Healthy and Green Living

If your skin is really dry, especially in the winter, and you are looking for an emollient bath, try this wonderful recipe.

One of the first things to do is to find the right vegetable oil or nut oil that works for your skin. Try out three or four; you will instantly feel
which ones are best for you. For my forty-something skin I found apricot kernel oil to be the most soothing and emollient. Great oils for dry skin include apricot kernel oil, avocado oil (this oil is very lush and rich, and is especially good for old, dry skin, but a little goes a long way), almond oil, flax seed oil, and jojoba oil. (Jojoba oil is actually a liquid wax.)

Basic Emollient Bath Recipe
All of the ingredients asked for in this recipe are found in most health food stores.

• 1 to 2 ounces apricot kernel, avocado, almond, flax seed, or jojoba oil
  
• 1 ounce pure vegetable glycerin
  
• 2 ounces aloe vera gel
  
• A few drops pure essential oil of your choice.
  

Add the ingredients to the tub while it is filling.
Makes about 1/4 cup, enough for 1 bath.

Basic Honey Bath Recipe
Herbalists have touted honey for centuries because it helps skin retain
moisture and is thereby rejuvenating and softening.

• 2 tablespoons honey
  
• 1 cup very hot water
  
• A few drops pure essential oil, if desired
  

Dissolve the honey in the water. Add essential oil, if desired. Pour the
mixture into the bath water.
Makes 1 cup, enough for one bath.