Homemade Body Wash #3

I have been experimenting on different ways not only to save money but also to reduce chemicals my family uses.  What I have learned is liquid soap products have lots of bad stuff I do not want to use.  Bar soap is generally safe, especially if you buy handmade.  Handmade soaps can cost upwards of $4 and more. Lets face it, Bar soap is not fun to use.  It gets slimy and tends to leave a film on my skin.  Making liquid body wash from bar soap does work but again, still tends to be a bit drying and leaves that film.  I wanted to make my own wash from scratch but if lye isn't used than all sorts of surfactants and fillers are needed to create the right slip and foam.  In studying these fillers, they usually are derived and that is what makes them not natural and are toxins or irritants that I do not want to use. 

Some of these products to keep an eye out for are:

SLS
SLSA Both are surfactants that make washes sudsy.  They are very irritating to the skin and can damage the cells.  It is a good idea to do some research on sulfates to know for your self.

This site has great info about safer products to use http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/.  This site gives a list of ingredients to avoid and companies that they approve.  However, I do believe making it at home can be cheaper and easier.



Here is what I have decided to use for our family body care product:

Castile soap is made with vegetable oils or olive oil.  It can have several beneficial oils and then made with lye for a true soap product.  It does not foam much and is very thin.  But it can be customized and using a foam bottle it does take care of the lather.  Because it is thin it makes it perfect for a foam pump.  Foam pumps are important as Castile soap is not tear free.  The foam is easier to control.  A little goes a long way. 

Dr. Brommer's is easy to purchase in most stores.  The most common Castile soap brand. 
I use one part soap to 3 parts water.  Add fragrance in essential oils that you like and that are good for your family skin.  Make sure to check on safety of use on youngsters.

Some good essential oil combo's

Lavender and vanilla for relaxing. Lavender is anti fungal and anti bacterial.  It is a good all around choice for skin care.

Eucalyptus

Lemon or Orange for uplifting

Sandalwood is anti bacterial and anti fungal.  It can be used for acne prone and oily skin.

Geranium has some "anti aging" qualities as it treats wrinkles.  It is good for restoring skin and is good for sensitive skin.

Oils can also be added to the custom soap.  Adding oils can help in moisturizing.  Only small amounts are needed. Olive or grape seed can be added.