How to make your own scented bath gel
Learn how to make your own bath gels from leftover household products and the advatages of doing so.
Photo Credit: Graca Victoria
By Kelly Sons
Bath gels are used to wash away dead skin cells and moisturize skin, leaving it soft and fresh without the drying effects of bar soap. They are best used with a loofa or a bath brush. The properties can be anywhere from deeply exfoliating to extremely gentle. Make your bath gels in accordance to your own skin type and preferences.
It is possible to make your own bath gels that are comparable or better than anything you can buy in a beauty boutique. Not only are we ale to make our own soaps as moisturizing and soothing as we wish but the price is also a great advantage. making your own shower and bath gels is equal to cutting your monthly bill in half.
Like any venture, soap making can run from the simple to the extreme.
One thing to keep in mind is that the bar soaps will have different PH levels and will react to water differently. Its best to keep notes on the types of soap chips or gratings your using for future reference. If you decide to try your hand at doing this large scale, invest in a good digital scale such as a postal scale that measures down to 1/10th of an ounce. You should be able to find one at a business supply place like Staples for under $30. It is a good investment to make.
Great soap and bath gels can be made using grocery store materials, so don’t jump in and buy large amounts of specialty oils at the start. Most ingredients are found in your home and it is simple to make, scented or unscented. You can also make bath gels from bar soaps. Its best to use non deodorant soaps.
Use what you have around the house to begin. Gather your left over chips and keep them dry and free of debris. Bring three cups of water to a boil and combine the soap bits and the water. Stir until you see no more lumps and let it all cool down considerably. It will thicken as it cools, and you’ll have a good portion of liquid soap similar to what you can buy in the store. I store it in empty shampoo bottles or squirt bottles from any 99 cent store.
Another version to try is this:
1/2 cup unscented shampoo
1/4 to 3/4 cup water
3/4 teaspoon salt
8 drops essential oil
3 drops vitamin E
Optional additions:
1 to 2 tablespoons glycerin and/or aloe vera gel
1 or 2 drops of food coloring
Blend until well mixed. Use more or less water depending on texture desired. Herbal shampoos made without detergents are preferred.
Suggestions for scents:
Kiwi extract
Raspberry extract
Strawberry extract
Coconut extract
Vanilla extract
Lemon extract
Lavender extract
Wheat grass extract
Pineapple extract
Chamomile tea
Jasmine extract
Almond extract
Honey extract
Peppermint extract
Wildflower extract
Baby powder
fresh linen
ginger extract
Mix and match or use one alone.
Most of all, enjoy yourself. Don’t be afraid to try new combinations or idea. Something brilliant could come of it.
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