Once you see how easy it to make your own homemade items, it becomes an addiction, in a good way. I feel much better about knowing exactly what is in the products my family is using.
You can use any combination of essential oils.
When making your body wash find a scent you enjoy. If children will be using the body wash, use half the suggested amount of essential oils.
A popular scent combination is 45 drops of lavender and 15 drops of geranium essential oil. This creates a sweet floral body wash that smells like summer flower beds. Use a single essential oil or have fun blending a few. Here are some suggestions:
Chamomile (German and Roman) – Great for dry and sensitive skin, acne, eczema, and dermatitis.
Geranium – Great for oily complexions, acne, mature skin, eczema, dermatitis, and other problematic skin conditions. It also brightens and revitalizes dull skin.
Grapefruit – This essential oil tones the skin and is extremely cleansing for oily skin.
Lavender – Very gentle and good for all skin types, including very sensitive skin. Perfect for mature skin, acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Effective in soothing itchy skin.
Patchouli – Antimicrobial, astringent, fungicidal, and deodorant. Great for acne, cracked and chapped skin, eczema, oily skin, and mature skin.
Peppermint – Since peppermint is very strong, use only half the amount recommended in the recipe (or less). Cooling, refreshing, and stimulating. Has astringent properties, making it perfect for acneic skin. (Note: Avoid during first 4 months of pregnancy.)
Rosemary – Rosemary is stimulating and restorative. Useful for acne, eczema, and dermatitis. (Note: Avoid during pregnancy. Do not use if you are epileptic or have high blood pressure.)
Sandalwood – Useful for acne, dry, cracked, and chapped skin. Also great for wrinkles and mature skin.
Sweet orange – Sweet orange is helpful for dull or oily skin.
Tea tree – This antibacterial oil can be nicely blended with others like lavender and peppermint. May be useful for acne, oily skin, rashes, and inflamed skin. Using too much may actually create a drying effect. You may need to experiment a little to find the right amount for your skin.
Ylang ylang – Great for general skin care, irritated skin, oily skin, or acne. Since this oil is a strong scent, add a few drops at a time until the desired aroma is achieved.