Recipes

Herbal Tonics for Toning Always follow your cleansing routine by toning your skin with a mild skin freshener or with a medium strength skin tonic. Toning removes greasiness remaining from cleansing preparations, closes pores, refines the skin and if you intend to make-up, it leaves a smooth clean texture which will hold the foundation and powder for long. Basically skin tonics freshen the skin. The cheapest toner is simply to splash your face with cold water. Skin tonics are generally composed of infusions of herbs, flowers, vinegar, rosewater and witch-hazel. Stronger skin tonics or astringents dry the skin removing all traces of oil on the skin. They are suitable for greasy skins. A void using very strong astringents for any type of skin, as the harsh action of the alcohol toughens and coarsens the skin and prevents it from functioning normally. Normally you should use your tonic or astringent with a piece of cotton wool, but if your skin is looking sluggish, pat it on with a brisk slapping movement. Toning stimulates the blood supply to the skin. Moisten folded cotton wool with your skin tonic and pat on the cheeks, the neck and chin. A void any areas with broken veins. Homemade Herbal Skin Tonics Recipes for Toning Here are a few Skin tonics recipes which are easy and quick to make. Try them and give your comments. Rose Water Skin Tonic It is one of the oldest skin-fresheners discovered by an Arabian dermatologist in the tenth century. Rose water is available at a chemist, but it is very easy to make on your own too. Mix rose essence in water and shake thoroughly. Two tablespoons essence of roses is sufficient for 4 ½ liters purified water. Gypsy Rose Water Skin Tonic Take 2 handfuls of dark, scented rose petals and put them into a jar or a wide topped bottle. Now put 1 liter of water and 200 gms. of sugar into the bottle or jar. Keep this mixture for 2 hours, shake again, then strain and store it in a cool place. Rose Water and Witch-Hazel Tonic This is the most famous home-made skin tonic of all. To make this lotion simply mix 3/4 cup rosewater and cup witch-hazel. If you have a very greasy skin you can use equal proportions of rose water and witch-haze1. BASIL ACNE TONIC

Basil is known for its "soothing and toning" properties. 2 to 3 teaspoons dried basil leaves 1 C. boiling water Steep basil leaves in water for 10 to 20 minutes. Cool, then apply to face with a white cotton ball. Keep tonic refrigerated. Recommended shelf life: 90 days. Flower and Herb Tonic

Mix 2 tablespoons of dried herbs or flowers or 3 handfuls of fresh ones to a pint of water. Pour the boiling water over the herbs and cover the pan to prevent steam from being lost. Let the herbs steep for a couple of hours. Strain and bottle. Marigold Skin Tonic Marigolds are known for their healing properties. Use either fresh or dried flowers to make this skin tonic. Mix 2 tablespoons of dried flower or 3 handfuls of fresh ones to a pint of water. Now add 2 tablespoons of witch-hazel. It is good especially for a greasy and spotty skin. Hollyhock Skin Tonic Put 3 tablespoons of hollyhock leaves into half a pint of boiling water. Cover and simmer gently for five minutes. Leave to stand for half an hour, then strain and it is ready for use. Many other flowers and leaves such as lilac, geranium, honey suckle, lime flowers, lavender anti dandelions can also be used in the same way to freshen and cure sallowness of the skin. Blueberry Tonic recipe 3 tablespoons steamed, crushed blueberries 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt Purée ingredients in a blender at low speed until well mixed and fluffy. Apply to face and neck. Rinse off with tepid water after 15 to 20 minutes. If mask is too runny after blending, refrigerate for one hour. Soothes and nourishes skin. Make this mask the day you plan to use it. Elder Flower Water Wash about a handful of elder flowers and mix 6 tablespoons of boiling water into a large jar. Let them steep overnight, and strain it the next day. In case you have dried flowers, use only 2 tablespoons. ************************************************************ Simple Guide to Homemade Astringents Astringent lotion is used to tone the skin and is necessary to remove the last traces of grease and closed pores. Never choose a harsh astringent lotion. Astringent is applied to the oiliest places such as the sides of the nose, chin and forehead. When blemishes occur, it is good for yourself to cover them. This helps to close the pores and discourage the greasy excretions from building up too rapidly underneath your make up. Strong astringent lotions contain alcohol. Surgical spirit, too, is a good astringent but it smells too much. I do not recommend the use of strong astringents as they overdry the skin, leaving it tight and dehydrated. Always use a milder tonic or astringent. Here are a few home-made astringent preparations for you. Honey Water Astringent: Mix the following ingredients together in a glass jar with an air-tight lid for a week, shaking it twice daily. 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons coriander seed

2 tablespoons nutmeg 1 tablespoon cloves 4 tablespoons grated lemon peel 8 tablespoons alcohol 4 tablespoons rose water 4 tablespoons orange flower water 112 teaspoon benzoin, and 1/2 teaspoon storax. Chamomile Astringent Ingredients: 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint (or 2 tbsp dried) 2 tbsp dried chamomile flowers, crushed 4 cups water Instructions: Combine ingredients in a small saucepan. Boil for 10 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to steep for 5 minutes. Strain liquid into a jar, cover and refrigerate. Will keep 2 weeks refrigerated. Apply with/ cotton balls to skin. Especially good for very oily skin Oily skin facial toner apple cider vinegar as a great ingredient for preparation of skin care recipes. It is ideal for oily skin as it removes the excess oil but doesn't irritate the skin. It also cleanses the skin and increases the circulation. 1 tsp Cider Vinegar 3 Tablespoos of water Stir well and apply all over face or in t-zone area with a cotton pad. I have oily/combination skin and it does work. Tomato Tonic recipe Astringent for oily skin. 1 ripe, red tomato 1/4 cup cornmeal Peel and seed the tomato. Mash the pulp with the cornmeal. Massage skin thoroughly with the mixture. Leave on for a few minutes. Rinse with cool water. Eggwhite Toner Clean face thoroughly using any natural cleanser. Apply raw eggwhites to the skin and leave on for at least 15 minutes. Wash off with tepid water. Tomato-Honey Skin Toner For a clearer and more vibrant well-toned skin You will need: Tomato juice Honey

Procedure: Mix the tomato juice with honey until it appears sticky. Apply the mixture of tomato juice and honey on the face and neck. Wash it after 15 minutes. Apple skin toner This toner is an excellent choice for oily skin, and is a great substitute for rubbing alcohol. Ingredients • •

2/3 cup witch hazel 1/3 cup apple vinegar

•

severeal drops of lavender essential oil (or oil of your choice)

Preparation • •

Mix, and add to clean bottle. Shake bottle well before using, and then dampen a cotton ball or pad saturated with your toner, and swab over face.

•

Witch hazel is a gentle astringent, apple cider vinegar will help restore your skin's natural ph balance, and lavender soothes sensitive skin.

Apple Pore Toner Ingredients: 1/2 cup of natural apple juice 2 small cucumbers. Instructions: Apply to face and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse off Cucumber toner Ingredients • •

1/2 cucumber cut into chunks 1/2 tomato cut into chunks

•

1/4 of Vodka

Preparation • •

Use blender or foot processor to combine all of the ingredients until the mass is smooths and consistent Dab it on the face and neck using fingertips

•

Leave on for 5 minutes and rinse off with warm water

•

Pat dry

The ingredients in this toner act as astringers that tone your skin and remove the dirt and impurities. You could store it in a refrigerator in a plastic container with a lid, and use it the next day. Simple green tea facial toner Ingredients • •

2 teaspoons of powdered green tea 1/2 of boiling water

Preparation • •

Steep green tea in boiling water for 10 minutes Let it cool and apply it on the face with cotton balls (gauze)

Daily use of this facial toner is recommended. Lemony mint toner Ingredients • •

1 peppermint tea bag 1/4 cup witch hazel

•

1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice

•

1 cup of boiling water

Preparation • •

Steep tea in water for 10 minutes Discard the bag and allow the liquid to cool down

•

Add lemon juice and witch hazel and store in a glass jar in the refrigerator

It is recommended you use it daily. Watermelon toner Ingredients • •

2 tablespoons of fresh watermelon juice 1 tablespoon of Vodka

•

2 tablespoons of distilled water

Preparation • •

Strain the mashed watermelon pieces through a gauze or paper towel. Add other ingredients to this juice, and mix Use a cotton ball to dip it into the mix and apply on the face.

•

Rinse off with warm water

This toner could be saved for later use. Keep it in a glass jar and close tightly, and keep refrigerated. It can be used up to 10 days after it was made. Facial toners are to be used before hydrating facial masks. ******************************************************************* Protein Toner Beat together 1 tblspn milk, 1 tsp honey and 1 egg. Apply to face and neck. Leave on as long as desired. Rinse off with warm water followed by a splash of cold. Witch Hazel Use an extract of witch hazel as an astringent, a skin freshener and to soothe skin irritations. Elderflowers, lavender, orange flower water and rosewater all classic toners for all skin types. Make a strong infusion of any of the above, refrigerate and use within 3 days. Lemon a strong astringent, dilute with water before using, being careful to keep away from eyes. Lemon Toner • •

1/2 cup lemon juice 1 cup distilled water

•

2/3 cup witch hazel

Combine all ingredients. Pour into a clean bottle or decorative cosmetics container. Shake well before using. Apply with a clean cotton ball. Lecithin Toner Dissolve lecithing granules in jojoba or almond oil. Apply to face and throat as a day or night cream. Pine Toner •

2 cups fresh pine needles

•

1 cup distilled water

•

1/2-cup witch hazel

Place pine needles in small saucepan with distilled water. Bring water to boil. Allow water to cool completely then strain and discard pine needles. Add witch hazel and stir well. Pour into a clean bottle or decorative capped container. Apply to skin with a cotton ball. Store in a cool dark place. Queen of Hungary Water This water can be used as an astringent, aftershave, deodorant, hair and skin tonic and even inhaled as a headache remedy: • •

1 part roses 1 part lavender

•

1 part rosemary

•

1 part sage

•

1 part orange peel

•

1 part lemon peel

•

2 parts mint

Add 2 ounces of the above herbal formula to 2 ounces of apple cider vinegar. Put in an airtight glass jar, let steep for about 2 weeks. Strain and add 1 1/2 cups pure distilled rosewater. Pour into a decorative, airtight decanter and use daily. Rose Water & Glycerine Astringent • •

1/2 pint olive oil 1 ounce rose water

•

a few drops of glycerin

•

1 ounce vodka

Sage Astringent • •

4 Tbsp dried sage 4 Tbsp vodka

•

1/4 tsp borax

•

3 Tbsp witch hazel

•

10 drops glycerin or honey

Steep the sage in vodka for 2 weeks then strain. Dissolve borax in witch hazel, stir in the saged vodka and glycerin. Pour into bottle with a tight cap. Shake before each use. Strawberry Mash strawberries, use as an astringent and cleansing facemask. Violet Simmer violet flowers in a little milk to make a softening and mildly astringent face lotion. Lemony Lavender Toner • •

3 drops lemon oil 3 drops lavender oil

•

3 teaspons of distilled water

Use a soft cotton ball to massage mixture into the skin after cleansing. Follow with a moisturizer if desired Strawberry Toner recipe Oily skin astringent. 1/2 cup mashed strawberries 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt Purée ingredients in a blender at low speed until sell mixed and fluffy. Apply to face and neck; rinse with tepid water after 30 minutes. If mask is too runny after blending, refrigerate for one hour. Make mask the day you plan to use it.

Get Rid of Blackheads, & a Great Toner! To get rid of black heads - Just fill up your sink with HOT water and put your face over it and let it steam for about 5 minutes. I usually dip my face in it (my nose, cheeks, forehead, chin) after steaming it. You can put chamomile tea in it and steam it too! It really gets rid of blackheads!

great toner:1 glass of water (any degree.. hot.. warm.. cold);1/2 lemon;3 slices cucumber Just fill the glass up of water, take a forth of the lemon and squeeze it into the glass.. then slice the other forth of the lemon into 2-4 slices and place them in the glass. the put the 3 slices of cucumber in it and let it sit for 30-60 minutes.. Use cottonballs and soak them in the liquid and dab it all over your face! I put mine in the fridge for about a half an hour so its chilly and it feels sooo good.. and makes your skin look great! Toner From a Bottle

This isn't really homemade but I found that when I whisked a cottonball with some Witch Hazel on it over my pimples it helped clear them up visibly in about three(3)days. This definitely works.

Apple Facial Toner recipe 1 tablespoon honey 1 peeled, cored apple Puree honey with apple in a blender. Smooth over face. Leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse off with cool water. Strawberries and Cream Astringent recipe For oily or blemished skin. 1 handful strawberries 1 heaping tablespoon heavy cream Mash strawberries by hand or in a blender. Add heavy cream and mix well. Spread thickly on face and neck (a shaving brush is handy for this) and let your skin benefit for 10 minutes. Tissue off, then splash face and neck with cool water. Orange-Vinegar Splash recipe Astringent - restores acidity to face. 1 orange peel 1/2 cup orange flower water 2 cups white vinegar Mix orange peel and vinegar and let it steep for 1 week. Remove orange peel and add 1/2 cup orange flower water. Splash on face after washing with soap and water. Cucumber-Lemon Tonic recipe Soothing astringent for oily skin. This tightens pores, soothes sunburn, and can be used as a natural deodorant, also. 1 cup witch hazel Juice of 1 lemon 3 tablespoons coarsely chopped cucumber Mix in a clean glass bottle, then let set for 2 days. Remove cucumber. Keep lotion in a cool place or the refrigerator to use as a splash. Lemon Astringent recipe For oily skin.

1/2 cup witch hazel 1/4 cup lemon juice Mix. Apply to face and neck with a clean cotton ball. Rosemary Water Astringent: Ingredients: 2 tablespoons rosemary peel and pith of a 1/4 orange peel and pith of a 1/2 lemon 4 sprigs of mint 1/4 cup alcohol or witch-hazel (for mild astringent) 1/2 cup rose water Mix all the ingredients together in a large air-tight bottle and let it stand for 48 to 72 hours, shaking frequently. Lemon Astringent: Mix the following ingredients together in a large bottle for 24 hours, then strain and use for greasy skin. 4 tablespoons lemon juice or juice of 2 large lemons 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract 8 tablespoons witch-hazel 2 tablespoons alcohol Camphor Astringent: Mix together in a large bottle 1/2 cup rose water, 1/2 cup witch-hazel, 1(2 cup distilled water, 1 tablespoon camphor spirit and 2 drops blue coloring. To make the astringent stronger, add a pinch of alum. Strain and use to tighten and tone the skin. This recipe is especially good if you suffer from large pores and spots. It can also be used as an after-shave lotion by men.

Watermelon Toner 2 Tablespoons fresh watermelon juice 1 Tablespoon vodka 2 Tablespoons witch hazel 2 Tablespoons distilled water Strain the watermelon juice to get rid of seeds and fruit pieces. Combine all ingredients in small bowl and stir well. Pour into clean containers with tight-fitting lids. To use: pour a small amount on a clean cotton pad and apply to face. Store in fridge between uses to retain freshness. Will keep approximately one week. Toner for Normal Skin This is a refreshing toner for normal skin. Chop up a small sized fresh cucumber and liquidize it with half a cup of yogurt. Apply the mixture for 5-10 minutes, and wash it off. The remainder can be stored in the fridge for future use. Green Tea Skin Toner 1 teabag of green tea 1/2 cup boiling water

Let the tea bag steep for 2 to 3 minutes in the hot water. Remove the tea bag and let the water cool. Pour into an empty toner bottle or something similar with a small opening. Use with cotton pads like you would regular toner. If you wish to, you could also add a 3 or 4 drops of tea tree essential oil. Tea tree oil is a great antiseptic for pimples, while the oil helps to moisturize the skin. Green Tea Skin Toner recipe 1/2 cup pure spring water or distilled water 2 teaspoons green tea leaves (or 1 green tea bag) Green tea tightens and calms skin. It also contains a strong antioxidant that fights signs of aging. This toner should be applied before a moisturizer.Bring water to a boil. Place the tea leaves or tea bag in a glass or bowl. Pour the boiling water over the leaves or bag and steep for 2 to 3 minutes.Strain the green tea into a bottle, and let it cool.Apply to skin with cotton balls. Do not rinse. Toner Mix turmeric juice with milk and lemon juice to use as a toner. Delicately massage over the face and neck for half an hour and wash with lukewarm water every night before going to bed. Watermelon Toner recipe 1 cup watermelon chunks 2 tablespoons witch hazel 2 tablespoons distilled water Purée watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender. Strain the liquid using a sieve, and discard the solids. Combine the reserved juice with remaining ingredients, stir and pour into a glass bottle. Dab on face using a cotton ball. This is rich in sugar and vitamins A, B and cup Watermelon has astringent properties, and the super high water content makes it an excellent skin refresher. Witch Hazel and Rosewater Tonic recipe 2 parts rosewater 1 part witch hazel Mix ingredients together. Because witch hazel is a drying agent, adjust these proportions to make a mixture best suited to your own skin.

Wrinkle Remover / Skin Toner 2 tablespoons vodka 1 tablespoon fennel seeds 1 1/2 teaspoons honey Combine all ingredients; stir well. Allow to sit for 3 days. Strain mixture. Use a cotton ball to apply to face and neck as a toner.

Tone Up Tea 1 cup distilled water 1 heaping tablespoon dried green tea leaves 1 heaping tablespoon dried chamomile flowers 1 tablespoon rose hydrosol 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel 3 teaspoon apple cider vinegar 3 teaspoon lemon juice (optional addition for oily skin) Heat distilled water until boiling. Remove from heat and add green tea and chamomile. Steep for 15 minutes and strain out plant material. Add rose hydrosol, aloe vera and vinegar (and lemon juice, if using) and stir well. Pour into a clean bottle and label. Shake well to ensure the mix. Store in refrigerator for best results and use within 3 weeks. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sugar Scrub About once a week I make a facial scrub from sugar and a few other simple items. Honestly, this will leave your skin very soft and silky. The scrub is good to use on arms/legs etc. as well. Take equal parts of white cane sugar (do not use organic sucanat, it doesn't work too well in this recipe) and either vegetable glycerine or avocado oil and combine them together in a bowl. If you want to, add a little something extra like aloe vera, orange oil or lavender. Mix up the ingredients and scoop some of the scrub into your hand. Massage it onto your face/legs/etc. for a minute or two. Leave the mixture on for about four or five minutes before rinsing. (Don't scrub for too intensely, and don't use it every day or your skin will get blotchy and red) Summer Salt Scrub Recipe Summary: A refreshing salt scrub for summer! Ingredients:

(* All ingredients are approximate, use more or less to suit) 2 cups Sea Salt 1/2 cup Corn Meal 1/2 cup light oil 1 TSP Soapnut or liquid soap (opt) EO or FO (for summer I use citrus scents like lemon, orange, grapefruit) Powdered colorant (opt) Instructions: (*note: mix thoroughly each time an ingredient is added) Pour & mix salt and corn meal in a large bowl. Mix in colorant & soapnut if using. For summer I use yellow, coral, or other "sunshiney" colors. I also add in a teeny bit of cosmetic grade glitter. Add EO or FO's and let sit overnight with a paper towel covering it to "fix" the scent. Next, pour and mix the oil and liquid soap. I prefer light oils like grapeseed or almond, especially for the summer mix. For drier skin in the winter I use a heavier oil. The consistancy should be like damp sand. Scoop into a plastic container (glass is too risky as this should be in the shower). To use, scoop out a couple of fingerfulls and rub along the body BEFORE washing. Actually, with the soap already in it (you can omit if you like) additional washing may not be necessary, but I would avoid the face and other sensitive areas. DEFINITELY avoid any cuts or abrasions as the salt would sting! ******************************************************************* Summer Salt Scrub Recipe Summary: A refreshing salt scrub for summer! Ingredients: (* All ingredients are approximate, use more or less to suit) 2 cups Sea Salt 1/2 cup Corn Meal 1/2 cup light oil 1 TSP Soapnut or liquid soap (opt) EO or FO (for summer I use citrus scents like lemon, orange, grapefruit) Powdered colorant (opt) Instructions:

(*note: mix thoroughly each time an ingredient is added) Pour & mix salt and corn meal in a large bowl. Mix in colorant & soapnut if using. For summer I use yellow, coral, or other "sunshiney" colors. I also add in a teeny bit of cosmetic grade glitter. Add EO or FO's and let sit overnight with a paper towel covering it to "fix" the scent. Next, pour and mix the oil and liquid soap. I prefer light oils like grapeseed or almond, especially for the summer mix. For drier skin

in the winter I use a heavier oil. The consistancy should be like damp sand. Scoop into a plastic container (glass is too risky as this should be in the shower). To use, scoop out a couple of fingerfulls and rub along the body BEFORE washing. Actually, with the soap already in it (you can omit if you like) additional washing may not be necessary, but I would avoid the face and other sensitive areas. DEFINITELY avoid any cuts or abrasions as the salt would sting! ***************************************************************** Honey-Bee Body Scrub 5 tablespoons raw sugar 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon cream milk ( optional ) Mix all the ingredients and enjoy! A perfect body scrub for all skin types. ****************************************************************** Almond-Oatmeal Body Scrub Recipe Submitted By: Elise of Lake Elsinore, CA Ingredients: 2 to 3 aloe vera leaves 2 Tbs. honey 2 drops geranium essential oil 2 drops palmarosa essential oil 1 cup ground almonds 1 cup colloidal oatmeal Instructions: You will need 2 ceramic or glass bowls, a stainless steel spoon, and a sterilized 8-oz. jar. 1) Cut the aloe leaves in half lengthwise and scoop out the clear gel into a bowl. Mix in the honey and essential oils. 2) Place the almonds and oatmeal into the second bowl. Stir in the liquid, adding a little distilled water as needed to make a thick paste. 3) Makes enough for two applications. Store in the refigerator.

Oatmeal, Yoghurt & Milk Body Scrub - BY AUDREY This is the easiest body scrub to make for everyone and for all skin types! It gently exfoliates your skin and the milk and yoghurt is perfect to moisturise and soften the skin. You can use this once or twice a week. I love this! For the whole body: 4 tbsp of quick oats ( semi-grounded) 2 tbsp of plain/ natural yoghurt 4 tbsp of full cream milk 1 tsp of honey ( optional ) Simply mix all of the above ingredients together in a bowl and bingo ! PS: You can use this as a face scrub as well! Good Body Scrub : 1. A cup of olive oil

2. A cup of regular white sugar 3. A tablespoon of cinnamon Mix all ingredients well. Apply after your shower, then rinse. I think the cinnamon keeps the sugar from becoming hard. Banana & Strawberry Scrub Turn ashy, flakey skin into super smooth and silky soft skin using this scrub! 1/2 Banana 3 tbs. Sugar 4oz Strawberry yogurt, OR 3 strawberries and 4oz plain yogurt. Mash the banana. Add the yogurt. (if necessary, mash to strawberries and add them.) You may also combine all of the ingredients (except sugar) in a blender. Add the sugar and mix well. Sugar Scrub 1 cup water 2 1/2 to 3 cups sugar 1 teaspoon coconut butter 6 drops of orange essential oil, ylang-ylang essential oil, and Jasmine perfume oil (Perfume oil isn't as expensive as essential oil. You can find these products at a health food store) Find an air tight container. Add the water and 1 cup of sugar, letting sugar dissolve. Using your judgement, slowly add the rest of the sugar until the mixture looks pasty, but feels soupy. Melt the coconut butter in a microwave and add it to the mixture. Stir well, and add oils. For best results after washing with the sugar scrub, use lotion on you skin. Yoghurt, Oatmeal & Milk Face & Body Scrub 3 tablespoon plain yoghurt 2 tablespoon oatmeal 2 tablespoon full cream milk Mix all ingredients together and ready for use. It will gently exfoliate your skin and leave it soft and smooth. Banana Body Buffer This recipe is good for all skin types and especially good for dry skin. It can be use as a body buffer as well as a face scrub. It helps to moisturize the skin, leaving it soft. 1 or 2 ripe bananas, mashed up 1 tablespoon plain natural yoghurt 1 teaspoon honey 2 tablespoon oatmeal Mix all the ingredients above and enjoy!

Sugar Body Exfoliant I was reading your recipe for the sugar baby hands. I love to use baby oil & table sugar as a body exfoliant. I cleanse with baby bath and pat dry. Then I apply baby oil gel:) Makes for silky soft skin...lasts over 24 hours. Exfoliant

For a smooth no blackhead or whitehead face, I use brown sugar, the not so fine one, I mix it with any kind of cooking oil, because cooking oil is a natural oil from like vegetable, etc. Then I scrub it in my face, I do it once a week, it really works and it is cheap, I use it all over my body too. You can use salt but I never tried it because it's too sharp for the face. Exfoliator Ground up chick peas make a great exfoliator. Just drain them from the can, mash them up, rub on your face and rinse off. Brown Sugar Almond Scrub 1/2 c. brown sugar 1/2 c. ground almonds 1/2 c. ground oatmeal 1/4 c. almond oil 3 drop vitamin e oil Combine and store in airtight container, excellent shower scrub for feet and legs. Homemade Facial Scrub Recipes Basic Facial Scrub Mix ½ cup finely ground oatmeal ¼ cup rice flour 1 tablespoon of powdered cinnamon Combine the ingredients in an airtight jar. When you want to make a facial scrub, just add 2 teaspoons of the mix to a bowl and add enough of a wet ingredient to make a paste. Good examples of wet ingredients are; egg yolk, fruit, honey, yoghurt or milk. You could use one wet ingredient or a combination such as banana and yoghurt. Apply the scrub to a damp face and gently massage into the skin in upward circular motions. Thoroughly rinse off with warm water and a cloth. Paw Paw Magic 2 teaspoons of mashed paw paw 1 teaspoon of semolina Combine into a paste. Massage into a damp face with upward circular movements and rinse thoroughly with warm water. Rice Pudding 1 teaspoon of rice flour 2 teaspoons of cream Combine into a paste. Massage into a damp face with upward circular movements and rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Sweet Avocado 2 teaspoons of finely ground oatmeal 1 teaspoon of avocado 1 teaspoon of honey Combine into a paste. Massage into a damp face with upward circular movements and rinse thoroughly with warm water. Facial Scrub (Good for blackheads) 1 part baking soda 1 part water Mix together into a paste. Gently scrub blackheads for 2 to 3 minutes. Rinse off. Use once or twice a week. Natural Scrub For Oily Skin 1 part sea salt 1 part lemon juice Mix into a paste and gently scrub face for 1 to 2 minutes. Rinse off. Interestingly, you would think this would be very drying to your skin, but I've found it actually leaves your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and soft. Use once a week to remove dead skin cells. Apricot body scrub Ingredients Apricot oil, 1/2 tsp Castor oil, 1 tsp Beeswax, 1/2 tsp Sea salt, 1 Tb sp Almond powder, 1 tsp Baby Shampoo base, 2 tsp Melt the beeswax, castor oil, and apricot oil together and mix well. Remove from heat. Add sea salt and almond powder. Stir in the shampoo. Honey Almond Scrub 2 Tbsp almonds 2 tsp milk 1/2 tsp flour 1/2 tsp honey Grind almonds in a blender. Add milk, flour and honey, mixing until a thick paste is formed. Rub onto skin, rinse with warm water followed by the pH balancer. Honey 'n Oats Scrub 1/2 cup uncooked oatmeal 1 Tbsp honey 1 Tbsp cider vinegar 1 tsp ground almonds Moisten face with a warm washcloth then apply mixture to face avoiding the sensitive area around the eyes. Let mixture dry, then remove with a warm, damp washcloth. Peppermint Patty Scrub: (For Oily Skin) 2 cup rolled oats 1 cup almonds

2 tsp dried lavender 2 tsp dried peppermint 2 cup white cosmetic clay Grind oats, almonds and herbs to a very fine powder in blender or with a mortar and pestle. Mix ground herbs with clay, store in covered container. To use: mix 1 heaped tsp of mixture with water to make a paste. Massage onto skin then rinse well with warm water. Rose body scrub Ingredients Sea salt, 1 Tb sp Rolled oat, 1/4 cup Milk (buttermilk or goats mil) Powder, 1/4 cup Cornmeal, 1 Tb sp Rose petal powder, 1 Tb sp Put all ingredients in food processor and process until fine. Add fragrance/essential oils drop by drop while processing. Orange & Oats Scrubbing Grains 1 cup dried orange peel 1 cup cooked oatmeal 1 cup almonds Place peels, oats, and almonds in food processor, blend until mixture is a fine powder. Place some in the palm of your hand and moisten with a few drops of warm water. Rub paste onto face in a gentle circular motion. Rinse with warm water.

Method Do a dry brush first with small circular motions from the feet upwards with a loofah, small towel or soft brush. Have a warm shower to open your pores and soften your skin. Make a paste in a small container from one of the body scrub recipes below. Apply it with your hands working in a small circular motion from your feet upwards. Rinse off. Rest for 20 minutes after your body scrub and drink lots of water. Tips for an enjoyable body scrub experience Hold a small towel as if drying off to rub the mixture into hard to reach areas like your back. If you are using body scrubs with oil in them, they can be a bit messy so do them in the shower. Take care to avoid slipping. If you are not using a scrub with oil in it you can apply it while standing in the bath. I sometimes take a long bath to soften my skin and then stand up and apply the scrub. Rinse off in the bath and then have a shower to get rid of any residue. Never rub too hard as you may damage your skin. Just a firm even pressure is enough. Body Scrub Recipes Basic Scrub Mix 1/2 cup wheatgerm 1/4 cup fine oatmeal

1 tablespoon rice flour Combine ingredients and store in an airtight jar. When you want to use homemade body scrubs just put 2 tablespoons in a bowl and mix it with a wet ingredient to make a gritty paste. Use one or more of any of the following wet ingredients; natural yoghurt, milk, cream, honey, egg yolk, fruit This scrub is gentle enough to use on your face as well as your body, just ensure the grains are very fine. Mediterranean Delight Ingredients; 2 tablespoons sea salt 2 tablespoons olive oil 3 drops lemon essential oil (optional) Chocoholic Heaven Ingredients; 2 teaspoons drinking chocolate 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1/2 cup warmed runny honey Poppy Seed Body Glow 1 cup honey ½ cup poppy seeds sprinkling of dry herbs (whatever you have mint, parsley, thyme, rosemary) Cookies and Cream Body Polish 1 cup oatmeal 1 cup cream 2 drops vanilla Orange and Poppyseed 1 cup poppy seeds 1 cup sweet almond oil 3 drops of orange essential oil Warm Asian Scrub 4 tablespoons of ginger powder 4 tablespoons of rice Small amount of warm water to mix Natural Lemon Skin Exfoliant recipe 1/2 to 2/3 cup granulated sugar Juice of 1 lemon Mix sugar and lemon juice to form a paste. While showering invigorate your skin with the paste. Use the inside of the lemon rind to rub heels and elbows. Yogurt

Cleanser; bleach; for normal and oily skin

Exfoliator for mature skin Almonds ground (not too fine) 1 tsp 2 tsp of papaya paste (ripe) 2 tsp of papaya (raw) Blend them together and massage them twice a week

Walnut Scrub 2 tsp of walnut powder a little coarsely ground 2 tsp of coconut milk 1 tsp of jojoba oil This scrub is good for those with ageing skin and those with mature skin. Baking Soda As A Facial Scrub I mix a combination of 1 teaspoon baking soda to my daily cleanser as a facial exfoliator. The baking soda smooths rough patches an scrubs away dead skin. I have extremely sensitive skin and have always had a hard time finding facial scrubs that aren't so harsh. This one works great!

A body scrub ¼ cup red masoor dal ¼ cup walnut powder ¼ cup almond powder ¼ cup of honey Mix all with required quantity of milk and scrub back well. Use vegetable loofah dipped in almond milk after the above pack is scrubbed for an extra shine. Exfoliate & Skin Cleanser First as I normally would I pump some of my oil-free cleanser into my hand, after that I add about a teaspoon of sugar to it. I massage it into my skin, all over my face, and rinse with cool water to close my pores. This makes your skin really smooth, and clean feeling! Beauty Tip 1 tablespoon of gram flour 1 tablespoon of corn flour Mix the both, and take to your bath, use to wash face & body. This is an excellent scrub and will remove your dead skin cells, leaves you feeling clean and glowing. Makes your skin so smooth. Skin Softner Mix half a cup salt and half a cup vegetable oil. Stir and rub into skin. The salt exfoliates the dead skin cells and the oil makes it soft. Makeup Remover & Exfoliant Using a mixture of equal parts of vegetable shortening (Crisco) and cornmeal as a makeup remover/exfoilant, makes your skin look as smooth as peaches and cream!! :) Exfoliate your skin once or twice a week and your face as needed to remove dead, flakey skin. Hands and feet require more frequent exfoliation in the winter. You'll find that your heels flake and crack more in the winter. Follow exfoliation with a rich moisturizer. You don't need to spend a king's ransom on special hand and feet exfoliants. You can create your own concoction with salt or sugar and a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil. This blend exfoliates and moisturizes at the same time. Add a little essential oil, and you have your own high-priced product for pennies on the dollar. Rub into your

hands and feet in a gentle circular motion, and rinse well. For extra-deep conditioning, exfoliate right before bedtime, moisturize, and don gloves and socks while you sleep. Make-Up Remover Very easy moisturizer + make up remover! Just get a cotton wool pad and a blob of olive oil. Wipe around your face and it will easily remove any make up. It will also make your skin feel silky soft. Wash off with a splash of cold water and remove all of the olive oil.

I swear this is the best and cheapest make up remover! Just try it! Luscious Body Polisher recipe 2 1 1 1

cups plain yogurt tablespoon wheat germ tablespoon honey tablespoon almond oil*

* Omit almond oil if skin is acne-prone. Mix all ingredients. Dampen skin in shower and massage mixture all over. Rinse with warm water. Rinse immediately with cold water to boost circulation.

SUGAR SCRUB INGREDIENT 50 percent white cane sugar (note that organic sucanat, while the best choice for food, doesn't work as well for this recipe) 50 percent vegetable glycerin to moisten the sugar (I used avocado oil since I was out of vegetable glycerin --as is my health food store-- and it proved to be a successful substitute) small amounts of aloe vera gel, vitamin C crystals, or anything healing that dissolves in water 1 or two drops of essential oil if desired (Larry recommends combining orange and lavender) enough ground hibiscus powder for pink color (if desired) Combine the ingredients in a bowl. Scoop some of the scrub onto your hand and massage gently onto your skin for a minute (the scrub will actually tighten onto your skin like a masque). Leave on for 3 to 4 minutes before rinsing. The use of vinegar with a variety of plants or essential oils for cosmetic purposes can be traced back to the Romans and was fashionable during the nineteenth century as vinegar de toilette.

Vinegar has a tonic action that promotes blood circulation in the small capillaries that irrigate the skin. It is also antiseptic, preventing the proliferation of bacteria, viruses, or yeast that trigger infection. It can dissolve excessive fatty deposits at the surface of the skin and reduce scaly or peeling conditions. Lastly, vinegar regulates the pH of the skin. Vinegar is most effective when used with lavender, rosemary, rose, or elder flower. It is essential to use top-quality white wine or cider vinegar. Dry any fresh plant material for two days before using. Measure and mix only dried plant material and then add the vinegar. Apple ciders composed entirely of liquids can be used at once. Those containing plant material must be left to macerate. Prepare the latter in a screw top jar and leave on a window sill as instructed, strain, and then bottle. To use, add 1 teaspoon of apple cider to a cup of bottled or spring water to wash your face or pour 3-4 tablespoons into a bath. Aside from natural herbal applications, try a dry skin face exfoliation. All you need is a small, dry, natural bristle brush. Avoiding areas of broken skin or irritated areas simply brush lightly in circular motions all over your face. This is perfect to do in the morning if you experience any puffiness, it will reduce it and your face will feel smooth and rejuvenated. - Once a week, rub your skin with baking soda while in the shower, for a smooth, silky feeling. You can also do this on your face to remove black heads. - Vinegar can work wonders for smelly feet and armpits. Mix water and vinegar 50/50, and use in place of deodorant: it will keep the unpleasant sweat smell away, without any irritation. As for your feet, if you suffer with athlete's foot, a week of vinegar foot bath will help a lot, sometimes completely getting rid of your condition. - A great treatment for dry skin is avocados: mash it, smooth it onto your face, and rinse off after 20 minutes. COFFEE BODY SCRUB 2 cups of coarsely ground coffee 1/2 cup raw sugar or sea salt 2-3 T massage oil Mix all ingredients together. Take a hot shower to moisten your skin and open your pores. Using wide, circular motions, rub the coffee exfoliant onto your skin with strong, even pressure. Shower off, pat skin dry, and apply a thin layer of your favorite body lotion.

Oat and Brown Sugar Scrub The Ingredients 2 2 2 1

Tbsp. ground oats tsp. brown sugar Tbsp. aloe vera tsp. lemon juice

The Instructions Mix all ingredients in a clean bowl until you have a smooth paste. Gently massage onto damp skin, and rinse off with warm water. You can triple the recipe for a fantastic smoothing body treatment. Ground Oats: use rolled oats and a clean coffee grinder or blender to grind the flakes to a fine powder Oatmeal is highly absorptive, hypoallergenic, and helps to soften skin. Oats have the best amino acid balance of all the cereal grains (amino acids work as water-binding agents in skin care products). Oats have also been clinically shown to help heal dry, itchy skin. Oat grains and straw appear in shampoos, dusting powders, moisturizers, and cleansing bars and more.Aloe Vera - The juice of this plant helps reduce pain, gel from plant helps prevent infection and speeds healing of burns, drink helps reduce size of kidney stones. Brown sugar body scrub 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons ground oats 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 teaspoon almond oil (in case you don't have almond oil, use olive oil, it is a great substitute). Before you start preparing this scrub, grind the oatmeal using a coffee grinder or food processor. It has to be of sandy consistency, flaky and light otherwise it will scratch the skin. Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl. Mix until it resembles a paste It should be applied on moist skin, the best time is after you took a shower. It will help the skin cells slough off faster. Use circular motion and massage gently using your fingertips. Rinse off with warm water. What do these ingredients do? Oatmeal is hypoallergenic. In case you have sensitive skin, using the oatmeal is highly recommended because it is soothing and there is no risk that it will irritate the skin. Oatmeal is benefitial to oily skin as it is extremely absorptive and picks up on excess oil. It helps dry and itchy skin and is widely used in cosmetics. Aloe vera gel is gentle on skin, it speeds its healing and reduces the possible irritation and pain. The next brown sugar scrub contains lemon which is a great natural disinfectant. It opens up the clogged pores and cleanses them thoroughly so your skin can "breathe" better. Brown sugar lemony body scrub recipe 1/ cup brown sugar 1/2 cup sea salt 1 tablespoon of coconut oil (as with the previous scrub, you could use olive oil) 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 tablepoon of honey. Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl. Mix until it resembles a paste It should be applied on moist skin, the best time is after you took a shower. It will help the skin cells slough off faster. Use circular motion and massage gently using your fingertips. Rinse off with warm water. Almond oil sugary scrub 2/3 cup Brown Sugar 1/2 Cup Sweet Almond Oil 10 Drops Vitamin E 10 Drops Essential oil/Fragrance Oil Preparation Mix oil, vitamin E and essential oil or fragrance oil in a bowl. Add sugar and mix well. Divide into containers. Honey body scrub 3/4 cup of honey 1 cup of sugar (you could use brown sugar, even better than regular sugar) 1 cup of sea salt or Kosher salt 1 tablespoon of jojoba oil 1 tablespoon of oil of your choice: vanilla, orange... Mix the dry ingredients first. Add oil and mix until you get a paste-like mixture It should be applied on moist skin, the best time is after you took a shower. It will help the skin cells slough off faster. Use circular motion and massage gently using your fingertips. Rinse off with warm water. Honey is excellent as it is a strong antibacterial agent. Variations: Strawberries in body scrub recipes You could always mash a handfull of strawberries, add an essential oil of your choice, a bit of oatmeal, a bit of honey and use it as a scrub. There are no specific amounts, add oil until you get the pasty consistency. Strawberries act similar to honey, they dissinfect the skin, smooth it out, and decrease the appearance of dilated pores.

Homemade Body Scrub

If your hands, feet and elbows are dry, this homemade body scrub will get them back in shape and give soothing relief: Mix a half cup of Epsom salts, one tablespoon olive or canola oil and a few drops of lemon, lime, grapefruit, or orange juice. Apply to the dry areas of your skin, rub gently in a circular motion, then rinse off. Spa Index Glycerin and HONEY Sugar Scrub 1 cup fine loose salt or loose sugar

3 teaspoons liquid glycerin 1 teaspoon pure honey 3-5 drops of your favorite essential oil Optional: Pinch of lavender blossoms (available in the bulk department of good health food stores), or chamomile, or dried herbs of your choice, chopped exceedingly fine. Mix ingredients well and store in an airtight container. Add more liquid ingredients if you prefer a thinner end-product. Stir thoroughly before use. This keeps very well, and in fact, the honey acts as preservative. Use small amounts when scrubbing the nose, being careful not to irritate or get it in the eyes. Scrub elbows, hands, knees, and feet. Rinse in warm water, pat dry, and apply your favorite lotion afterward. END OF SUMMER ALMOND BODY SCRUB • 2/3 cup ground almonds • 1/3 cup oatmeal • 1/2 teaspoon of herbs (lavender, chamomile, etc) (optional) • Plain yogurt, milk, or buttermilk, sufficient to make a paste • Essential Oils for scent (optional) Combine the dry ingredients in a blender or food processor until they are reduced to a coarse meal. Keep this "scrub base" in a glass jar with a screw top in your refrigerator until ready to use. When you want to use the scrub base, scoop out 1/4 cup into a small bowl, and stir in enough of the liquid ingredients (vary it by what you have on hand -yogurt and milk are best, but water works) to make a paste. Yogurt and milk are natural exfoliates known as alpha hydroxy acids, and they will slough off dead skin cells even without the scrub. Scoop up the paste with your hands or a washcloth, and rub over your body to exfoliate peeling skin. Rinse thoroughly. COFFEE BODY SCRUB 2 cups of coarsely ground coffee 1/2 cup raw sugar or sea salt 2-3 T massage oil Mix all ingredients together. Take a hot shower to moisten your skin and open your pores. Using wide, circular motions, rub the coffee exfoliant onto your skin with strong, even pressure. Shower off, pat skin dry, and apply a thin layer of your favorite body lotion. Avocado body scrub Ingredients • 1 ripe, mashed avocado (peeled and pitted) • 1/2 cup of almonds • 1 cup of dry oatmeal Preparation • Coarsely grind the almonds • Put on a muslin mitten and place it in the mix of almonds and oatmeal • Scoop up some avocado • Rub the body with this mixture • Rinse off with warm water and pat dry

The next scrub is based on sea salt and apricot oil. Salt exfoliates the skin and removes the dead skin cells, while apricot oil goes behind it and heals and moisturizes the skin. Apricot salt body scrub Ingredients • 1/4 cup of apricot kernel oil • 2 cups of sea salt Preparation and use • Take a shower before you start with this • Combine the salt and the oil into a paste like mass • Scoop up the paste and apply it on your body, using circular motion the whole time • When done, rinse off with warm water and pat dry

Almond-Honey Scrub recipe 2 tablespoons crushed almonds 1 tablespoon honey Mix. Leave on face for 5 minutes. Rub in well, then rinse. Almond-Mayonnaise Scrub recipe For very dry skin. 1/4 cup almonds 1/8 teaspoon mayonnaise Grind almonds in blender until they form a meal. Whirl in mayonnaise. Vinegar-Rinse your skin. Rub in Scrub gently and thoroughly. Leave on skin for about 10 minutes. Rinse off and follow with Vinegar Rinse. Strawberry Foot Exfoliant recipe 8 ripe strawberries 3 tablespoons kosher salt or coarse sea salt 2 tablespoons olive oil Lightly mash strawberries. Add olive and salt. Don't overblend or mixture will be too runny. Rub over feet to smooth rough calluses. Rinse. Sugaring Recipe recipe This is similar to Moom Sugar sold in health food stores. However, Moom Sugar does contain chamomile. 2 cups granulated sugar 1/4 cup lemon juice 1/4 cup water Mix ingredients together. Boil for about 10 to 15 minutes until mixture reaches 250 degrees F (softball stage) on a candy thermometer. Pour into jars.

Sweethearts' Chocolate Honey Scrub, courtesy of Christopher Watt Makes 2 treatments

Ingredients: 2 cups honey 1/2 cup grapeseed oil 6 tablespoons unsweetened chocolate, grated 2 cups kosher salt Directions: In rubber mixing bowl, combine honey and grapeseed oil. Stir in chocolate and salt mixing completely. Consistency should be grainy and thick. Apply scrub to skin and gently massage all over the body. Remove with warm damp towels or rinse in shower. Beauty Benefits: Increases circulation and helps rid body of toxins. Honey provides a moisturizing effect as well as fights damaging free radicals. Body and facial scrub Add turmeric and a little milk to besan or chokar (wheat bran). Use the paste to rub arms and legs gently before bathing to soften the skin. Brown Sugar Callus Exfoliator recipe 1 cup brown sugar, moistened with rose water 1/2 cup petroleum jelly Rub onto calluses on hands, knees and feet. Wash off. Turmeric exfoliator Mix half freshly grated young coconut with one-fourth teaspoon of turmeric powder or grated turmeric root and gently rub the mixture all over your body. Leave it on for five minutes before wiping it off with a wet, warm cloth. Brown Sugar Facial Scrub recipe 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar 1/2 cup sweet almond oil* 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 1 tablespoon ground oatmeal 1 teaspoon nutmeg Large pinch calendula petals* Mix all together and put in jar with tight lid.* Found in health food stores. Brown Sugar Body Polish recipe Makes 1 (12 ounce) jar. 1 (3-inch) vanilla bean 1 1/3 cups lightly packed light brown sugar 1/2 cup oil* 1 tablespoon vitamin E oil

1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice mix Seashell scooper (optional) Place vanilla bean in decorative 12 ounce ( 1 1/2-cup) container with lid. Set aside. Stir sugar, oils and spice mix together in mixing bowl. Pack mixture into decorative container, adding a seashell scooper to the top, if using. *Oils include canola, light olive oil, sweet almond, avocado, apricot, jojoba, macadamia, rose hip, grapeseed, suflower or safflower oil or a blend of the above. Attach a gift card with the following instructions: Brown Sugar Body Polish: For smooth skin that glows, apply well-stirred scrub to moixtened skin and gently exfoliate withs circular motions. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. This product is NOT for facial use. Caution: The scrub can make the shower or tub slippery. Exfoliating Sugar Scrub Mask recipe 1 teaspoon granulated sugar 1 tablespoon plain yogurt 1/4 teaspoon honey Combine ingredients and apply to face for 10 minutes. Rinse well with water and pat dry. Mask should be applied up to 3 times a week. The yogurt in this recipe is an exfoliating agent, and the honey helps moisturize any skin type. Honey and Almond Scrub recipe For all skin types. 1/2 jar cold cream 3 tablespoons slivered almonds 1 teaspoon honey Add honey to cold cream. Whirl slivered almonds in a blender until they are as fine as freshly-ground pepper. Mix with cold cream. Massage into skin with fingertips. For deeper cleansing, massage scrub into skin with a complexion brush for 5 minutes. Rinse with cool water. Honey-Wheat Germ Scrub Masque recipe To rid oily skin of blackheads.

2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons wheat germ (NOT toasted) Heat honey slightly; add wheat germ. Mix thoroughly. Apply to face and rub gently over affected areas for 3 to 4 minutes. After rubbing, leave mixture on face for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse with 30 to 40 splashes of very hot water. Use for a week or 10 days - less if skin improves rapidly. Oatmeal-Citrus Scrubbing Grains recipe 1 cup dried orange and lemon peel 1 cup cooked oatmeal 1 cup blanched almonds Place peels, oats, and almonds in a blender and whirl until the mixture is a fine powder. Store powder in an attractive container in the bathroom. To use, place a bit of the grains in the palm of your hand and moisten with a few drops of warm tap water. Rub the paste onto your face with a gentle circular and upward motion. Rinse off with tepid water and pat dry. You can finish your cleansing by rinsing your face with one of the facial rinsing lotions or smoothing on a facial cream.

Oats & Aloe Exfoliant 1 tablespoon finely ground oats 1 tablespoon finely ground almonds 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel Combine ingredients in a bowl and stir until well mixed. Apply to face and neck skin after cleansing and before toner is applied, using gentle circular motions. Rinse well with warm water and gently pat excess moisture from face. Follow with facial mask. Oatmeal-Honey Scrubbing Cream recipe 1/2 cup uncooked oatmeal 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon cider vinegar 1 teaspoon ground almonds Combine all ingredients in a glass or enamel bowl. To use, wet a clean washcloth with very warm water and lay it on your face for a minute OR first steam your face with an herbal vinegar. Apply the oatmeal mixture to your face, being careful to avoid the sensitive area around your eyes. Let mixture dry on your skin completely. If your skin is young and firm, you can gently rub the dried mixture off with a clean terry washcloth or towel. Lean over the sink and rub your face in brisk, but gentle, circles with the cloth. Rinse with warm water, pat dry, and apply a fresh facial cream.

Scrub and Glow Facial Cleanser recipe 1 cup oatmeal, uncooked 1 tablespoon salt 1/4 cup farina Grind oatmeal in a blender until soft but still flaky. DO NOT powder it. Combine oatmeal with farina and salt. Splash face with hot water to wet it thoroughly. Pick up mixture with moist fingers. Rub face with the powder. Be gentle, but rub all of your facial skin. Rinse with hot water (15 splashes will suffice). Apply Vinegar Rinse. Use for 5 to 8 days, then return to a milder cleanser. Herbal Scrub Facial Cleanser recipe 1 cup rolled oats 1/4 cup dried herbs Combine in a blender. Blend until coarsely ground. Keep in a jar by the sink. Use a handful of the scrub with water to gently clean your face. Use mint to refresh delicate skin; hollyhock petals or okra leaves provide emollient action for dry complexions.

Rose Cream Cleanser 1 tablespoon sour cream 1 teaspoon rose hydrosol 2 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil Combine all ingredients in the order shown, stirring well after each one. Apply cleanser to face and neck skin, using gentle, upward sweeping motions. Rinse well. This recipe should be used within 2 days and makes enough for two cleanings. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Easy Cleansing Tonics Witch-hazel Astringent Witch-hazel bark and leaves are naturally astringent, and are a popular addition to face cleansers and after shave lotions. Make your own old-fashioned witch-hazel astringent by combining 1 cup of witch-hazel with 2 tablespoon of alcohol. Apply with a cotton ball, and moisturize. Substitute a ¼ cup of white vinegar for the alcohol if your skin is sensitive to it. You can also use plain witch-hazel on a black eye to help heal the bruising. Buttermilk Freckle Wash If you want a tonic that might lighten the appearance of your freckles, combine ¼ cup of buttermilk with ¼ teaspoon of pomegranate juice. The buttermilk and the pomegranate together make a mild skin bleach, so apply some moisturizing oil on your skin if it is dry before use. Apply the treatment with a cotton ball and leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing and applying a moisturizer. Try using 1 teaspoon of grated horseradish instead of pomegranate juice for a variation.

Vinegar Skin Awakener Vinegar is helpful for removing soap and hard water residue from the skin, and it restores the skin`s natural pH balance. To make a simple vinegar face refresher, combine 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 1 tablespoon of boiled water and apply with a cotton ball. Do not rinse. The vinegar smell will be gone from your face in 10 to 15 minutes. Honey and Nutmeg Scar Remover Wash This treatment is meant to help fill in and heal the scar caused by skin eruptions, skin accidents and acne. Twice a week combine 1 teaspoon of nutmeg with 1 teaspoon of honey and apply to your face. Leave it on for 20 minutes, and rinse with cool water. Vegetable Oil Make-Up Remover Ordinary kitchen shortening can be used as make-up remover in a pinch, and may be soothing to dry skin. Use a cotton ball or cotton cloth and cover your face with shortening. Let it sit on your skin for about 30 seconds to loosen the make-up, and wipe off. Wash and moisturize as usual. Lemon Blackhead Removal Tonic Citrus is naturally exfoliating, which makes lemon useful when it comes to fighting blackheads in your cleansing routine. For an overnight treatment, rub a half lemon directly on your face before bed. For a more fragrant tonic, add rosewater to the lemon juice and apply with a cotton ball. Wash off the tonic in the morning. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Almond Oil Night Cream for Dry Skin 3 tbsp. almond oil 2 tbsp. hydrous lanolin 2 tbsp. cocoa butter 2 tsp. rose water 1/2 tsp. honey

Using a double boiler, melt almond oil, lanolin and cocoa butter until it forms a smooth texture. Remove the mixture from heat and add the rose water and honey, and blend. Allow to cool before apply the homemade mixture to your face. Store any unused mixture in the refrigerator.

Almond-Rosewater Night Cream for Dry Skin ½ cup of almond oil ¼ cup rose water 2 tbsp white wax Using a double boiler, melt the wax and almond oil just until smooth. Add the rose water and let cool before applying to your face. Store any unused mixture in the refrigerator.

Olive Oil Night Cream for Oily Skin ½ cup ¼ cup ¼ cup 3 tbsp

olive oil vinegar water white wax

Melt the white wax and olive oil in a double boiler until smooth. Add the vinegar and water to the homemade mixture and let cool before applying to your face. Refrigerate any unused mixture.

Cucumber Night Cream for Normal Skin ½ cucumber chopped with skin 1 egg white ½ cup olive oil In a blender, combine cucumber, egg white and olive oil and blend until smooth. Apply the homemade mixture to the face and relax for about 20 minutes. Remove with a dry cloth. Refrigerate any unused mixture.

Apple Night Cream for Sensitive Skin 2 cups chopped apples 2 cups olive oil 1 cup rose water

Place the apples in a blender and blend until smooth. Next, add the apples to the olive oil and heat in a double boiler over a low flame. Remove the mixture from the heat and add the rose water. Let cool before applying. Refrigerate any unused mixture. Some Useful Tips: To apply the above homemade night creams, use only a dab and apply using an upward, circular motion until the cream has absorbed into skin. Never apply the creams to your upper eyelids since it can cause puffiness. If you would like your homemade night cream to have a wonderful scent, you can add a drop of your favorite essential oil to the mixture. It is best to throw away any unused night cream after 4-6 days.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mayonnaise Face Cream recipe 2 1 1 1 2

fresh egg yolks cup vegetable oil (sesame, safflower or sunflower) tablespoon wheat germ oil tablespoon herb vinegar drops perfume or rose geranium oil

Beat egg yolks in cold bowl. Add oil very slowly at first. Beat with rotary beater, mixer or blender. Gradually add more oil. As mixture thickens, add vinegar and fragrance. Beat until thick. Apply to face with upward and outward strokes all over face and throat. Leave on for 20 minutes. Remove with damp cloth. Follow with skin freshener. Cocoa Butter Hand Cream recipe 2 cups warm water 1 1/2 cup glycerin 1/2 ounce spirits of ammonia 1/2 ounce cocoa butter 1/2 teaspoon boric acid 1 cup stearic acid Combine in a glass or enamel pan the cocoa butter, glycerin and stearic acid. Melt over low heat. Remove to mixing bowl and add ammonia. Stir until milky. Add boric

acid to warm water. Add to first mixture. Mix with beater for 10 minutes at high speed. Perfume and color as desired. Age for 2 weeks before using. Makes 1 1/2 quarts.

GINGER SKIN CREME Ginger invigorates, and oil soothes. Try this double dose for dry skin. 2-inch piece of fresh ginger 2 teaspoons light sesame oil 2 teaspoons apricot kernel oil 2 teaspoons vitamin E oil ½ cup cocoa butter Preheat oven on lowest setting. Finely grate the ginger just enough so that you have about an 1/8 teaspoon of ginger "juice." To obtain the juice, squeeze the freshly grated ginger over a small bowl. Place the ingredients (including the ginger) in a glass container and heat just until the cocoa butter is melted and the oils are blended. Pour into a clean, dry container and store in a cool dry place. You can add a few drops of orange or other essential oil for a nice twist. Anti-Aging Cream recipe 1 ounce glycerin 1 ounce witch hazel 1/2 ounce rose water 3 tablespoons honey 3 tablespoons wheat germ oil Combine ingredients in a glass or ceramic bowl and gently whisk until they are thoroughly combined. Store the emulsion in a tightly sealed container at room temperature. It should last for at least 1 month. Massage the solution into the skin around your eyes and mouth, using a circular and upward motion. This motion will counteract the natural droop of gravity. If you have the time, it's a good idea to hang your head over the edge of the bed and massage the cream in while you're partially upside down. Olive Oil Cream recipe 1/2 teaspoon borax 2 teaspoons boiling water 4 tablespoons petroleum jelly 4 tablespoons olive oil Dissolve borax in boiling water. Melt petroleum jelly and olive oil over low heat until liquid. Add borax mixture. Stir to mix thoroughly. Remove from heat. Beat as the mixture cools to emulsify. Store in the refrigerator. Apple-Pear Anti-Wrinkle Cream

Ingredients: 1 tsp apple juice 1 tsp lemon juice 1 tsp lime juice 2 T buttermilk 1 T rosemary leaves 3 seedless grapes 1/4 pear 2 egg whites Preparation Blend all ingredients in a blender on medium speed for 30 seconds. Using a cotton ball, dab mixture on areas around the eyes and wherever wrinkles have developed. Let dry, then rinse with warm water. Use no more than 3 times a week. Follow with a moisturizer. Cover and refrigerate immediately. Shelf life: 4 days. Anti aging glycerin cream

• 1 oz of glycerin • 3 tablespoons of honey • 3 tablespoons of wheat germ oil • 1 oz witch hazel • 1/2 oz of rose water Combine all ingredients and whisk slowly until they are all combined. Use a container with a lid to store this product, keep it at room temperature. It can be used for a month and is applied around lips and eyes. VITAMIN E CREAM 2 tsp. plain yogurt 1/2 tsp. honey 1/2 tsp. lemon juice 3 capsules vitamin E (equivalent of 300 units) Combine yogurt, honey and lemon juice. Open the vitamin E capsules and fold contents into the mix. Gently massage into skin; Leave on skin for 15 minutes. Shelf life: 3-4 days. Homemade Nourishing Creams Cocoa Butter Cream: Heat the following ingredients together over a water bath, stirring them thoroughly: 2 tablespoons cocoa butter 2 tablespoons emulsifying wax 1 tablespoon beeswax 4 tablespoons sesame oil

1 tablespoon almond oil When the ingredients are completely melted, remove from the heat and stir until the cream is cool. Add a few drops of perfume while stirring. This cream leaves the skin smooth without being greasy. In case waxes are not easily available mix 2 tablespoons lanolin and 8 tablespoons almond oil (or sesame or safflower oil) and melt these together over a water bath. It is really good for dry skin and neglected areas such as elbows, knees, feet and neck. If the cream has to be applied on oily skin, add 2 tablespoons rosewater (or ordinary soft water). Elder Flower Cream: Mix together 3 tablespoons almond oil, 4 tablespoons elder flower blossoms and I tablespoon lanolin in a bowl over a water bath. Let it simmer together for an hour, strain, and then add warm water slowly. Honey Cream: Honey is very useful for a dry, coarse and sensitive skin. To make a nourishing honey cream for sallow skin, mix 3 tablespoons lanolin, 1 tablespoon honey and 1 teaspoon lecithin in a bowl and melt over a water bath. Slowly add 4 tablespoons warm water to it, beating continuously until it cools. Homemade Rich Herbal Creams Almond Oil Moisturizing Cream: Put 2 teaspoons beeswax and I teaspoon emulsifying wax into a bowl and melt over the water bath. When melted, add in 5 teaspoons almond oil. In a separate bowl, heat the water over the same water bath so that the two bowls are at the same temperature. Slowly add water to the melted waxes and oils, stirring all the time. Remove from the heat and continue stirring. When cool add a few drops of lavender oil. Avocado and Almond Cream: Ingredients: 3 teaspoons beeswax 3 teaspoons emulsifying wax ½ cup almond oil ½ cup avocado oil, and 3 tablespoons rose water Melt that waxes in an enamel pan over a water bath, then add the avocado and almond oils. Now add the heated rosewater drop by drop, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and continue stirring till it is cool. While it cools, you may add a few drops of perfume. Both almond and avocado oils are fine and rich for the skin. Comfrey Cream:

Ingredients: 1 tablespoon lanolin 2 tablespoons white emulsifying wax 6 tablespoons beeswax 6 tablespoons almond oil, herb lotion, or infusion Melt the oils and waxes together over a water bath, cool and store in a refrigerator. Take a couple of teaspoons of this cream, melt it and add a teaspoon of any herb lotion or infusion of your choice. Glycerin Hand Cream recipe 1 (1 pound) jar Unibase 3 ounces glycerin 1 1/4 cups water Cologne Food coloring Beat Unibase, glycerin and water with an electric mixer. Blend in cologne and food coloring. Store in a clean tightly-capped jar. Hand Cream recipe 1 (16 ounce) jar Clear Basics vitamin E skin cream 1 (13 ounce) jar petroleum jelly 1 (15 ounce) bottle baby lotion Mix by hand or with electric beater on medium speed until creamy. Store in airtight containers. Herbed Honey Skin Cream recipe 2 teaspoons dried mint 2 teaspoons dried sage 2 teaspoons dried rosemary 1/2 cup boiling water 1/2 ounce beeswax 2 ounces lanolin 1/2 cup wheat germ oil 1 teaspoon honey Combine herbs in a clean bowl. Pour boiling water over herbs. Steep for 10 minutes.Strain through a fine sieve, collecting liquid in a clean bowl. Allow to cool; discard herbs.Melt beeswax and lanolin in a heatproof glass set in simmering water. Stir in wheat germ oil.Add herbal infusion by teaspoonful and stir until well blended. Remove glass from water.Add honey to tepid cream and carefully stir it in until blended. Let cream cool completely.Stir cream thoroughly and transfer it to clean containers with tight-fitting lids. Store up to 3 months.

Yields 10 ounces. Peppermint-Wheat Germ Stimulating Cream recipe 1 3 1 1

ounce beeswax or lanolin ounces wheat germ oil ounce peppermint tea, brewed strong drop peppermint oil

Place over low heat until the beeswax is melted. Remove from heat, then whip with a whisk until cool. Rose Cream recipe 2 ounces almond oil 4 to 8 drops rose oil 1/2 ounce beeswax Slowly heat the almond oil, beeswax and rose oil. Beeswax is the thickener, so the more you add, the thicker the cream. It is best to start with just a little. If, after the mixture has cooled, you decide you would like it to be thicker, simply reheat it and add more beeswax. If you find that the cream is too thick, reheat and add more almond oil. If you would like to add vitamin E to the cream, cut open a vitamin E capsule and add gel inside to the cream. Lemon Balm Skin Cream recipe This will tighten and smooth normal and combination skin. 3 tablespoons dried lemon balm leaves 1/2 cup boiling water 1/2 ounce beeswax 2 ounces lanolin 1/2 cup wheat germ oil 1 teaspoon propolis powder (bee glue) Pour boiling water over lemon balm leaves in a clean bowl. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain through a fine sieve, collecting liquid in a clean bowl. Allow to cool; discard lemon balm leaves. Melt beeswax and lanolin in a heatproof glass set in simmering water. Stir in wheat germ oil. Add herbal infusion by teaspoonful and stir until well blended. Remove glass from water. Add propolis powder to tepid cream and carefully stir it in until blended. Let cream cool completely.

Stir cream thoroughly and transfer it to clean containers with tight-fitting lids. Store up to 3 months.

Yields 10 ounces. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Homemade Cleansing Creams for you Cleansing creams are used not only to lift the dust, but also to remove stale make-up. Make-up has a waxy base which cannot be properly penetrated and cleansed simply by using soap and water. A cleansing cream or lotion is essential for this. Cleanser should be applied with an upward movement and kept on the skin for about half a minute, so that it could dissolve the make-up. Then remove with a tissue or damp cotton wool. Remember, stale make-up and the day's dirt and grime not only clog the pores of the skin causing blackheads, but also eventually coarsen the skin. Here are a few cleansing creams which are very easy and quick to make. An Easy to Make Cleansing Cream Ingredients: 1/2 tablespoon beeswax 1 tablespoon emulsifying wax 4 tablespoons baby oil 2 tablespoons coconut oil 2 tablespoons water 1 teaspoon borax 1 tablespoon witch-hazel, and a few drops of perfume Mix the waxes and oils into an enamel bowl and melt slowly ill a pan of boiling water. In a separate bowl heat the water and borax until the borax is completely dissolved. Then add witch-hazel, but do not leave it on the heat too long otherwise it will evaporate. When the waxes have melted, remove both bowls from the heat and mix in water, stirring continuously. When the cream begins to cool, add the perfume. Beat until the mixture thickens and cools. Use of baby oil (which is a mineral oil) does not penetrate the skin and spreads easily and liquifies readily. Rose Water Cleansing Cream Galen, a Greek physician of the 2nd century, made this cleansing cream with the following ingredients: 1 ½ tablespoon beeswax or white paraffin wax 1 tablespoon emulsifying wax 4 tablespoons mineral oil 6 tablespoons rose water ½ teaspoon borax and a few drops of rose oil (perfume) Melt the waxes and oil together, and at the same time heat the water and borax and make sure that the borax is completely dissolved. Remove both bowls from the heat and pour

water into the oil Continue stirring until a white cream starts to form. Add a few drops of rose oil when the mixture begins to cool. Carryon beating until the mixture thickens. Homemade Bath Recipes Soothing Milk Mint Bath 1/2 cup baking soda 1 cup milk 1/2 cup epsom salt Peppermint oil/extract to a nice lukewarm bath! It feels great, and leaves you feeling squeaky clean, and very relaxed and soothed AROMATIC MILK BATH Use this mixed concoction immediately after making it, for soft and silky skin. 1 egg 1/2 cup light olive oil 1 tablespoon glycerin 1/2 cup dried milk powder 1 drop jasmine essential oil 1 drop rose essential oil 6 drops lavender essential oil 2 cups distilled water Beat together egg, olive oil, glycerin and milk powder with a whisk or hand held beater. While beating add essential oils. Continue beating until a smooth paste forms. Add the water a little at a time, continuing to beat. Immediately add to your warm drawn bath (be careful...if the water is too hot you'll make scrambled eggs). Chamomile Milk Bath

A skin-softening treat for dry, winter skin 4 cups powdered milk 1 cup boiling water 1/2 cup dried chamomile or 5 chamomile tea bags Steep chamomile in water for 20 minutes Strain liquid. Mix liquid with powdered milk and add to running bath water.

Refreshing & Revitalizing Bath To Have a Refreshing and Revitalizing Bath: Before bathing put 2 tea bags of Peppermint/mint Tea in a pitcher, then add 1 cup of milk and 1 squirt of lemon juice. Stir. Add to bath before shampooing. PS. Is great if you are tired and rundown! Milk Bath: Cleopatra bathed in asses' milk and So also did Poppaca, the wife of Nero. Now-a-days it is unlikely that anyone could or would use milk for bathing, but you can emulate it by simply adding a handful of powdered milk to the bath water.

Soft-Water Bath: Use of rain-water is very beneficial. If you cannot get rain-water, soften the bath water by simply adding a little sodium sesqui carbonate. Vinegar Bath: If you have an itchy, dry skin, add a cup of vinegar to the bath water. This is very effective. Bran or Oatmeal Bath: Oatmeal and bran contain oils and vegetable hormones which soothe and soften the skin. Use one tablespoon of oatmeal in the bath. Honey Bath: Add a spoonful of honey to your bath, it will not only relieve tiredness and sleeplessness, but will also leave the skin feeling smooth and satiny. Epsom Salt Bath: Two handfuls of Epsom salt added to a bucket of the bath water relieves tiredness. Starchy Bath: A few tablespoons of laundry starch and a teaspoon of glycerine added to bath water leave your skin feeling beautifully smooth, tight and soft. Herb Bath: Lavender, hyssop, mint, pennyroyal, borage, yarrow, rosemary, balm or camomile are useful herbs, which can be used in bath water either separately or in a mixture. Bath Salts: These are very easy to prepare. Mix two cups of ordinary washing soda with two tablespoons of potassium carbonate and a few drops of an aromatic essential oil (lavender and pine). Keep this mixture in a large jar and use about a tablespoon in each bath. Moisturizing Paraffin Bath recipe For hands. 4 ounces paraffin 1/4 cup baby oil In a small saucepan, heat the ingredients together until liquid. Cool to comfortably warm and "paint" each hand or dip both hands at once into the mixture. Wrap in plastic wrap. Leave on 10 minutes; then peel off.

Aging Skin Fighter recipe 2 teaspoons plain yogurt 1/2 teaspoon honey 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice 3 capsules vitamin E (equivalent of 300 units) Combine yogurt, honey and lemon juice. Prick open the vitamin E capsules and fold contents into the mix. Leave on skin for 15 minutes. Facial Fix-Up recipe 1/2 cup oatmeal powder 1/2 cup bran 1/4 cup cornmeal 1 teaspoon zinc oxide Mix all together into a paste with water. Massage on face; rinse off.

Almond Body Oil recipe 2 cups yellow flowers from the herb mullein 2 cups almond oil Mix in a clean glass jar. Let sit for two weeks. Strain and apply the resulting oil to the skin. This makes skin smooth and supple. It is also good for dry, flaky skin. Cocoa Butter Suntan Oil recipe 1/2 cup light sesame oil 2 tablespoons coconut oil 2 tablespoons cocoa butter Mix together all ingredients in a clean microwave-safe container. Heat the mix gently, stirring together all the ingredients. Place the container in the microwave for 1 minute on HIGH, or heat it gently in a double boiler or water bath on the stove top. Let the mixture cool completely. Place the suntan oil in clean jar or container with tight-fitting lid. Massage Oil recipe 1 quart oil (from list) 4 to 8 drops essential oil (optional) 1 ounce herbs (from list) Combine ingredients and bring to a boil in a glass or enamel pan. Simmer 20 minutes, then cool. Strain through a double layer of cheesecloth. Add essential oil for scent, if desired. Store in a labeled, light-proof bottle. Oils: Corn, safflower, soy, olive, peanut, apricot kernel, almond, avocado or walnut, or any combination

Herbs: for dry skin: Alfalfa, rose, chamomile for oily skin: Lemongrass, witch hazel, marigold for stimulation: Peppermint, rosemary, thyme for relaxation: Sage, catnip, chamomile

Almond-Butter Hand Softener recipe 1 tablespoon almond oil 1 cup butter Mix well. Before bed, massage mixture into hands, then cover with white cotton gloves. Wear all night while sleeping. Avocado-Yogurt Hand Treatment recipe 1 mashed avocado Juice from 1/2 lemon 1/2 cup plain yogurt Petroleum jelly Mix together the avocado, lemon juice and yogurt. Slather over hands; leave on for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse off. This will gently slough off dull skin and will gradually fade age spots, also. After rinsing, lavish on petroleum jelly or super-rich hand cream and then wear white cotton gloves for one hour or overnight for maximum hydrating. NOTE: do not use this slougher more than twice a week as it can be irritating. Also, do not apply it to cuts or sores as it may sting. Bay Rum Hand Lotion recipe 3 1/2 cup distilled water* 3 ounces glycerin 3 ounces bay rum 1/4 ounce gum of tragacanth * or water boiled for 10 minutes. Soak the gum of tragacanth overnight in distilled water.Strain and beat with an egg beater. Add glycerin and bay rum and mix well with egg beater. Pour into sterilized bottles, then cork or cover with tight-fitting lid. Overnight Softening Formula recipe For hands and feet. 1 ounce ground almonds 1 egg, beaten 1/4 ounce ground comfrey root 1 tablespoon honey

Mix all ingredients together with your hands. At night, before bedtime, coat hands. Put on a pair of white cotton gloves. In the morning, remove gloves and rinse gloves and hands. Apply hand lotion or cream. Repeat the process every night for one week, then once a week for a month, then once a month. For feet, sock moccasins work well to contain the solution. Cocoa Butter Body Lotion recipe 1/4 cup grated cocoa butter 1 tablespoon coconut oil 3 tablespoons sunflower oil 11 tablespoons grated beeswax Combine all ingredients, then melt in a glass container in the microwave. Stir well, and continue stirring until the mixture cools. Allow to cool completely, then stir a little more. Spoon into small jars with lids. Lemon-Glycerin Hand Lotion recipe 4 tablespoons flaxseed 1 quart water 3 ounces glycerin Juice of 3 lemons 1 teaspoon carbolic acid Simmer flaxseed and water for 30 minutes. Strain. Add glycerin, lemon juice, and carbolic acid. When the lotion is cool, store in clean attractive bottles. Milk and Honey Lotion recipe Instant conditioner and refresher. 1/4 cup milk or cream 1/4 cup honey Mix milk (or cream) and honey in a small glass or enamel pan. Warm until the honey melts, then remove from heat. When it is cool enough to tolerate, apply to face and neck (or your entire body if you have time). Let it stand for 15 minutes, then rinse or shower off with warm water. The mix can be made in larger quantities, and it will keep for a week if refrigerated. Lavender Lotion recipe 1 ounce glycerin 2 teaspoons oil of lavender Put ingredients in a clean glass bottle and shake well. Refrigerate.

Lemon Hand Lotion recipe 1 teaspoon lemon juice 2 teaspoons glycerin Use 1 teaspoon of lemon juice for every 2 teaspoons of glycerin. Orange Hand Lotion recipe 1 ounce warmed olive oil 1 ounce orange juice 1/2 ounce melted cocoa butter 2 drops orange flower oil Put all ingredients into a blender and combine until light and fluffy. When all ingredients are thoroughly blended together, put the mixture intp an airtight container or jar until ready for use. Rose Body Lotion recipe 3/4 cup unscented body lotion 10 drops rose essential oil Decorative screw-top bottle Mix the body lotion and rose oil together thoroughly and pour into a decorative bottle. Geranium Body Lotion: 3/4 cup unscented body lotion 15 drops geranium essential oil Decorative screw-top bottle Mix the body lotion and geranium oil together thoroughly and pour into a decorative bottle. Orange Lotion recipe 2 4 4 2

tablespoons cocoa butter, melted tablespoons olive oil, warmed tablespoons orange juice drops essential oil*

* orange flower, if possible. Whirl all ingredients in blender until light and fluffy. Store in a tightly-capped bottle or jar. This does not need to be refrigerated, but if the mixture separates, beat again. Rose-Rosemary Lotion recipe

1 ounce rose petal tea or rose water 1 ounce rosemary tea 1 tablespoon egg white Whirl in the blender. Store in a clean, tightly-capped, jar in the refrigerator. Avocado Eye Cream recipe 5 drops almond oil 3 ripe avocado slices Blend almond oil into avocado. Dab around eyes and leave on for 5 minutes. Rinse.Whirl both ingredients in a blender. Gentle Eye Makeup Remover recipe 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 tablespoon castor oil 1 tablespoon light olive oil Mix the ingredients together and pour into a clean container To use pour a small amount of oil onto a clean white cotton ball and gently wipe over your upper and lower eyelashes and eyelids. This removes all traces of mascara. Yields 1 1/2 ounces. Make-Up Remover Using baby oil to remove make-up is great but wash your face well with soap and water afterward or also your pores will get clogged. Eye Puffiness Easer recipe 2 teaspoons grated raw potato (no skin) 1 teaspoon moisturizer (without urea) Mix well, then apply around the eyes. Cover with cool, damp cotton or gauze for 10 to 15 minutes. Body Glitter recipe 3 tablespoons unmedicated aloe vera gel 1/2 teaspoon very fine glitter, color desired 1 drop essential oil, fragrance desired (optional) Add glitter to aloe vera gel. Add essential oil, if desired. Stir to blend, then store at room temperature in a small, airtight jar or container.

NOTE: Some are sensitive to essential oils. Test body glitter on inside of arm before applying to face. DO NOT USE NEAR THE EYES Bubble Gum Hand Cleaner recipe The children will LOVE to clean their hands with this! 1/2 cup aloe vera gel 1/4 cup 99% rubbing alcohol 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon bubble gum fragrance oil Mix ingredients together. Pour into a pump-style bottle or a squeeze bottle. Coconut Cleansing Cream recipe 3 1 1 2

tablespoons coconut oil tablespoon olive oil tablespoon glycerin teaspoons water

Melt ingredients together over very low heat until liquid. Remove from heat. Beat as the mixture cools to emulsify. Store in an airtight jar and keep in the refrigerator since coconut oil has a very low melting point. After use, follow with an astringent Cucumber Wrinkle Cream recipe 1/2 cucumber 1 egg white 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1/2 cup oil* * Use wheat germ, olive or avocado oil. Wash the cucumber, but do not peel. Cube and blend with remaining ingredients. Apply morning and evening, and gently wipe off with tissues. Cucumber-Rose Refresher recipe 3 ounces cucumber juice 3 ounces distilled witch hazel 1 1/2 ounces rose water Mix together and place in a clean jar. Refrigerate. After cleansing face, soak a clean cotton ball with the lotion and gently pat over skin. Egg Shampoo recipe 1 egg 1 teaspoon olive oil 1 teaspoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon castile soap or mild unscented shampoo 1/2 cup water Combine all ingredients in a blender and whip until smooth. Use shampoo immediately, and follow up with a hair rinse. Save any remaining shampoo in the refrigerator and use the next day. Exfoliating Foot Mask recipe 1/2 cup oatmeal 1/2 cup cornmeal 1/2 cup coarse salt 1/2 cup unscented body lotion 4 tablespoons aloe vera gel In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Slide feet into mixture and rub, beginning at toes, working up to heel and ankle. Do one foot at a time, rinsing in a separate bowl of warm water. Full Body Masque recipe 1 handful finely crushed almonds 5 tablespoons uncooked oatmeal 2 teaspoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons honey 1/4 cup hot water Mix all ingredients to form a paste. Slather on (especially on back and chest areas) and leave for 10 minutes. Massage in; rinse off. Large Pores Remedy recipe Mix table salt and buttermilk into a paste. Work well into the area where pores tend to be enlarged. Remove with warm water and repeat several times a week until the condition clears up. Lemon Rinse recipe This is the strongest acid rinse. Mix a fresh batch every five days. It becomes stale after the fifth day and should be discarded. 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly-squeezed 1 1/2 cups water Combine lemon juice and water. After cleansing, smooth mixture over your face and allow to air dry. Lemon Soak recipe For dry, rough feet.

1 bowl warm water Juice of 1 lemon Add lemon juice to warm water in bowl. Soak feet for 15 to 20 minutes. Rose Geranium Skin Freshener recipe This restores the acid layer that helps protect against bacteria. 1/4 cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup water 1 teaspoon rose geranium oil Mix all ingredients. Keep in a clean glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid. Apply over face and throat with a clean cotton pad. Rosemary-Chamomile Skin Freshener recipe 1 tablespoon dried rosemary 3 cups distilled water 3 tablespoons chamomile flowers Boil for 15 minutes. Strain, then cool before using. Wipe the liquid over face with a fresh cotton square or spritz it on your face with a pump-type plastic or glass container. Let it remain for 30 minutes, then rinse with cool water and then pat dry. This is very refreshing if kept in the refrigerator between uses. Rose Petal Steam Facial recipe 1 pot fresh water 1 handful rose petals Boil the water, then remove from heat and toss in the rose petals. Steep 5 minutes, so rose oils diffuse into water. Lean over pot at least 10 inches from surface and drape towel over head. Close eyes; steam 5 minutes with breaks as needed. Rinse with cool water, then pat dry. Rose Water recipe 1 cup rose petals 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol 1 1/2 cups water Simmer rose petals in water for 10 minutes. Strain. Preserve with alcohol or just refrigerate without preserving. Store up to 1 week in the refrigerator. Yogurt Facial Cleanser Ingredients:

2 oz. natural plain yogurt 2 tsp. liquid honey 3/4 tsp. wheat-germ oil 1 oz. finely peeled and sliced apple 1 tsp. lemon juice 1-1/2 Tbs. instant mashed potatoes (or potato flour) 5 drops lavender essential oil Preparation: Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and stir. Pour into an airtight container and refrigerate. This product will keep from 2 to 3 days. Notes: • •

Lavender has healing properties as well as a wonderful aroma. Never put any fruit on your face that you wouldn't put in your stomach. Make sure the apple is fresh.

•

Don't handle the ingredients with your hands, which have oils that carry bacteria.

•

This is a cleanser, which means you should use it at the start of your regular skin-care regimen.

Facial Cleanser For Normal to Oily Skin 2 tbsp cornstarch 2 tbsp glycerin 1/2 cup distilled water Mix the ingredients together until smooth. Pour into a jar and place the jar inside a double-boiler pot (do not use direct heat on the jar). Bring the water in the outer pot to a boil and heat the mixture until it is clear and has thickened. (If it thickens too much, add a bit more water). Remove from heat and let cool. This is a good all-over facial cleanser and should keep for 7 to 10 days. Seaweed Lotion recipe 1 tablespoon powdered Irish moss (seaweed) 1 cup distilled water 1/4 cup aloe vera gel 2 tablespoons almond oil Mix well; store in tightly covered jar in refrigerator. This is especially soothing during the hot summer months.

Silky Hands recipe 1/2 cup coconut oil 1/2 cup granulated sugar Juice of 1 lemon Cotton gloves Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Rub mixture over hands for at least one minute, scrubbing as you would while washing up. Use a paper towel to brush any excess sugar from your skin. Slide your hands into the gloves, and leave them on overnight. By morning the oil should be absorbed, and your hands ready to make their debut! Skin Bleaching Tonic recipe 1 lemon, sliced 1 cup white wine 1 tablespoon sugar Place lemon slices and wine in a glass or enamel pot and bring to a boil over medium heat. Boil for one minute. Remove from heat, stir in the sugar, and let cool. Strain the mixture and store in a tightly capped bottle. Use as a skin refresher and after using a skin lightening mask. Makes 8 ounces. Skin Booster recipe 4 4 5 1

tablespoons dried dandelions tablespoons chamomile tablespoons rosemary (12-inch) square muslin or cotton

Place herbs in center of fabric. Bunch edges of fabric together. Secure with rubber band or string to form a scrubber. Place in a pot of boiling water. Remove from stove. Steep 10 minutes. Remove scrubber and save the water as it contains herbal juices. Place scrubber in a glass dish until it cools to room temperature. Sweep over entire body, one area at a time, with long strokes, continually moistening scrubber in the herbal water. First stroke in an up-and-down direction, then in a circular motion. Leave herbal residue on for 20 minutes; rinse with tepid water. Skin Conditioner recipe For oily or scaly skin.

1 1 1 1

ounce ounce ounce ounce

lemongrass cornmeal witch hazel rose petals

Blend lemongrass, cornmeal, witch hazel and rose petals, then mix 1 ounce of this mixture with 1 quart boiling water. Let steep 20 minutes. Strain into bath water. Soak at least 10 minutes. Use two times a week or more. Skin-Steaming Formula recipe 1 1 1 1 1

tablespoon tablespoon tablespoon tablespoon tablespoon

licorice fennel seeds mint leaves comfrey leaves parsley

Mix and store in a clean, tightly-capped jar. To use, bring 1 quart water and 1/2 ounce herbs to boil. Put steaming pot on the table, and put your face over the pot, at least 10 inches from the water. Cover head and pot with a towel. Relax for at least 5 minutes. You can also use this mixture in a vaporizer while you sleep. Soft Soap recipe Several bits, pieces, and slivers of used soap — enough to make 1 cup dried out or 1 cup soap flakes 1 cup boiling water Pour boiling water over the soap and stir until soap is completely dissolved. Cool. Store in a pump-type dispenser or a squeeze-top plastic container Soothing Cucumber Cream recipe 1 whole cucumber, unpeeled 1/2 ounce white paraffin 2 ounces sweet almond oil Cut the cucumber into chunks and purée it in the food processor or blender. Strain the pulp through a strainer lined with cheesecloth. Melt the wax in a small bowl in the top of a glass or enamel double boiler over medium heat. As soon as the wax is melted, slowly add the oil, stirring gently. Add strained cucumber and blend thoroughly. Remove the pot from the heat and cover with a clean towel. Let the mixture cool very slowly to prevent crystals from forming in the wax. Stir mixture once or twice until cool.

When the mixture is completely cool and smooth, store it in a tightly capped glass container in the refrigerator. It will keep for two months. To use, smooth a bit of cream every night around the tender skin of your face and neck. Strawberry Drawing Mask recipe 1/2 cup very ripe strawberries 1/4 cup cornstarch Mix strawberries and cornstarch together to make a paste and apply it to your face, avoiding the delicate area around your eyes. Leave on for 30 minutes, then rinse off with cool water. Suntan Lotion recipe 2 ounces salt-free mayonnaise 2 ounces black tea (brewed very dark) Juice of 1 lemon 5 (400 IU each) vitamin E capsules Mix mayonnaise, tea and lemon juice in a blender. Pour into a storage container and squeeze contents of vitamin E capsules into it. Keep refrigerated no longer than 1 week. Sweet Cleansing Grains recipe 1 teaspoon granulated sugar A little soap lather Mix well, and use the same as you would any cleansing grains. Tomato-Oatmeal Conditioner recipe For oily skin. 1 ripe tomato 3 or 4 tablespoons oatmeal Powder oatmeal in blender, then remove. Purée tomato in blender. Remove. Combine powdered oatmeal and tomato, then apply to face. The mixture will be sloppy, so wear a plastic shower cap to protect hair. Even better, use right before shampooing your hair. Lie down, and after 20 minutes or so, rinse off the conditioner with very hot water - as hot as you can stand it - to help dissolve excess oil. Follow with your favorite acid mantle. Vinegar Facial Conditioner recipe For moderately oily skin.

1 cup water 1 tablespoon vinegar (any type) Mix water and vinegar in a bottle. Apply up to 1/4 teaspoon of mixture to face after each cleansing. Let dry naturally, without patting. Vinegar Rinse recipe 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 1 basin warm water This restores the natural pH balance or acid mantle to your skin. Pour vinegar into warm water. Splash your face thoroughly. Let dry without using a towel. Acne sufferers should try this also, but be sure to start with a perfectly clean face. Witch Hazel Skin Clarifier recipe 3/4 cup witch hazel 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol Mix the ingredients and store in a tightly capped, sterilized glass bottle. To use, moisten a clean cotton ball and clean your face with this solution after washing and before applying moisturizer. Your skin should feel tingly while using this clarifier. Carolina Cleansing Cream recipe 3 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 cup lard Several drops peppermint extract 1/2 teaspoon tincture of benzoin Mix well in a clean glass bottle. Apply to face with fingers. Remove with tissues. Keep in a cool place Chamomile Steaming Face Cleanser recipe 1 teaspoon chamomile leaves 4 cups boiling water Mix in a heatproof bowl. Hold face 10 inches from water for 8 minutes; follow with a tightening mask. Cider Stabilizing Rinse recipe 1/4 cup cider vinegar 1/4 cup water

Combine vinegar and water and gently wipe your face with the mixture. Let this rinse dry on your skin. Citrus Cooler Lotion recipe 4 tablespoons glycerin 40 drops oil of orange 4 tablespoons lemon juice Combine ingredients in a clean glass bottle. Shake well and refrigerate. Citrus Skin Freshener recipe This is marvelous for those hot summer days! I like to use it ice cold from the refrigerator. It's an instant cool-down. 1 cup citrus peel (grapefruit, lemon, lime, orange - whatever) 1 vitamin C tablet 1 cup boiling water Cut citrus peel into thin strips and set aside. Add vitamin C tablet to the boiling water, then pour over citrus peels. Let the mixture cool, then strain and pour into a clean container. Store in the refrigerator. Apple Mask recipe For normal skin. 1 apple, cored and quartered 2 tablespoons honey 1/2 teaspoon sage Drop the apple into a blender and chop. Add honey and sage and refrigerate for 10 minutes. Pat the mixture onto the face with a light tapping motion, tapping until the honey feels tacky. Leave mask on for 30 minutes, then rinse. Apricot Mask recipe For dry skin. 2 apricots 2 tablespoons plain yogurt Purée in a blender. Apply to face, avoiding eye area, and leave on for 10 to 20 minutes.

Apricot Masque recipe For dry skin. 1 apricot, dried or fresh 2 tablespoons honey If apricot is dried, soak it in water for 3 hours. Mash fruit and honey together, then apply to skin. Leave on for 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse off with hot water. Avocado Honey Mask recipe 1 large, ripe avocado 1 tablespoon honey Peel and slice avocado and purée it in a blender with the honey. Apply the mask to your face by patting it gently and then continuing to pat until the mask feels extremely tacky to the touch. Relax and leave the mask on for 20 to 30 minutes and then rinse off with warm water. Avocado Mask recipe Conditions and prevents dryness. 1/2 ripe avocado 1 egg white Mash avocado into a thick paste. Add egg white. Apply to face; leave on 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water. Avocado Masque recipe For dry skin. 1/2 ripe avocado 1 teaspoon vegetable oil Mash avocado into a paste and add vegetable oil. Apply to clean skin. Leave on for 10 to 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Avocado Moisture Mask recipe For dry skin. 1 ripe avocado 4 tablespoons plain yogurt Purée avocado and blend with yogurt. Apply mixture to face. Leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water.

Avocado Moisturizer recipe For dry skin. 1 tablespoon wheat germ oil 1/2 mashed ripe avocado Mix and apply to skin. After 20 minutes, remove with warm water. Avocado-Banana Masque recipe For dry or sensitive skin. 1/4 mashed ripe avocado 1/2 mashed ripe banana 2 tablespoons plain yogurt (not low-fat) 1 teaspoon wheat germ oil Mix all ingredients. Apply mixture to face and leave on 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse with tepid water. Banana Cream Mask recipe For normal to dry skin. 1/2 ripe banana 1 tablespoon honey 2 tablespoons sour cream Mash the banana in a bowl and add honey and sour cream. Blend well Apply to skin and leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Beet Moisturizing Mask recipe 1 raw beet, grated 1 cup sour cream California Avocado Cleanser and Mask recipe 1/4 ripe avocado 1/2 cup buttermilk 1 beaten egg yolk Blend avocado with egg yolk and buttermilk. Apply to face and throat and leave on for 5 minutes. Spread on a little more. Leave on for another 5 minutes. Rinse with tepid water.

Clove-Honey Skin Lightening Mask recipe 2 1 1 1

tablespoons fuller's earth tablespoon witch hazel teaspoon honey teaspoon ground cloves

Mix all the ingredients into a paste and apply to the skin in light, upward strokes. Leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with Skin Bleaching Tonic. Cornmeal Skin Facial recipe For oily or combination skin. 1 tablespoon dry cornmeal 2 eggs Cleanse face, steam, splash with cool water and pat dry. Massage with the dry cornmeal. Rinse off. Then apply a mask made by whipping the eggs and brushing on face. Leave on for 20 minutes; rinse off. Cucumber Mask recipe For oily skin. 1/2 cucumber 1 egg white 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon mint Purée ingredients in a blender and refrigerate for 10 minutes. Apply the mixture to your face and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse with hot, then cool water. Cucumber Masque recipe 1 cucumber, cubed 3 ounces milk Blend together. Apply to face, and leave on for 5 minutes. Dry Skin Face Pack recipe 4 teaspoons mayonnaise 1/2 teaspoon kelp powder 1 teaspoon fuller's earth Make into a paste. Apply. Leave on for 10 minutes.

Dry Skin Facial recipe 1 tablespoon dry oatmeal 1/2 mashed ripe banana 2 ounces plain yogurt Cleanse face, steam, splash with cool water and pat dry. Massage with the dry oatmeal. Rinse off. Then apply a mask made by mixing yogurt and banana; spread evenly on face. Leave on for 20 minutes; rinse off. Egg-Honey Moisturizer recipe 1 egg yolk 2 tablespoons honey Mix ingredients together until a light paste is formed; apply to face and neck, avoiding eye area and mouth. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes; rinse off thoroughly with tepid water. Enchanted Garden Mask recipe The enzymes in the papaya help soften skin by removing dead surface cells. 1/2 papaya 1/2 teaspoon lemon or lime juice 1 teaspoon honey Mash the ingredients together. Apply to clean face, leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse well. Facial Glow Masque recipe 1 egg yolk 1 teaspoon warm milk 1 teaspoon honey Mix together. Apply to face and throat. Lie down and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Fruit Punch Refresher recipe 1/2 cup lemon yogurt 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon lime juice 1 teaspoon grapefruit juice Mix; leave on face for 10 minutes. Rinse with cold club soda.

Georgia Peach Mask recipe 1 ripe peach 1 egg white Mash peach to a pulp or puree in blender. Beat the egg white just until stiff, then fold the peach purée into the egg white. Apply thickly to face and neck with fingertips. Let dry for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water. Grape Facial recipe For over-sunned faces. 1 cup green grapes 1 teaspoon honey or 1 egg yolk Crush green grapes to a pulp. Add honey or egg yolk. Leave on damp skin for 15 minutes; rinse. Heavenly Mask recipe 1 tablespoon yogurt 1 egg yolk 1 tablespoon honey Mix gently and let stand until paste reaches room temperature. Smooth mask onto clean face, and lie down for 20 minutes. Rinse off with tepid water. Apply astringent and moisturizer. Herb Garden Splash recipe 2 cups white vinegar 1/4 cup honey 1 teaspoon sage 1 teaspoon thyme 1 teaspoon savory 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon crushed bay leaves Combine all ingredients and store in a sterilized glass jar for 1 week. Shake occasionally to mix contents. Strain and pour into a tightly capped bottle. Herbal Face Steam recipe Deep pore cleanser. 1 quart water 1 handful any herbs* Juice and peel of 1/2 lemon

Bring water to a boil. Add juice and peel of lemon and herbs. Turn off the heat and take the pot to a table. Cover your hair with a shower cap or towel and drape another towel over your head and the pot, holding your face about 10 inches above the water. Keep your eyes closed and let the steam do its magic cleansing for about 15 minutes. Afterward, rinse with COLD water to close the pores. * Use any herbs you have available: rosemary, thyme, mint, marjoram, basil, parsley, cloves, caraway, anise or fennel seeds, chamomile, lavender or elder flowers. Honey and Egg Mask recipe For dry skin. 1 1 1 1

tablespoon powdered milk stiffly-beaten egg white egg yolk teaspoon honey

Combine milk and egg white. Slowly mix in egg yolk and honey. Apply to face. Leave on for 5 minutes; rinse. Honey of a Peach Mask recipe There is nothing more revitalizing than a peach and honey mask, which will leave your skin feeling soft and silky. 1 large peach or nectarine, skinned 3 teaspoons honey Lecithin powder or 2 tablespoons yogurt Mash the peach (or nectarine) and honey together. Add a little lecithin powder or yogurt until you have a workable paste. Pat evenly over your face and neck and around the eyes. Lie back and relax for about 10 minutes. Rinse off with warm water, pat dry, tone and moisturize. This delicious mask leaves the complexion feeling soft and supple. Honey Mask recipe This is mildly antiseptic. 1 egg yolk 2 tablespoons honey 10 drops almond oil Whip until creamy. Store any extra in a wide-mouth jar for future use.

Honey-Almond Mask recipe 1 2 1 4

tablespoon honey tablespoons finely crushed almonds teaspoon powdered clay tablespoons uncooked oatmeal or cornstarch

Mix together, adding little water if mixture is too thick to spread. Apply to face. Gently massage face, using an upward, circular motion as you rinse. Lemon Facial Mask recipe For dry skin. 2 egg yolks 1 teaspoon olive oil 1 teaspoon lemon juice Mix ingredients together. Wash your face, spread on the mixture, leave it on for ten minutes, then wash it off. Lemon Mask recipe For oily skin. 1 tablespoon potter's clay 1 tablespoon lemon juice Mix in the palm of your hand. Apply to clean skin. Lemon Skin Lightening Pack recipe 2 tablespoons fuller's earth 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon buttermilk Mix all ingredients into a paste and apply to the skin in light, upward strokes. Leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with Skin Bleaching Tonic. Mint Souffle Mask recipe For tired skin. 1 tablespoon ground or powdered spearmint 1 tablespoon oil 1 tablespoon honey Whirl in the blender until fluffy. Apply to clean skin.

Oatmeal-Tomato Mask recipe For blemished skin. 1 ripe tomato, chopped 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon instant oatmeal or old-fashioned rolled oats Blend ingredients in a blender until just combined. Apply to skin, making sure the mixture is thick enough to stay on blemished areas. Add a bit more oatmeal to thicken the mask, if necessary. Leave the mask on for 10 minutes, then scrub off with a clean washcloth dipped in warm water. Oily Skin Treatment Mask recipe Source: The Commercial Appeal - August 25, 2002 2 fresh tomatoes 1 tablespoon peppermint leaves 1/2 tablespoon dried fresh yeast 1 teaspoon lemon juice Boil the tomatoes in hot water, let cool and then peel the skin. Crush the tomatoes and remove the seeds. Add the remaining ingredients. Apply to face for 10 minutes three times a week. The pulp of a tomato aids the complexion, while lemon juice, which is used in cosmetic products, contains vitamin C and can act as a bleaching agent. Orange Juice-Tapioca Mask recipe Soothes skin and retards wrinkles. 1 tablespoon tapioca 2 tablespoons honey 1/2 cup fresh orange juice In a small saucepan over low heat, mix tapioca and orange juice. Stir in honey and let the "pudding" simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and cool. Spread the mixture over your face and neck and let dry for 20 minutes. Rinse. Papaya Anti-Wrinkle Facial recipe 2 tablespoons mashed ripe papaya 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel Mix together the papaya and aloe vera gel to make a smooth paste. Apply to your clean face and neck and let sit for 5 minutes. Rinse with cool water.

This formula an be drying if it is left on for longer then 5 minutes. The natural fruit acid and enzymes remove dead skin cells and skin will look and feel younger and smoother. Papaya Facial recipe 1/4 ripe papaya 4 teaspoons green cosmetic clay 1 1/2 teaspoons aloe vera gel Puree all ingredients. Smooth it over the face and neck; leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with cool water. Peach Moisturizer recipe This is a great moisturizer for skin, hands and nails. 1 tablespoon almond oil 1 drop honey 1 teaspoon peach juice Mix all ingredients well. Peach Tightening Mask recipe 1 ripe peach, peeled and pitted 1 egg white Whip peach and egg white together in a blender until smooth. Gently pat the mixture all over the face. Relax for 30 minutes, then rinse off with cool water. Peaches and Cream Mask recipe For that famous "peaches and cream" complexion, try this mask. 1 large ripe peach 2 to 3 tablespoons cream Peel and pit the peach. Mash peach. Add cream until smooth. This mixture is a bit runny, so you may want to lie back in your bath for 10 minutes or so. Rinse with warm water. Peel-Off Mask recipe 1 packet unflavored gelatine 1/2 cup fruit juice or herb Infusion Heat together gently to dissolve the gelatine. Let cool until almost set Apply to face, let dry completely, then peel off.

Peppermint Mud Mask recipe For oily skin. 2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol 1 teaspoon peppermint extract 2 teaspoons fuller's earth Combine all ingredients. Apply to face, avoiding eye area. Leave on for 10 minutes. Pina Colada Mask recipe 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple 1 tablespoon coconut milk Place ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Spread in a thin layer over skin. Leave on for 5 to 10 minutes and then rinse with warm water. Pat skin dry. This tropical mask gives complexions a healthy glow. Bromelian, an enzyme found in fresh pineapple, removes dead skin cells. Plum Mask recipe For blemished, oily skin. 6 plums 1 teaspoon almond oil Boil the plums; cool. Mash plums with almond oil. Softening Masque (emollient) recipe 1 egg yolk 1/3 cup avocado, peeled and mashed 1/3 cup milk Beat the egg yolk until fluffy. Add milk and avocado, mixing thoroughly with the yolk. Apply to face and leave on for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse with hot water. Super Dry Skin Formula recipe 1 pint pure aloe gel 1 ounce (tube) zinc oxide paste 2 tablespoons sunflower oil Few drops vitamin E oil Whip ingredients together. Store in a container. Smooth over damp skin after a shower or bath.

Yogurt Mud Pack recipe 3 tablespoons fuller's earth 3 tablespoons plain yogurt Mix to make a paste and pat onto the face with gentle, upward strokes. Let dry on the skin for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. Yogurt-Almond Slougher recipe For blemished skin. 3 tablespoons pulverized almonds (or almond meal) 1/2 cup yogurt Mix together and massage into face. Rinse with cool water. Dry Skin Conditioner recipe 1 ounce oatmeal 1 ounce comfrey leaves, ground 1 ounce almond meal Blend oatmeal, almond meal and comfrey leaves and mix 1 tablespoon of this to 1 quart warm water. Strain into bath water. Soak at least 10 minutes.

ROSE WATER 1 C. rose petals 1/2 C. rubbing alcohol 1 1/2 C. water Simmer rose petals in water for 10 minutes. Strain. Add alcohol (optional, but acts as a preservative. See Note.). Keeps in fridge for up to 2 weeks with alcohol, or, 1 week without. Note: Rosewater without a bit of alcohol will quickly develop a residue on its surface. If you don't wish to use rubbing alcohol, you may substitute Vodka. Rose Water recipe 2 cups distilled water 1/4 cup vodka 10 drops rose oil 1/2 cup fresh, deep-red rose petals Measure the distilled water into a thoroughly-cleaned mixing bottle. Add the vodka. Mix in the flowers so that they are completely wet. Add the oil.

Let the mixture stand in a covered bottle in a cool, dark place for one week to allow the scent to age. If you like, you can leave the petals in the mixture for a pretty visual effect.

Special Massage for a Bride Here is a special recipe for brides to be used daily at the time of bath for ten days before marriage. The following ingredients are mixed to a paste and rubbed thoroughly. They cleanse and stimulate the skin leaving it soft and shiny. 1 tablespoon dried, ground and sieved orange peel 1 tablespoon dried, ground and sieved lemon peel 2 tablespoons ground almond a pinch of salt 4 tablespoons wheat germ flour 1 tablespoon ground thyme a pinch of ground allspice almond oil sufficient to make a paste a few drops of jasmine oil (to perfume) Petroleum Jelly recipe 1 ounce beeswax 1/2 cup baby or mineral oil Melt the beeswax in a microwave or a double boiler. Stir in the mineral oil. Remove the mixture from the heat and stir until cool. Amish Sore Throat Remedy Light corn syrup Small amount warm water Mix the corn syrup and warm water, using just enough warm water to thin the corn syrup. Have child or adult gargle with the mixture. It is very safe if a child swallows it. Anti-Dandruff Lotion 6 ounces witch hazel Juice of one lemon 8 ounces distilled water Mix all ingredients together. Part hair down the middle, front to back, while it is still damp after shampooing. Wet a cotton ball with the lotion and dab it on your scalp along the part. Part hair an inch to one side of the other and repeat application. Repeat again until entire scalp is treated.

Aromatherapy Holiday Mood: 2 drops frankincense 2 drops myrrh 2 drops cinnamon 2 drops pine, cedar or juniper oil Place into an aromatherapy lamp or light bulb ring. You can also blend with 8 ounces of water in a spray bottle, then mist in the air. Menstrual Syndrome and Tension: 4 drops orange oil 4 drops cinnamon oil Place into an aromatherapy lamp or light bulb ring. You can also blend with 8 ounces of water in a spray bottle, then mist in the air. Calming: 3 drops lavender 3 drops Mandarin Place into an aromatherapy lamp or light bulb ring. You can also blend with 8 ounces of water in a spray bottle, then mist in the air. Air Freshener and Uplifter: 3 drops sweet eucalyptus oil 2 drops orange oil 2 drops lemon oil Place into an aromatherapy lamp or light bulb ring. You can also blend with 8 ounces of water in a spray bottle, then mist in the air. Basil Acne Remedy 2 to 3 teaspoons dried basil leaves 1 cup boiling water Steep basil leaves in water for 10 to 20 minutes. Cool, then apply to face with a white cotton ball. Blackhead Wash 16 ounces powdered oatmeal 8 ounces powdered almond meal 4 ounces powdered orrisroot 1 ounce powdered castile soap Use 1 tablespoon of this mixture with a little hot water to make a paste. Rub gently into the affected area. Rinse with cold water.

Blemish Remedy 1 part rose water 1 part witch hazel Mix and chill mixture in the refrigerator. Apply to blemishes with a clean cotton ball. The witch hazel soaks up oil to speed healing. The rose water softens the skin. ROSE CREAM Rose Petals Lime water Gram Powder Herbal Turmeric Powder

-5 - 5 drops - 2spoons - 2pinch

Make a fine paste of the above ingredients with some water. Clean the face and apply the paste. After 20 minutes wash it off with milk and again clean the face with pure water. When the process is repeated for 15 days, the face will become soft and smooth. Rose cream is also used for the clearing of black spots left after the pimples. Chapped Face Lotion 4 1 1 2 1

ounces rosewater 1/2 teaspoons glycerin 1/2 teaspoons sodium borate ounces geranium water ounce camphor water

Combine all ingredients. Store in a tightly covered, wide-mouth, opaque jar. Chapped Lip Balm 1/4 pound beeswax Small quantity sweet oil Heat these ingredients carefully and slowly until beeswax has melted. Store in a tightly-closed tin. Apply balm two or three times a day. Avoid wetting lips as much as possible. Healing Hand Lotion 1 part bay rum 1 part liquid camphor 1 part glycerin Mix well and apply to hands.

Hydrating Body Recipes For skin that is dehydrated and taut or the most severe rough, dry skin conditions, here is one of nature's remedies. Body Scrub: 1/2 cup fine sea salt 1/3 cup body lotion Oatmeal Bath (found in most health food stores) Mix body lotion and sea salt. While in your shower, massage the mixture all over your body. You can concentrate on the problems areas: back of arms, elbows, knees, and feet. Then shower as usual with a cleansing type of body oil or cleansing gel. If you like to take baths, try an oatmeal bath. Important note: If your skin becomes extremely irritated, skip this step. Moisturizer: 1/3 cup aloe vera gel While skin is still moist, apply aloe vera gel all over your body. Protective Barrier: Oil-based body lotion, cocoa butter, pure lanolin or shea butter Apply one of the above. Take your time with this application and work it into your skin. Concentrate a little more on the problem areas. Hydrating Facial Recipe Reverse and control symptoms of old age before it's too late. Follow the four simple steps below. Steaming: 3 chamomile tea bags 1 tablespoon fennel seeds 1 (1-quart) pot In pot, brew tea bags and fennel seeds. Bring to boil and let steep for 5 minutes. Remove tea bags and bring to boil again. Remove from stove. Place your face (skin should be free of all makeup and cream) over the steam, keeping your eyes closed. Use a large towel to cover your head and the pot. Save the tea solution. Chilled, it makes a great skin tonic. Scrub: 2 tablespoons almond meal 1 tablespoon oatmeal 2 tablespoons cleanser 1 mixing cup

Mix almond meal, oatmeal and cleanser. On moistened skin, gently massage mixture in small circular motions. Begin at the base of the neck, work up the throat area and then the face. Avoid the under eye area. Rinse with lukewarm water. Moisturizer: 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel Apply aloe vera gel on base of the neck, throat and face area. Masque: 1/3 cup dark clover honey 1/3 cup powdered seaweed 1 ripe avocado, puréed 1 ounce macadamia nut oil 1 mixing bowl Mix clover honey, powdered seaweed, avocado and Macadamia nut oil in a bowl. Apply mixture to base of the neck, throat and face and leave on for 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water. Apply a few drops of Macadamia nut oil as a finishing step. Stretch Mark Cream 1/4 cup cocoa butter 1 tablespoon wheat germ oil 1 teaspoon light sesame seed oil 1 teaspoon apricot kernel oil 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil 2 teaspoons grated beeswax 1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract (optional) Mix together all ingredients except the vanilla extract. Heat the mixture gently until the cocoa butter and beeswax have melted; stir well. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, if desired. Cool completely, then store in a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid. Stretch Mark Massage Oil 1 ounce cocoa butter, melted 1/2 ounce flaxseed oil 1/4 ounce rose hip seed oil 1/4 ounce wheat germ oil 10 drops lavender oil 8 drops neroli oil 4 drops vetiver oil Blend the melted cocoa butter, flaxseed oil rose hip seed oil and wheat germ oil. Transfer the mixture to a clean jar. As it begins to cool ad solidify, add the essential oils. Allow the mixture to cool to a comfortable temperature before using it. Massage the oil into your skin once or twice daily.

Essential Oil Recipes Peace of Mind 5-10 drops of Orange 3 drops of Geranium 2 drops of Peppermint Be Well 3-5 drops of Peppermint 2 drops of Tangerine Sleepy Time 5-10 drops of Lavender 3 drops of Orange Stress Less 5-10 drops of Lavender 3 drops of Cedarwood Energize 2 drops of Geranium 2 drops of Rosewood 2 drops of Bergamot All of these blends can be; Diffused or put into your oil burner (with water of course) Mixed with almond oil (10 ml) or a fragrance free cream and used for massage Dabbed onto a tissue and inhaled Added to your bath You will come up with your own favorites through experimentation. Often the best way to select oils is to choose what you feel like - let your intuition be your guide. Bath Recipes Cleopatra Milk Bath 2 Litres of milk (non-fat for oily skin) 3 teaspoons of honey 10 drops of essential oils added to 1 tablespoon of a carrier oil such as sweet almond. Mix all together and run it under the tap to disperse. Add rose petals for the most beautiful looking bath! Hop in and enjoy! Tropical Oasis 2 cups of coconut milk 3 drops each of tangerine and ylang ylang Freshly picked flowers of your choice Combine oils with milk and add to bath water. Add flowers, hop in and indulge your senses. Sea Salt Bath – You should have a section that gives information about sea salt and using it in a bath. I hope you don't already, (I didn't get to search your whole site). Anyway, It is wonderful pouring a cup or so of sea salt into a hot bath. It's quite soothing and it "sucks out" skin impurities. It is in most cases very inexpensive. Herbal Heaven Bath Tea Bag In a small muslin bag add a handful of your preferred blend of dried herbs; NB: If you don’t have any muslin just add your herbs to a bowl, add 3 cups of boiling water, cover and let it steep for 5 minutes then add it to your bath. Some suggestions; Peppermint, echinacea and lavender Oats, chamomile and calendula Lemon grass and green tea Peppermint, green tea and rosemary

Place it in your bath, hop in and relax. Vanilla Rose 4 vanilla pod seeds 2 handfuls of rose petals Place vanilla into the bath and scatter petals across the surface. Indulge! Sleepy Time 1 tablespoon of sweet almond oil or any carrier oil 5 drops of lavender essential oil Combine oils and add to bath water. The Little Mermaid Seaweed Bath 1 cup of seaweed (kelp, dulse or nori) To buy seaweed try seaveg.com you can get enough seaweed for about 4 or 5 baths for around $18.00. 1 tablespoon carrier oil

3 drops of Juniper essential oil

3 drops of Lemon essential oil Make the bath very hot. As the water is running add your seaweed. Let it steep.

Mix your carrier oil and essential oils together. When your bath is cool enough to enter add your oils. Soak for at least 20 minutes. While you are soaking massage you body with the seaweed. Afterwards drink lots of water and relax. Do this slimming and detoxifying bath once a week for 1 month for best results. If you have never had a milk bath you need to experience this heavenly treat. Milk soothes and softens while honey contains vitamins, minerals and amino acids that nourish the skin Spa Living for Health’s Body Bliss The Steps Step 1 – Dry Skin Brush Step 2 – Shower and Exfoliate with a “Banana Smoothie Body Scrub” Step 3 – Thai style milk bath Step 4 – Moisturize & Massage Step 1 Dry brush your skin with a soft bristle brush, dry face washer or loofah. Gently work from your feet upwards over your entire body. Use circular motions. You will need to do this for 5 minutes to get your circulation going and loosen dead skin cells. Step 2 Shower and exfoliate with a banana smoothie body scrub. Ingredients 1 banana, mashed 1 tablespoon of powdered milk 1 tablespoon of oatmeal 2 teaspoons of homey Method Combine all ingredients to make a smooth paste. Shower first to dampen skin. Apply body scrub to your entire body with small circular motions. Rinse off thoroughly. Step 3 Relax in a Thai style milk bath. Ingredients

2 cups of coconut milk Juice of 1 lime Handful of rose petals or flowers of your choice (optional) Method Disperse milk through bath water. Disperse lime juice through bath water. Add flowers and hop in. Breathe deeply and soak for 15 minutes or until bath water cools. Step 4 End your spa body treatment with an Ayurveda inspired warm oil massage. What you will need ¼ cup of a cold pressed vegetable oil Good choices are; sweet almond (medium), sesame (heavy), olive oil (heavy). Plastic or glass bottle or jar to hold oil to be warmed Pot of very warm water Old towel to stand on Paper towel little ray of sunshine summer home spa summer home spa menu Energize, detoxify and smooth with an all over "dry skin brushing". Get your body zinging with a zesty "lemon and sugar body scrub". Smooth and cool your face with a "banana and strawberry smoothie mask". Soak tired feet in a "citrus foot bath" and follow with a "salty scrub". what you will need long handled soft bristle body brush or a dry face washer or towel small tub for feet meditation or soothing music CD and player reclining chair and cushions for comfort 2 towels 3 lemons 1 orange 1 tablespoon of olive oil 2 tablespoons of white sugar 6 strawberries 1 banana 1 tablespoon of sea salt in a small bowl or container favorite moisturizer and body cream go spa! 1. Begin by taking a moment to signal the beginning of this time for yourself. Light a candle or turn on some relaxation music and say to yourself "I am now on a summer home spa retreat". 1. Set up your spa and start to gather the objects you will need. 2. Make your summer home spa treatments; banana and strawberry smoothie mask Mash banana and 6 washed strawberries together to form a paste, add a squeeze of lemon and mix well. Put mask into the fridge to cool until needed. cucumber eye compress Cut a couple of slices of cucumber for your eyes and put into fridge to cool. citrus foot soak Slice 1 lemon and 1 orange and set aside for foot soak. salty scrub Place 1 tablespoon of sea salt into a small bowl and set aside for foot scrub. lemon and sugar body scrub

Squeeze 2 lemons and add 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to form a paste. 3. Move to the bathroom with body brush and body scrub in hand. 4. Brush your body in small, slow circles beginning at your feet and making your way up. Use a firm but not hard pressure. Brush for 5 minutes your skin should be slightly pink from the increased blood circulation. 5. Hop into the shower and work the body scrub in small circles all over your body. 6. Rinse off and towel dry, smother yourself in your favorite body lotion. 7. Set up your foot soak; fill your small tub with tepid water and add the lemon and orange slices, take the tub, sea salt and a towel over to your recliner chair. 8. Get ready for your mask; retrieve your mask and cucumber slices from the fridge. Take them and a towel over to your recliner chair. Set them down in a place where you can easily use them while sitting. 9. Make yourself an iced water with a straw and place it within easy reach. 10. Slide into your recliner and place your feet into the foot soak. 11. Place a towel over your chest and apply your mask to your face and throat. Place the cucumber slices over your eyes and relax. 12. Breathe in to the count of 8 and breathe out to the count of 4. As you breathe out imagine a blanket of white light wash over you from the top of your head to the tips of your toes. Repeat 3 times. 13. After 15 minutes with your mask still on, remove the cucumber slices and sit forward slowly. Take the citrus slices and rub them all over your feet and lower legs. Lift your feet, one at a time, slightly above the water and rub with sea salt. Rinse off in the water. Dry your feet. 14. Stand slowly and make your way to the bathroom to rinse off your mask. Before rinsing, slowly massage the mask into your skin and then rinse thoroughly. Pat dry and slather on your favorite moisturizer. 15. Make yourself a herbal tea and return to your day by saying softly to yourself "my summer home spa retreat is over and I feel refreshed and alive". detoxifying winter home spa winter home spa menu Cleanse your mind with a guided meditation. Get your circulation pumping and smooth your body with an all over "dry skin brushing". Take a relaxing "detox bath". Hydrate your face with an "avocado moisturizing mask" and "chamomile eye compress". Tame dried out hair with an "avocado hair treatment". Chill out afterwards, curled up in a robe with a hot cup of chai. what you will need long handled soft bristle body brush or a dry face washer or towel meditation or soothing music CD and player (if you do not have a suitable CD try the free online meditations at Learning Meditation and listen through your computer) towels Epsom salts 1 avocado ½ cup of coconut milk 2 chamomile tea bags favorite moisturizer and body cream ingredients for chai; water, milk, honey, black tea leaves, green cardomon pods and ginger root go spa!

1. Begin by taking a moment to signal the beginning of this time for yourself. Light a candle or turn on some relaxation music and say to yourself "I am now on a spa retreat". 2. Set up your spa and start to gather the objects you will need. 3. Make your winter home spa treatments; avocado moisturizing mask Mash ½ an avocado and add 1 tablespoon of coconut milk, mix to form a paste. Put mask into the fridge until needed. avocado hair treatment Mash ½ an avocado and add remaining coconut milk until mixture is the consistency of conditioner. chamomile eye compress Steep 2 tea bags in a small amount of hot water. Leave to cool slightly. detox bath 2 cups of epsom salts. chai Makes enough for 2 cups. 1 cup of water 1 cup of milk 2 teaspoons of honey 2 teaspoons of black tea leaves 1 green cardomon pod, crushed ¼ inch of ginger root, peeled Boil water with milk. As it starts to bubble add sugar, tea, cardomon and ginger. Reduce the heat and turn it up again. Bring to the boil 3 or 4 times. Strain and drink. 4. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and sit or lie in a comfortable position for your meditation. Play your guided meditation or relaxation music. 5. Move to the bathroom with body brush, face mask, eye compress and hair treatment in hand. 6. Brush your body in small, slow circles beginning at your feet and making your way up. Use a firm but not hard pressure. Brush for 5 minutes your skin should be slightly pink from the increased blood circulation. 7. Run your bath and add the Epsom salts. 8. Hop into your bath and apply your face mask, hair treatment and eye compress. 9. Bathe for 15 – 20 minutes. 10. Hop into the shower and thoroughly rinse off the mask and shampoo your hair. 11. Towel dry, smother yourself in your favorite moisturizer. 12. Slip into a comfy robe and make yourself a cup of chai, curl up and read a book. 13. Return to your day by saying softly to yourself "my winter home spa retreat is over and I feel refreshed and alive". Homemade Spa Gift Recipes Bath Choose one recipe and make one gift or use all three recipes to make up a homemade spa gift basket. You could even add some extra spa accessories such as a bath pillow, candle, towel or anything else bath related. I have used a rose theme but you could easily substitute the rose with dried lavender and lavender essential oil. Oh Honey! Bath Oil (Makes about 120 ml – just under ½ cup). 75 ml almond oil 5 ml honey 20 ml vodka 60 drops of essential oils (your choice)

Mix ingredients together and put into small glass jars or vials. Instructions: Use 1 tablespoon in your bath water. Cleopatra Milk Bath (Makes about 6 cups – 12 baths) 1 cup cornstarch 1 cup baking soda 4 cups dried milk 10 drops Rose essential oil 4 tablespoons dried rose petals Mix ingredients in a large bowl and divide into glass jars or little calico bags. Instructions: Use 2-3 tablespoons in your bath Pretty in Pink Bath Salts (Makes just under 4 cups – 8 baths) 800g Epsom salts 4 tablespoons dried rose petals 2 teaspoons pink clay 20 drops Rose essential oil Mix dry ingredients together in a large bowl. Add essential oils and put into an airtight container. Leave for a week so that the bath salts absorb the oils. Instructions: Add 2-3 tablespoons to your bath If you do not have pink clay you can color the salt with food coloring. Just add 5 to 10 drops into the salt, put into a container with a lid and shake it until the color is mixed through. Follow recipe as usual omitting the clay. Face Choose one recipe and make one gift or use all three recipes to make up a homemade spa gift basket or gift box. You could even add some extra spa accessories such as candles, essential oils or anything else spa related. Ultimate Scrub Mix (Makes about 1 cup) Suitable for all skin types ½ cup fine oatmeal ¼ cup rice flour (for sensitive skin omit rice flour and double oatmeal) 1 tablespoon pink clay (suitable for all skin types) Combine ingredients thoroughly and place into airtight container. Instructions: Put 2 teaspoons of mixture into bowl and add enough wet ingredient (yoghurt, milk, egg yolk or fruit) to form a paste. Smooth onto face and gently massage in small circles. Remove completely with warm water. Store scrub in a cool, dark cupboard. Note: Combine this scrub with a handwritten note of ingredients to add so that the person receiving the gift can whip up their own fresh scrub. Ultimate Mask Mix (Makes about 1 cup) Suitable for all skin types ½ cup fine oatmeal ½ cup pink clay 2 tablespoons almond meal Combine ingredients thoroughly and place into an airtight container. Instructions: Put 1 tablespoon of mixture into bowl and add enough wet ingredient (yoghurt, milk, egg yolk or fruit) to form a smooth paste. Smooth onto face and spray regularly with water to keep it moist. Remove thoroughly with warm water after 15 minutes. Store scrub in a cool, dark cupboard. Note: Combine this mask with a handwritten note of ingredients to add so that the person receiving the gift can whip up their own fresh mask.

Facial Oil (Makes about 2 tablespoons – 1 small vial) 2 tablespoons sweet almond oil (organic, cold pressed) 2 drops of chamomile or lavender essential oil Combine oils in a small vial and shake until well blended. Instructions: Apply a few drops to face and massage into skin. Can also be used for nails and hair. Taking the time out to make a homemade spa gift adds a special dimension to gift giving. I hope you enjoy. And don't forget to add a little love! RECIPES: Aloha Honey Hawaiian Delight, courtesy of Christopher Watt Makes 2 treatments Ingredients: 2 tablespoons green tea 1/2 ripe papaya 1/2 cup fresh pineapple, diced 2 tablespoons honey Directions: Steep green tea in boiling water. Set aside to cool. Peel papaya wedge and remove seeds. In blender or food processor, blend papaya and pineapple until pureed. Pour into glass bowl and combine honey and green tea. Mix well. Apply to face with fan brush or finger tips. Recline and rest for 10 – 15 minutes. Remove completely with tepid water and soft facial cloth. Store in covered container in refrigerator for up to one week. Beauty Benefits: Exfoliates, hydrates and rejuvenates. Honey-Kissed Lip Balm, courtesy of the National Honey Board Makes 1-1/2 cups Ingredients: 1 cup sweet almond oil (Found at natural food stores) 1/2 cup beeswax (Can be purchased at craft and beekeeping stores) 2 Tablespoons honey Directions: Place almond oil and beeswax in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1 minute or until mixture melts. Whisk honey into beeswax mixture; stir well. Set aside to cool completely. When cool, pour into small containers with lids. Apply to lips as a moisturizer or on top of lipstick for extra shine. Makes about 1-1/2 cups.

Face Masks have an deep cleansing action on the skin, removing impurities, wastes and dead skin cells. Use the homemade facial mask to suit your skin identify your skin type before you apply the homemade face mask. Do this by placing your face about 10 inches above a pot of very hot or recently boiled water (remove from stove before steaming). Apply a facial mask after you get out of the shower to save time. Your face and neck are already clean, plus the steam from the hot water softens the skin making it easier for the facial mask to do its job. Always apply moisturizer after using a facial mask. Whether you have dry, oily, or normal skin, a facial mask is a fun, easy, and inexpensive way to pamper yourself without leaving home. Below are five recipes for facial masks that you can easily make at home. All of the ingredients used in these recipes are sold in supermarkets or in health food stores . Use a stainless steel or glass bowl for mixing ingredients, because aluminum may react chemically with some ingredients. Homemade beauty care recipes like face-packs, facial masks and scrubs based on herbs and natural ingredients help improve the skin disorders and detoxify. It is best to try out a few of the homemade facial masks suited to your skin type and discover far yourself, which of them is the most beneficial to you. Whereas Indian women are attracted towards makeup, the European women are getting more and more inclined towards using the herbal and natural therapy. These beautifying things do not affect the skin adversely. Homemade facial masks helps in providing natural oil and moisture to the skin. If you just look carefully you will find many of the ingredients of facial pack in your kitchen.

Hair care is much similar to the skin care, scalp being the part of a specialised skin. PH balance matters while utilising products for hair care. Aromatheraphy oils are capable of being effective to the hair follicles and overall health of hair. In case of hair loss, aromatheraphy oils of birch, brahmi, chamomile, coriander, peppermint, rose and rosewood are effective. In case of dandruff, lavender, yarrow, sandalwood, lemon balm, bay, lemon, neem, and cypress are the effective oils for cure and prevention. In case of oily hair it is recommended to use cedar, lavender, lemon, sage, lemon balm and cypress are the recommended essential oils. To increase hair growth, rosemary, coriander, cedar and birch are the recommended oils. For split ends, rosewood, sandalwood and Vetiver will do the trick. For graying hair, coriander, sage and lemon can halt the progress. You can select a good PH balanced shampoo and conditioner and add essential oils to it. But the best treatment is to apply medicated hair oil to the scalp. Recommended recipes are: RECIPES Hair loss To 4 oz. coconut oil, add: 10 drops chamomile. 10 drops coriander 10 drops rosewood 10 drops birch Dandruff: To 4 oz. sesame oil, add: 10 drops lavender. 10 drops yarrow.

10 drops cypress. 10 drops sandalwood. THE WATER CLEANSER Just add two drops of aroma oil to a container of lukewarm water. Disperse the oil in water using your finger. After thoroughly washing the face with soap and water, just splash the aromatic water on your face. Leave it there to dry it for itself. And enjoy the fragrant and clean feeling that follows. CLEANSING LOTION Replace the oil-based cleanser with three drops of essential oil added to 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) of sweet almond oil. Store the mix in a dark glass bottle and shake well before pouring some into the palm of your hand and using your fingertips to massage it into skin. Gently wipe it off with a damp cotton-wool pad and if any stubborn patches of make-up remain, remove them by dipping a cotton-wool ball directly into the oil mix and gently wiping across skin. THE CLEANSING CREAM Buy the simplest, fragrance-free cleansing-cream you can find and add four drops of essential oil for every 50ml (1.7fl oz/10 tsps) of product in the jar. Mix the essential oil into the cleanser using a sterile spatula or teaspoon handle, replace the lid and leave it for three days. Stir the mixture once a day before you begin to use it. Apply it and remove as you normally would for an aromatic treat to an otherwise plain cleansing process. Warning: if you notice that the formulation changes in texture during this three-day period, becoming thicker, thinner or lumpy, throw it away. Occasionally the emulsion of a particular brand of cream becomes unstable if you add extra ingredients and it may eventually lead to bacterial contamination. THE EXFOLIATORS Mix three drops of essential oil with 30ml (1fl oz/6 tsps) sweet almond oil and slowly add equal amounts of finely ground oatmeal and coarse desiccated coconut until you have a thick paste. Massage with the paste in small circular movements all over damp skin, particularly around the forehead, nose, chin and neck, then leave for a few minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water. Pat skin dry and moisturize immediately. Use this gentle essential-oil

exfoliation twice a week for truly polished skin, free of dull, dead, flaky surface. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- RICH FACIAL MOISTURISERS

For mature skin · 3 drops Neroli and 2 drops galbanum in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) wheat germ oil. · 2 drops each rose and frankincense in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) evening primrose oil plus 1 vitamin E capsule. For dry skin · 2 drops violet and 3 drops rose in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) apricot kernel oil plus 1 vitamin E capsule. · 2 drops each Neroli, mimosa and rose in 30ml (lfl 02/6 tsps) wheat germ oil. For thread veins · 3 drops rose and 2 drops chamomile in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) peach oil plus I tsp wheat germ oil. · 3 drops orange and I drop each lemon and lime in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) peach oil plus I tsp wheatgerm oil. To treat rashes, itchiness · 2 drops chamomile and 3 drops lavender in 30ml (1 fl oz/ 6 tsps) peach oil plus 1 vitamin E capsule. · 1 drop each marigold and yarrow and 3 drops of sandalwood in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) jojoba oil plus 1 tsp wheatgerm oil. To firm skin · 3 drops frankincense and 2 drops mandarin in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) wheatgerm oil. · 2 drops each rose and lavender and I drop Neroli in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) wheatgerm oil. To improve texture · 3 drops violet and 2 drops lemongrass in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) evening primrose oil plus 1 vitamin E capsule. · 2 drops each sandalwood and geranium and 1 drop of rose in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) wheatgerm oil. For night time

· 2 drops each frankincense and myrrh in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) wheatgerm oil. LIGHT MOISTURISERS For oily skin · 2 drops each juniper and Cedarwood in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) sunflower oil plus I vitamin E capsule · 2 drops each geranium and lavender and I drop cypress in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) of sunflower oil plus 1vitamin E capsule. For combination skin. · 2 drops each lemongrass and rosemary in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) sweet almond oil plus 1 vitamin E capsule. · 1 drop petitgrain and 2 drops each rose and lavender in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) sweet almond oil plus I vitamin E capsule. For sensitive skin · 2 drops marigold and 3 drops rosemary in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) peach oil plus I tsp wheatgerm oil. · 2 drops each chamomile and jasmine and I drop sandalwood in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) jojoba oil plus 1 vitamin E capsule. To treat sallowness · 3 drops orange and 2 drops rosemary in 30ml (2 fl oz/6 tsps) jojoba oil plus I tsp wheatgerm oil. · 2 drops each lavender and ylang-ylang and 1 drop geranium in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) sunflower oil plus 1 vitamin E capsule. To Treat Acne · 3 drops bergamot and 2 drops chamomile in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) sunflower oil plus 1 vitamin E capsule. · 2 drops each lavender and mint and I drop lemon in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) sunflower oil plus 1 vitamin E capsule. To clear blackheads · 2 drops each tea-tree and eucalyptus in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) avocado oil plus I vitamin E capsule. · 2 drops each lavender and geranium and 1 drop lemon in 30ml (1 fl

oz/6 tsps) sunflower oil plus 1 vitamin E capsule. For day time · 2 drops violet and 3 drops rose in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) sweet almond oil plus 1 vitamin E capsule. ESSENTIAL FACE MASKS Mixing your own essential-oil face pack has a lot of benefits. They are easy to make, and more effective as essential oils are more in touch with the skin. A small preparation with the combinations to use our specific requirements is the added advantages. Not to mention the glow the skin gets after this beautifying aromatic experience. The best oils to fix to the skin surface for a deep facial treatment are: · Frankincense {for mature/dry skin) · Jasmine (for normal/combination skin) · Geranium (for oily/blemished skin) Using face masks: Facemasks should be used as occasional cleansing or nourishing treatments to improve your complexion. If you overuse them, they make skin drier or oilier by overstimulating it. · A deep-cleansing facemask should be used no more than once a week and a moisturizing pack at most twice a week. · It is best to use them at night and, since you have to lay back and rest while the mask does its work, include relaxing or energizing aromatic oil in the recipe to work on your mind at the same time. · As soon as you have mixed up an essential-oil facemask, apply it to well-cleansed skin by smoothing it evenly on in upward strokes. · Avoid the eye area, nostrils and lips, as skin here is very sensitive, but apply it to the neck right down to the collarbone. Then relax for 10-15 minutes until the mask has dried. · For a deep-cleansing facial, use your fingertips to rub the dried mask off your skin so you exfoliate it at the same time, and then wash any residue off. · For a moisturizing facial, rinse the mask off with warm water until skin is clean. How to Blend Them Only mix enough masks for one application: it won`t keep for more than an hour or two. Any leftovers can be spread on elbows, knees or upper back. To mix an Essential oil mask, place all ingredients in a

small bowl and stir well with a teaspoon. You will need a powdery ingredient to give the right paste-like consistency. For a Moisturizing Mask · Oatmeal. · Ground almonds. · Rice flour. (An addition of warm honey will add to the effect) For a Cleansing Mask · Fuller`s earth · Kaolin · Bran (More finely grained the ingredients are, better the effect. A bit warmed up mask can also do wonders) Aromatheraphy oil ingredient: Moisturizing 6 drops essential oil in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) carrier oil mixed with enough powdery ingredients to make a sticky, thick paste. Cleansing 6 drops essential oil in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) hot water mixed with enough powdery ingredients to make a smooth, thick paste. MASKS FOR TROUBLE SPOTS You can also easily make masks using a facial moisturizer mixing with that of powdery ingredient. Remember also that you can apply several different masks in patches: a moisturizing one over dry cheeks, an oil-control mix for nose and chin and a firming mix for the jaw and neck, for instance. After removing the mask, you may like to apply a little massage oil to the skin, or a blend of 15 drops rose oil in 30 ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) jojoba. Here are some recipes for the most common types of mask so you can perfect mixing them before you go on to experiment alone. BASIC FACE MASKS Moisturizing mask

· 2 drops each frankincense, rose, Neroli in 30ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) apricot oil with 1 tsps warmed, melted Honey, mixed with enough finely ground almond to Make a soft paste. Apply on face till it dries up. Deep cleansing mask · 2 drops geranium, 3 drops lavender and I drop lemon in 30ml (1 fl 02/6 tsps) hot water, mixed with enough kaolin to make a smooth paste. Relaxing mask · 2 drops each violet, lavender and Neroli in 30 ml (1 fl oz/6 tsps) sweet almond oil, with enough oatmeal to make a smooth paste. Energizing mask 2 drops each ylang-ylang, petitgrain and lemon in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) iced water, with enough ground almond to make a smooth paste. Anti-aging mask 2 drops each Neroli, mandarin and orange in 30ml (lfl oz/6 tsps) evening primrose oil with I tsps of warmed, melted clear honey, mixed with enough ground almond to make a smooth paste. ESSENTIAL STEAM FACIALS The one remarkably effective way to use essential oils in your beauty routine is to simply add them to a steam facial. The steam opens pores and warms skin, so essential oils are absorbed more rapidly. It also makes the oils themselves more volatile, so they evaporate faster and are even more aromatic than usual. The steam facial is also deeply relaxing, quick and non-messy. However, since it is so effective, some essential oils are too potent to be directly inhaled in such a small space and absorbed with steam in this way, especially as they enter the nasal passages and can irritate eyes. Steam facials are not recommended for anyone with a history of asthma or respiratory complaints. Do not use the oils listed on the following page, as they have an irritating effect when inhaled. When to Use a Steam Facial!

Steam facials should be used to deep-cleanse or deep-moisturise skin once a week at most, in place of a face mask. They are particularly effective when skin is dull, dehydrated, spotty or greasy, as they act as an instant Beautifier. However, don`t use them just before you plan to go out as the heat and steam can leave a high colour on the cheeks and make skin look shiny for a couple of hours afterwards. Since they are so relaxing it is best to use them before going to bed. Also, any moisturizer you apply afterwards will get to work on warmed, softened skin and immediately become an extra beneficial night cream. Oils Not Recommended for Steam Facials: · Basil. · Laurel. · Bay · Pine. · Birch. · Clary sage. · Camphor. · Tarragon. · Citronella. · Tea-tree. · Fennel. · Thyme. · Ginger. · Valerian. · Juniper. How to Use Them Wearing an off-the-shoulder top, cleanse the skin thoroughly. Then boil some water. Pour the required amount into a large, heat-retaining bowl and place it on a table. Make sure it is the right height so you can sit comfortably and bend forwards over the bowl. Have a large towel ready to drape over your head and trap the steam. Then add your chosen essential oils drop by drop onto the surface of the water. Stay under the towel with your eyes closed until the steam cools then add more boiling water to the bowl to evaporate off any remaining essential oils. Afterwards, gently pat your face dry and immediately apply a moisturizer to trap the extra steamy water in your skin. For steam facials

Add 5 drops essential oil to 1 litre (2 pints) boiling Water. Steam Facial Trouble Spots It is best to use a maximum of two different essential oils in a steam facial because they become so aromatic with the heat that any more are invariably overpowering. However, the right combination will treat almost any problem of both the skin and psyche. Here is a selection of recipes for you to try before you start creating your own concoctions: DEEP CLEANSING FACIAL For dry skin 2 drops lavender and 3 drops of violet. For normal/combination skin 2 drops mimosa and 3 drops geranium. For oily blemished skin 3 drops juniper and 2 drops bergamot. For mature skin 3 drops frankincense and 2 drops galbanum. DEEP MOISTURISING FACIAL For dry skin 2 drops chamomile and 3 drops of jasmine. For normal/combination skin. 2 drops rose and 3 drops sandalwood. For oily or blemished skin. 2 drops Chamomile and 3 drops Geranium. For mature skin. 2 drops of Neroli and 3 drops rose. RELAXING FACIAL 2 drops of ylang-ylang and 3 drops jasmine. INVIGORATING FACIAL 2 drops of peppermint and 3 drops lavender.

Handling Trouble Spots With the basic guidelines provided you can change, mix n match to treat your trouble spots. For example, for an oily skin throughout, the essential oil for oily skin can be mixed in moisturizers, exfoliators, cleanser etc. For a particular dry patch of skin, you can create the heavy moisturizer with essential oils for dry skin. Each trouble patch of the skin can be treated accordingly. Thus you can customize your own product. Otherwise there are no such thin as cleanser for dry skin, cleanser for oily skin…etc in the market. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sunblock Our esthetician experts say "If you can see your shadow, you need sunblock." However, did you know the active ingredients in sunblock often dissipate after the season? So, always use a sunblock, but, don't purchase in bulk or save that last little bit in the bottle for next season. Buy as you go, in order to always have a fresh batch, or, make your own. Note: This recipe will leave a white nose "lifeguard style." 1 Tbs zinc oxide 1 1/2 tsp light sesame oil 1 Tbs rosewater Mix together the zinc oxide and sesame oil. Heat the mixture gently, using a double boiler, and stir well to mix. Remove from heat and slowly add the rosewater, as you continue stirring. Allow to cool completely, and store in a clean container with a tight lid, in the fridge. Yield: 2 oz. Keeps: Up to 10 days in the fridge. ***************************************************************** Southern buttermilk facial Recipe Submitted By: Tracy of Columbus, GA Summary: This mask always leaves my face feeling soft and rehydrated. Especially in the winter. Ingredients: 3 Tablespoons fresh buttermilk 2 1/2 teaspoons oatflour For an extra hydrating and skin loving boost to this formula, add flaxseed oil or carrotseed oil Instructions: Mix buttermilk and oatflour together. Apply to your face and let dry. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. **************************************************************** FOOT SOAK RECIPES Honey Cleanser

This mild organic cleanser is terrific for feet because of its natural moisturizing and antibacterial qualities. Wet your foot and apply 1 tablespoon organic clover honey to a warm, wet washcloth rub entire foot thoroughly, being sure to get between all toes and around toenails. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Foot Soaks Foot soaks are an excellent way to care for the skin as well as add to your total sense of well being. They soften dry skin and energize tired feet. After soaking, moisturize with a good organic moisturizer (see our article on organic moisturizer recipes if you would like to make your own). Energizing Foot Soak #1 Add 4 cups warmed organic whole milk, 2 tablespoons Epsom Salt, 2 tablespoons organic almond oil and 3 drops organic peppermint essential oil to a warm water foot bath. Soak feet for 15 minutes. Energizing Foot Soak #2 Add 2 drops of organic lemon essential oil, 2 drops or organic rosemary essential oil, and 4 tablespoons organic oat flour to a warm water foot bath. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Relaxing Foot Soak #1 Add 4 cups warmed organic whole milk, 2 tablespoons Epsom Salt, and 6 drops organic lavender essential oil to a warm water foot bath. Soak for 15 minutes. Relaxing Foot Soak #2 Add ¼ Epsom Salt, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 2 drops each of these organic essential oils: lemon, sandalwood, coriander to warm water foot bath. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Dry Foot Soak #1 Use warmed whole organic milk and 3 drops organic lavender essential oil. Soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes and follow with exfoliating treatment. Rinse well. Massage with a liberally applied heavy organic cream moisturizer and cover with cotton socks for the night. Dry Foot Soak #2 Add 3 cups organic pineapple juice and ½ cup organic coconut milk to a warm water foot bath. Soak for 10 to 15 minutes and follow with an exfoliating treatment. Rinse well. Massage with liberally applied heavy organic cream moisturizer and cover with cotton socks for the night. Perspiration/Odor Resistance Soak Add 6 drops of organic common tea tree essential oil to a warm water foot bath and soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Dry thoroughly to discourage fungal growth. Tea Tree essential oil has antibacterial, antifungal, and astringent properties which eliminate the various causes of foot odor. Exfoliation Exfoliating your feet is a necessity because of all the friction your feet encounter on a daily basis. The skin responds to this friction by creating more skin cells in areas that are being rubbed (think of calluses that form on your hands from raking leaves). To soften and rejuvenate your feet, this rough, dry build up should be removed. Do not expect the area to be finished after one treatment. It took a while to get to this point; it will take a bit of TLC to fix the problem. Always finish with a good

moisturizer and use moisturizer at least twice daily; this helps keep the skin soft between exfoliation treatments which helps make you exfoliation more productive. All of the following exfoliation mixtures will work much better if used immediately after one of the above foot soaks. Citrus Scrub Mix 1 cup Epsom Salt, 3 teaspoons organic olive oil and the juice of one small lemon. Immediately massage soles of feet (don’t give the Epsom Salt time to dissolve), giving extra attention to any areas of thick skin. Rinse with warm water. Sour Cream Scrub Rub just soaked feet with 1 cup organic cornmeal then apply a mixture of ¼ cup organic sour cream and 2 tablespoons organic olive oil. Massage well, giving extra attention to thick skin. Rinse with warm water. Odor Protection Foot Powder Mix ¼ cup organic ginger and ¼ organic cornstarch. Store this mixture in an airtight container. To use, light brush on feet using a large brush designed for cosmetic powder application. Between gingers antibacterial properties and cornstarch’s absorbency, you will combat foot odor. by Louise Forrest Overnight Foot Masque 1/4 cup Almonds 1/4 cup Dry Oatmeal 3 tablespoons food grade Cocoa Butter 2 tablespoons Honey Process almonds in a blender or coffee grinder until finely ground. Set aside. In the same blender, pulse your oatmeal until of the same consistency. In a bowl, combine ground oatmeal, cocoa butter, honey and ground almonds. Rub into your clean feet, step into cotton socks, and leave on overnight. The next morning, remove the socks and rinse feet in cool water. Pat dry. We recommend you not remove the socks until you're standing in the tub! ****************************************************************** Beauty Water Recipe Submitted By: Simohn of Santa Fe, NM Summary: Water applied with cotton or hands Ingredients: 1 egg white 1 T glycerin or honey 1 1/2 tsp vodka or witch hazel 2 drops lemon essential oil 2 drops lavender essential oil 2 drops thyme essential oil Instructions: Mix together all ingredients. Place in a clean container and keep in the refrigerator. At night before retiring, pour a tsp. in the palm of your hand or on cotton ball and rub over face and neck, letting it dry. If desired, in the morning, an hour before bathing, repeat the operation, also letting the liquid dry.

Regular use of this preperation for four weeks will give the skin an extraordinary beauty and freshness. *********************************************************** Coconut Sugar Body Polish Recipe Submitted By: Angelica of Inglewood, CA Summary: Body Polish Ingredients: 3/4 of cup of sugar 1/4 cup of grated coconut 1/4 cup of coconut milk powder 1/4 to 1/3 cup of Sweet Almond Oil Coconut fragrance oil Instructions: Combine all dry ingredients and blend evenly. Add Sweet Almond oil a little at a time until sugar mixture is moist. Add a few drop of fragrance until you are satisfied with the fragrance strength. You can also add pineapple and/or strawberry fragrance oil for a nice tropical blend. Makes about 8oz. *************************************************************** Homemade Cleansing Creams, Milks and Scrubs 1) Apricot Butter Cold Cream (For Dry Skin) 10 oz apricot kernel oil 2 oz cocoa butter 2 oz beeswax Heat all in top of double boiler until wax and butter are melted. Beat with a wooden spoon until smooth and cooled. Transfer to jars, cap and refrigerate. 2) Buttermilk and Fennel Cleansing Milk (For Oily Skin) 1/2 cup buttermilk 2 Tbsp crushed fennel seeds Heat the milk and fennel seeds in top of double boiler for 30 minutes. Turn off heat, let steep for 2 hours. Strain, cool, pour into bottle and refrigerate. Keeps for 2 weeks. 3) Chamomile Cleansing Milk (For Dry and Sensitive Skin) 1/4 cup cream 1/4 cup milk 2 Tbsp chamomile flowers, fresh or dried Simmer ingredients in top of a double boiler for about 30 minutes, do not allow milk to boil. Turn off heat and let sit for about 2 hours, strain. Keep refrigerated. Apply with cotton balls to the face. Variations: Use elderflowers, sweet violets or lime blossoms in place of chamomile 4) Cornmeal Cleanser (for Oily Skin) Castile soap 1 Tsp Cornmeal Wet face. Pour a little castile soap into the palm of your hand, add cornmeal. Mix meal and soap into a lather, wash face, being careful to avoid the delicate skin around the eyes. 5) Honey Cleanser (For Dry Skin) Castile soap 1 Tsp Honey Wet face. Pour a little castile soap into the palm of your hand, add honey. Mix honey and soap into a lather, wash face.

6) Honey Almond Scrub 2 Tbsp almonds 2 tsp milk 1/2 tsp flour 1/2 tsp honey Grind almonds in a blender. Add milk, flour and honey, mixing until a thick paste is formed. Rub into skin, rinse with warm water followed by the pH balancer. 7) Honey 'n Oats Scrub 1/2 cup uncooked oatmeal 1 Tbsp honey 1 Tbsp cider vinegar 1 tsp ground almonds Moisten face with a warm washcloth then apply mixture to face avoiding the sensitive area around the eyes. Let mixture dry, then remove with a warm, damp washcloth. 8) Lemon Cleansing Cream (For Oily Skin) 1 Tbsp beeswax 1 1/2 Tbsp Unpetroleum Jelly (available in natural foods stores) 3 Tbsp jojoba oil 1 Tbsp witch hazel 1 Tbsp strained lemon juice 1/8 tsp borax 6 drops essential oil of lemon Melt beeswax and unpetroleum jelly over low heat. Add warmed jojoba oil to wax and jelly mixture, blending for 3-5 minutes. Mix witch hazel and lemon juice, warm gently, mix in borax until dissolved. Slowly add this to the wax mixture, beating until cool and creamy. After completely cooled, add lemon oil, spoon into clean jar. 9) Milk and Honey Cleanser: Mix 1 tsp warm honey with 1 tablespoon milk or cream. This recipe should be prepared fresh each time. 10) Peppermint Patty Scrub: (For Oily Skin) 2 cup rolled oats 1 cup almonds 2 tsp dried lavender 2 tsp dried peppermint 2 cup white cosmetic clay Grind oats, almonds and herbs to a very fine powder in blender or with a mortar and pestle. Mix ground herbs with clay, store in covered container. To use: mix 1 heaping tsp of mixture with water to make a paste. Massage into skin then rinse well with warm water. 11) Sesame Oil Cleanser: (For Dry Skin) Apply sesame oil to face and neck. Remove oil and makeup with a washcloth that has been soaked in hot water and wrung out. Finish with a rinse of the pH Balancer. 12) Sweet Butter Cleansing Cream: (For Dry Skin) Whip sweet, unsalted butter, transfer to container with a tid lid. May be stored at room temperature away from heat sources or refrigerate. Cleansing Grains 1) Almond Cleanser Grind almonds to a fine powder in a blender. Wet face then rub on almond powder. Rinse. Store powder in a tighly sealed container. 2) Orange & Oats Scrubbing Grains 1 cup dried orange peel 1 cup cooked oatmeal 1 cup almonds

Place peels, oats, and almonds in food processor, blend until mixture is a fine powder. Place some in the palm of your hand and moisten with a few drops of warm water. Rub paste onto face with a gentle circular motion. Rinse with warm water. *************************************************************** Home spa recipes Olive oil hand soak All you need is ½ cup of warmed olive oil (not hot, be careful!) and a dish where you can place both your hands. Dip them in warm olive oil and let them soak in all the wonderful fats olive oil has to give. This will help moisturize and revive your hands, and help the nails, too. Or, try Potato hand masque Peel and cook 2 larger potatoes. Mash them and add a bit of butter (or olive oil) and a capsule of Vitamin E. Apply on the hands and let it dry. Rinse off with luke warm water. The honey based facial scrub is a perfect way to cleanse your face. Not only does it open clogged pores, honey has a high antibacterial power that will leave your face smooth and bacteria free. Ingredients: 1 teaspoon of honey 2 teaspoons of finely ground almonds (not salted ones, just regular) 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice Gently rub the face, don't press too hard, you'll scratch yourself :) ******************************************************************