Have you seen those stock photos where people hug pumpkins like their own children? Well, that’s the epitome of a pumpkin lover, and it expresses how many people feel about autumn. As summer transitions to fall, the weather changes and pumpkin spice drinks, desserts, and more arrive to many restaurant menus. Besides the baked goods and sugary beverages, there are pumpkin candles, lotions, and now these DIY pumpkin spice bath bombs.
On a chilly fall evening, there’s no better way to relax than by soaking in a soothing bath. Inhaling the festive scent and looking at the color of these bath bombs is enough to put you in a state of relaxation. The only thing to keep in mind is that the bath bomb may potentially turn the tub orange, especially if it is white. A little cleaning and elbow grease will wash the orange away, but just keep this in mind when you use these bath bombs.
Note: If you do not want to deal with an orange tub, you can omit the orange gel dye. The bath bombs will then be whiteish and you can easily clean the tub after use.
Epsom Salt
The two main components of Epsom salt are magnesium and sulfate. Researchers believe that this combination works to stimulate the body’s natural detoxification pathways. Soaking in a bath with Epsom salt can help exfoliate dead skin cells and contribute to softer skin. People with eczema or psoriasis tend to find that Epsom salt baths can help relieve symptoms. Should you have sensitive skin or a skin condition, it may be beneficial to consult with your doctor before you add Epsom salt to your bath.
Baking Soda
Almost every person has baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, in their home. Baking soda fully dissolves in water and works to remove bacteria, odors, and acidity. For these reasons, it may be helpful for people with certain skin conditions. Adding baking soda to a bath can help naturally relax muscles and reduce stress levels. The warm water may also promote sweating, which helps release toxins and allows the baking soda to cleanse pores. It’s possible that people with eczema may benefit from adding baking soda to bathwater during a flare up.
Pumpkin Pie Spice
Pumpkin spice lattes may not be healthy for you, but pumpkin pie spice is. Comprised of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice, pumpkin pie spice offers beneficial antioxidants and nutrients for the skin. Allspice, for example, contains compounds that may prevent bacterial infections. Some studies found that it exhibits anti-fungal and antiseptic properties. Cinnamon also exhibits anti-fungal, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties that may fight acne and blemishes. Finally, cinnamon is an excellent pore cleanser and it may also encourage healthy blood flow to the skin.
DIY Pumpkin Spice Bath Bombs
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup citric acid
- 1/3 cup corn starch
- 1/4 cup Epsom salt
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tablespoon fractionated coconut oil
- 20 drops pumpkin pie essential oil
- Orange gel dye
Instructions:
- Add the baking soda, citric acid, corn starch, Epsom salt, and pumpkin pie spice to a large bowl and mix well to combine.
- Add in the coconut oil and essential oil to the bowl and mix well.
- Whisk in about 8-10 drops of the gel food coloring and add more until the mixture clumps a little when you grab it. You can omit this step if you don’t want the orange color.
- Pack the mixture into two bath bomb molds, or silicone sphere ice trays. The size of the mold will determine how many bath bombs you end up with.
- Once the bath bombs are firm and dry, carefully remove them from the molds and place them in an airtight container. Use when ready.
