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DIY AROMATHERAPY SHOWER MELTS: 4 EASY RECIPES

Discover how to create your own aromatherapy DIY shower melts using essential oils! In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to make and use shower steamers, featuring four delightful homemade recipes: invigorating citrus fizzies to wake you up, eucalyptus shower bombs to soothe colds, relaxing rose shower tablets, and lavender melts to promote restful sleep. This post is a guest contribution from Country Hill Cottage and includes helpful tips for packaging, along with free printable labels for gift-giving!

We all need a bit of wellness now and then, and aromatherapy shower steamers are the perfect way to create a spa-like experience in your own bathroom. Personally, I often opt for a quick shower instead of a long bath, making homemade shower melts an ideal choice for a refreshing aromatherapy boost. Whether you’re showering in the morning for a revitalizing lift or winding down in the evening after a stressful day, these little luxuries can transform your everyday routine into a relaxing wellness retreat. Sound good? Let’s dive into making DIY shower melts!

Benefits of shower melts

Bath bombs, bath soaks, and milk baths are well-loved products for enjoying the aromatherapy benefits of essential oils in the tub. But what about using essential oils in the shower? Enter DIY shower melts! When activated by water, these shower melts fizz away, releasing delightful fragrances that indulge your senses and soothe your mind.

Aromatherapy shower melts—also known as shower tablets, shower bombs, or shower steamers—are effective for balancing your mind and emotions, relieving stress and tension, and alleviating symptoms of headaches or sinus congestion.

Materials and supplies for shower melts

Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients for making basic shower melts:

  • Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and citric acid: These two ingredients are crucial for creating the fizzing effect. The reaction begins when baking soda and citric acid come into contact with water.
  • Arrowroot powder: This ingredient stabilizes the shower melts and helps control the fizzing reaction. Cornstarch can also be used as an alternative.
  • White kaolin clay: Incorporating clay helps extend the longevity of the shower steamers. If you prefer a recipe without clay, check out these DIY shower melts for colds.
  • Essential oils: The aromatherapy benefits of shower tablets come from the essential oils used. Keep reading to discover various shower melt recipes featuring essential oils.
  • Silicone mold: I used a simple round mold, which is the perfect size for creating single-use melts that last for one shower.

How to make DIY shower melts – step-by-step tutorial

DIY shower melts are simple to make! For precise measurements of each ingredient, be sure to consult the recipe card at the bottom of this post. For a detailed, step-by-step tutorial with process photos, check out this guide to DIY shower steamers.

Let’s get started on making shower melts:

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
    In a large, non-metallic mixing bowl, combine the baking soda, citric acid, arrowroot powder, kaolin clay, and mica or natural colorant (if using). Whisk until well combined.
  2. Add Essential Oils:
    Drop the essential oils into the mixture and give it a quick stir. This helps distribute the oils evenly and prepares them for the next step.
  3. Spritz with Water:
    Lightly spritz the mixture with a small amount of water, alcohol, or witch hazel, and immediately incorporate it to prevent a reaction. If you don’t have a spritz bottle, you can sprinkle water using a teaspoon.Tip: Wear nitrile gloves to protect your hands during this process, as citric acid can remove nail polish and irritate sensitive skin.
  4. Tips for the Best Consistency:
    Achieving the right moisture level is crucial for perfect homemade shower melts. The mixture should resemble damp sand and be wet enough to hold its shape when pressed together.
    • Too Dry: If the mixture is too crumbly and falls apart, break it into a bowl, reconstitute with a little water, and mold it again.
    • Too Wet: If the mixture is too moist, it will expand, affecting the fizzing reaction. You can tell if there’s too much moisture if you hear a fizzling sound, indicating premature reactions. To fix this, add more arrowroot powder, one teaspoon at a time, until the fizzing stops.
  5. Fill the Mold:
    Fill a silicone mold with the shower melts mixture, pressing firmly with your fingertips, especially at the edges.Tip: If you’re using dried herbs or flowers, add them before filling the mold. Keep larger decorations, like dried rose petals, away from the edges to prevent breakage.
  6. Dry and Unmold the Aromatherapy Shower Melts:
    Allow the shower melts to dry for at least 24 to 48 hours until they feel hard and solid. To unmold, carefully peel back the silicone and gently push the melts out.Tip: Humidity can affect the drying time of shower tablets. If you live in a humid area, be prepared for a longer drying period.

And there you have it—beautiful homemade shower melts infused with essential oils! Now that you know the steps, let’s explore four different recipes designed for energy, relaxation, sleep, and sinus relief.

Energising citrus wake up shower melts

Imagine waking up in a fragrant citrus orchard, surrounded by blooming lemon, orange, and grapefruit trees. Lovely, isn’t it?

My homemade wake-up citrus shower melts have a bright, uplifting aroma that will energize you and help you start your day on a positive note.

Essential Oils for Citrus Wake-Up Shower Melts
A refreshing blend of citrus essential oils gives these morning shower fizzies an invigorating fragrance. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 100 drops lemon essential oil
  • 80 drops sweet orange essential oil
  • 80 drops grapefruit essential oil

Other Materials for Citrus Shower Melts
I chose not to add color to the wake-up shower melts but used dried calendula petals as a decorative touch. Their cheerful yellow hue reminds me of a sunrise, making them simply perfect for this uplifting shower bomb recipe.

DIY eucalyptus shower bombs with menthol

Eucalyptus shower bombs with menthol crystals are one of my favorite natural remedies for colds, stuffy noses, headaches, and respiratory issues. Inhaling eucalyptus essential oil provides a soothing effect and acts as a decongestant for the sinuses and airways.

Essential Oils for Eucalyptus Shower Tablets
Here are the essential oils you’ll need for this eucalyptus shower melts recipe:

  • 100 drops eucalyptus essential oil
  • 50 drops peppermint essential oil
  • 30 drops pine essential oil
  • 15 drops thyme thymol essential oil

Kid-Safe DIY Eucalyptus Shower Tablets
While eucalyptus, peppermint, and thyme thymol essential oils are effective for easing respiratory issues in adults, they aren’t suitable for children due to their high camphor content.

To create kid-safe decongestant shower tablets, use the following essential oil blend:

  • 80 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil
  • 50 drops spearmint essential oil
  • 20 drops pine essential oil

Other Materials for Shower Melts with Menthol Crystals
The decongestant effect of this homemade shower melts recipe is enhanced by adding menthol crystals. These crystals are a solid compound derived from mint oil, and their strong aroma helps open the airways.

Since menthol crystals are highly concentrated, please do not exceed the amount specified in the recipe card below. Additionally, it’s best to omit the crystals for children under seven.

I colored the eucalyptus shower bombs with a small amount of green mica and added a sprinkling of dried herbs for an extra touch.

Uplifting shower tablets for relaxation and stress relief

The scent of these rose shower tablets is both calming and balancing, leaving you feeling relaxed and refreshed. I love using these shower bursts before meditation or after a workout.

Rose absolute essential oil imparts a floral and sensual aroma to the relaxation shower melts, making them perfect for unwinding and de-stressing during your shower.

Essential Oils for Relaxing DIY Shower Tablets
To create a calming and relaxing essential oil blend with rose, you will need:

  • 100 drops rose absolute oil
  • 60 drops ylang ylang essential oil
  • 30 drops vetiver essential oil

Other Materials for Homemade Rose Shower Melts
For a delightful touch, I chose dried rose petals and pink mica to enhance the rose-scented shower melts. I can also imagine how lovely white shower bombs with rose petals would look.

If desired, you can color your steamers with beet powder for an extra pop of color.

Homemade lavender shower melts for sleep

Here’s another relaxing DIY shower melt recipe, this time featuring essential oils that promote sleep and deep relaxation.

These soothing tablets are perfect for calming your mind before bedtime, helping to encourage a restful night’s sleep.

Essential Oils for Sleepy Shower Bombs
Let’s explore the essential oils needed for lavender shower tablets:

  • 100 drops lavender essential oil
  • 40 drops chamomile essential oil
  • 40 drops neroli essential oil

Other Materials for DIY Lavender Shower Melts


These stress-relief shower melts are customized with blue mica and dried cornflower petals. This shower steamer recipe for sleep would also look beautiful with violet mica and dried lavender buds.

Alternatively, you could use blue spirulina powder as a natural colorant.

How to Use Shower Melts

Here are some tips for using shower tablets:

  1. Place the DIY shower melts away from direct water and the drain. Ideally, only the bottom of the tablets should get wet. A soap dish is a great option for holding the shower melt.
  2. Breathe deeply as the essential oils vaporize into the air, and enjoy the aromatherapy experience.

How Long Do Shower Melts Last?
Small shower melts, like the ones I created for this post, typically last for one shower, and possibly two, depending on their placement and the duration of your shower.

How Do You Make Shower Melts Last Longer?
To extend the life of your shower melts, keep them out of direct water flow. If they get too wet, they will fizz away quickly, and the essential oils will dissipate too fast.

Using kaolin clay in the recipe also helps prolong their duration by slowing the reaction between the baking soda and citric acid.

Can You Use a Shower Bomb as a Bath Bomb?
No, it is not safe to use shower melts as bath bombs. Shower steamers are designed to infuse the air with essential oils and are not meant for skin contact.

Essential oils are not water-soluble, meaning that if you add them to bathwater, they will pool on the surface, which can lead to irritation and skin rashes. Bath bombs typically contain an emulsifier that safely distributes essential oils in the water, whereas shower steamers do not include such agents.

For more information about essential oil bath safety, check out this article by the Tisserand Institute.

Homemade shower melts: a lovely beauty and wellness gift idea

Shower Steamers as Unique Homemade Gifts

Tips for Packaging Shower Melts for Gifting
When preparing your DIY shower melts as gifts, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their quality. Here are some packaging tips:

  • Airtight Containers: Keep your shower melts in an airtight container or jar to protect them from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. A dry cupboard is an ideal storage location.
  • Cute Packaging Ideas: Consider using 4oz quilted mason jars or flip-top jars for a charming presentation. These containers not only look appealing but also ensure that your shower melts stay fresh.

Shower Bomb Favors for Weddings and Parties

Shower bombs make for thoughtful and budget-friendly favors for weddings and parties. You can easily package two to three shower melts in a small organza or muslin bag, then attach a thank-you tag for a beautiful and memorable wedding favor!

Wellness Gift Set

Incorporate your shower bombs into a wellness gift set! They make a delightful addition to a pamper hamper and are a unique gift idea for natural beauty enthusiasts.

For more beauty and wellness gift inspirations, consider adding chocolate rose bath truffles, a luxurious milk and honey bath soak, or refreshing pink lemonade tub tea to your collection.

Printable labels and gift tags

This homemade shower melts recipe comes with free printable labels and gift tags, perfect for packaging and gifting!

The round printable labels are specifically designed to fit the lids of 4 oz mason jars. The gift tags feature thoughtful sayings for various occasions and holidays.

To access the free printable PDF, simply sign up using the email form below. Once you confirm your email, you’ll receive immediate access.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, making your own aromatherapy shower melts is not only a fun and rewarding DIY project but also a fantastic way to enhance your daily shower routine. With simple ingredients and customizable essential oil blends, you can create shower tablets tailored to your mood, whether you’re seeking energy, relaxation, or relief from colds. These delightful shower melts can also serve as thoughtful gifts for friends and family, packaged beautifully with the included labels and tags. So why not indulge in a little self-care and create your own shower melts today? Transform your showers into a soothing escape and elevate your wellness experience, one melt at a time!

WHAT IS BEST ANTIPERSPIRANT FOR SENSITIVE SKIN? 15 BEST TOP PICKS

Finding the right antiperspirant can feel like a sweaty quest, especially if you have sensitive skin. Harsh chemicals and fragrances can leave your underarms feeling itchy and irritated. But fear not! This guide unveils the 15 best antiperspirants formulated specifically for sensitive skin. we’ll explore gentle yet effective options, from popular drugstore finds to dermatologist-recommended favorites. Get ready to ditch the sweat and irritation, all while keeping your underarms feeling fresh and comfortable.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST ANTIPERSPIRANT FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

When choosing an antiperspirant for sensitive skin, look for ingredients and features that minimize irritation while providing effective sweat protection. Here’s what to consider:

Aluminum Salts: Opt for antiperspirants containing aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex or aluminum sesquichlorohydrate. These types of aluminum offer good sweat protection while being gentler on sensitive skin. Aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex works at a more superficial level, reducing irritation from hydrochloric acid, a common culprit. Aluminum sesquichlorohydrate is a newer ingredient well-suited for sensitive skin.

Skip the Alcohol:  Alcohol is often used to speed drying and create a cooling sensation, but it can be very drying and irritating for sensitive skin. Choose an alcohol-free formula to avoid this discomfort.

Paraben-Free is Key: Parabens are preservatives that can trigger irritation, especially in delicate areas like the underarms. Look for paraben-free options to minimize the risk of a reaction.

Fragrance-Free for Fewer Reactions: If you have sensitive skin or a history of eczema, fragrance can be a major irritant. Opt for fragrance-free antiperspirants to reduce the chance of a reaction.

Cream for Comfort: Cream antiperspirants often contain hydrating ingredients that can soothe and protect sensitive skin. Consider a cream formula in a jar or tube for added comfort and reduced irritation.

ARE ANTIPERSPIRANTS SAFE?

In the past, there were worries about antiperspirants and deodorants causing health problems, particularly breast cancer. Thankfully, extensive research has shown that antiperspirants are safe for regular use. Ingredients like aluminum salts are carefully regulated to ensure safety.

So, you can use antiperspirants with confidence! However, if you have sensitive skin, there are a few things to keep in mind. Avoid putting antiperspirant on your face or other sensitive areas. The skin under your arms is thin and delicate, and antiperspirant can irritate it, especially if you have eczema or allergies to fragrance or dyes. In very rare cases, long-term use might lead to a small, harmless cyst.

If you have sensitive skin or any concerns about using antiperspirants, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor. They can help you choose a product that’s right for you and address any specific worries you may have.

HOW DO ANTIPERSPIRANTS WORK?

Sweat is actually good for you! It helps your body cool down and get rid of waste. But sometimes, sweating can be a bit embarrassing or uncomfortable. That’s where antiperspirants come in.

Antiperspirants work by plugging tiny holes in your skin called sweat ducts. These ducts are like tunnels that connect sweat glands to the surface of your skin. When you sweat, the sweat travels through these ducts and evaporates from your skin, cooling you down.

Antiperspirants contain aluminum salts. These salts form a kind of gel-like plug inside the sweat ducts. This plug blocks sweat from reaching the surface of your skin, so you sweat less and stay drier for longer.

Keep in mind that antiperspirants don’t stop sweat completely. Sweating is a natural and important bodily function. But antiperspirants do help to reduce the amount of sweat you produce, keeping you feeling fresh and dry throughout the day.

15 BEST ANTIPERSPIRANTS FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

DOVE ADVANCED CARE ANTIPERSPIRANT DEODORANT SENSITIVE SKIN

Dove Advanced Care Antiperspirant Deodorant Sensitive Skin is a deodorant designed for people with sensitive underarms. It contains ¼ moisturizers and is free of alcohol (ethanol) to help soothe skin irritation caused by shaving. This unscented deodorant provides up to 72 hours of sweat and odor protection, while keeping your underarms feeling soft and smooth. If you’re looking for an effective deodorant that’s gentle on your skin, Dove Advanced Care Sensitive Skin might be a good option for you.

VANICREAM ANTIPERSPIRANT/DEODORANT FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

Vanicream Antiperspirant/Deodorant is a fragrance-free clinical-strength deodorant formulated specifically for those with sensitive skin. It provides 24-hour odor and wetness protection without using harsh chemicals or common irritants like fragrance, dyes, parabens, or ethanol. This aluminum-free deodorant goes on smooth and leaves no residue, making it a gentle yet effective option for people with sensitive skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

CERTAIN DRI PRESCRIPTION STRENGTH CLINICAL ANTIPERSPIRANT ROLL-ON

Certain Dri Prescription Strength Clinical Antiperspirant Roll-On is a powerful antiperspirant designed for people who experience excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis. It contains 15% aluminum chloride, one of the highest concentrations available over-the-counter, to effectively block sweat glands and minimize wetness for up to 72 hours. Certain Dri is fragrance-free and comes in a roll-on applicator for easy application. However, due to its high aluminum content, it’s recommended to consult with a doctor before using, especially if you have any underlying skin conditions.

SECRET CLINICAL STRENGTH INVISIBLE SOLID ANTIPERSPIRANT & DEODORANT IN COCONUT WATER SCENT

Secret Clinical Strength Invisible Solid Antiperspirant & Deodorant in Coconut Water Scent is a deodorant designed for long-lasting sweat and odor protection. Boasting clinical strength formula, it offers 48 hours of defense against sweat triggered by stress, heat, or activity. The invisible solid deodorant goes on smooth, leaving no white residue, while the coconut water scent provides a refreshing touch. This product is also designed with female dermatologists and is certified cruelty-free by PETA.

MITCHUM ALUMINUM-FREE DEODORANT FOR MEN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE

Mitchum Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Men Active Lifestyle is designed for guys on the go who want odor protection without aluminum. It utilizes natural ingredients and odor neutralizers to combat sweat stink for long-lasting freshness. This deodorant is ideal for daily use and caters to active men with its sweat and odor control abilities. While it might not offer the same level of wetness protection as an antiperspirant, it’s a great aluminum-free choice for those who prioritize odor control.

NATIVE DEODORANT 

Native Deodorant is a natural deodorant brand that caters to both men and women. Their deodorants are aluminum-free and made with ingredients like baking soda, coconut oil, and shea butter. This makes them a good option for people with sensitive skin or those who prefer aluminum-free deodorants. Native deodorants come in a variety of scents and offer up to 72 hours of odor protection.

SCHMIDT’S NATURAL DEODORANT

Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant is an aluminum-free deodorant option that’s popular for its natural ingredients and variety of scents. Made with coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils, it appeals to those looking for a gentle deodorant. They offer a wide range of scents, including ones suitable for sensitive skin. Schmidt’s deodorant is effective for odor control, but may not provide the same level of sweat control as an antiperspirant.

TOM’S OF MAINE DEODORANT

Tom’s of Maine Deodorant is an aluminum-free deodorant made with natural ingredients like arrowroot powder and baking soda. This makes them a good choice for people with sensitive skin or those looking for an aluminum-free option. Tom’s of Maine deodorants come in a variety of scents for both men and women, including unscented versions. They offer odor protection, but like most natural deodorants, may not be as effective in controlling sweat as antiperspirants.

ARM & HAMMER ESSENTIALS DEODORANT BAKING SODA FREE

Arm & Hammer Essentials Deodorant Baking Soda Free is an aluminum-free deodorant designed for those who prefer natural ingredients or have sensitive skin that irritates easily from baking soda. It utilizes natural plant extracts and other odor fighters to combat odor while still providing freshness. Available in various scents, Arm & Hammer Essentials Deodorant offers 24-hour odor protection. However, like most natural deodorants, it may not be as effective in controlling sweat as antiperspirants.

CRYSTAL MINERAL DEODORANT STICK

Crystal Mineral Deodorant Stick is a natural deodorant made with mineral salts, typically alum. It works by creating a barrier on your skin that inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria. This deodorant is advertised as aluminum-free, paraben-free, and long-lasting, offering up to 24 hours of protection. It comes in a stick form and is said to be non-sticky, non-staining, and leave no white residue.

THE HONEY POT SENSITIVE SKIN DEODORANT

The Honey Pot Sensitive Skin Deodorant is a spray designed for those with sensitive skin. It uses plant-derived ingredients to neutralize odor and keep you fresh. This deodorant is free of irritants commonly found in deodorants, such as aluminum, parabens, and artificial fragrances. The Honey Pot Sensitive Skin Deodorant is suitable for daily use and can be applied to underarms, panties, and even feet.

HELLO PRODUCTS HELLO BELLO DEODORANT WIPES

Hello Bello Deodorant Wipes are designed for convenient, on-the-go freshness. These wipes offer a quick and easy way to stay fresh without the need for traditional deodorant sticks or sprays. They are infused with natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin, making them suitable for all skin types. The wipes are biodegradable, ensuring an eco-friendly choice for personal hygiene. Perfect for travel, the gym, or any time you need a quick refresh, Hello Bello Deodorant Wipes provide a portable solution to stay odor-free.

GREEN GOO DEODORANT CREAM 

Green Goo doesn’t actually offer a Deodorant Cream, but they do have a Gel Deodorant that might be what you’re interested in. This gel deodorant is made with natural ingredients and is free of aluminum, parabens, and other harsh chemicals. It comes in a variety of scents, like lavender and lemongrass, and is designed to neutralize odor and keep you fresh. Since it’s a gel, it should go on smooth and be gentle on even sensitive skin.

CORPUS NATURALS DEODORANT

Corpus Naturals Deodorant is an aluminum-free, natural deodorant that prioritizes clean ingredients and pleasant scents. Their deodorants come in stick form and are made with plant-based ingredients and essential oils to neutralize odor and keep you fresh. Corpus Naturals Deodorant boasts a variety of scents, like cedarwood and jasmine, so you can find one that suits your tastes. Because they are aluminum-free, Corpus Naturals Deodorants may not be as effective for everyone, especially those with very active lifestyles.

LUME DEODORANT

Lume Deodorant is a unique deodorant option that ditches aluminum and baking soda in favor of probiotics. These probiotics help neutralize odor-causing bacteria rather than simply masking the smell. Lume Deodorant comes in cream and stick formulas, both designed for 72-hour odor protection for various body areas, including underarms. While some users love it, it can take time for your body chemistry to adjust to Lume, and it might not be as effective for everyone, particularly those with very active lifestyles, due to the lack of aluminum.

FAQ

1. What deodorant should I use if I have sensitive armpits?

Coconut oil and shea butter.

2. Is it OK to use antiperspirant daily?

Yes, it is generally safe to use antiperspirant daily.

3. What is a natural alternative to antiperspirant?

Baking Soda and Cornstarch, Lemon Juice, Apple Cider Vinegar, Witch Hazel.

CONCLUSION

Finding the right antiperspirant for sensitive skin can feel like searching for a holy grail. But with the right knowledge, you can conquer sweat and irritation! This guide has equipped you with the essential factors to consider: choosing gentle formulas, understanding ingredient functions, and navigating labels.

Remember, patch testing is your friend! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different options until you find the perfect formula that keeps you dry and comfortable without compromising the well-being of your sensitive skin. And if you have any lingering questions or concerns, your doctor is always a valuable resource for personalized advice. So, go forth with confidence, embrace dryness, and ditch the irritation!