Taking care of your skin by removing dirt and oil is crucial for keeping it healthy and glowing. When we don’t clean our skin properly, it becomes a hotspot for bacteria, leading to breakouts and other issues. While there are many commercial products available, they often contain harsh chemicals that can irritate or dry out your skin, and they can be quite expensive.

A great alternative is to make your own non-toxic cleanser and makeup remover. Not only is it cost-effective, but it also allows you to tailor the ingredients to suit your skin type.

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

Why These Ingredients?

Witch Hazel: This natural astringent has been used for generations, particularly by Native Americans, for its healing properties. It’s excellent for treating acne, soothing dry skin, reducing itchiness and inflammation, and removing oils. It can also be used to reduce puffy eyes, varicose veins, and lock moisture into your skin.

Aloe Vera Gel: Known as a miracle plant, aloe vera has strong antibacterial properties and is fantastic for healing wounds, cuts, dry skin, and burns. It’s rich in vitamins C and E and beta carotene, which provide anti-aging benefits and moisture without greasiness.

Frankincense Oil: This oil helps reduce acne blemishes, large pores, wrinkles, and tightens the skin. It promotes healthy cell regeneration and can reverse signs of aging while keeping your skin hydrated.

Sweet Almond Oil: With its light texture, almond oil is easily absorbed and effective at removing debris from deep within pores. It’s rich in vitamin A, which helps prevent acne, and is gentle enough for all skin types.

Instructions:
1. Add witch hazel, aloe vera gel, Castile soap, and almond oil to the mason jar.
2. Secure the lid and shake well to mix the ingredients.
3. Remove the lid, add the essential oils, and shake gently to combine.
4. Place the cotton pads in the jar and press down to absorb the mixture. If it seems too dry, add more witch hazel.

How to Use:
Gently wipe your face and neck with the soaked cotton pads to remove makeup, dirt, and oil. Be cautious around the eyes, as witch hazel can cause irritation. This gentle makeup remover can be used both in the morning and at night.

Other Natural Makeup Removers:

Honey: Honey is great for removing makeup while moisturizing your skin. It has antibacterial properties and enzymes that help remove dead skin cells. Apply a small amount of raw honey onto a wet cloth, spread over your face, let it sit for at least five minutes, then rinse with warm water. Pat dry and apply a bit of coconut oil for extra moisture.

Full Fat Milk: The fat and protein in milk help hydrate the skin and remove makeup, dirt, and bacteria. Dip a cotton ball in milk and wipe your face. It’s safe for use around the eyes and leaves your skin feeling fresh and clean.

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

Taking the time to make your own skin care products can be both fun and beneficial, giving you control over what goes on your skin while saving you money.