10 Beauty Products You Can Make At Home During The Circuit Breaker Period

Now that the majority of the world is in lockdown as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, it’s more important than ever to practise self-care and to look after your wellbeing. In fact, during these trying times, it’s not uncommon to notice changes in your body. From breakouts to hair loss, the anxiety that is induced when constantly thinking about the current crisis can negatively impact your body. 

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed by it all, be sure to take some time out and do something positive for yourself and your skin with these all-natural, do-it-yourself beauty products. Not only will they work wonders on your skin and hair, but they will also provide a welcome distraction for an hour or so.

Of course, it’s worth noting that all-natural doesn't always equal “all good” when it comes to DIY skincare. For instance, products such as baking soda, which is often used as an exfoliator, and lemons, which are touted as Mother Nature's skin brightener, can actually do more harm than good. So before you get crafty in the kitchen, be sure to do your research and confirm that any recipe you follow is safe for your skin. 

Related article: The Best Sites To Shop For Skincare Right Now

Brown Sugar And Coconut Lip Scrub

For soft, flake-free lips, try this brown sugar and coconut lip scrub from Patricia Hernandez of Zero Quest. Simply mix 2 tablespoons of brown sugar with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Apply to your lips and then gently wipe off with a tissue or wet cloth for a super soft pout.  

Rice Face Mask

This light, wash-off rice face mask from Amber of @tulips_and_a_toolbox gently sloughs off dead skin cells while brightening and giving your skin a healthy, dewy glow. In a food processor, mix together 1/4 cup of cooked organic rice grain, 1 tablespoon of unrefined coconut oil, 3 drops of lavender essential oil, 1/8 cup of rice water (the starchy water that remains after soaking or cooking rice), and 1/8 cup of oat milk. Apply the mask to your face and let it sit for about 20 minutes before rinsing clean.

Pure Argan Oil Hair Mask

If you’re looking to add shine to your locks while combating frizz, look no further than this pure argan oil hair mask. Hailing from Morocco, argan oil contains fatty acids like oleic acid and linoleic acid, which aid in hydration. Massage a few drops of the oil onto your hair, working from your scalp down to the ends, then wrap in a towel and leave for a few hours or overnight. In the morning, rinse the oil out using your preferred shampoo and conditioner. 

Avocado And Honey Body Scrub

As a consultant for Neal’s Yard Remedies, Cathy Liversidge certainly knows a thing or two about natural and organic skincare. This avocado and honey body scrub is a recipe from the Neal's Yard Remedies Beauty Book and only takes 5 minutes to whip up. In a bowl, mash together ½ a ripe avocado, 1 teaspoon of warm honey, 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of ground rice. Gently massage the scrub over your skin, leaving it on for 1 – 2 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. 

Cacao Butter Lip Balm

This natural lip balm from the founder of JoyousHealth.com, Joy McCarthy, only uses 3 ingredients and can also be used on dry cuticles, cracked feet, and any other areas that need a bit of TLC. Slowly melt 1/4 cup of beeswax beads then add 1/3 cup of raw cacao butter and 1/3 cup of coconut oil. Once all the ingredients are fully melted, you can add a few drops of your favourite essential oil if desired. Pour the liquid into jars and store at room temperature (or in the fridge if you live in Singapore) for up to 3 months.

Related article: Homemade Face Mask Recipes: How To Make Your Own Spa-Worthy Face Masks At Home

Leave-In Conditioner

If you're not already using a leave-in conditioner, you should be. Not only do they moisturise your hair, but they also help to detangle it, while adding shine and strength. For this recipe from Philippa Croydon, all you need to do is whisk together 1/4 cup of distilled water, 1 tablespoon of full-fat coconut milk, and 6-10 drops of your favourite essential oil. We recommend rosemary, tea tree, and peppermint, all of which will help keep your scalp and locks in top condition. Keep the concoction in a spray bottle in the fridge and shake well before using.

Pureed Pumpkin Mask

Loaded with vitamins A, C, and E, antioxidants, zinc, potassium, and fruit enzymes, pumpkin is a natural skin superhero and this recipe from @rootedraised will soothe irritation, redness, reduce breakouts and brighten your skin. In a bowl, combine 1/4 cup of pureed pumpkin, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of agave (or similar sweetener), and 1 teaspoon of kefir (or any fermented milk drink). Apply the mask to your face and let it dry. Once hardened, rinse off with warm water and pat dry. Any remaining product can be stored in the fridge.

Rose Water Cleanser

From controlling excess oil to keeping fine lines and wrinkles at bay, rose water is packed with an array of skin-benefiting properties. This bi-phase rosewater cleanser, which can also be used as a makeup remover, from @ardole.diy will be a welcome addition to your everyday skincare routine. Combine 1 tablespoon of jojoba oil, 1 tablespoon of rose water, and 10 drops of your favourite essential oil together in a dispenser bottle and shake well before use.

Avocado And Cucumber Mask

This avocado and cucumber mask from @embellishbydiya is the perfect remedy to dry, stressed out skin and it’s super easy to make at home. Simply mash half an avocado with a fork until smooth, then, using a garlic press, extract the water from a few pieces of cucumber and mix with the avocado. Apply to the face, leaving on for 15 minutes before washing off with warm water.

Winter Spice Bath And Body Oil

With its non-greasy texture, fast-absorbing formula, and addictive scent, this winter spice bath and body oil from Ina De Clercq, author of DIY Beauty and founder of The Makeup Dummy, is perfect for when you need a little “me” time or as a homemade gift for family and friends. On a medium heat, mix together 1 cup of fractionated coconut oil, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 star anise seeds, 3 cardamom pods, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla powder and 3 black pepper seeds. Strain the oil using a cheesecloth or coffee filter and pour into a dark pump or cap bottle. To use, massage a teaspoon amount of oil onto your skin, or scatter roughly 1 tablespoon of oil into a warm bath and let your mind drift away as you soak in this beautifully spiced bath oil. Always shake the bottle well before using.

Related article: Are Doctor-Backed Skincare Brands Better For Your Skin?