massage oil for massage therapy

HOW TO CREATE TALLOW CANDELS WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

Tallow, a natural byproduct of rendering animal fat, offers a clean, long-lasting burn and a unique aesthetic. By infusing these candles with your favorite essential oils, you can create personalized fragrances that promote relaxation, focus, or simply enhance your ambiance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps of creating your own tallow candles, from selecting the right materials to blending essential oils.

How to make tallow candles with essential oils

Candles have a unique way of transforming any space into a relaxing haven. Whether I’m preparing a meal, working at my computer, or indulging in a spa day at home, I love lighting a candle to set the mood.

There’s just something about the calming atmosphere candles create – they’re a staple in my home. And even during the seasons when I don’t burn them as often, they’re always handy in case of a power outage.

Living naturally often means letting go of your favorite commercial candles. But with this easy tallow candle recipe with essential oils, you can make your own toxin-free candles at home! It’s simpler than you think.

Ready to create your own chemical-free candles? Keep reading to learn how…

What are tallow candles?

Tallow candles are made from tallow, an age-old ingredient used in candle-making for thousands of years. Unlike modern commercial candles, which can release harmful toxins into the air, tallow candles provide a healthier, natural alternative.

Many people aren’t aware, but commercial candles often contain toxic chemicals that, when burned, release harmful fumes into the air, affecting the health of you and your family (source). To maintain a chemical-free home, I choose to use only pure, high-quality candles made from tallow—one of my favorite ingredients.

Tips in making tallow candles with essential oils

Making candles doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With this simple recipe, you can easily create dozens of tallow candles in just a few minutes.

Here are some helpful tips for making the best tallow candles:

  • Scenting your candles: Adding fragrance is totally up to you. If you’re making candles purely for decoration or light, you may want to skip fragrances altogether. If you’d like to add a scent, be sure to use only pure, natural essential oils. I recommend essential oils from trusted brands like Plant Therapy for the best quality.
  • Lubricating your molds: Before pouring in the tallow, remember to lubricate the candle molds with an oil such as coconut or olive oil. This ensures the candles come out smoothly once they’re set.
  • Choosing the right wick: It’s important to choose the right wick for your candles. Look for organic cotton wicks that are coated with beeswax, if possible. Some commercial wicks contain chemicals, so be mindful of what you use. My personal favorite are beeswax-coated organic cotton wicks.
  • Extra candles for gifting: I always make a few extra candles to have on hand as last-minute gifts. They’re perfect for hostess gifts or adding to a holiday gift basket.

Now that you’ve got my top tips, keep reading for step-by-step instructions to make your own tallow candles!

How to make tallow candles with essential oils

Making tallow candles with essential oils is one of my favorite activities. Not only do they help create a peaceful environment, but making them is also a fun and easy craft that you can complete in just an afternoon. Here’s how you can make your own:

INGREDIENTS:

  • Grass-fed beef tallow (from leaf fat; soft tallow from trim fat won’t be hard enough)
  • Essential oils (60 drops per cup of tallow)
  • Coconut oil or olive oil (to help with pouring consistency)
  • Wicks (cotton wicks are a great choice)
  • Glass jar or candle mold (for shaping your candles)

GLASS JAR CANDLE INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Melt the tallow: Gently heat the pure tallow in a saucepan until it turns into a liquid. Be sure to do this on low heat to avoid burning it.
  • Cool the tallow: Allow the melted tallow to cool down a bit, but don’t let it solidify yet.
  • Add essential oils: Once the tallow has cooled slightly, add 60 drops of essential oils per cup of tallow. Stir well to ensure the oils are fully mixed in.
  • Prepare the wick: Secure the wick by placing a clothespin on the top of the glass jar, letting the wick hang down into the center of the jar.
  • Pour the tallow mixture: Carefully pour the tallow mixture into the glass jar, making sure not to disturb the wick. Leave some space at the top of the jar.
  • Let it cool: Allow the candle to set and cool at room temperature for several hours or overnight.
  • Trim the wick: Once the candle has fully solidified, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the surface of the tallow.
  • Light and enjoy: Your candle is now ready to be lit and enjoyed!

PILLAR JAR CANDLE INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Lubricate the mold: Use coconut or olive oil to lightly lubricate the inside of the candle mold. This will help you remove the candle once it’s solidified.
  • Thread the wick: String the wick through the center of the candle mold, leaving extra length to trim later. Use a clothespin to hold the wick upright at the top of the mold.
  • Leave space at the tip: When pouring the tallow, leave some space at the tip of the mold to allow room for any expansion.
  • Pour the tallow mixture: Pour the liquid tallow into the mold, filling it up to your desired height.
  • Let it set: Allow the candle to cool and solidify at room temperature.
  • Remove the candle: Once the candle is completely solid, carefully remove it from the mold. Trim the wick to your desired length.
  • Light and enjoy: Your pillar candle is ready to be lit and will provide a cozy, relaxing atmosphere.

What supplies do you need for candle making?

Surprisingly enough, making your own tallow candles doesn’t require a lot of equipment. When using tallow, you can easily melt it on your stove and start crafting right away. Here’s a quick list of the supplies you’ll need:

SUPPLIES FOR TALLOW CANDLES

  • Glass jars (Make sure they are thick, like mason jars, to prevent the glass from shattering due to heat)
  • Natural wick (Cotton or beeswax-coated wicks are great)
  • Essential oils (Choose your favorite natural oils to scent the candle)
  • Clothespin (To hold the wick in place while the candle sets)
  • Candle mold (If you’re making pillar candles, here’s a great option for that)

MELTING THE TALLOW

The most time-consuming part of the entire candle-making process is melting the tallow. You’ll want to heat it gently on the stove over low heat, as it can take some time to fully melt, depending on the amount you’re using. But don’t worry — once it’s melted, the rest of the process is quick and easy!

Keep reading to learn more about the step-by-step process for melting tallow and making your own candles!

How long does it take to melt tallow?

Tallow is the hard fat found around the organs of animals, and it has countless uses, making it one of my favorite ingredients for a natural living lifestyle. Beyond making candles, you can use tallow in cooking, such as for frying or baking pie crusts, or even for crafting projects like the homemade candles featured in this article.

If you want to make your own tallow, it’s easy to render it using just a crock pot! Rendering tallow at home typically takes several hours, depending on how much you’re melting. For example, it takes about 5-6 hours to fully melt around 4 quarts of tallow. This method is simple and efficient, and it ensures you’re getting pure, high-quality tallow for all your DIY projects.

How much tallow should you melt?

When it comes to rendering tallow, I like to melt as much as I can — or as much as my crock pot will hold. That way, I can make my candles in batches and have some extra tallow for other projects or even gifts.

Tallow is incredibly versatile, and there are so many ways to use it beyond making candles. Here are a few ideas for utilizing your tallow:

  • Make skincare products: Tallow is fantastic for creating nourishing lotions, balms, and soaps. (Check out this complete guide to tallow skincare for more details.)
  • Season your cast iron skillets: Use tallow to season your cast iron cookware, giving it a non-stick surface and helping it last longer.
  • Cook with it: Tallow has a high smoke point, making it great for frying, sautéing, or baking.
  • Condition leather: Tallow works wonders as a leather conditioner, keeping your leather goods supple and protected.

Honestly, if I had to choose one thing to take with me to a deserted island, tallow would definitely be on the list. It’s just that useful!

What are the best essential oils to add in a tallow candle?

One of the things I truly love about candles is how the right scent can completely transform the atmosphere of a room. Here are a few of my favorite scents for my homemade candles:

  • Lavender: A calming and soothing fragrance, perfect for relaxation.
  • Chamomile: A gentle, floral aroma that creates a peaceful, comforting environment.
  • Frankincense: A rich, resinous scent that adds depth and warmth, ideal for meditation or grounding.
  • Vetiver: Earthy and grounding, this scent is great for creating a serene and tranquil space.
  • Tranquil Synergy: A calming blend of essential oils that promotes relaxation and peace.
  • Relax Synergy: A comforting mix that soothes the mind and body, perfect for unwinding.

It’s also crucial to highlight the importance of using pure essential oils. Personally, I only use Plant Therapy essential oils in my home. They are known for their high-quality oils, sourced from the best plants. When it comes to candles, you want to ensure you’re using oils that are free from toxic chemicals, as many commercial oils can contain harmful substances. By choosing pure oils, you’ll get the best scent possible and avoid introducing any harmful chemicals into your home. This will not only improve the scent of your candles but also make your environment healthier and safer.

How long do tallow candles last?

The longevity of your homemade tallow candles depends on factors like the amount of tallow used, the wick type, and the candle size. To ensure your candles last as long as possible, here are a few tips:

  • Candle Size: Choose a larger container for your candles to increase their burn time. A bigger candle will take longer to fully melt, meaning it will last for several uses.
  • Wick Type: Opt for the right wick for your candle’s size. A wick that’s too small may burn too quickly, while a wick that’s too large may cause the candle to burn too fast and unevenly. Proper wick selection ensures an even, long-lasting burn.

By making sure your candle is sized appropriately and using the right wick, you can enjoy your homemade tallow candles for many months to come.

How to store tallow candles properly?

To ensure your tallow candles last as long as possible, store them in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. A basement is an ideal location due to its consistent, cool temperature. If you don’t have a basement, a low shelf in your closet works well too.

Proper storage will help preserve the quality of the tallow and the essential oils, allowing your candles to last for several years. Just make sure they are kept in a stable, cool environment to prevent any melting or degradation over time.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, making your own tallow candles with essential oils is a rewarding and eco-friendly way to enjoy a natural, toxin-free alternative to commercial candles. Not only do they provide a clean, long-lasting burn, but you can also customize the scent to suit your mood or needs. Whether you’re looking to add a relaxing fragrance to your home, create a unique gift, or have a backup for power outages, homemade tallow candles are an excellent addition to your home. With just a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can enjoy a sustainable, personal touch to your candle collection.

10 BEST SCALP MASSAGER FOR HAIR GROWTH

Scalp massagers are handheld tools used to stimulate the scalp by applying pressure and increasing blood circulation. They have become increasingly popular in recent times, with claims of promoting hair growth, relaxation, and scalp health. While there is some scientific evidence to support these claims, it is important to note that more research is needed. Here’s a look at 10 scalp massagers that may be worth considering.

OUR TOP PICKS 

AVEDA SCALP SOLUTIONS STIMULATING SCALP MASSAGER

Aveda, a renowned name in the world of hair care, has solidified its reputation through an extensive range of high-quality products. Among their offerings, the scalp massager emerges as a standout choice for beauty enthusiasts seeking effectiveness and relaxation. Crafted with ultra-thin bristles of different lengths and rounded ball tips, this massager promotes gentle microcirculation, contributing to both relaxation and optimal scalp health. Despite its impressive features, it’s worth noting that this particular massager is most effective when used on wet hair, ensuring optimal results for users.

LEONOR GREYL MASSAGING SCALP BRUSH

This product earns top-notch ratings across the board with a perfect 5/5 in Bristles, Ease of Use, and Serum Penetration. The soft silicone bristles offer an ideal balance, providing just the right amount of flexibility for a smooth and tangle-free massage experience. However, it’s important to note that this manual model falls on the pricier side. Despite its cost, the impeccable performance and comfort make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-quality, effective massage tool.

VEGAMOUR GRO SCALP MASSAGER

Vegamour’s Gro Scalp Massager boasts several notable pros, including a built-in handle for convenient use and flexible bristles that enhance its functionality. The grooved, ergonomic base of the massager provides an easy grip, ensuring extra stability, especially when maneuvering through curly and thicker hair textures. A noteworthy feature highlighted by multiple reviewers is its effectiveness in evenly distributing hair serums and scalp oils, making it a versatile and practical tool for post-shower hair care routines.

MOUNT LAI JADE MASSAGING COMB

This handcrafted comb from Mount Lai earns top-notch ratings in Bristles, Ease of Use, and Serum Penetration, each scoring a perfect 5/5. What sets it apart is the incorporation of natural jade stone, providing a cooling and relaxing sensation when applied to the scalp. The craftsmanship and thoughtful design make it a standout choice. Keep in mind that the hard surface of the comb may make it less than ideal for those seeking a deep massage or effective shampoo lathering. Despite this limitation, the Mount Lai Jade Massaging Comb stands out for its unique blend of luxury and therapeutic benefits.

CEREMONIA SCALP MASSAGER

The Ceremonia Scalp Massager comes with a set of notable pros, making it a preferred choice for those seeking an effective yet budget-friendly option. Boasting water-resistant qualities, this massager offers versatility for use in various settings. Despite the initial impression of sharp-looking rubber teeth, users need not worry about discomfort. Instead of causing pain, Ceremonia’s best-selling tool is adept at gently breaking up flaky skin, providing a seamless and comfortable experience for individuals dealing with flaky scalps. With its affordable price point and scalp-friendly design, the Ceremonia Scalp Massager stands out as a practical and accessible choice in hair care.

JUPITER SCALP BRUSH

The Jupiter Scalp Brush earns a mixed set of ratings, with a 4/5 for Bristles, 3/5 for Ease of Use, and a perfect 5/5 for Serum Penetration. The appeal lies in its design featuring dozens of small, compact bristles, ensuring thorough and comprehensive massaging coverage across the entire scalp. Due to its lightweight material and smaller size, users may find that applying extra pressure is necessary for an optimal experience. Despite these considerations, the Jupiter Scalp Brush is particularly recommended for individuals dealing with psoriasis, offering targeted care for specific scalp conditions.

BRIOGEO SCALP REVIVAL STIMULATING THERAPY MASSAGER

Briogeo’s scalp massager stands out for its effectiveness in addressing flaky scalps, making it a valuable addition to any self-care routine. The firm silicone bristles offer versatility, suitable for use on both wet and dry hair. Conveniently designed for shower use, the massager includes a hanging string for easy storage. Remember that this tool may not be ideal for those with sensitive scalps, as the firm bristles may be too intense for more delicate skin. Overall, Briogeo’s scalp massager provides a practical solution for individuals seeking an efficient and versatile option to enhance their scalp care routine.

FLATHEAD PRODUCTS SCALP MASSAGER

Flathead Products Scalp Massager is a standout addition to any hair care routine, designed to provide a soothing and invigorating experience. This scalp massager features a unique flathead design, offering a distinctive approach to scalp massage. The ergonomic handle ensures ease of use, allowing for a comfortable grip during application. The massager is equipped with gentle yet effective bristles that stimulate the scalp, promoting blood circulation and helping to alleviate tension. Whether used on wet or dry hair, the Flathead Products Scalp Massager caters to various preferences, making it a versatile tool for individuals looking to enhance their scalp health and overall relaxation.

VIRTUE FLOURISH MANTA HEALTHY HAIR BRUSH

The versatile and user-friendly design of this dense and flexible scalp massager makes it an ideal choice for individuals with sensitive scalps or concerns about hair breakage. The massager’s adaptability is a standout feature, as it readily conforms to the shape of your hand and head, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience. Its dense yet flexible construction allows for effective scalp stimulation without causing unnecessary discomfort or stress to the hair strands. This thoughtful design caters to those seeking a customizable and gentle approach to scalp care, making it a practical and accommodating tool for a variety of users.

COMFIER CORDLESS HAIR SCALP MASSAGER

The Comfier Cordless Hair Scalp Massager is a revolutionary addition to hair care routines, offering a cordless and convenient solution for soothing scalp massages. This innovative massager combines modern technology with ergonomic design, providing users with the freedom to use it without the constraints of cords. The device is equipped with gentle yet effective bristles that cater to various hair types and scalp sensitivities. Its cordless nature allows for flexibility in usage, whether during your hair care routine or on the go. The Comfier Cordless Hair Scalp Massager is designed to promote relaxation, stimulate blood circulation, and enhance the overall health of your scalp, making it a versatile and user-friendly tool for those seeking a modern and effective approach to scalp massage.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BENEFITS TO USING SCALP MASSAGERS?

Scalp massagers offer a range of benefits that contribute to overall scalp health and well-being. Some of the key advantages include:

Improved Blood Circulation: Scalp massagers stimulate blood flow to the scalp, promoting better circulation. This increased blood flow helps deliver essential nutrients to the hair follicles, potentially enhancing hair growth.

Relaxation and Stress Relief: The massaging action provides a soothing and relaxing experience, helping to alleviate tension and stress. The gentle pressure on the scalp can contribute to an overall sense of relaxation and well-being.

Exfoliation: Scalp massagers can help exfoliate the scalp by removing dead skin cells, product buildup, and excess oil. This exfoliation can contribute to a healthier scalp environment and may reduce the risk of dandruff or flakiness.

Enhanced Product Absorption: Massaging the scalp aids in the distribution and absorption of hair care products, such as shampoos, conditioners, and serums. This ensures that the products are evenly applied and can be more effective in promoting scalp and hair health.

Encourages Hair Growth: By promoting blood circulation and reducing scalp tension, scalp massagers may contribute to healthier hair growth. Improved nutrient delivery to the hair follicles can support the hair growth cycle.

Reduced Scalp Itchiness: Regular use of a scalp massager can help alleviate itchiness by improving circulation and promoting a clean, exfoliated scalp. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or irritated scalps.

Convenience and Relaxation: Many scalp massagers are designed for ease of use and can be incorporated into your regular shower routine. This convenience, combined with the relaxing sensation of the massage, makes it a simple yet effective self-care practice.

WHAT MAKES A QUALITY SCALP MASSAGER

Dr. Marcus MD, a board-certified dermatologist, and founder of Maei MD underscores the importance of selecting a scalp massager with soft bristles. For electric models, he suggests choosing those with gentle vibrations to ensure a pain-free experience without tangling your hair. Another crucial factor is the inclusion of an ergonomic grip or handle, particularly essential for use in the shower, on wet hair, or when applying products like serums or shampoos. It’s vital that the massager fits comfortably in your hand, enabling precise control over movement and pressure as you work across your scalp. These considerations collectively contribute to a more effective and user-friendly experience when choosing the right scalp massager.

WHO SHOULDN’T USE A SCALP MASSAGER?

Avoid using a scalp massager if you have active inflammation due to conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or any other scalp irritations. It is advisable to wait until the inflammation subsides before incorporating a scalp massager into your routine. Before doing so, it’s essential to consult with your dermatologist to ensure that using a scalp massager is suitable for your specific scalp condition and won’t exacerbate any ongoing issues.

CONCLUSION

The pursuit of healthier hair growth is complemented by the thoughtful selection of an appropriate scalp massager. Through this exploration of the 10 best scalp massagers for hair growth, it becomes evident that factors such as soft bristles, gentle vibrations, and ergonomic design play pivotal roles in enhancing the effectiveness and user experience of these tools. While they do show promise with promoting hair growth, wishing you many relaxing moments with your scalp massager.