benefits of eating cocoa powder for skin

3-INGREDIENT DIY FACE MOISTURIZERS

In this post, I’ll walk you through some of the simplest and most effective DIY face moisturizers. I’ll break down the basic ingredients you’ll need to effectively moisturize your skin, and guide you through the steps to apply them in the most beginner-friendly way.

This post won’t cover DIY oil-and-water emulsions, like creams or lotions. While making a cream is not particularly complicated, I wanted to create a beginner-level guide with recipes that anyone—regardless of experience—can easily follow (even if you can’t boil an egg).

Though creating a cream can range from simple to more advanced, it always requires some special tools, a proper emulsifier to mix the water and oil phases, and a preservative. Since creams can be more involved, and not everyone wants to deal with all of that (honestly, I don’t always either), I’ll save that for a separate post.

Here, I’ll explain the difference between hydration and moisturization (and why you need both!) along with an easy way to achieve both without making a cream. After that, I’ll share the 3 most effective hydrators, followed by a simple recipe for creating a customized nourishing oil moisturizer tailored to your skin type.

You’ll only need 3 ingredients (one of which might even be water!) for your DIY face moisturizer.

MOISTURIZING VS. HYDRATING (& WHY YOU NEED BOTH)

The terms moisturizing and hydrating are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different things.

Hydrators are ingredients that add water to the skin (known as humectants). They help to plump the skin and keep it feeling supple. On the other hand, moisturizers are ingredients that provide emollients (oils) to the skin. These oils help smooth the skin and lock in hydration.

All skin types—dry, normal, and oily—need both hydration and moisture. Skin types are defined by the amount of sebum (natural oils) they produce, but regardless of sebum production, skin can still become dehydrated if it loses too much water.

Even if your skin is hydrated, if it lacks a proper protective barrier (meaning the skin’s natural oil production is insufficient), it can feel dry because the water will evaporate.

Hydrators and moisturizers can be separate products, or they can be combined into one. For example, a cream or lotion blends both water and oil phases, providing hydration (water) and sealing it in with moisture (oil).

However, you don’t need to go through the trouble of making a cream or lotion to create effective DIY face moisturizers.

HOW TO PROPERLY MOISTURIZE YOUR SKIN

To properly moisturize your skin, you need to provide both water and oil. You can do this with a traditional moisturizer (a cream), or for a simpler approach, you can use a hydrating toner (water-based) followed by a nourishing face oil or fat to lock in that hydration, nourish the skin, and smooth it out.

Below is a list of the best and most convenient hydrators and moisturizing oils for creating easy DIY face moisturizers. To use, start by choosing a hydrator from the list to apply as a toner after cleansing your face. While your skin is still damp, apply the face oil of your choice (from the moisturizing oils section). Gently massage it in until fully absorbed.

For added benefits, you can use a quick lymph-draining face massage to help the oils absorb and boost circulation.

MOST EFFECTIVE DIY FACE MOISTURIZERS

THE METHOD

Step 1: Choose one of the hydrating ingredients from the list of hydrators below.

Step 2: Select your carrier and essential oils from the moisturizing oils list.

Step 3: Combine and mix both in your hands before applying to your skin.

Alternatively, apply the hydrator first and follow up with the oil mixture while your skin is still damp.

…and that’s it – easy DIY face moisturizers!

HYDRATORS

Hydrators are ingredients that draw water to the skin (humectants), helping to smooth out wrinkles and lines by plumping the skin. This is the first step after cleansing your face, ensuring your skin gets the hydration it needs.

Pick one of the following hydrators for your DIY moisturizer:

Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
HA is naturally produced by the body to retain collagen and boost hydration. It helps skin heal, prevents water loss, and plumps the skin. You can buy HA powder and make your own, which is often more cost-effective than store-bought products.

  • Basic HA Gel Recipe:
    • 1g of HA powder (approximately 1/4 teaspoon)
    • 100g/ml of distilled water (about 1/2 cup)
      Combine the two and let sit for several hours or overnight. Stir to create a gel, and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Glycerin
Glycerin is a powerful humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. It also helps restore the skin’s barrier function, protecting against irritation and water loss. However, it should be diluted, as pure glycerin can have a drying effect.

  • Basic Glycerin Hydrating Toner:
    • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) glycerin
    • 100 ml distilled water
      Mix in a glass spritz bottle and shake well. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is both a humectant and a powerful skin healer, making it a great addition to your DIY moisturizer. It draws moisture to the skin and can be paired with other ingredients for deeper absorption.

  • How to Use:
    Apply a dollop of aloe vera gel directly to your skin, or use the inner flesh of a fresh aloe vera leaf to rub over your face and neck.

MOISTURIZERS

After hydrating your skin, you’ll need oils or butters to lock in that moisture and protect your skin’s barrier.

Basic Nourishing Face Oil Recipe:

  • 30 ml / 1 oz dark glass bottle with a dropper
  • Choose one or more carrier oils (see list below)
  • Add 6 to 12 drops (1% to 2%) of essential oils
    Shake well and apply half a dropper onto damp skin. Massage until absorbed.

If you prefer butters, melt a small dollop between your hands and apply after the hydrator.

Which Oils to Choose According to Skin Type:

  • Oily or Combination Skin:
    Use lighter oils to avoid clogging pores. Good options include tamanu, jojoba, grapeseed, rosehip, linseed, apricot kernel.
    Essential Oils: Lemon, basil, lavender, rosemary, tea tree, thyme.
  • Normal Skin:
    Opt for oils that are balanced, like pumpkin, almond, sesame, argan, jojoba, sunflower.
    Essential Oils: Lavender, geranium, chamomile.
  • Sensitive or Irritated Skin:
    Use soothing oils like jojoba, rosehip, linseed, or apricot kernel.
    Essential Oils: Chamomile, lavender, frankincense, geranium.
  • Dry Skin:
    Go for heavier, more protective oils and butters like olive, avocado, coconut, sweet almond, or any of the thicker butters (cocoa, shea, mango).
    Essential Oils: Chamomile, myrrh, sandalwood, clary sage.
  • Mature Skin:
    Focus on nourishing oils such as rosehip, argan, jojoba, tamanu, and pomegranate.
    Essential Oils: Lavender, frankincense, myrrh, cypress, neroli.

CONCLUSION

I’ve been using this DIY face moisturizer and it’s still my favorite. It offers endless customization and ensures that my skincare is always fresh and natural. I hope you find it as effective as I do!

How to Make Lip Scrub: 5 DIY recipes

If you want to keep your lips healthy and soft, lip scrub is essential. It’s an easy and effective way to remove dead skin cells, moisturize your lips, and prevent chapped lips. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make lip scrub at home using natural ingredients.

What are lip scrubs?

Lip scrubs are cosmetic products designed to exfoliate and rejuvenate the delicate skin on the lips. They typically consist of natural exfoliating ingredients like sugar, salt, or ground oats, combined with moisturizing components such as honey, coconut oil, or olive oil. Lip scrubs are used to gently remove dead skin cells, flakiness, and dry patches from the lips, revealing smoother, softer, and more supple skin. Regular use of lip scrubs helps improve the texture of the lips, enhances the effectiveness of lip balms, and can aid in achieving a flawless, lipstick-ready canvas. These scrubs come in various flavors and can be either store-bought or made at home using simple, natural ingredients.

Benefits of lip scrubs

Lip scrubs offer several benefits for maintaining healthy and smooth lips. Firstly, they provide exfoliation to the delicate skin on the lips, removing dead skin cells and helping to prevent chapping and flakiness. This exfoliation process can also improve the texture of the lips, making them feel softer and smoother. Regular use of lip scrubs can be particularly beneficial in harsh weather conditions, such as during the winter months, when lips are more prone to becoming dry and cracked.

Additionally, lip scrubs can enhance the effectiveness of lip care products. By exfoliating the lips, they allow lip balms, moisturizers, and lipsticks to penetrate the skin more effectively, providing better hydration and color payoff. This means that your lip products will not only look better but also work more efficiently to keep your lips in top condition. Overall, using a lip scrub as part of your skincare routine can help you achieve and maintain healthy, attractive lips.

How to Make Lip Scrub

Creating homemade lip scrubs is a fun and effective way to exfoliate and moisturize your lips, leaving them soft and smooth. Here are three different lip scrub recipes using common household ingredients:

Basic Sugar Lip Scrub

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 tablespoon coconut oil (or olive oil)
  • A few drops of essential oil (e.g., lavender, peppermint, or vanilla) for flavor (optional)

Instructions:

  • In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and honey.
  • Add the coconut oil (or olive oil) and mix until you have a paste-like consistency.
  • If desired, add a few drops of essential oil for flavor.
  • Gently apply the scrub to your lips and massage in a circular motion for about 1-2 minutes.
  • Rinse off the scrub with warm water or wipe it away with a damp cloth.
  • Pat your lips dry and apply lip balm to lock in moisture.

Brown Sugar and Coffee Lip Scrub

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 tablespoon coffee grounds (used or fresh)
  • 1/2 tablespoon coconut oil (or almond oil)
  • A few drops of vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

  • Combine the brown sugar and coffee grounds in a small bowl.
  • Add the coconut oil (or almond oil) and vanilla extract (if using).
  • Mix until you achieve a scrub-like consistency.
  • Apply the scrub to your lips and gently massage in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes.
  • Rinse off or wipe away with a damp cloth.
  • Follow up with lip balm to keep your lips moisturized.

Honey and Oatmeal Lip Scrub

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon oats (finely ground)
  • 1/2 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 tablespoon plain yogurt
  • A few drops of almond oil (optional)

Instructions:

  • Grind the oats into a fine powder using a blender or food processor.
  • In a small bowl, combine the ground oats and honey.
  • Add the plain yogurt and almond oil (if using) and mix until it forms a paste.
  • Apply the scrub to your lips and gently exfoliate in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes.
  • Rinse or wipe away with a damp cloth.
  • Apply lip balm to lock in moisture.

Cocoa and Mint Lip Scrub

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tablespoon cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tablespoon coconut oil
  • A drop of peppermint essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

  • Mix sugar, cocoa powder, coconut oil, and peppermint essential oil (if using) in a bowl.
  • Apply to your lips and gently scrub in a circular motion for about a minute.
  • Rinse off with warm water or wipe away with a damp cloth.
  • Apply lip balm to keep your lips hydrated.

Strawberry and Sugar Lip Scrub:

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe strawberry, mashed
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions:

  • Combine mashed strawberry, sugar, and coconut oil in a bowl.
  • Gently exfoliate your lips with the mixture for about 1-2 minutes.
  • Rinse off with warm water or wipe away with a damp cloth.
  • Apply lip balm to moisturize.

FAQs 

  1. How often should I use lip scrub? Once or twice a week is recommended to avoid over-exfoliating your lips.
  2. Can I use lip scrub on chapped lips? Yes, but use caution as it may cause further irritation. Ensure that your lips are not inflamed or bleeding before using lip scrub.
  3. Is it safe to use lip scrub during pregnancy? Yes, it’s generally safe to use lip scrub while pregnant. However, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider first.
  4. Can I add essential oils to my lip scrub? Yes, you can add a few drops of essential oils such as peppermint, lavender, or lemon for added benefits and fragrance.
  5. How long does lip scrub last? Homemade lip scrub can last up to two months if stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Final Takeaway

Lip scrub is an easy and effective way to exfoliate your lips, leaving them soft and smooth. By creating a natural lip scrub at home, you can avoid harsh chemicals found in store-bought products and customize your scrub to suit your preferences. Be sure to follow these tips and use lip scrub in moderation to keep your lips healthy and hydrated.