Top DIY Cosmetic Treats to Try During Lockdown

My skincare routine is the ‘thing’ I would bring with me to a deserted island. There is no better feeling than going to bed with a freshly moisturised face after scrubbing away all the makeup and grime that has accumulated during the day. I might be slightly obsessive - but it is just one of the small joys that makes life better. And I know many feel the same.

But a quick glance at the ingredients list of my many jars and sprays can become overwhelming. Hyaluronic acid, sure, that is good. Alcohol, bad. But what on earth is benzyl salicylate and why am I putting it on my skin twice a day?

I started to look into some more natural skincare alternatives, yet, while I don’t mind spending a little bit of money on my cosmetics, the prices were higher for natural products.

After some digging around and chatting with a few friends, I started to immerse myself in DIY cosmetics and so far I have not looked back. My three favourite recipes include only household items, so you can make these from the comfort of your own home and adhere to social distancing measures.

What better time is there to try out different products! Perhaps a little breakout will not ruin your day now that there is nowhere to go. When the ingredients cost pennies, all you have to lose is a little bit of time. And I mean just a little bit, because these recipes are super quick and simple. 

Image: Saara-Maria Salonen

CUCUMBER WATER TONER

My absolute favourite! I was slightly sceptical at first, thinking that cucumber would clog or create a sticky film over my skin. I was very wrong. This recipe is so simple, only requires one basic ingredient and has left my combination skin feeling clear and youthful. 

You will need:

1 organic cucumber, washed.

A grater. 

Muslin cloth, or similar. 

Empty spray bottle. 

Small bowl. 

Instructions:

1. Place the cloth over a small bowl. 

2. Grate the cucumber straight onto the cloth and wait for the cucumber water to strain through. There will be a lot more liquid than you expect, so just a small piece of cucumber will do. 

3. If you wish, dilute the toner with a dash of water or diluted cider vinegar. Vinegar is excellent for fixing big pores and is a great addition to this toner. And do not worry, the smell of vinegar will disappear once the toner dries. 

4. Keep the toner in a spray bottle in the fridge where it will keep for approximately one week. 

HERBAL STEAM

I used to spend a lot of money on herbal steams in different natural cosmetic shops. I was hesitant to try and make my own, since I thought I would need all kinds of obscure herbs. But the simplest household ingredients will do. 

If your skin is not sensitive, a herbal steam can be done weekly. If you do tend to have sensitive skin, once or twice a month will do. 

You will need:

A mixture of your favourite herbs! I have listed some of my favourites here. 

Parsley

Chamomile (pure tea will do)

Peppermint  (pre tea will do)

Fennel (seeds or tea will do)

Lavender

Rosemary

Thyme

You can use any of the herbs on their own or mix as you please. I have heard people using sage, nettles, daisies and dandelions. I have not yet had the opportunity to try these, but please do give them a go and tell us how they worked for you!

Instructions:

1. Just mix herbs of your choice with a couple of litres of hot water. Place the water in a large bowl, and stir the herbs in with a spoon. 

2. Place your head approximately 30 centimetres away from the bowl, and a bit further if you have sensitive skin. 

3. Cover your head with a towel, and let the steam do its work for approximately 10 minutes. 

You can also keep the water from this to use as a toner, just make sure you strain it and keep it refrigerated for up to a week.  

Image: Saara-Maria Salonen

HOMEMADE DEODORANT 

Let’s get this out of the way: these deodorants will never be as efficient as the commercial ones. But they surely are close! Homemade deodorant’s efficiency varies quite a lot from person to person, and what works for me might not work for you. The good news: we’re in lockdown! 

You can experiment with these recipes; try out which one works for you. The ingredients will not cost the earth, and it does not matter if one batch does not work out. 

You will need:

Baking powder

Potato flour or cornflour

Coconut oil

Essential oils (optional)

1 lemon (optional)

Instructions: 

1. Mix equal parts baking soda, potato flour (or cornflour) and coconut oil.

2. If you have essential oils, feel free to add a couple of drops. A splash of fresh lemon juice works equally well and lemon works nicely to neutralise any odours. If you do use lemon juice, avoid exposing your armpits to the sun if your skin is sensitive, since this can cause irritation. 

3. This deodorant keeps for approximately one month. 

Give these DIY recipes a go and let the City Girl Network know how they worked for you! 

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Written by Saara-Maria Salonen