Think about the last time you received a handmade gift. How did that gift make you feel? Special? Loved? You probably kept it for a long time. You might even have it now. That’s because handmade gifts are personal, powerful, and crafted with love. Someone took time, effort, and their creativity to handcraft something special for you. Now, you can return the favor.
There’s a world of do-it-yourself beauty gifts waiting to be whipped up and given away to your friends and family. And with the holidays soon approaching, it’s a great time of year to begin thinking about this.
TIP: Store your products in dark colored (blue or amber) glass bottles or jars to increase the shelf life and prevent oxidation from the sun.
Coffee Sugar Scrub
What it does: This full body scrub is filled with antioxidants that give your skin a healthy and vibrant glow. Great for removing excess fluid and reducing the appearance of cellulite, this caffeinated scrub sloughs off any dead skin leaving your skin healthy and smooth.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons finely-ground coffee
- 2 tablespoons of Coconut Oil
- 1 tablespoon Turbinado sugar
- (Optional) 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to make it: Grab a bowl and spoon. Pour all of your ingredients into the bowl and mix until everything is well combined. Gently melt your coconut oil if the consistency is solid. Wait until the coconut oil returns back to room temperature prior to adding any other ingredients. This ensures that your exfoliants do not dissolve in the coconut oil. Once everything is mixed, store in a tightly sealed glass container. Exfoliate your entire body in order to slough off the dead skin. Store in a sealed 3 oz glass jar. This scrub should last for 2 months.
Hydrating Lavender and Rose Water Toner
What is does: This hydrating toner contains humectants that balances the skin’s pH. Rich with antioxidants, this toner tightens the face and strengthens skin cells to ensure a youthful look. Great for sensitive skin, this toner is easily absorbed into the skin to reduce the appearance of acne and scarring.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. Rose Flower Water (Hydrosol)
- 1 oz. Witch Hazel Extract
- 1 TBSP Aloe Vera Gel
- 1/2 tsp Vegetable Glycerin
- 7 drops Lavender Essential Oil
- 4 drops Chamomile Extract
How to make it: Get a small bowl and spoon. Place all of the ingredients into a bowl and mix well. Transfer the mixed ingredients into a 4 oz glass spray bottle. To apply, gently cleanse the face, close your eyes, and spray the toner onto the face. When your face is dry, apply a natural moisturizer of your choice! This toner should last for 6 months without refrigeration.
Honey Body Wash
What it does: This body wash is the ultimate moisturizer. Loaded with nutrients and antibacterial properties, this wash clears your pores of any bacterial build up to ensure that your skin is balanced and clear. The natural astringent properties of this awesome Honey Body Wash will leave your skin feeling revitalized and stimulated.
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup coconut oil
- ¼ cup raw honey
- ½ cup liquid Castile soap
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E
- 15 drops eucalyptus essential oil
- 10 drops sweet orange essential oil
- 10 drops lemon or grapefruit essential oil
How to make it: Get a bowl and spoon. Gently melt your coconut oil by stove or microwave for 30 seconds. Grab your honey, essential oils and Vitamin E and mix them together in the bowl. Slowly add Castile soap to avoid creating suds. When complete, transfer your wash to a 9 oz glass bottle and shake before each use. This body wash should last up to a year.
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Birthdays, holidays, or just because, there’s a whole list of DIY recipes waiting to be gifted. Oh, and don’t forget about yourself! You deserve a nutrient-rich treat for your body too.
When’s the last time you gave or received something handmade? Tell us about your experience (and what you’re planning to gift) in the comments below.
xo,
Gabrielle and Italia
