A lot of people struggle with the appearance of large pores, which can be quite frustrating. Sure, it’s possible to experiment with a variety of skin care products, but not all of them agree with your skin. In fact, some can cause serious irritation and cause additional problems that outweigh the concern of large pores. 

DIY serums, particularly those that contain grapefruit and witch hazel, can be very effective at reducing the size of pores. These natural ingredients work to tighten the skin and help control excess oil production. These two actions make them ideal for anyone looking to enhance their skin care routine.

Benefits Of Grapefruit Extract

Naturally rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, grapefruit extract provides nutrients that are essential for the skin. The presence of antioxidants helps reduce oil production, making it beneficial for people with oily skin. Grapefruit extract’s astringent properties work to tighten the skin, minimizing the visibility of large pores. Additionally, it may help to brighten the skin, contributing to a vibrant glow and clearer skin by combatting bacteria that can cause acne. 

Benefits Of Witch Hazel

Similar to grapefruit extract, witch hazel is a natural astringent that helps to soothe the skin. It works to reduce inflammation and redness, making it a great skin care ingredient for people with acne-prone or sensitive skin. Witch hazel works to diminish pore size and improve the skin’s overall texture. In addition to balancing the skin’s oil levels, witch hazel helps to ensure hydration without leaving the skin greasy. Some studies indicate that witch hazel may improve circulation, which contributes to a healthy glow. 

Preparing Your Skin For The Serum

Before you apply the serum, make sure that your skin is clean. Start by using a gentle cleanser to help remove dirt and oil. Without this step, the pore-tightening serum cannot penetrate the skin effectively. After you cleanse, exfoliate the skin once or twice per week. Gentle exfoliants can help remove dead skin cells without causing irritation. They also help prevent clogged pores, giving the serum a better chance for efficacy. 

Optional Application Method

When ready to apply the serum, use clean hands to ensure that you are not contaminating the skin. Use a small amount of serum and massage it into your face with your fingertips. Use upward motions and concentrate on the T-zone, where pores are typically more visible. The T-zone is the area of the face that encompasses the forehead, nose, and chin. You can also use gentle tapping motions with your fingertips to encourage optimal absorption. Allow the serum to sit on the skin for a few minutes before you apply any additional products. 

Post-Application Care

Once your skin absorbs the serum, apply a lightweight moisturizer to hydrate the skin without clogging your pores. That is a crucial step after applying a serum! You can also apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen if you apply it during the day. Also, if you notice any unusual dryness or irritation, you may want to adjust your application frequency or consider making adjustments to your routine. Always listen to your skin’s needs. 

DIY Pore-Tightening Serum

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup grapefruit juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/4 cup witch hazel

Instructions:

• Add both ingredients to a glass bottle with a dropper lid. Screw the lid on a shake well to combine. 
• The serum is ready to use!

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Each year on the third Monday of January, we observe Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (MLK Day) in the United States. Although it is a federal holiday, it is also a chance to reflect on the work that still needs to be done to establish racial equality. This year, aim to make this holiday more than a day off from work. Take the time to select and consider how you can get involved in civil rights issues around the world. 

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr was born on January 15th, 1929. Best known for his work as a civil rights leader, King dedicated his life to working on racial equality and ending racial segregation in the United States. On MLK Day, we remember his life and achievements, but it took quite some time for Congress to make King’s birthday a federal holiday. 

A Brief History Of MLK Day

The bill first came to vote in the U.S. House of Representative in 1979, but it fell five votes short of the number required for passage. One argument against this day was that it would be too expensive, as a national holiday requires payment for federal employees. The other argument was that it would go against the longstanding tradition to have a holiday that honored a private citizen. King never held public office and, at the time, only two other figures had national holidays: George Washington and Christopher Columbus. 

The King Center sought out support from the general public and corporate community. It was Stevie Wonder’s release of the single “Happy Birthday” that truly popularized the campaign in 1980. Six million signatures were collected to petition for Congress to pass the law, which was the largest petition in favor of an issue in U.S. history. President Reagan, who initially opposed the holiday, signed a bill to create a federal holiday honoring Dr. King on November 2nd, 1983. On January 20th, 1986, the holiday was observed for the first time, and in the year 2000, all 50 states observed MLK Day for the first time. 

MLK Spent His Wedding Night In A Funeral Home

When MLK married Coretta Scott in June of 1953, they couldn’t stay in a hotel that would allow them, as African-Americans, to spend the night. What did they do? The newlyweds spent their first night as a married couple in an African-American-owned funeral home. Five years later, they were able to take a second, more pleasurable honeymoon in Mexico. 

His Birth Name Was Michael

At birth, MLK was given the name Michael King Jr, meaning that his father was Michael King. Later, his father changed his own name to Martin Luther, after the Protestant Reformation leader. He changed the name of his son when he changed his own name. 

The Most Famous Portion Of The “I Have A Dream Speech” May Have Been Improvised

Most people are aware of the first few sentences of this historic speech. It begins with, “I have a dream…,” and his “March on Washington” speech was very long. It was long enough to have been pre-written ahead of time. Historians, however, believe that King ad-libbed his most famous words on the day he gave the speech, August 28th, 1963. The ideas were similar to some that he expressed previously, but he delivered them in a uniquely powerful, memorable way. 

MLK Delivered That Speech To Over 250,000 People

As previously mentioned, MLK’s most famous speech was the “I Have A Dream” speech that he delivered at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. He said “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” He gave the speech at the “March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom” event. The goal: to promote equal rights for all. Over 250,000 people listened to MLK speak that day, in awe of his words that would inspire future generations. 

There Are Over 900 Streets Worldwide Named For MLK

MLK is one of the most important figures that promoted equal rights via nonviolent tactics. He is a common namesake for streets and boulevards around the world. There are over 900 streets that bear MLK’s name. About 70% of those streets are in the Southern United States, with over 100 streets in King’s home state of Georgia.

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Although Christmas trees are no longer aglow and decorated in your house, you can still make use of fresh pine needles from wild pine trees. Incorporate these aromatic needles into your very own sugar scrub. You want to know the best part? Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also requires just three ingredients! No need for double boilers or infusion methods. Just whip up a batch of this stuff and your skin will thank you.

If winter has left your skin dry and scaly, a sugar scrub may be the best way to pamper your skin. Not only does a sugar scrub help exfoliate the skin, but it also provides it with moisture, due to the presence of coconut oil. As a quick note, if coconut oil does not agree with your skin, you can replace it with jojoba oil or sweet almond oil, as those are great carrier oils for all skin types. 

Why Use Pine Needles?

Pine needles happen to be one of the most widely used herbs in the world. For example, Traditional Chinese Medicine has used them for thousands of years, as they are an excellent source of vitamin C. They have been incorporated into various herbal remedies for stomachaches, inflammation, headaches, arthritis, and more. Regarding inflammation, pine needles are often used because of their antioxidant and flavonoid content. The flavonoids in pine needles act as powerful antioxidants that protect the body from free radical damage. They also help prevent blood clots, aid with cholesterol reduction, and fight off some cancer cells. 

The antioxidants in pine needles also exhibit antimicrobial effects, which work to fight redness or infections on the skin. Chinese medicine used pine needle oil to help keep wounds clean while they healed. Additionally, pine needles have an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin, which may help reduce redness or swelling. In fact, some research says that pine needle tea helps reduce arthritic symptoms by aiding inflammation reduction in the body. 

In addition to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, pine needles are also rich in vitamin K. While vitamin K is necessary for optimal bone health, it also helps the body produce collagen, which keeps the skin smooth and elastic. The presence of vitamin C in pine needles also provides an added boost for collagen production. Finally, pine needles are particularly rich in both vitamin A and B1, which are necessary for cell growth. 

A Quick Note Of Caution

If you have sensitive skin, or you are prone to eczema, use discretion when experimenting with new ingredients on the skin. Always do a patch test, which involves using a small amount of the product on an area that can stay undisturbed if you experience a breakout. Dry skin is one thing that can inflame eczema. The application of oil-based exfoliants, such as this sugar scrub, may help with long-term hydration. Make sure that you avoid washing right away, or else you will strip the skin of any oil that the skin has not yet absorbed. 

DIY Winter Pine Sugar Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2.5 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1-2 tablespoons fresh pine needles, chopped

Instructions:

• Begin by pouring the sugar into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Make sure it is free of clumps. 
• Pour room temperature coconut oil into the sugar and mix until completely combined. 
• Add the chopped pine needles and continue to stir until fully incorporated. 
• Transfer the mixture to a glass jar and screw on the top, making sure to store in a cool, dark place. 
• When ready to use, massage about a teaspoon-sized amount and massage into the skin. Leave on for about 10 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

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In the world of DIY beauty, there are some unconventional, highly unique skin care methods. Some involve essential oils and herbs, while others focus on rubbing mud or ice on the face. Because there are numerous beneficial compounds in plants, we suggest trying an herbal face steam to reap those benefits. 

While a facial steam may be helpful in getting rid of congestion or supporting the upper respiratory system, an herbal face steam is like a natural facial. It is very simple and does not require a single piece of fancy equipment. All you need is a large bowl and the herbs of your choosing. You can use a combination of herbs, or just one that you prefer. 

The Best Herbs For A Face Steam

There are many plants with properties that promote healthy skin. You may have some of these herbs in dried form in your spice rack or pantry. The only thing you need to consider is whether you are allergic to specific herbs, as some can cause irritation. Here are some great herbs to use in a face steam:

• Lavender flowers: Soothing and calming to the skin, lavender flowers exhibit natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help repair damaged skin. The aroma is very calming as well, so adding them to a face steam before bed may help promote better sleep. 
• Calendula flowers: They offer antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which is why they have a long history of use in folk medicine for healing damaged skin and wounds.
• Rose petals: In addition to their potent aromatherapy benefits, rose petals have a long history of use for enhancing the appearance of skin. A 2015 study found that rose petals improved skin elasticity and reduced wrinkles. 
• Echinacea: Echinacea is a common ingredient in many immune supplements and teas. The flowers can be used topically for numerous skin complaints, including varicose veins, damaged skin, and eczema. Echinacea’s anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties are also helpful for those with acne. 
• Mint leaves: Very refreshing and invigorating, mint  works to relax arteries and stimulate circulation. Mint is also rich in numerous vitamins and minerals that dry skin craves.
• Helichrysum: This herb has beautiful yellow flowers that exhibit potent skin-enhancing properties. If you have really dry skin, pair this astringent herb with marshmallow to help enhance moisture. A 2020 study examined a night cream that contained helichrysum and found it was able to significantly improve hyperpigmentation, UV spots, and wrinkles. 

How To Do An Herbal Face Steam

You may want to use herbs that are gentler on the skin than strong oils that may irritate the skin or eyes. You don’t need a fancy facial steam machine or anything like that. Get a bowl or pot, the herbs, boiling water, and a towel to drape over your head and bowl. A quick reminder: do not put your face too close to the hot water, as the steam can burn the skin. 

Rejuvenating Herbal Face Steam 

Ingredients:  

• 2 cups filtered water
• 1 tbsp lavender flowers
• 1 tbsp horsetail
• 1 tbsp peppermint leaf
• 1 tbsp chamomile flowers
• 1 tbsp calendula flowers
• 1 lemon, sliced

Instructions:

• Place the water, herbs, and lemon slices in a clean pot and bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Keep the lid on the pot to preserve more of the volatile oils from the herbs. 
• Once boiling, turn off the heat and remove the pot. You can pour the contents into a heat-safe bowl, or place the pot on a potholder on your countertop. 
• Lean over the pot or bowl and drape a towel over your head to create a steam room for your face. Make sure not to put your face too close to the water. Once the pot is done steaming, your face steam is over.

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A finger lime is not a common produce item in the average person’s kitchen. While it is not exclusive to Michelin Star restaurants, it is not as common as the standard lime. As the name suggests, it is similar in size to a human thumb. It comes in several varieties with skins in varying shades of yellow, green, purple, and red. And each of those colors exhibits a subtle variance in flavor. 

What Are Finger Limes?

The finger lime is endemic to Australia and although their outer skin is similar to a regular lime, the inside couldn’t be more different. When you cut one open, you will find tiny little pearls, also known as vesicles. It’s almost as if these fruits are like nature’s caviar! These juicy pearls exhibit a tart flavor and the texture is reminiscent of the classic Pop Rocks candy. Finger limes are also like kumquats, in that you can eat the entire fruit, including the skin, if you so choose. It is the pearls, however, that most people use when cooking. 

Health Benefits Of Finger Limes

Just like other members of the citrus family, finger limes offer some unique health benefits. Researchers attribute these benefits to the many phenolic compounds in the skin and vesicles. The primary phenolic compounds in finger limes are flavonoids, which offer potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which support the body in myriad ways. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of finger limes. 

High Antioxidant Activity

Antioxidants are substances that can help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. The body naturally produces free radicals, but you don’t want an excess amount in the body. Research shows that too many free radicals in the body can increase the response to smoking, stress, pollution, and other environmental factors. They cause damage to cells and contribute to chronic diseases, early signs of aging, and other health conditions. The antioxidant compounds in finger limes aim to protect the body’s cells and support overall health. 

They Have Antimicrobial And Antiviral Properties

According to emerging research, finger limes (among other native citrus fruits) may contain compounds rich in antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Researchers believe these compounds support immune resilience. More research is necessary to determine the efficacy of these compounds in relation to improved immune function. 

They Are Rich In Fiber

Health experts encourage adults to eat at least 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories consumed. That equates to about 28 to 34 grams of fiber per day for most men and 25 grams for women, although most consume less than half that amount. Fiber also helps balance gut microbiome, regulates blood sugar levels, and lowers the risk of certain cancers. One serving of finger limes (7 limes) offers three grams of fiber. Although they are not a high-fiber food, three grams is an excellent start on the road to the recommended daily intake. 

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Inflammation is the immune system’s normal response to stress, trauma, or infection. Problems arise when inflammation becomes chronic, as it contributes to issues such as arthritis, autoimmune disorders, heart disease, and other conditions. Some of the compounds in finger limes work to reduce inflammation by blocking the production of cytokines, which are made by the body during an inflammatory response. By reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines, you may help alleviate symptoms associated with chronic inflammation.

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Looking to tame the beast and condition the beard in the process? Sounds like you need a quality beard oil! Although there are many beard oils on the market, the good news is that you can easily make your own with natural ingredients. No need to worry about mystery fragrances or problematic chemicals damaging your skin!

Why Use Beard Oil?

By using beard oil, you can help soften beard hair and add shine. It can also tame those scraggly hairs, so your beard can look a little neater. If you notice that your skin is flaky or dry underneath the beard, using beard oil can help moisturize the skin, keeping the beard and skin supple and healthy. Some people find that regular use of beard oil helps reduce beard itch. Plus, beard oil can make your beard smell great!

Anecdotal reports state that beard oil can help promote beard growth, but this is not scientifically proven. Some essential oils used in beard oil, however, may help encourage or support beard hair growth. Beard oil is most effective as a moisturizer for the skin under the beard. After regular use, you should notice an improvement in the condition and appearance of the skin and beard. All skin types require nourishment, even oily skin. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, consider using a beard oil with essential oils that exhibit antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Key Ingredients

If you want your beard to look well-groomed and shiny, as opposed to dusty and shaggy, you only need a few quality ingredients. The good news is that you don’t have to spend money on an expensive beard care kit! Consider the following ingredients when you make your own beard oil:

• Coconut oil is a great moisturizing carrier oil that helps to soften beard hair, which allows you to reduce itchiness. It is a common ingredient in hair and skin care products because it helps to hydrate the skin.
• Jojoba oil’s molecular structure mirrors human sebum, which the skin naturally produces. It is an emollient, which makes it effective for soothing skin and unclogging hair follicles. 
• Sweet almond oil is mild, lightweight, and great for all skin types. Due to its light texture, it is easily absorbed by the skin, helping to quickly add moisture.
• There are numerous essential oils out there, so it can be difficult to select which ones you want to use for your beard oil. Cedarwood essential oil has a woodsy aroma and may help reduce skin irritation, due to the antiseptic properties. Sandalwood is another common oil in beard care products, and its aroma may provide a sense of calmness. You can even use tea tree oil, peppermint essential oil, or eucalyptus essential oil for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. 

How To Make Beard Oil

You will need a small, ideally amber glass, bottle before you start mixing ingredients. The dark amber glass can help protect the health properties of the essential oils you use. Now, you can use your own measurements if you are brave and willing, but we have a sample recipe below for you to try.

DIY Beard Oil

Ingredients:

• 1/2 ounce jojoba oil
• 1/2 ounce sweet almond oil
• 1 tablespoon fractionated coconut oil
• 4 drops cedarwood essential oil
• 4 drops sandalwood essential oil

Instructions:

• Add the jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, and fractionated coconut oil to the glass bottle. 
• Next, add the essential oils to the bottle, place the cap on tightly, and shake well to combine. 
• To use, drop a few drops into your hands and then massage into your beard and onto your cheeks. Brush your beard for the finishing touch.

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It’s officially winter, people! Just because the weather is colder and the decorative lights adorn houses, that doesn’t mean that fresh produce takes a backseat to comfort foods. In fact, the colder months actually bring some of the most nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables of the year. Winter produce is typically hearty, flavorful, and especially good for supporting the body when daylight is short and colds and flus are circulating. Consider this article a tour of some of the best seasonal winter produce; plus, your body will thank you for eating them.

Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Grapefruits, Lemons)

Think of winter as citrus season, and that’s no accident. It’s exactly when you need them most, as they are naturally rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps the body absorb iron from plant-based foods. Vitamin C also works to enhance collagen production, which your skin desperately needs during dry winter weather. Citrus fruits also contain antioxidants that work to protect cells from damaging free radicals. Plus, their bright, fresh flavor is a mood booster during those gray winter days.

Kale

Kale is one of those leafy greens that thrives in cold weather, and frost actually makes it taste slightly sweeter. That’s true for a lot of other root vegetables, such as parsnips and sweet potatoes, as well. The light snow cover somehow makes them a little sweeter! Kale is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, all of which aid immune function, bone health, and vision. It also contains compounds that support heart health and help reduce inflammation. For such a tough-looking green, it’s surprisingly nutrient-dense. Just make sure to remove the thick, fibrous stems before you enjoy, as they can taste quite bitter.

Brussels Sprouts

Once unfairly hated, Brussels sprouts are now a winter favorite, and you can commonly see them on restaurant menus. These little green bulbs are rich in fiber, which helps keep you regular and may promote better heart health. The vitamin C in Brussels sprouts support immunity, but it also helps protect cells and may support long-term health.

Sweet Potatoes

A classic winter staple, sweet potatoes are filling, comforting, and quite versatile. They contain a lot of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A to support vision and immune health. Sweet potatoes also provide complex carbohydrates for steady energy, in addition to fiber that helps keep you full and supports gut health.

Carrots

It’s hard to think of carrots as a winter produce item, considering that you can buy them throughout the year. They are especially tasty during winter and just like sweet potatoes, carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immune function. They also contain antioxidants and fiber, making them good for both overall health and digestion.

Beets

Beets are a cold-weather root vegetable with a vibrant crimson color and bold, earthy flavor. Beets contain nitrates that help to encourage healthy blood flow and heart function. They’re also a source of folate, which is integral for cell growth and healthy fetal development, and they contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.

Winter Squash (Butternut, Acorn, Kabocha)

As the name suggests, these squash varieties are freshest during winter, although they show up during mid-to-late fall. Winter squash are built for the season, as they have thick skin, long shelf life, and tons of nutrients. Most of them have a rich, orange flesh, meaning they are naturally rich in beta-carotene, but they also contain vitamins A and C, which encourage immune and skin health. They also provide potassium, which helps to naturally lower sodium levels in the body, a process that may lower blood pressure levels. Their natural sweetness makes them perfect for cozy winter meals, such as stews, soups, or roasted vegetable medleys.

Apples and Pears

Even though apples and pears are classic fall fruits, they are still going strong throughout winter. Both apples and pears are rich in fiber, especially in their skins, offering support to the digestive system and helping to keep blood sugar stable. They also contain antioxidants that support heart health and overall wellness.

Winter produce may not always look the most appealing, but it’s hearty, nutrient-dense, and exactly what the body needs during colder months. Plus, eating seasonally means better flavor, better nutrition, and often better prices. Even when it’s freezing outside, your plate can still be colorful, fresh, and full of health/life.

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This cranberry sugar scrub is similar to other scrubs, only we tweaked it to include real, fresh cranberries. ’Tis the season, after all. Plus, the cranberries provide essential antioxidants, texture, and beautiful color. Not only is it soothing for dry skin, which is very common during the winter months, but it also makes for an excellent homemade gift this holiday season. 

What Is A Sugar Scrub?

First of all, the body naturally sheds skin and regenerates new skin cells. The efficiency of this cycle depends on your skin type, your age, the products you use, and your environment. Just like anything else in life, the body is not perfect, so you may experience a buildup of dead skin cells on the skin’s surface. That’s where a sugar scrub comes in, because they remove dead skin cells. 

Sugar scrubs are naturally abrasive without being too aggressive for the skin. By removing dead skin cells, the moisturizer you apply afterward will soak into the skin more easily and thoroughly. The exfoliation also helps to unclog your pores, prevent ingrown hairs, and reduce the risk of razor bumps. Additionally, when you do not remove dead skin cells, the skin can appear rough, dull, or cracked. Removing dead skin cells can yield a smoother, more even skin texture. 

Sugar For Skin Health

Sugar is a natural humectant, meaning it will hydrate your skin and preserve whatever moisture is already present. It is also a great source of glycolic acid, which works to break down the bonds between skin cells. This process facilitates cell turnover, helping you achieve more youthful-looking skin. The small sugar particles make it an excellent exfoliant, which is the reason a lot of body scrubs contain sugar, not salt. They are also much gentler than salt particles, making them generally safe for most skin types. 

Cranberries For Skin Health

Sure, cranberry sauce is a popular condiment around the holidays, but cranberries are not solely reserved for holiday consumption. Cranberries are in a wide variety of skin care products because of their nutritional profile. They are naturally rich in vitamin E, a natural moisturizing antioxidant that may benefit those with acne or dark spots. Cranberries are filled with vitamin C and salicylic acid, both of which work together to reduce hyper-pigmentation, lighten blemishes, and reduce acne scarring. 

Which Carrier Oil Should You Use?

You can use any type of skin-safe carrier oil for this recipe. Popular varieties include coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil, and almond oil. If you are looking for a guide on which carrier oil to choose for your skin type, click here for more information. Carrier oils work to deliver vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids to the skin, providing deep moisturizing, soothing irritation, and boosting elasticity. Some carrier oils may even help fight blemishes and promote a healthy glow. 

Orange Cranberry Sugar Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries 
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup sweet almond oil
• Zest from 1 orange
• 10 drops orange essential oil

Instructions:

• Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor and blend until fully incorporated. 
• Transfer the mixture into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to one week. It will not keep fresh at room temperature. 
• To use, rinse your skin with warm water and then apply liberally on the skin, massaging gently. Rinse away with warm water and apply moisturizer or lotion as normal.

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The holidays are just around the corner, which means that fun, excitement, and joyous times are fast approaching. It also means that some inevitable stress is on the way. That stress can be attributed to family dynamics, holiday airport travel, or gift giving. A recent study actually found that a high percentage of Americans have anxiety about the holidays because of budget concerns. 

Fortunately for you, we provide lots of DIY beauty recipes that you can make and give as gifts. A little handmade soap, body butter, lotion, or face mask never hurt a soul! Making hand soap is a great idea because it can encourage hand washing, which can help minimize the spread of germs, which spread like wildfire during the winter months. Your gift is not only heartfelt, but may also help avoid getting sick. It’s like you are the holiday health hero!

What’s Wrong With Other Holiday Hand Soaps?

There are many beauty stores that sell holiday-scented hand soaps around this time of year. We are not the biggest fans of those products because a lot of them contain ingredients that can disrupt endocrine function. They may also contain ingredients that can cause immunotoxicity and neurotoxicity. There are many foaming hand soaps with various scents, some of which contain methylisothiazolinone, a known chemical to trigger allergies or immunotoxicity. 

Many of those products also contain synthetic fragrances, which can trigger allergies, endocrine disruption, and cause hormonal imbalances. Why risk all of that for a scented hand soap, when you can easily make your own, healthier version in no time? Knowing what goes in your beauty products is not only helpful to your health, but it also gives you confidence about using harmless products. Consider some of the benefits of certain ingredients in this hand soap. 

Liquid Castile Soap

This olive oil-based soap is generally mild and a lot safer than other soaps, which are made with animal-based fats or oils, lye, and scents or fragrances. You want to avoid unwanted reactions on the skin, making castile soap a great option. Pure castile soap is all natural, non-toxic, biodegradable, and free of synthetic ingredients. Castile soap is also ethically better and more eco-friendly. In fact, more and more people have started to use it because it reduces a person’s environmental impact. It is also cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it. 

Sweet Almond Oil

Rich in antioxidants and nutrients that benefit the skin, sweet almond oil is a great ingredient to help soothe the skin and hair. Thanks to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, almond oil can be used in various applications. It is a natural emollient that helps to hydrate the skin, enhancing moisture and increasing smoothness. Research indicates that using a hand cream made with sweet almond oil provides relief from hand dermatitis, relieving symptoms like burning, stinging, redness, and itchiness. It is generally safe for most skin types, especially sensitive skin, because it is lightweight. 

DIY Candy Cane Hand Soap

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons unscented liquid castile soap
• 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
• 1 tablespoon sweet almond oil
• 15 drops peppermint essential oil
• 10 drops spearmint essential oil
• Distilled water

Instructions:

• Pour the soap, glycerin, almond oil, and essential oils into a soap container. 
• Fill the rest of the container with distilled water. Screw on the lid and shake well to combine. 
• You can make custom labels for your soap if making holiday gifts. It gives the soap a personalized and fancy touch.

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Feeling tired or low on energy? Pears give you steady energy with simple sugars + fiber, no crash. They’re packed with antioxidants for joint comfort and vitamin K + copper for healthy skin and strong bones. Add them to meals or enjoy fresh for an easy wellness boost.

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