by Deanna
We’re taking a momentary departure today from feeding our bellies and the bellies of those we love. Today, we’re going to feed our skin! I’ve been inspired lately by reading blogs such as Crunchy Betty and websites such as Skin Deep, the cosmetics safety database from the Environmental Working Group – the same people that brought you the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists of produce. I’ve been trying to limit my exposure to chemicals in my food as well as in my skin care products. But, have you checked the prices on organic, natural skin care products lately? Ouch! I thought buying specialty gluten-free foods was expensive.
Luckily, there are a lot of things we can do right in our own kitchens. And, my favorite kitchen ingredient for skin care? Coconut oil! Coconut oil is easily absorbed, full of anti-oxidants, and even has anti-microbial properties when used on skin. And, it just so happens that this month coconut oil is the featured ingredient for the SOS Kitchen Challenge hosted by Ricki and Kim. Well, I’m always up for a challenge….
Home Made Coconut Oil Skin Lotion
1/2 cup (112 grams) coconut oil (It’s best to use the unrefined kind.)
2 T. almond oil
1 T. glycerin (Available at your local drug store or online. If you’re vegan, check forvegetable glycerin.)
1/8 t. guar gum
5 drops essential oil (I used grapefruit.)
In a double boiler, gently melt the coconut oil. Stir in the rest of the ingredients and mix well. Allow to cool completely. The “lotion” will harden at this point. You can use it just like that. It will be similar to lotion bars. Or, you can use a stick blender or food processor to whip some air into the lotion, like in the photo above.
Just a note, since this recipe is neither sweet nor savory, I did ask Ricki and Kim before I submitted it to the challenge. They graciously agreed to allow me to do so. Theoretically, you could eat this stuff. But, I don’t think you’re going to want to.
Full Article Here: http://themommybowl.com/2011/01/27/feed-your-skin/