Nothing compares to treating yourself to a new skin care regimen or beauty treatment. Unfortunately, many beauty products today are filled with toxins and chemicals that can harm your body. But with hundreds of products available in stores, it can be next to impossible to find one that is responsibly sourced or entirely natural. The good news is there are dozens of beauty products you can make from the comfort of your own home using just a few simple ingredients, that will not only improve your skin but also lessen your environmental footprint and keep money in your pocket.

There are plenty of DIY vegan body moisturizers out there too. You can make body butter out of three ingredients! First, melt one cup of shea butter and ½ cup of coconut oil in a double boiler. Make sure the heat is as low as possible, or else the oil and butter will burn! Remove from heat and stir in ½ cup of moisturizing oil like (Argan, Jojoba, Avacado or Almond),  and a drop or two of your favorite essential oil (we love patchouli)  to incorporate the perfect aroma into your body butter. Pour the mixture into a small container, and place in the freezer until the oils begin to solidify. To get the perfect buttery consistency, use a mixer to whip the partially solidified mixture. Use this body butter to nourish and moisturize your skin from your head to your toes.

Essential oils for dry skin
Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum)
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Frankincense (Boswellia spp.)
Geranium (Perlargonium roseum x asperum)
Palmarosa (Cymbopogon martini var. motia)
Patchouli (Pogostemom cablin)
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha)

Finally, you can create your own vegan hair mask at home using a few natural ingredients as well. In a blender, blend one ripe banana, ½ of an avocado, and some freshly squeezed lemon juice until smooth. Vitamin B, which can be found in both bananas and avocados, will help repair damaged hair, while the potassium in bananas is essential to hydrate and moisturize. The lemon juice will naturally bring shine to your hair, giving it a healthy glow. To use this hair mask, section out your hair and apply the mixture. Then, pull your hair up into a bun, cover with a shower cap, and let the mask sit for 30 minutes. After the time runs out, wash out the mask in the shower, and enjoy your rejuvenated hair!

Bonus tip:  these products make great gifts and can help introduce your friends to the wonderful world of vegan beauty products!

Essential oil safety – always test an essential oil on the skin before use and keep it out of eyes.