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Anti Aging Serum Recipe for Maturing Skin, Acne & Even Eczema

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January 7, 2019 By Rebecca D. Dillon 12 Comments

Add this homemade anti aging serum recipe to your natural beauty and skin care routine to hydrate skin, fight acne and calm eczema and inflammation. It even removes makeup! Plus a simple 2-ingredient recipe for a hyaluronic acid serum recipe that saves you money! So you can have beautiful, healthy looking skin without breaking your beauty budget!

One of my favorite beauty secrets, in addition to using a plumping hyaluronic serum, is a simple oil-based anti aging serum. There are a number of skin care benefits to using an oil based, homemade anti aging serum recipe. Not only does this natural anti aging serum keep my skin moisturized, it’s also helped diminish scarring from a dog bite last year. In addition, it also effortlessly removes waterproof makeup. Plus it’s incredibly easy to make. Simply weigh out the ingredients and mix to combine. In five minutes or less, you’ll be on your way to more youthful looking skin that not only looks healthy, but feels healthy as well!

I’d had this homemade anti aging serum recipe – like most things – on my to do list for quite some time. (Which is why tackling my to list is NOT one of my goals for the New Year. I mean, life happens. Right?) I’d purchased the ingredients for this natural beauty recipe many months ago. However, it wasn’t until my friend’s eczema got really bad that I finally committed myself to this project.

You see, one of the ingredients I used for my anti aging serum recipe has some pretty stellar skin care benefits. Not just for maturing skin, but for treating eczema as well. So I made my anti aging serum recipe first. Then I worked with the same ingredients to formulate a natural beauty balm to soothe my friend’s eczema. (Subscribe to my newsletter so you don’t miss my upcoming eczema relief salve recipe! Or shop for natural remedies.)

Anti Aging Serum Recipe: Ingredients & Benefits

So, just what ARE the ingredients I chose for my anti aging serum recipe? And what are their natural skin care benefits? The main components of my anti aging serum are rosehip seed oil, borage oil, raspberry seed oil and moringa seed oil.

Skin Care Benefits of Borage Oil

You may be most familiar with borage oil from its use in hair care products to promote scalp health. However, borage oil is also an exceptional carrier oil for other natural beauty and skin care recipes as well. Because borage oil is rich in both GLA and Omega 6 Fatty Acids, it’s especially useful at fighting skin inflammation. So conditions such as acne, skin reddening and rosacea are naturally calmed when borage oil is applied due to its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

Additionally, borage oil, which comes from a flower known as the starflower, has shown benefits for those who suffer from topical skin problems such as eczema, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. This is because borage oil contains high amounts of Gamma Linolenic Acid (or GLA.) Borage oil is also a superior moisturizer for dry skin. And, it’s also suitable for sensitive skin. On babies, borage oil is a common treatment for skin conditions such as cradle cap.

Research has shown that the high amount of GLA in borage oil makes it an effective topical treatment for promoting skin health when used as a treatment for dry skin, inflammation, wounds, dermatitis and eczema. What makes borage oil unique is that it is comprised of 20%-24% GLA. Where, in comparison, other carrier oils used in anti aging formulations contain less. Evening primrose oil, for example, contains only 8%-10% GLA.

So whether you suffer from eczema or acne, or simply moisture loss in skin due to aging, borage oil is a must for any anti aging serum recipe. (It’s also why I used it as a key ingredient in my eczema relief salve.) You’ll love its ability to calm irritated skin, combat acne and lock in moisture to hydrate maturing skin. (Shop for natural anti-aging facial care products with borage oil here.)

Skin Care Benefits of Moringa Seed Oil

Like borage oil, moringa seed oil is another nutrient dense carrier oil with anti aging skin care benefits. It’s rich in antioxidants, like vitamin E, as well as vitamins A and C. So it helps fight the free radicals that lead to the visible signs of aging. In addition, it also has a high oleic acid content of more than 72%.

Not only does moringa seed oil help fight the visible signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles, it also has both antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent and treat acne. Commonly used in anti-aging skin care formulations, moringa seed oil also promotes glowing skin and reduced pore size. Likewise it aids in collagen production to improve skin elasticity and firmness as well.

Additionally, you’ll also find that moringa seed oil promotes healing of minor wounds. Plus it’s incredible moisturizing properties help to hydrate maturing skin as well as help with eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis. This makes this carrier oil a great choice not just for my anti aging serum recipe, but also for moisturizing body butters, herbal salves, eczema remedies and beauty & lip balms. (Shop for natural moisturizers and facial care products containing moringa seed oil here.)

Skin Care Benefits for Raspberry Seed Oil

Much like moringa seed oil, raspberry seed oil also boosts collagen for firmer skin. And it contains antioxidants that fight free radicals. This natural carrier oil also targets acne, age spots and premature aging in addition to combating sun damage. You’ll love that this oil is also suited for eczema prone skin – much like the other oils used in my anti aging serum recipe. Similarly it also has anti-aging, anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties when used in skin care applications.

Similar to composition to pomegranate seed oil, raspberry seed oil is commonly found in homemade creams and makes a nice addition to sunscreens for its ability to absorb UV light. It’s natural scent is earthy, fresh and light – almost like cucumber – and therefore adds a pleasant, natural fragrance to products. However, as raspberry seed oil has a slower absorption rate than both borage and moringa seed oil, it’s recommended this oil not be used as a base oil for your formulations. Therefore, you’ll find that I use less of this oil in my anti aging serum recipe.

Skin Care Benefits for Rosehip Seed Oil

You may recall the natural anti-aging and beauty benefits of rosehip seed oil from my simple plantain salve recipe. This gentle, hydrating carrier oil absorbs quickly making it wonderful base oil for my anti aging serum recipe. Rich in essential fatty acids, rosehip seed oil offers many of the same natural skin care benefits as the other other oils used in my anti aging serum.

In addition to hydrating dry or maturing skin, rosehip seed oil also helps boost collagen production, reduce inflammation, reduce hyperpigmentation, protect against sun damage and brighten skin. It has also been shown to reduce fine lines and scars. So whatever your skin type – dry, maturing, acne or even eczema prone – you’ll have healthy looking, glowing skin. (Shop for natural skin care products with rosehip seed oil here.)

Anti Aging Serum Recipe with Borage Oil

Ingredients:

2 oz. rosehip seed oil
.25 oz. borage oil
.2 oz. moringa seed oil
.1 oz. raspberry seed oil
4-5 drops vitamin E
12 drops frankincense or carrot seed essential oil, optional

Recipe Notes:

My anti aging serum recipe yields approximately six 1/2 oz. glass vials. (I bottled my anti aging serum in these 1/2 oz. clear glass Boston round bottles with child resistant glass droppers from SKS Bottle & Packaging.) While you can reduce this anti aging serum recipe as needed, I gave the extra vials of my anti aging serum as gifts.

Additionally, as is your preference, you can substitute the essential oil in the recipe with one of your choice. Or, if price isn’t an issue, my homemade anti aging serum recipe is lovely with a few drops of rose damask absolute.

Instructions:

I did use a digital scale to weigh out the ingredients for my anti aging serum recipe. As the oils used are different weights, be advised that if you use liquid measurements, the final product will vary slightly.

To make this serum, simply weigh out the carrier oils into a glass container. Then use a plastic transfer pipette or glass dropper to add the vitamin E and essential oil. Mix to combine, then use a fresh plastic transfer pipette to fill the container(s) of your choice.

Usage:

To use your natural anti aging serum recipe, simply apply a few drops to clean, dry skin after applying your toner. Then massage into skin. Follow with your favorite moisturizer.

To use as a makeup remover, massage a dropper full of this anti aging serum onto skin and eye makeup (with your eyes closed.) Then wipe clean with a damp washcloth. Follow with your regular facial cleanser, toner and facial serum. (Or try this 2-ingredient anti-aging argan cleansing facial oil recipe.

What Order You Should Apply Skin Care Products In?

Not sure what order to apply your skin care products? It’s easy. Simply apply products in the following order:

Makeup Remover
Cleanser
Exfoliator or Toner
Treatments (Acne spot medication, antioxidant serums, leave-on hydroxy acids or retinols.)
Hydrating Mist
Cream Moisturizers & Eye Cream
Mineral Sunscreen
Foundation

How to Make A Simple (Affordable!) Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Making a skin plumping, moisturizing hyaluronic serum recipe is super easy and affordable. With as few as two ingredients, you can create your own hyaluronic serum for your natural skin care routine.

I previously shared a recipe that makes a large container of hyaluronic serum so you can use it EVERYWHERE. However, you can make a smaller amount as well. Simply combine one teaspoon of Bos Essentials Hyaluronic Acid Powder with 3.5 ounces of water in an airtight glass container. Shake vigorously to mix. Then refrigerate for several hours until the mixture gels.

If desired, you can also add 1/2 teaspoon of glycerin for extra hydration. Or even add a drop or two of rose damask absolute.

More Anti Aging Beauty Recipes

Once you’ve made my natural anti aging serum recipe, you may want to explore more of my other anti aging beauty secrets! Following are some of my other popular anti aging beauty recipes that you can craft in your kitchen!

You may also want to check out my most loved homemade beauty recipes of 2018. For more homemade beauty recipes, sign up my semi-weekly newsletter to discover more of my original beauty and skin care recipes and projects to try throughout the new year!

Filed Under: Bath & Beauty Recipes, Health & Wellness Tagged With: anti-aging, antioxidant, beauty recipe, borage oil, essential oils, facial serum, moringa oil, natural beauty, natural skin care, raspberry seed oil, rosehip seed oil, women over 40

Keep it Simple: Natural Skincare for Women Over 40

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November 15, 2018 By guestblogger Leave a Comment

Our skin changes as we age. We’ve come to expect that. However, once those fine lines and wrinkles start to set in, it can be a challenge to figure out which products work best – without causing more harm. Guest writer, Alyson Monaco, shares 12 simple, natural skincare ingredients for women over 40.

Natural Skincare for Women Over 40

Love the skin you’re in! At least that is the goal most women have as age creeps up. It is no secret that skin changes as we age and some women face dramatic changes, whether it be with a sudden surge of acne, dryness, skin elasticity, and so on. Yes, even after 40, acne can suddenly become an issue! Who wants to deal with that?! It is important to create an age-friendly skincare routine.

Luckily, the skincare industry has made a point to provide thousands of options to tackle any number of these woes. Take a trip down your local drugstore aisle and you can see the proof. So much proof, it can be overwhelming to decide what to choose. You may pick up containers of face washes and creams and not even recognize the long list of ingredients that promise to brighten your complexion and erase the signs of aging. Are these chemicals actually helping?

You have a right to be concerned about what goes into your products and eventually ends up on your skin. In fact, skin absorbs these ingredients incredibly fast – in under 30 seconds – so it is important to weed out the harmful toxins. This is why a handful of brands have come out with all natural skincare that you can trust. There are even natural skincare products you can integrate into your skincare routine that are not found in your typical drugstore. In fact, you will probably be more successful at the supermarket!

Best Natural Skincare Ingredients

Honey

That’s right! Honey not only tastes delicious, but it can be beneficial to your skin as well. A natural antibacterial, honey is great for battling unwanted blemishes with just a few dabs. It is also loaded with those helpful antioxidants that help to soothe and moisturize skin. It becomes a great anti-aging tool, as it can be worn on its own as a mask or mixed with other skin-loving ingredients. Either way, you’ll want to eat it right up!

Green Tea

While drinking a cup of green tea is a nice way to start the day, it is also a great addition to your skincare routine, transforming the surface from the inside out. This tea packs a punch with a high concentration of powerful antioxidants that protect your skin cells from damage. Combined with the caffeine stimulation of green tea, these antioxidants provide some amazing anti-aging effects. Green tea can be found as an ingredient in masks and moisturizers as well, so it is worth putting on your list the next time you hit the store.

Avocado

They may be all the rage on your morning toast, but did you know that avocado is actually an incredible moisturizer? Fact. We eat avocado because they are full of “good fats” for our diet, but those fatty acids are also perfect for keeping your skin supple and nourished. The oils in avocados contain both vitamin E and potassium, making them a perfect addition to your routine. Want a perfectly hydrating mask for your entire body? Mash up an avocado and mix it with honey for an all-over treat!

Sea Salt

As skin ages, it slowly starts to shed dead cells and can show signs of dryness, causing those unwanted wrinkles to be a little more exaggerated than you may like. Therefore, it is important to add exfoliation into your skincare routine. Enter the perfect exfoliator – sea salt. Adding this simple ingredient to your cleansing regimen will help remove dead skin cells as well as keep your skin’s oil production balanced, preventing extra dryness and breakouts.

Essential Oils

Essential oils have been around for a long time, but over the past five years or so the industry has taken some heavy strides, and with good reason. There is an essential oil for almost everything, including skin. If you have sensitive skin, try a chamomile oil for its soothing properties. If you find that your skin suffers from inflammation, causing discoloration, give lavender or tea tree oil a try. Dull skin? Carrot seed oil is for you! There are hundreds of options and dozens of brands. A few drops go a long way and can be mixed with cleansers, toners, and moisturizers to create the perfect mixture for your unique skincare needs.

Vitamin E

You may love the sun, but it is not uncommon to see aging skin associated with sun damaged skin. Prolonged sun exposure, as we know, can lead to skin melanomas and other unwanted medical issues, so it is so important to protect the skin from harmful UV rays. Vitamin E can really make a difference here and can be found in oil form as well as within some of your favorite foods like broccoli, salmon, and sunflower seeds, and has been shown to significantly reduce UV damage.

Spearmint

Wrinkles be gone! Spearmint is here to save the day! The subtler of the mints, spearmint holds a skin-loving secret. Another amazing antioxidant to add to the list, spearmint increases skin elasticity. When skin loses its elasticity, or tightness, wrinkles form, immediately giving way to one of the most common signs of aging. As an added bonus, this magic mint can aid with acne struggles and discoloration from breakouts. Spearmint, like many other natural ingredients can be found in a concentrated oil format, but is also commonly found in teas.

Hyaluronic Acid

One of the major aspects of keeping skin looking young is to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. You may have seen hyaluronic acid in the list of ingredients in your natural skincare moisturizer or lip balm, and you should be thrilled it was included. Hyaluronic acid is actually made naturally by your body and is responsible for helping your skin retain moisture. When skin is moisturized, it creates that plumping effect, filling in the fine lines caused by aging, making them less and less noticeable. By adding hyaluronic acid to your products, your skin is sure to remain firm and bright for years to come.

Collagen

You may have heard about collagen over the years, but did you know that it is one of the most abundant proteins found in your body? Found in everything from skin and muscles to bones and ligaments to your blood, collagen may just be one of the most important natural skincare ingredients for skin health. Similar to hyaluronic acid, collagen aids with the elasticity of skin. Unfortunately, as you age, the body does not produce as much collagen as it did when you were in your twenties. Collagen can be taken as a supplement, but is also found in many natural skincare products on the market today.

Shea Butter

A product that has been around for seemingly forever, shea butter is a wonderful addition to consider when it comes to a natural body moisturizer. While it is not recommended for the face, shea is perfect for any skin type because it is gentle, as not to irritate those who have sensitivities, such as eczema or body acne. It absorbs quickly and can provide a thin UV barrier, making it perfect for those who just want to grab something light and get out the door. Luckily, the news of shea butter’s benefits spread like wildfire and the product can be found virtually anywhere.

Aloe Vera

Your first thought of aloe may lead you to the green gel in the sun-care aisle of the drugstore, as this is probably the most commonly sold variety. However, pure aloe vera gel can be taken right off the leaf of the plant and used to fight the signs of aging. The reason aloe vera is so often used as a treatment for sunburn is the same reason it is great for skin in general. Aloe is able to keep your skin hydrated while also stimulating new cell growth. Not only that, but it also contains both vitamins E and C, making it a triple threat of skincare items. An aloe plant is fairly simple to tend to, so it is definitely worth keeping around the house. From plant to skin – how much more natural can it get?

Rosehip Oil

Still a part of the family of magical oils to help the skin, rosehip seed oil holds a special place in the mix. This oil, while sounding dainty and light, works deep within the skin to urge cells to produce more collagen. Remember, more collagen equals tighter skin. When skin elasticity is improved, wrinkles are reduced and other bodily signs of aging such as stretch marks, dark spots, and scars begin to fade away. Don’t let the title fool you. A little rose can make a big difference.

Women over 40 rejoice! There is hope for your skin and it is all natural – and may be just a supermarket aisle away. You no longer need to worry about the insanely long list of chemically-derived ingredients in your skincare. Your natural skincare regimen does not need to be complicated or incredibly expensive. There are so many simple options you can mix and match on your own, as well as some fabulous makers who have already done the work for you.

Natural skincare is worth the time and effort finding the right combination for your skin. It is safe and effective and you are in complete control over what you do and do not use. Treat your most troubling signs of aging with ingredients you can trust and go back to again and again. It will be one less stress and a lot less wrinkles! The natural route allows you to age gracefully so you can spend the next 40 plus years fielding compliments like, “Your skin looks incredible!” Now that’s what every woman wants. It is time to love that skin you’re in.

Alyson Monaco is a published writer, expert in health and fitness, and professional dancer hailing from New Jersey. Her love of how the body works began through early dance training, which lead to a major in Dance at internationally renowned Boston Conservatory. Aside from movement studies, she was trained extensively in kinesiology, anatomy, and nutrition. These would only aid in her pursuit of both Group Fitness and Personal Training certifications through the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA)/National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Alyson has been actively working as a fitness instructor, Personal Trainer, and nutrition coach since 2013 and has been writing on her areas of expertise since 2016. She loves working one on one with people of all ages and ability, and truly enjoys helping people find a better quality of life.

Filed Under: Bath & Beauty Recipes, Health & Wellness, Lifestyle Tagged With: anti-aging, anti-wrinkle, antioxidant, bath and beauty, beauty, beauty products, natural beauty, natural skin care, natural skincare, skin health

Cucumber Eye Cream Recipe with Cucumber & Tea Seed Oil

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November 15, 2017 By Rebecca D. Dillon

Naturally packed with vitamin C and caffeic acid, this homemade cucumber eye cream recipe is made with cucumber seed oil and cucumber hydrosol to target inflammation and help soothe skin irritation as well as reduce swelling. Additional ingredients, including tea seed oil, baobab oil and carrot seed essential oil, work together to help skin look and feel more youthful.

We all age. And unfortunately, if you’re like me, you fight it every step of the way. Perhaps not kicking and screaming, but with an arsenal of anti-aging beauty products and your inner voice screaming at the top of your lungs “I am still 23 at heart!” I’m determined that at 80 I’ll still be dancing to the new big local band in downtown Roanoke, dressed completely inappropriately with a mass of colors and a bar tab boasting too many glasses of wine.

I can’t think of a better way to spend the last half of my life than really living it. Hopefully I’ll still have all of my favorite people around also enjoying their retirement years. While there won’t be cats (because I’m terribly allergic) we’ll all be living with too many dogs and still crafting til our fingers bleed. Hopefully you’re envisioning your own future life in much the same way.

In the meantime however, before those wrinkles become so deep set there’s no point in fussing over them anymore, we can fight to keep our youth (or rather youthful appearance) just a little bit longer.

I created this cucumber eye cream recipe for one of my dear friends who is just a few years older than my own 42 years. She’s had more than her fair share of trials over the past year or so. From the death of her mother and a diagnosis of uterine cancer she has braved the harsh realities of those tumultuous challenges that come with age and with life.

Having recently had both her uterus and ovaries removed, she was looking for natural anti-aging products to help combat the rush of changes that occur with the ensuing menopause. My cucumber eye cream recipe with cucumber and tea seed oil is the result of her request.

Skin Care Benefits of Cucumber Seed Oil + Cucumber Hydrosol in My Cucumber Eye Cream Recipe

As we age our eyes naturally develop bags under them for hereditary reasons. While a cucumber eye cream isn’t going to magically make those bags disappear, it can help to reduce the additional inflammation caused by other stressors. For my cucumber eye cream recipe I used two ingredients from cucumbers – cucumber seed oil and cucumber hydrosol.

Benefits of Cucumber Seed Oil in Skin Care

Cucumber seed oil is a fast absorbing, non-greasy carrier oil with a long shelf life. It has a low comedogenic rating, meaning it won’t clog pores, and is rich in nutrients. These nutrients include phytosterols, tocopherols, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. It’s antioxidant and moisturizing properties make it especially suited for use in anti-aging creams and lotions.

However, you’ll also find that this natural carrier oil is also commonly used in products meant for hair, lips, nails and even massage. Because of cucumber seed oil’s anti-inflammatory properties, it’s also a recommended ingredient in products that target acne, sunburns, dry scalp, eczema and psoriasis.

Benefits of Cucumber Hydrosol in Skin Care

While cucumber seed oil is derived from cold pressed cucumber seeds, cucumber hydrosol comes from the steam distillation of chopped up cucumbers. Essentially it is a pure extract of cucumber water. Cucumber hydrosol has wonderful cooling properties as well as anti-inflammatory properties much like cucumber seed oil.

Cucumber hydrosol is also an astringent. This makes it especially suited to be used as a toner to help tighten, tone and firm skin as well as reduce excess oil. When used as a facial toner, cucumber hydrosol can help to belay the effects of aging including wrinkles and fine lines.

Skin Care Benefits of Additional Carrier Oils Used in My Cucumber Eye Cream Recipe

In addition to the cucumber based ingredients, my cucumber eye cream recipe also contains some of my favorite anti-aging carrier oils.

All of the carrier oils included in my cucumber eye cream recipe – cucumber seed oil, camellia seed oil, baobab oil and rosehip seed oil – have low comedogenic ratings, meaning they won’t clog pores. Camellia seed, cucumber seed and rosehip seed oils all have a rating of 1, while baobab oil has a rating of 2.

Benefits of Camellia Seed Oil in Skin Care

Camellia seed oil, also known as tea seed oil, is similar in nature to fractionated coconut oil. Like both coconut oil and cucumber seed oil, camellia (tea) seed oil has a long shelf life. It’s often been referred to as one of the best kept secrets in the cosmetic and hair care industry as it’s been shown to improve the tone and texture of skin as well as reduce the appearance of aging. Additionally, this highly hydrating oil is non-greasy and is quickly and easily absorbed by skin.

Camellia seed oil won’t dry out skin or clog pores, yet it contains more oleic acid than olive oil. It also contains vitamins, A, B, and E, various minerals and squalene. As it’s been shown that a deficiency of squalene can lead to dry skin and premature aging, this constituent makes camellia seed oil a valuable ingredient in anti-aging skin care recipes. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, this oil soothes and calms easily irritated skin and helps to smooth dry, flaky skin.

Regular use of camellia oil can help to protect skin from age spots as well as soften wrinkles and fine lines around your eyes and mouth. It also offers some protection from UV rays.

Benefits of Baobab Oil in Skin Care

Baobab oil is another non-greasy, shelf stable carrier oil famed for its emollient and moisturizing skin care properties. Rich in Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids, it also possesses skin protectant and anti-inflammatory properties when used in skin care applications.

Baobab oil makes an excellent addition to skin care products for those who suffer from skin conditions such as eczema, dry psoriasis and actinic keratosis. It can also help to relieve itching associated with dry skin and other problem skin conditions.

Benefits of Rosehip Seed Oil in Skin Care

Rosehip seed oil is extremely high in essential fatty acids and has the reputation for counteracting dry, weathered and dehydrated skin. Not only is rosehip seed oil moisturizing, but it can also help to reduce hyperpigmentation, fight aging and sun damage and help to improve skin’s texture.

A common ingredient in anti-aging beauty products, rosehip seed oil helps to diminish the appearance of scars, wrinkles and other signs of premature aging. It leaves skin looking not only revitalized, but also noticeably softer.

Ready to give this homemade anti-aging eye cream a try? You can find my cucumber eye cream recipe below!

Cucumber Eye Cream Recipe

Ingredients:

.6 oz. cucumber seed oil
.6 oz. camellia (tea) seed oil
.5 oz. emulsifying wax
.5 oz. baobab oil
.5 oz. rosehip seed oil
.5 oz. refined shea butter
.25 oz. cucumber hydrosol
vitamin E oil, several drops
12 drops carrot seed essential oil
6 drops lavender essential oil
6 drops bergamot essential oil
broad spectrum preservative, of choice

Instructions:

It is extremely helpful for to have experience making lotions when attempting my cucumber eye cream recipe as it requires an emulsion. If you aren’t experienced with making homemade lotion from scratch, I’ve tried to simplify this recipe as much as possible to avoid having the cucumber hydrosol separate from the oils if you struggle with the temperatures.

Anne L. Watson’s book, Smart Lotionmaking, is a great introduction to making homemade lotion from scratch. It covers everything from tools of the trade and definitions of ingredients, to sanitizing and filling your lotion containers. In addition she also offers an in depth tutorial on how to make and test your homemade lotions for safety and provides a variety of recipes to get you started. The kindle version of Smart Lotionmaking is available instantly here. (If you don’t have a kindle you can use Amazon’s free kindle reading app.)

As my cucumber eye cream recipe contains water, you will need to use a broad spectrum preservative to prevent the growth of mold, fungus and bacteria. While storing this eye cream in the refrigerator without a preservative will slow down the growth of bacteria, it won’t prevent it from occurring.

You can use any broad spectrum preservative (suitable for lotion) of your choice for this recipe at the manufacturer’s recommended usage rate. Keep in mind that different preservatives need to be incorporated into your cucumber eye cream at or below specific temperatures. So you will need to have a kitchen thermometer handy. Germaben II for example, should be mixed in at 140°F or less and has a usage rate of .3% – 1.0%. Optiphen Plus, a paraben free preservative, has a usage rate of .75% – 1.5% and should be added at temperatures no higher than 176°F.

Begin by sanitizing your tools, lotion container and workspace with rubbing alcohol.

Next, use a digital scale to weigh out the emulsifying wax, shea butter and carrier oils into a scientific glass beaker. Place in a double boiler and heat until melted. Once the wax melts, bring the temperature of the oils and wax to 158°F (70°C) and hold for 20 minutes.

While the oils, shea butter and wax are melting weigh out the cucumber hydrosol into a small glass beaker. Bring the temperature of the hydrosol to 158°F (70°C) and hold.

Now slowly pour the cucumber hydrosol into the melted oils, butter and wax. Mix with a few bursts of a stick blender.

Once your cucumber eye cream cools enough to add your preservative, mix in the vitamin E, essential oils and the preservative of your choice. Hand mix for about two minutes with a skinny spatula or long spoon, then pour into your container of your choice. (I used 2 oz. glass amber glass jars from SKS Bottle & Packaging.)

Allow your cucumber eye cream to finish cooling then screw the lids onto your jars. Your cream should be ready for use 12-24 hours later.

Once ready, you can label your cucumber eye cream as desired for personal use or gifting.

If you want to make this cucumber eye cream to sell, you’ll need to follow good manufacturing practices (GMP) when making your product as well as test your final product for safety. You’ll find that the book, Good Manufacturing Practices for Soap and Cosmetic Handcrafters by Marie Gale, is a valuable resource if you’re just getting started making your own homemade soaps, skin care products and cosmetics.

In addition to GMP, you’ll also need to follow FDA guidelines for labeling your products. If you’re unsure about the rules and regulations regarding labeling cosmetics, the book, Soap and Cosmetic Labeling: How to Follow the Rules and Regs Explained in Plain English by Marie Gale, spells out everything you need to know to legally label your products.

Like My Cucumber Eye Cream Recipe?

If you like my cucumber eye cream recipe, then you may also enjoy some of my other natural beauty and skin care recipes.

My anti-aging night cream recipe helps to reduce the signs of aging naturally with ingredients like coconut water, cocoa butter, evening primrose and rosehip seed oil. It’s another great option for those wanting natural alternative beauty products.

Like my cucumber eye cream recipe, my cucumber mint sugar scrub recipe is made using cucumber seed oil in addition to aloe vera. Because it’s emulsified it doesn’t feel oily on skin. Not only is it a treat for your own skin, but this sugar scrub also makes a wonderful homemade gift idea.

Additionally, you may also enjoy my recipes for making a coffee & black tea under eye cream, a green tea eye cream and a lavender body butter. Or check out my DIY Bath & Body Pinterest board.

For more great bath, body and skin care recipes be sure to check out my other boards on Pinterest. You can also follow me via all of your favorite social media platforms including G+, Tumblr, Facebook, Twitter, Blog Lovin’, and Instagram. Or subscribe to Soap Deli News via email for future updates, DIY projects and recipes.

Filed Under: Bath & Beauty Recipes Tagged With: anti-acne, anti-aging, anti-wrinkle cream, antioxidant, beauty, crafts, cucumber, diy, night cream, skin care, under eye cream, vegan

Coffee + Black Tea Under Eye Cream Recipe

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May 1, 2017 By Rebecca D. Dillon

This coffee & black tea under eye cream is an energizing antioxidant balm that’s perfect for tired eyes and skin. Made with anti-inflammatory coffee essential oil and antioxidant rich darjeeling tea, this coffee & black tea under eye cream recipe helps to blur the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while also lending its nourishing antioxidant skin care properties.

To create my coffee & black tea under eye cream, I first infused Darjeeling Sungma Summer Tea in camellia (tea seed) oil. This tea, which I acquired from Adagio Teas, is a wonderfully delicious second flush black tea.

Darjeeling tea is often called the “champagne of teas.” And like black, white and green teas, Darjeeling tea has been shown to fight cancer, cavities and obesity. However, Darjeeling tea is special in that it may have the additional benefit of protection against stomach ulcers. (Source.)

And of course tea is rich in antioxidants that are great not just for the inside of your body, but they’re also wonderful for the outside of your body. Because of this, tea extract is a common ingredient in many topical skin care products and anti-aging skin creams.

So, if you’re going to buy tea for my coffee & black tea under eye cream recipe, consider purchasing a Darjeeling tea which is a treat by the cup as well as on your skin!

In addition to black tea, this recipe also contains coffee essential oil. Coffee, which has anti-inflammatory properties, has been shown to help reduce under eye puffiness as well as help to relieve dark under eye circles (not caused by hereditary factors.)

In addition, research has shown that applying coffee to skin can offer a layer of protection from harmful UV rays. Coffee’s diuretic properties can also help to relieve redness and irritation from sun damage, especially for those who suffer from Rosaceae. It’s also believed to tighten and brighten skin. (Source.)

Keep reading to learn how to make your own coffee & black tea under eye cream!

Coffee & Black Tea Under Eye Cream Recipe

Ingredients:

3 oz. refined shea butter
.35 oz. Darjeeling black tea infused camellia (tea seed) oil
.15 oz. babassu oil
.45 oz. emulsifying wax
.1 oz. Dimethicone
.1 oz. isopropyl myristate
.1 oz. coffee essential oil
few drops vitamin E oil, optional

Instructions:

You’ll begin by infusing your Darjeeling tea in camellia (tea seed) oil. (Learn more about camellia seed oil here.)

To do this, begin by filling a small mason jar about halfway with tea. Then pour camellia (tea seed) oil into the mason jar until it reaches about a quarter to a half inch above the tea. Gently heat the mason jar over low heat using the double boiler method for 1-5 hours. Alternately, if you aren’t in a rush, you can use the solar infusion method. (Learn more about infusing herbs in oil at the Mountain Rose Herbs blog here.)

Once you’ve infused the camellia oil with tea, strain the oil from the tea using cheesecloth.

Using a digital scale, weigh out the emulsifying wax and shea butter. Heat in a glass Pyrex measuring cup in the microwave at 50% power or in a double boiler until melted.

Remove from heat. Weigh out the babassu oil and stir into the melted wax and shea butter mixture until it melts. (Learn more about babassu oil here.)

Now weigh out black tea infused camellia oil and add to the melted ingredients. Stir to combine.

Weigh out all of the remaining ingredients and stir into the coffee & black tea under eye cream mixture.

Add several drops of vitamin E oil if desired and mix in.

Now pour the liquid coffee & black tea under eye cream mixture evenly into two 2.3 oz. clear glass thick wall cosmetic jars with black lined caps. (I got my jars from SKS Bottle & Packaging here.)

Allow to cool completely, then screw on the lids. You can place your coffee & black tea under eye cream in the fridge to speed up the cooling process. As this recipe yields a soft non-greasy balm that melts on skin contact, it may take 24-48 hours to fully solidify and reach its final consistency.

Label your jars as desired for gifting or personal use.

To use simply apply a small amount of the coffee & black tea under eye cream under your eyes onto clean skin and massage in. Use daily under makeup to help energize under eye skin and reduce puffiness and dark circles as well as to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This product is also wonderful on dry hands and feet!

If you plan to sell your coffee & black tea under eye cream, you’ll need to follow FDA guidelines for labeling your product. If you’re unsure about the rules and regulations regarding labeling cosmetics, I highly recommend the book, Soap and Cosmetic Labeling: How to Follow the Rules and Regs Explained in Plain English, by Marie Gale.

If you liked my coffee & black tea under eye cream recipe, then you may also like my foaming ginger & turmeric face polish recipe. Formulated for maturing skin, this face polish is crafted with a blend of natural carrier & essential oils prized for their antioxidant and anti-aging properties.

For even more great skincare recipes and beauty DIY’s, be sure to follow my boards on Pinterest.

You can also find and follow me on G+, Tumblr, Facebook, Twitter, Blog Lovin’, and Instagram for behind the scene sneak peeks. Or subscribe to Soap Deli News via email for future updates, DIY projects and recipes.

Filed Under: Bath & Beauty Recipes Tagged With: anti-aging, anti-oxidant, anti-wrinkle cream, antioxidant, beauty, beauty diy, black tea, coffee, crafts, diy, skin care, tea, under eye cream

Foaming Ginger & Turmeric Face Polish Recipe

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April 5, 2017 By Rebecca D. Dillon

This foaming ginger & turmeric face polish recipe is wonderful for maturing skin and is crafted with a blend of natural carrier & essential oils prized for their antioxidant and anti-aging properties.

To create my foaming ginger & turmeric face polish I combined a blend of natural carrier oils prized for both their anti-aging and non-comedogenic properties with a foaming bath whip base for gentle cleansing. I then added ginger and turmeric essential oils and whipped in sugar for gentle exfoliation.

The result is a wonderful ginger & turmeric face polish that not only cleanses and exfoliates skin, but can also help to deter the signs of aging and reduce the appearance of both age spots and hypopigmented scars.

Foaming Ginger & Turmeric Face Polish Recipe

Ingredients:

2 oz. (57 grams) Crafter’s Choice foaming bath whip (or similar)
.1 oz. (3 grams) hemp seed oil
.1 oz. (3 grams) rosehip seed oil
.05 oz. (1.5 grams) sea buckthorn oil
.1 oz. (3 grams) kaolin (white cosmetic) clay
9 oz. (255 grams) white sugar
14 drops turmeric essential oil
16 drops fresh ginger essential oil

Instructions:

Begin by using a digital scale to weigh out the foaming bath whip base.

Now weigh out the hemp, rosehip seed and sea buckthorn oils and mix into the foaming bath whip with a spatula.

Add the essential oils then mix again. (If desired, you can also add an antioxidant like vitamin E oil or a rosemary antioxidant (extract) to help extend the shelf life of the carrier oils used.)

In a separate container weigh out the sugar and kaolin clay. Mix to combine. (If your skin tends to be particularly acne prone, you can substitute the kaolin clay with bentonite clay. Alternately Rhassoul clay and French green clay are also wonderful substitutions for maturing skin.)

Now slowly pour the sugar and clay mixture into the foaming bath whip base and oils. Mix with a hand blender adding more sugar/clay as the foaming ginger & turmeric face polish comes together.

Once you’ve added all the sugar and clay to the product, mix on high for several minutes.

Now spoon your face polish into a container (or containers) of your choice. This foaming ginger & turmeric face polish recipe will fill one 8 oz. container.

The containers pictured are an 8 oz. amber PET heavy wall plastic jar with a lined aluminum cap and a 2 oz. straight sided amber glass jar with black phenolic lined cap. I got both from SKS Bottle & Packaging.

Now simply label your foaming ginger & turmeric face polish as desired for personal use or gifting.

If you like my labels, you can download the PDF for these labels here and print your own onto full size white label sheets! (I got my labels from WorldLabel.)

To use, remove desired amount from jar then gently massage onto damp skin. Rinse, then follow with a toner and moisturizer.

Making my foaming ginger & turmeric face polish to sell at craft fairs or in an online shop like Etsy? Then you’ll need to make sure that you follow FDA guidelines for labeling your product. If you’re unsure about the rules and regulations regarding labeling cosmetics, I highly recommend the book, Soap and Cosmetic Labeling: How to Follow the Rules and Regs Explained in Plain English, by Marie Gale.

Alternately, if you’re looking for a similar product to my foaming ginger & turmeric face polish that you can buy, then you may like the turmeric & lemon deep cleansing face polish from Anja Natural Skin Care.

If you liked my foaming ginger & turmeric face polish recipe, then you may also like my recipe for making an anti-aging under eye cream with hyaluronic acid. You can find that recipe here. (Or repin it here for later.)

For even more great skincare recipes and beauty DIY’s, be sure to follow my boards on Pinterest.

You can also find and follow me on G+, Tumblr, Facebook, Twitter, Blog Lovin’, and Instagram for behind the scene sneak peeks. Or sign up to receive new posts to your email via FeedBurner so you never miss a post.

Filed Under: Bath & Beauty Recipes, Printables Tagged With: anti-aging, antioxidant, beauty, body scrub, diy, easy, face polish, face scrub, ginger, printables, skin care, sugar scrub recipe, turmeric