patch test before using any new product, especially if you include essential oils, to ensure you do not have an allergic reaction.
8. Don’t Forget Sun Protection
Lastly, sunscreen is crucial for protecting your skin from sunburn and premature aging. Consider making your own sunscreen for an all-natural protective layer.
Wrapping Up Your DIY Skincare Routine
Remember, everyone’s skin is unique, so it’s vital to observe how your skin reacts to each DIY product. Conduct a patch test before applying any new product to your face. Consult a dermatologist for personalized advice if you have specific skin concerns.
Share these tips and become someone’s skincare bestie. Stay radiant and natural this summer!
Your DIY bestie, Nancy.