Quite some time ago, I started a journey to control what goes on my body, and not just what goes in it. I use the same approach I do with food, if I cannot pronounce it or have no idea what it is, I try not to eat or use it. This mindset has lead me to express my creativity in making bath and body products that are healthy for my body and the environment.
Did you know that showers and sun can be really damaging to our skin? After searching for a replacement to a pre-made after shower oil spray and not finding one with ingredients I couldn’t decipher, I decided to make my own!
Knowing that glycerin is a healthy way to moisturize, I started there. Glycerin has many great properties that support healthy skin. It is an emollient and humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, it is good for all skin types, including oily skin, and can treat oily skin issues such as acne, fine lines and wrinkles.
Lastly, I needed to add a base for the spray … the logical option is water, but water can cause oils to turn rancid when combined and I wanted to make a large enough amount to last at more than a week in the shower without going bad. I found a great site that recommended Aloe Vera; the suggestion was for unthickened Aloe Vera gel, but that was difficult to find. Further research suggested that Aloe Vera juice had similar properties as the gel and it was the perfect consistency. Another win, we all have heard great things about Aloe, so I knew it would be a wonderful base for the spray.
The icing on the cake, so to speak, are the essential oils. Not only do they complete the spray with a great scent, they themselves offer healing and health benefits. Stroll through the health isle of your local market and you can find tons of essential oil options. A quick web search will provide a plethora of information on the benefits of each essential oil you find. Pick a few of your favorites and have fun find the combination you love. One note, however, bergamot and some citrus essential oils can be photosensitive or phototoxic. For more information, you can read more here.
Glycerin Moisturizing Spray By: David Henderson 4.25 ounces Aloe Vera Juice (or un-thickened Aloe Vera Gel) / OR water 0.05 ounces Vitamin E oil 1.00 ounces Vegetable Glycerin 0.75 ounces Oils of your choice (e.g. Jojoba, Hemp Seed, Avocado) 25-30 drops Essential oils of your choice Combine all in spray bottle. Shake well before using. |
A few side notes…..
I found a spray bottle that has a continuous spray vs. having to pump the spray over and over. This one has worked amazingly for me – click here.
Remember to constantly shake the spray as you use it – oils and water (and Aloe Vera juice) separate easily and quickly.
In the summer you can keep this spray in you refrigerator and use it as a moisturizing and cooling spray. Just be careful of the oils you use and before going back out into the sun.
The ounces listed in the recipe are based on weight, not volume. Grab your kitchen scale and weigh the various items when adding!
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