beauty

Make Your Own Lip Balm

Condition your lips with this luxurious, homemade lip balm. Buy tiny lip balm containers online or reuse jars and tins you already own.

10 to 15 drops each of lavender, peppermint, and rosewood essential oils
1 cup (250 mL) water
1/2 cup (125 mL) sesame oil
1/2 oz (25 g) beeswax
7 lip balm containers

Combine essential oils and set aside. Pour water into medium saucepan and place a glass measuring cup into pan. Bring water to a slow boil over low heat; then place beeswax into measuring cup. Allow to melt; then slowly stir in sesame oil. Stir until well combined. Remove from heat while continuing to stir. Add essential oils, stir to combine, and then carefully pour into lip balm containers. Allow lip balm to solidify; then use regularly to moisturize lips. Can be used for up to two years.

Jo-Anne Hopkins, Certified Aromatherapist

After-sun Bronzing Oil

The body needs a healthy amount of sun exposure to ensure vitamin D absorption and to lift the spirits and warm the soul. After time in the sun, this scented bronzing oil provides moisture and helps bring out your skin's healthy glow. Use fractioned coconut oil, which is liquid at room temperature. Infused carrot oil can be purchased at most health food stores.

5 drops each of carrot seed, geranium, lavender, and ylang-ylang essential oils
8 tsp (40 mL) each of sesame oil and fractioned coconut oil
1 Tbsp (15 mL) each of jojoba and infused carrot oil

Combine essential oils in glass container; then add remaining ingredients. Mix thoroughly. Store in small cobalt or amber glass bottle. For best results, shake before each use, and apply after sun exposure. Remember that unprotected skin often burns within 20 minutes of exposure, so limit time in the sun. This recipe contains natural dyes that can stain clothing, so use with caution when wearing light-coloured fabrics.

J.H.