DIY cosmetics

[Bella]

It wasn't until late last year (thanks to reading G mag) that I realised just how bad petroleum-based cosmetics are for the environment and our bodies. Apparently in the US alone more than 3 million tons of chemicals from personal care are dumped into the waterways! And they're bad for us too; mineral oil blocks skin pores and parabens (preservatives) cause allergies, cancer and other health problems.

So many cosmetics contain these nasties - shampoos, soaps, toothpaste, lipsticks, foundation - they're everywhere! So I've been trying to limit my use by using greener products, and it's a little daunting, but I've just started to make my own. Here's a few of my favourites:

- I'm loving using natural oils on my skin at night - they make it so soft and supple! I do a blend of jojoba, rosehip and calendula oil.

- I've started to go 'poo-free' (i.e. shampoo-free), using a bicarb soda paste instead. I'm not convinced it's right for me, but I'm trying to stick with it for at least a month to give my scalp time to adjust. I'm definitely happy with doing a rinse of apple cider vinegar for conditioner, this makes my hair really shiny and soft!

- I've made a sugar scrub for my legs out of raw sugar and hemp oil, with a few drops of lavender.

I haven't quite graduated to making my own face masks or face cream yet, but I'm currently reading 'Make your own natural skin care products' by A.M Nugent, which has recipes for face creams. Has anyone tried this? Is it worth it, or is it too difficult? Should I just stick to using good green products I can buy in the shops?

[lindawoodrow]

I read an article in Science Daily today about some research showing that a chemical commonly used in cosmetics as a preservative hinders the brain development of tadpoles. I know tadpole physiology is a bit different, but still, I'm glad I don't use cosmetics! Every so often I make a Macadamia, Olive Leaf, Aloe and Avocado Face Mask. I look gloriously green gloopy with it on, but my skin feels fantastic afterwards.

[lhyne]

I also use natural oils for my skin because this is healthier and better. Grape seed oil has so many skin benefits. I love how light it is and how well it absorbs into the skin as a topical oil, unlike many thick oils like castor oil.

[wandaA]

I think I might have to go with a DIY route as well. I have tried a lot of organic/mineral foundation and it just doesn't last all day on my skin.I also recently tried an organic shampoo, and it was a disaster.

_____________________
An advice from an online chemist is well worth it.

[Ylvan]

Where can I get my hands on jojoba oil here in Australia?

I use a handmade (well, I buy it) shampoo/soap bar for my hair and since I started with that, my hair is thick and curly without shampoo, conditioner, curly gel and a fixating gel! Easier on my hair, the environment, the wallet(!) and lightweight for travelling. Surely the best thing I've ever done.

My boyfriend also stopped using his dandruff shampoo and went for a mild soap bar and still no dandruff. If you check the ingrediences in a dandruff shampoo, you get kind of shocked.

The best face wash is just a little honey. Or I use the shampoo bar for make up. Very gentle on the skin.
For a scrub I mix some honey and bicarb soda.

Any tips for a good face cream?

[fionadirk]

That's why i prefer using natural cosmetic products rather than using cosmetic containing chemicals....

[zoeyparker07]

Yeah go natural!