Did you know that tons of perfumes contain nasty animal ingredients, such as whale barf (ambergris) and animal gland juice (civet and castoreum) and a host of toxic chemicals?
Apart from taming the gross factor, another benefit of making your own scents is that you can customize what you want. This recipe is ridiculously simple, and homemade perfumes make really thoughtful gifts, too.
Best for: All skin types
Top Tip: With so many options for unique essential oil blends, you can cater your perfume to match your current mood or set a specific tone for the day. Two super-simple combos to try are peppermint and grapefruit, or lavender and orange. The superstar ingredient: Jojoba oil is hydrating and hypoallergenic. Plus, it kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It also eases aches and pains and reduces inflammation. Jojoba contains skin-healing vitamin E, and omega-6 and omega-9 essential fatty acids, which make skin incredibly happy.
Ingredients:
Lip balm tin or tube
2 teaspoon candelilla wax 10 milliliter
2 teaspoon jojoba oil
40 to 50 drops essential oil(s) of your choice 40 to 50
Instructions:
Place candelilla wax in a small metal or heatproof glass bowl. Pour enough water into a small saucepan to come about 11⁄2 inches (four centimeters) up the side; bring to a simmer. Place bowl on saucepan, making sure the bottom doesn’t touch the water. Heat, stirring, for 5 to 10 minutes or until wax is melted and smooth.
Add jojoba oil and stir for 1 to 2 minutes or until well combined. Stir in essential oil(s). Immediately pour into lip balm tin. Let cool until solid. Rub perfume on pulse points, such as wrists or neck.
Store at room temperature for up to 1 year.