Worried about suspicious chemicals in summer skincare and protection products?
Make your own: eight natural recipes to help deal with bites, humidity, sun, and sweat.
Let’s start with a simple but important fact: when we apply products containing various substances to the skin, much of it is absorbed into the body and can even enter the bloodstream.
Experts warn that we are exposed daily to hundreds of chemicals, some of which have cumulative negative effects we may not be aware of.
These effects can include allergies, hormonal disruptions, fertility problems, skin diseases, and even obesity.
Commercial products often contain synthetic colors and fragrances to make them more attractive, but these substances are among the most hazardous in the chemical industry.
To reduce exposure to synthetic chemicals, it is recommended to use products made from natural ingredients, and even try making them yourself.
Natural products usually contain gentler substances, which generally have a safe or beneficial effect on the body.
They work with the skin and body, and when used correctly, can be as effective as synthetic ingredients while producing minimal waste that is not polluting.
Mosquito Repellent Spray
Ingredients (30 ml):
- 12 ml lavender hydrosol*
- 12 ml lemongrass hydrosol
- 3 ml 70% alcohol
- 60 drops of essential oils (one or a mixture): citronella, lavender, lemon eucalyptus, lemongrass, geranium
*Hydrosols are naturally scented water from essential oil distillation; can substitute with distilled water.
Instructions: Mix in a spray bottle and shake well.
Storage: Cool, dark place.
Use: Shake well before each use. Spray on clothes, air, or skin.
Face and Body Refresh Spray
Ingredients (30 ml):
- 12 ml distilled water
- 3 ml grapefruit seed extract
- 15 ml hydrosol of choice: lavender, mint, lemongrass
Instructions: Mix all ingredients in a bottle.
Storage: Refrigerate until use.
Use: Spray on face and body (avoid eyes).
Note: Grapefruit seed extract contains flavonoids, vitamin C, vitamin E, citric acid, limonoids, sterols, and minerals. It helps preserve the product and prevent microbial growth.
Hair Repair Mask for Sun and Pool Damage
Ingredients (50 ml):
- 35 ml coconut oil
- 10 ml olive oil
- 5 ml castor oil
- 20 drops essential oils (rosemary, geranium, jasmine, lavender, mint, tea tree, lemongrass)
Instructions: Melt coconut oil, mix other oils and essential oils, pour into a jar, let solidify.
Use: Apply to dry hair, including roots, massage, leave at least 30 minutes (overnight possible but must rinse in morning).