Keeping your skin clean and free of dirt and oil is crucial for a healthy appearance. Leaving dirt and oil on your face can lead to bacteria growth, causing breakouts and other skin problems. While commercial products are available, they often contain harsh chemicals that can dry out or irritate your skin and are typically expensive.

By making your own non-toxic cleanser and makeup remover, you can save money and customize the ingredients to fit your skin’s needs.

Supplies
– Half-pint glass mason jar
– 2 tablespoons pure aloe vera gel
– 1 tablespoon unscented Castile soap
– 1 teaspoon sweet almond oil (or argan, jojoba, olive)
– 1/2 cup witch hazel
– 8-12 drops frankincense essential oil
– 8 drops rosemary essential oil (to help keep pads fresh)
– Organic cotton pads

Benefits of Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is the main ingredient in this recipe. Known for its natural astringent properties, it has been used by Native Americans for its healing abilities. Made from the bark and leaves of the Hamamelis virginiana shrub, witch hazel can treat various skin conditions. It helps with acne, soothes dry skin, reduces itchiness and inflammation, and effectively removes oils from the skin. It also serves as an antiseptic, treating acne, reducing puffy eyes, diminishing the appearance of varicose veins, and locking moisture into the skin.

Benefits of Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is celebrated for its antibacterial properties and its ability to heal wounds, cuts, dry skin, and burns. Rich in vitamins C and E and beta carotene, it has strong anti-aging effects. Aloe moisturizes the skin without leaving it greasy.

Benefits of Frankincense Oil
Frankincense oil helps reduce acne blemishes, large pores, wrinkles, and tightens the skin. It promotes healthy cell regeneration, reduces dry skin, and reverses signs of aging.

Benefits of Sweet Almond Oil
Almond oil has a light texture that is easily absorbed by the skin. It gently removes debris from deep within pores and follicles and helps prevent acne due to its rich vitamin A content. It is gentle and safe for all skin types.

Instructions
1. Add witch hazel, aloe vera gel, Castile soap, and almond oil to the jar.
2. Put the lid on and shake well to mix the ingredients.
3. Remove the lid, add the essential oils, then shake gently to combine.
4. Remove the lid and add the cotton rounds, pressing down to ensure they absorb the mixture. If it seems too dry, add more witch hazel.

How to Use
Gently wipe your face and neck to remove makeup, dirt, and oil, being careful around the eyes as witch hazel can cause irritation. This makeup remover is gentle enough for use in the morning and at night.

Three More Natural Makeup Removers
1. Honey: Honey is great for removing makeup while locking in moisture. It has antibacterial properties and enzymes that remove dead skin cells. Apply raw honey to a wet cloth, spread over your face in a circular motion, let it sit for five minutes, then rinse with warm water and pat dry.

2. Full-Fat Milk: The fat and protein in milk hydrate the skin and help retain moisture while removing makeup and bacteria. Dip a cotton ball in milk and wipe your face. It’s safe to use around the eyes and leaves your skin feeling fresh.

3. Olive Oil: Olive oil removes impurities and hydrates the skin. Dip a cotton ball in olive oil, gently wipe your face, follow with a warm rinse, and pat dry.