Handmade Beauty is an inspirational guide to making skincare and haircare products at home. Cosmetic experts Juliette Goggin and Abi Righton show how, with a few basic materials and some kitchen equipment, anyone can craft simple yet effective recipes with natural ingredients. Based on the authors'' in-depth knowledge of the use of natural products and active ingredients in contemporary skin- and haircare, Handmade Beauty includes some of the latest thinking in natural cosmetics.

The first part of the book explores the different ingredients, equipment and methods you need to make the cosmetic projects. Juliette and Abi guide you through the basic principles, such as making infusions, and also explain what you need to know about storage and safety. The second part of the book is devoted to 37 luscious recipes for the face, body and hair, plus suggestions for adaptations. The featured projects cater for all skin and hair types, and include face and body scrubs, cleansers, toners, moisturizers, hand creams, lip balms, body butters, bath bombs, foot sprays, shampoos and hair treatments. Step-by-step illustrations and clear instructions throughout ensure that recipes are easy to follow. The book concludes with ideas on packaging and presenting your beautiful homemade products.

Sample Recipe: How to Make Nourishing Facial Oil

Note from Author: This light facial oil is very easy to make. It is ideal for normal to dry skins, and a lovely treat for tired skin in winter. It is surprisingly quick to absorb into the skin and really doesn''t feel greasy, as you might expect. It is best applied at bedtime. Alternatively, it also works well as a light massage oil to relax the face. Vitamin E oil, which promotes the healing and fading of scars, is usually available in dilution with another oil, such as sweet almond oil.

INGREDIENTS

4 tsp rice bran oil

2 tsp vitamin E oil in dilution sweet almond oil

1 1/2 tsp argan oil

2 1/2 tsp rosehip oil

2 drops geranium essential oil

Makes 3 1/2 tbsp of facial oil

EQUIPMENT

Glass bottle with dropper

Step 1

Measure all the ingredients into a glass jar.

Step 2

Stir to mix the oils and then pour into a sterilized, airtight glass bottle with dropper. Label with the date and ingredients used.

HOW TO APPLY

Using your fingertips, apply a small amount to the face with light, upward movements.

Note: Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. The facial oil will keep for 6 months to a year.