With the growing concern in the amount of chemicals and hormones that are pumped into our cleaning products, foods, and skincare items, it’s becoming more obvious that in order to look after ourselves, we’re going to have to start making things ourselves.
Whilst the label may read ‘natural’, all too often the small print on products like moisturisers and cleansers includes a whole host of words that are unpronounceable to most of us, and unfamiliar to the natural human body.
Hormones like phthalates are in almost every common manufactured item; from children’s toys, to raincoats, to moisturisers and skincare creams, to additives in food products, low fat foods, and pesticides. It’s difficult to escape these chemical hormones, but even though they’re so common, it doesn’t mean they’re not harmful.
“In the past few years, researchers have linked phthalates to asthma, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, breast cancer, obesity and type II diabetes, low IQ, neurodevelopmental issues, behavioural issues, autism spectrum disorders, altered reproductive development and male fertility issues”. – A Guardian Article by Amy Westervelt
So how can we begin to take control of what we put on our bodies? (Because after all, what goes on the skin goes in the skin). Well, this skincare recipe is my first step towards creating a more chemical-free, waste-free lifestyle. It’s incredibly simple, and requires very little effort, plus it’ll give you healthy, glowing, squeaky-clean skin!
The lauric acid found in coconut oil is anti bacterial and anti microbial, brilliant for acne and skin infections. The healthy fats add softness and elasticity to skin, and various studies show that using coconut oil on the skin can help improve the moisture and nourishing fat content of the tissue.
This recipe makes the most of both of these aspects of coconut oil, as it can be used as both a cleanser and a moisturiser. Using a muslin cloth instead of a makeup wipe from a packet, or disposable tissues, means you’re creating far less waste, and aiding in cultivating a more sustainable lifestyle that will benefit the planet. Muslin cloths are natural and non-irritating for skin, and the ever-so-slightly abrasive texture means you’ll get a light daily dose of exfoliating too. Simply use one muslin cloth for about three days at a time, and then put in the wash with your clothes when you feel it needs washing.
Ingredients
- Coconut oil
- Muslin Cloth
- Water
How To
- Add a few scoops of coconut oil to a clean jar (a mason jar or recycled jam jar would work well)
- Rub a small amount of coconut oil over your face and eyelashes and leave for a couple of minutes
Soak your muslin cloth in warm water- Gently scrub the face clean
- Pour cold water over the muslin cloth to wipe off the excess oil and warm water
- Rinse out the muslin cloth and squeeze, then leave to dry over a radiator or somewhere where it’ll be able to dry without being disturbed
- Splash your face with cold water
- Take a small amount of coconut oil (a little goes a long way!), and use the same coconut oil to moisturise your skin.
- Continue with this method for about a week and notice the difference and natural glow in your skin!
You can buy your muslin cloths, coconut oil starter and handmade self-care bag from the blog HERE.
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