Although I’m a bit of an affordable product junkie, numerous studies have come out confirming what we already know: most makeup product ingredients aren’t that great for our health. Take the recent push for the ban of micro beads in cleansing products as an example. Without sounding like a full-fledged Earth Mama, I think it’s important to note that most makeup products can trace their origins back to completely natural ingredients. While synthetics may be able to do it better in some areas, they don’t always do it safer. Although convenience and affordability are influential factors when it comes to product purchases, there’s something therapeutic (and empowering) about doing it your way.
So I set out into the deepest recesses of the Internet and found a surprisingly large community of people who tout the wonders of homemade makeup. Thrifty Sue, a budget blogger after my own heart, shared a few recipes for low-fuss homemade makeup…
Homemade Bronzer
I adapted (read: winged it) and tried out the recipe for homemade bronzer. I made a miniature sample version of the recipe with approximately…
– 1 teaspoon of cornstarch (Arrowroot powder is a natural substitute)
– 2 teaspoons of Cocoa powder
– Several liberal dashes of cinnamon
The Verdict:
Unsurprisingly, I smelled like a cup of hot cocoa. If you are attempting this recipe, do it in an area with minimal humidity as the corn starch may start to clump slightly. After I got past my initial skepticism, I applied some to my arm as a test and was pleasantly surprised to see a vaguely bronzer-esque glow – albeit with a slightly chalkier texture (I would caution you to use this sparingly at first). If you’re ever in a post-baking pinch, this bronzer could be a serious (slightly-edible) contender.
Homemade Hair/Body Butter
As someone with naturally dry hair, I’ve quickly learned to separate the helpful products from the impostors with one simple rule: If you buy a product that boldly advertises a natural ingredient (i.e. argan oil shampoo) and said ingredient is not in the top five listed on the ingredient list, you’re not getting the goods. Since the ethnic hair care aisles in most stores leave very much to be desired, I went to straight to the source. This product took less than 10 minutes to make, and it’s full of natural moisturizing ingredients that can be used on both skin and hair. Apply after a shower to both hair and body and I promise you will scoff loudly at any and all lotions who try to claim the moisture throne. You can also add in a bunch of your favourite essential oils should you want!
What You Need
Pure Shea Butter
Castor Oil
Vitamin E Oil
Sweet Almond Oil
Vegetable Glycerin
Directions
Pour room temperature Shea butter into a bowl and add in a teaspoon of castor oil, half teaspoon of vitamin E oil, two splashes of sweet almond oil, and vegetable glycerin (so precise). Your end product should be like a smooth icing. Store in an air-tight container away from light.
Have you had a stab at DIY Makeup? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.