rose and ben brushes

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ACHIEVING KOREAN GLASS SKIN

Korean Glass Skin has taken the beauty world by storm, and I’m completely hooked! I’m diving into Korean skincare, exploring the routines, and trying out products — but where do I even begin? Big thanks to Ellie Choi, whose viral glass skin-care routine made this trend explode globally.

It’s more than a trend; it’s an obsession that has captivated the beauty community, and this fascination with Korean glass skin shows no signs of fading. But what does “glass skin” actually mean? Essentially, it’s the goal of achieving skin that’s clear, free of congestion, blemish-free, even-toned, glowing, dewy, and soft — as transparent and radiant as glass itself. It sounds almost too good to be true, but the results are within reach!

Ever wondered why Koreans seem to have such glass-like, radiant, and supple skin? While genetics and diet do play a role, their dedication to skincare is equally important. Koreans treat skincare as a form of self-care, following a routine that could rival that of an aesthetician — and it’s no walk in the park, let me tell you!

The great news? You can achieve that coveted glass skin at home with this straightforward guide! Here, I’ve broken down a step-by-step Korean skincare routine that you can easily follow. You’ll find recommendations for both natural ingredients and Korean products available on the market, so you can customize it based on your preferences.

Ultimately, the choice is yours on how you’d like to approach it, but consistency, the right products, and hydration are key. With dedication and this guide, you’ll be on your way to achieving glass-like, glowing skin at home!

Steps Involved in the Korean Glass Skin Routine

  • Double Cleansing- Oil and Foam
  • Exfoliation 
  • Toning 
  • Essence
  • Serum
  • Sheet Mask 
  • Eye Cream 
  • Moisturizer 
  • Sleeping Mask 
  • Sunscreen

      Step-by-Step Guide to 10-step Korean Glass Skin routine at home

      STEP 1: CLEANSING

      More precisely, the term “Double Cleansing” describes this crucial first step in the Korean glass skin routine. It involves two cleansing stages: first, using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities, followed by a foam or water-based cleanser to deeply clean the pores. Double cleansing ensures a clean slate, setting the foundation for the rest of the skincare routine and helping you achieve that flawless, glass-like finish.

      Oil Cleansing

      The first essential step in the Korean glass skin routine is oil cleansing. An oil-based cleanser gently removes makeup, dirt, and other impurities from the skin without stripping away its natural moisture. You can use a store-bought oil cleanser or make your own at home using natural oils.

      Oil cleansers are effective at dissolving impurities, leaving your skin clean yet hydrated. For a homemade cleanser, try blending coconut and castor oils — just remember to skip castor oil if you have dry skin, as it can be too drying. Olive oil is an excellent alternative for dry skin, helping maintain a soft, nourished feel.

      DIY Oil Cleanser Recipe

      1. Prepare Your Base Oil
        Start by adding cold-pressed, extra virgin coconut or olive oil to a jar or pump bottle. These oils are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and have natural antibacterial properties.
      2. Melt Coconut Oil (if using)
        If you’re using coconut oil, scoop or pump it into a bowl. Melt the oil by placing the bowl in warm water — avoid using the microwave to preserve nutrients.
      3. Combine Oils
        Add olive oil to the melted coconut oil, then transfer the mixture into a bottle. Shake well before each use, as the oils may naturally separate over time.
      4. Customizing for Skin Type
        • For Oily and Acne-Prone Skin: Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your base. Its antimicrobial and antiseptic qualities are beneficial for acne.
        • For Aging Skin: Add lavender or frankincense oil to your base for added anti-aging benefits.

      This gentle, natural oil cleanser is easy to customize and helps effectively remove impurities while nourishing your skin.

      How to Use Your Oil Cleanser
      Take about a teaspoon of the oil cleanser and gently massage it over your face using soft, circular motions. This helps lift dirt, makeup, and excess sebum from the skin. Rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove impurities and prepare your skin for the next step.

      Foam Cleansing

      The foam cleansing step purifies the skin on a deeper level, removing any leftover residue from oil cleansing and deeply cleansing the pores. This step creates a fresh, clean canvas for the remaining skincare routine. You can use a store-bought foaming cleanser or make a homemade version to suit your skin’s needs.

      DIY Foaming Face Wash

      Homemade Rice Water Face Wash Recipe

      You’ll Need:

      • Soap dispenser
      • Measuring cup
      • Spoon
      • 2/3 cup rice water
      • 1/3 cup liquid Castile soap
      • 2-3 drops of a mild essential oil (like jojoba, lavender, or moringa oil)

      Instructions:

      1. Mix Ingredients:
        Start by measuring 2/3 cup of rice water and 1/3 cup of liquid Castile soap. Pour both into a measuring cup.
      2. Add Essential Oil:
        Add 2-3 drops of your preferred mild essential oil for added nourishment and fragrance.
      3. Transfer to Dispenser:
        Pour the mixture into a soap dispenser, then gently swirl the bottle before each use to keep the ingredients well-mixed.

      Rice water is a staple in Korean skincare, celebrated for its high concentration of vitamins and minerals, which help to brighten, hydrate, and smooth the skin — an essential for achieving that luminous glass-skin look.

      How to Make Rice Water:
      To make rice water, rinse 1/2 cup of uncooked rice, then soak it in 2-3 cups of water for 30 minutes. Strain the water and store it for use as a toner, hair rinse, or as an ingredient in your skincare routine.

      STEP 2 : EXFOLIATE

      The second step in the Korean glass skin routine is exfoliation, which is essential for sloughing away dead skin cells and unclogging pores, revealing a youthful glow and radiant complexion. Exfoliating not only enhances your skin’s appearance but also improves its ability to absorb other skincare products and removes excess oil trapped in pores.

      You can choose between physical exfoliation (like scrubs or brushes) or chemical exfoliation. While traditional physical exfoliation has been a staple, the beauty world is increasingly shifting toward chemical exfoliants for their effectiveness and gentleness. Personally, I’ve become a huge fan of chemical exfoliation, but I still cherish the nostalgic appeal of coffee and orange scrubs. The delightful aromas are simply irresistible!

      Check out the recipes mentioned below—I’m sure you’ll love trying them! Just a couple of reminders: avoid exfoliating daily and concentrate on the areas that need it most. For more information on exfoliation and the latest trends, read here.

      DIY Exfoliators

      • Orange Peel Powder Face Scrub
      • Sugar Citrus Scrub
      • Gram flour and yogurt face scrub

        STEP 3: TONNER

        A toner is essential for balancing your skin’s pH levels and softening its texture. It refreshes your complexion, absorbs excess oil, minimizes the appearance of pores, and helps prevent them from clogging, which can lead to acne. Additionally, a good toner tightens the skin, enhancing its overall appearance. When choosing a toner, look for one that is both hydrating and clarifying to ensure it prepares your skin effectively for the next step in your skincare routine.

        DIY Rice Water Toner

        Rice water toner is excellent for brightening your skin and tightening large pores. Here’s how to make a DIY rice toner, which is an integral step in achieving Korean glass skin at home. When applying the toner, avoid rubbing or pulling at your skin; instead, lightly dab it on and allow it to absorb fully. Remember, do not rinse off any products after this step!

        STEP 4: ESSENCE

        Essence is a vital step in achieving Korean glass skin at home. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, think of essence as a lighter, less concentrated version of serum with a water-like consistency. It enhances the skin’s cellular renewal process, boosting elasticity and firmness while promoting a brighter complexion. Essences deliver essential moisture and target specific skin concerns, such as pigmentation and rosacea. This step has long been a cornerstone of the Korean glass skin routine, and it has recently gained worldwide popularity.

        DIY Rice Essence

        DIY Rice Water Essence Recipe

        Ingredients:

        • 1/2 tsp rice water
        • 1 tbsp glycerin
        • 3 tbsp rose water
        • 8-10 drops of jojoba oil or rose essential oil
        • Aloe vera gel (enough to achieve a slightly runny consistency)

        Instructions:

        1. Combine Ingredients:
          In a mixing bowl, add 1/2 tsp of rice water, 1 tbsp of glycerin, and 3 tbsp of rose water.
        2. Add Oil:
          Include 8-10 drops of jojoba oil or rose essential oil for added nourishment.
        3. Incorporate Aloe Vera:
          Gradually add aloe vera gel until the mixture reaches a slightly runny consistency.
        4. Blend Well:
          Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
        5. Store:
          Transfer the mixture into a pump bottle for easy application.

        This homemade essence will help hydrate your skin while targeting specific concerns, making it a fantastic addition to your Korean glass skin routine!

        STEP 5: SERUM/ AMPOULE

        An ampoule is essentially the Korean counterpart of a serum, offering a more concentrated formulation loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. Unlike essences, which are lighter, serums penetrate deeper into the skin, providing targeted treatment rather than just surface-level hydration. Serums nourish the skin, boost collagen production, and address various issues such as aging, uneven skin tone, and pigmentation. You can use ampoules both day and night; however, I personally prefer applying them at night. This allows your skin more time to absorb all the beneficial vitamins and antioxidants, enhancing their effectiveness.

        DIY Facial Serum Recipe

        Ingredients:

        • 2 tbsp rice
        • 1 cup milk
        • 4 tsp aloe vera gel
        • 2 tsp vitamin E oil
        • 2-3 drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)

        Instructions:

        1. Soak the Rice:
          Soak 2 tbsp of rice in water for 5-6 hours.
        2. Cook the Rice:
          After soaking, transfer the rice to a pan and add 1 cup of milk. Simmer on low heat until the rice is fully cooked.
        3. Strain the Liquid:
          Once cooked, strain the liquid from the rice into a separate bowl. This liquid will serve as the base for your serum.
        4. Combine Ingredients:
          Add 4 tsp of aloe vera gel, 2 tsp of vitamin E oil, and 2-3 drops of essential oil (if using) to the strained liquid.
        5. Mix Well:
          Blend all the ingredients together until well combined. You can adjust the quantity of aloe vera gel for your desired consistency.
        6. Store:
          Transfer the serum into a clean bottle or pump container for easy application.

        This DIY facial serum will provide hydration and nourishment, helping to enhance your skin’s overall health!

        Choose the essential oil according to your skin type

        • Normal- Lavender, Frankincense oil
        • Dry – Lavender, Sandalwood, Jasmine
        • Oily- Tea – tree, Lavender, Peppermint, rosemary

        STEP 6: SHEET MASKS – CERTAINLY A CRUCIAL STEP IN THE KOREAN GLASS SKICARE ROUTINE

        Sheet masks have become incredibly popular among Koreans and are current favorites in the beauty community. They pamper the skin, leaving it smooth and glowing. These masks are designed to hold onto nourishing ingredients, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin layers for optimal absorption. For the best results, you can use sheet masks two to three times a week.

        Available in a wide variety, you can easily purchase them or even make your own at home for a personalized touch!

        DIY Sheet Mask Recipe

        Materials Needed:

        • Baby wipes, cotton muslin cloth, or tissue paper
        • Scissors

        Ingredients:

        • Rice water (cooked or plain)
        • Argan oil
        • Honey
        • Essential oil of your choice (select based on your skin type)

        Instructions:

        1. Prepare the Sheet Mask Base:
        • If using baby wipes or a cloth, cut holes in the fabric for the eyes, nose, and mouth to create a mask shape. If using tissue paper, you can layer a few sheets together.
        1. Make the Mask Solution:
        • In a bowl, combine rice water with a few drops of argan oil, a teaspoon of honey, and your chosen essential oil.
        1. Soak the Mask:
        • Dip the prepared sheet mask into the solution, ensuring it is fully soaked.
        1. Apply the Mask:
        • Gently place the soaked mask on your face, smoothing it out to ensure it adheres well.
        1. Relax and Enjoy:
        • Leave the mask on for about 10 minutes to allow your skin to absorb the nourishing ingredients.
        1. Remove and Follow Up:
        • After 10 minutes, remove the mask and gently pat any remaining essence into your skin. Follow up with your regular skincare routine for best results.

        Enjoy your DIY sheet mask and the glow it brings to your skin!

        STEP 7: EYE CREAM

        Eye cream is an essential product to incorporate into your skincare routine as you approach your thirties. It plays a vital role in addressing concerns like wrinkles, dark circles, and fine lines that often arise with age. You can’t achieve that coveted glass skin look if you have dark circles, puffiness, or bags under your eyes.

        Starting early with an eye cream can help prevent these issues. To apply, simply dab a small amount of eye cream onto your fingertip and gently pat it around the eye area. Avoid tugging or pulling on the delicate skin; a light touch is key to ensuring the product absorbs without causing damage.

        DIY Eye Cream

        You can create an effective and affordable eye cream using coconut oil and vitamin E oil. Here’s how to make it:

        1. Melt Coconut Oil: Start by gently melting some coconut oil until it becomes liquid.
        2. Mix in Vitamin E: Stir in about 10 drops of vitamin E oil to the melted coconut oil.
        3. Store: Transfer the mixture into a small container for easy use.

        Benefits:

        • Coconut Oil: Known for its ability to lighten dark circles, coconut oil deeply moisturizes the skin and helps reduce wrinkles by supporting collagen strength. It also prevents puffiness and bags under the eyes.
        • Vitamin E: This powerful antioxidant combats free radicals that contribute to aging, helping to maintain youthful skin.

        For best results, gently massage the eye cream around your eye area to promote absorption and further lighten dark circles.

        STEP 8: MOISTURIZER

        A moisturizer effectively locks in moisture, replenishing your skin’s hydration levels and providing a radiant glow. Simply take a small amount in your palm and gently massage it into your face to boost blood circulation.

        DIY Rice Cream

        Ingredients:

        • 2 tsp rice
        • 1 cup water
        • 1 tsp milk
        • 2 tsp honey
        • 4 tsp aloe vera gel
        • Vitamin E oil (to taste)
        • Essential oil of your choice (e.g., frankincense oil)

        Instructions:

        1. Cook the Rice: In a pot, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil and let it cook until the rice is soft. Allow some of the water to evaporate and let it cool for about 15 minutes.
        2. Blend: Transfer the cooked rice (along with any remaining water) into a blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.
        3. Mix in Other Ingredients: Add the milk, honey, aloe vera gel, and a few drops of Vitamin E oil to the blended rice. If you’re using an essential oil, add that as well.
        4. Adjust Consistency: Blend again until all ingredients are well combined. If the mixture is too runny, you can add more aloe vera gel to achieve a slightly thick, gel-like consistency.
        5. Store: Transfer the rice cream into a clean container. Use it as a moisturizer to enjoy the benefits of rice for your skin!

        This DIY rice cream is packed with nutrients and hydration, making it a great addition to your skincare routine. Enjoy the glow!

        STEP 9: SLEEPING MASK – IMPORTANT STEP TO ACHIEVE KOREAN GLASS SKIN

        Thanks to K-Beauty for introducing us to this essential mask! A sleeping mask is a crucial part of the Korean skincare routine, setting it apart from regular face masks. Unlike traditional masks, you can apply a sleeping mask and leave it on overnight. You have the option to skip this step, but if you follow this nighttime routine, incorporating it can enhance your results.

        DIY Sleeping Mask:
        Mix a teaspoon of aloe vera gel with a few drops of essential oil. Gently dab it on your face to seal in all the hard work you’ve done!

        CONCLUSION

        In conclusion, achieving the coveted Korean glass skin look requires dedication to a well-structured skincare routine that focuses on hydration, nourishment, and protection. By following the ultimate guide, which includes essential steps like double cleansing, exfoliation, toning, applying serums, and moisturizing, you can create a radiant, dewy complexion that reflects light beautifully. Incorporating products rich in hydrating ingredients and antioxidants, along with regular use of a sleeping mask, will help seal in moisture and enhance your skin’s natural glow. With patience and consistency, you’ll be on your way to achieving that flawless glass skin that is the hallmark of K-Beauty. Embrace this journey to luminous skin, and enjoy the confidence that comes with it!

        ECO-FRIENDLY SUMMER TIPS FOR A HEALTHIER SEASON

        Glorious summer days spent outdoors can quickly be spoiled by pesky wasps, annoying mosquitoes, relentless ants, and painful sunburns.

        But don’t worry! I’ve gathered some super smart summer hacks to help you tackle all these nuisances quickly and effectively, including:

        DIY WASP TRAP

        Unfortunately, it can be challenging to keep wasps out of the garden when you have lovely, sweet-smelling fruit trees that attract them.

        If wasps become a problem, you might need to create a DIY wasp trap. However, only set it up if you’re dealing with an infestation, as it can attract even more wasps to your garden. If you just want to eliminate a few wasps, try this DIY wasp spray instead.

        Making this trap is simple:

        1. Take a large plastic bottle.
        2. Cut off the neck of the bottle.
        3. Invert the neck and place it inside the bottle to create a funnel.
        4. Poke handle holes on either side of the bottle using a screwdriver.
        5. Remove the funnel and add your wasp bait (see below).
        6. Reinsert the funnel and tie string through the holes to create a handle.
        7. Hang the trap on the opposite side of the garden from where you want to relax!

        Wasp Trap Bait

        Different baits work best at various times of the year:

        • Spring: Combine cooked meat fat, water, and a little dish soap. The meat fat attracts wasps during their breeding season.
        • Mid to Late Summer: As fruit ripens, use fruit juice or pieces of ripe fruit mixed with dish soap. The dish soap suffocates the wasps, preventing them from flying so they become trapped.

        Caution: Be very careful when emptying the trap, as there may be live wasps inside.

        Tip: To safely block the funnel overnight, quickly place a tennis ball on top of the trap. The wasps will be dead by morning, and you can then flush them away.

        Wasp Sting Remedies

        If you do get stung by a wasp, use these quick home remedies to relieve pain fast.

        WASP REPELLENT PLANTS

        Plants that repel wasps can effectively help keep these pests away from your garden, patio areas, and dining spaces. Here are some effective wasp-repellent plants:

        • Rue
        • Lemongrass
        • Citronella
        • Eucalyptus
        • Pennyroyal
        • Marigolds
        • Thyme
        • Lemon Balm
        • Basil
        • Cucumbers
        • Spearmint
        • Peppermint

        RUE

        Rue is a semi-woody perennial herb characterized by its yellow flowers and growth height of 2-3 feet. This herb is effective at repelling stinging wasps.

        You can plant rue alongside fruit trees to deter wasps, or use large pots of rue around patios to help keep these pests at bay. Its aromatic foliage not only serves as a natural repellent but also adds beauty to your garden space.

        LEMONGRASS

        Lemongrass is another effective wasp-repelling plant that grows to a height of 2-3 feet. Its tall, dense growth makes it an excellent choice for bordering backyards, gardens, and patios. In addition to repelling wasps, lemongrass adds a fresh scent to your outdoor spaces and can be used in culinary dishes.

        CITRONELLA

        Citronella is a delightful plant with purple flowers and a scent that both wasps and mosquitoes dislike. Growing up to 2 feet tall, citronella can be effectively added to mixed borders to help repel wasps. Its aromatic properties not only keep pests away but also enhance the overall ambiance of your garden.

        EUCALYPTUS

        The beautiful eucalyptus tree is an elegant option for repelling wasps. It can be grown as a tall tree or, with proper pruning, maintained as a graceful shrub. Eucalyptus not only enhances the aesthetic of your garden but also emits a scent that deters wasps, making it a functional and attractive addition to your outdoor space.

        PENNYROYAL

        Pennyroyal is a charming flowering plant recognized for its ability to repel wasps and mosquitoes. However, it’s important to note that pennyroyal is toxic if ingested, so it’s best to avoid planting it near edible herbs to prevent any confusion. Its pleasant appearance can still enhance your garden while providing pest-repelling benefits.

        MARIGOLDS

        Golden marigolds are a vibrant addition to any garden, effectively deterring various pests, including mosquitoes, slugs, snails, and wasps. These hardy flowers are easy to grow in patio pots and can also be used to beautify garden tables, helping to keep wasps away from your food. Their colorful blooms not only enhance the aesthetic of your outdoor space but also serve a practical purpose in pest control.

        THYME

        Thyme is incredibly easy to grow, making it a great choice for both small patio pots and as a charming edging hedge. This fragrant herb not only adds beauty to your outdoor space but also helps repel annoying wasps. Its compact growth and low maintenance requirements make thyme an ideal addition to any garden or patio area.

        LEMON BALM

        Lemon balm adds a delightful fragrance to the garden and is effective at repelling wasps. It looks beautiful in patio pots and can also enhance mixed borders and be planted around fruit trees.

        BASIL

        Basil is a simple-to-grow natural antibiotic that serves as an excellent wasp repellent, making it a perfect addition to any herb garden.

        SPEARMINT

        Place pots of wasp-repellent spearmint on your patio or porch to deter wasps while you relax or enjoy a meal. Plus, with fresh spearmint on hand, you can easily make a variety of recipes, including a deliciously refreshing spearmint iced tea—perfect for those long summer days spent on the porch!

        PEPPERMINT

        Peppermint is another easy-to-grow mint that effectively keeps wasps at bay. Having fresh peppermint in the garden is fantastic for whipping up delicious dishes like mint salad, mint sorbet, or the perfect mint mojitos!

        CUCUMBER

        Last summer, I grew wasp-repellent cucumbers for the first time, and they turned out to be a surprisingly enjoyable and easy gardening project. Cucumbers thrive in pots, allowing you to use them as a wasp-repellent plant on your patio or porch, as well as in your vegetable garden.

        For additional tips, check out this guide to wasp-repellent plants from Five Spot Green Living.

        WASP REPELLENT SPRAY

        A simple DIY wasp repellent spray can also help keep wasps at bay. You can carefully spray it on yourself and around tables and doorways.

        Many common herbs repel wasps, so you can create a DIY wasp spray using an infusion of any of the following herbs found in your kitchen:

        • Rosemary
        • Chamomile
        • Sage
        • Mint
        • Lavender
        • Thyme
        • Aniseed
        • Fennel seed
        • Cloves

        While cloves are excellent at repelling wasps and flies, you might want to avoid spraying them directly on yourself!

        To make the spray, combine equal parts of your herbal infusion (essentially a herb tea) with witch hazel in a small spray bottle.

        Alternatively, if you’re a fan of essential oils, you can make this DIY wasp spray from Five Spot Green Living using clove, geranium, and lemongrass oils.

        WASP KILLER SPRAY

        I try to avoid killing bugs unless absolutely necessary, but sometimes you have to take action if wasps get inside the house. You need to be cautious when dealing with them, as it’s easy to get stung. However, if they land on a hard surface, I use my quick DIY fly spray to handle the situation.

        NATURAL MOSQUITO REPELLENT HACKS

        I live on one of London’s old marshes, where there’s an underground river at the end of the street, so come summer, mosquitoes are everywhere. Fortunately, I have some super easy hacks to keep them away and prevent them from breeding:

        • Burn Scents They Dislike: Use rosemary or sage on BBQs, or burn candles, incense sticks, or infusers with these scents.
        • Spray Yourself: Apply scents they hate, such as lavender or mint.
        • DIY Fly Trap Jars: Set up quick fly traps to catch them.
        • Avoid Standing Water: Eliminate sources of standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
        • Keep Pond Water Moving: Use an aerator or bubbler to keep pond water circulating.
        • Use a Fan: Set up a fan on outdoor tables and by your back door to create a breeze that deters mosquitoes.
        • Cook Garlic on the BBQ: The smell of cooking garlic is something they dislike.
        • Drink Mint Tea: Enjoying mint tea helps you smell minty, which mosquitoes find unappealing.
        • Hang Lace Curtains: Just like grandma used to, hang old-fashioned lace curtains for an added barrier.
        • Plant Unwanted Flowers and Herbs: Incorporate flowers and herbs that repel mosquitoes in your garden.

        For more information, check out tips below on making your own mosquito repellent candles, DIY bug spray, and bug balm. If you’re facing significant mosquito issues, take a look at this comprehensive guide to repelling mosquitoes.

        MOSQUITO REPELLENT CANDLES

        Mosquito repellent candles are a fantastic hack for summer evenings, but you don’t have to spend a lot to get them. You can easily make your own using just:

        • Empty jars
        • Tealights
        • Any mosquito-repellent herbs you have on hand

        I grow mint and rosemary in my herb garden, so I often use those. You can also incorporate basil, as suggested in these DIY instructions from The Country Chic Cottage.

        You can also add lemon that’s leftover from your drinks or, if you have it, a few drops of citronella oil, as seen in these versions from Bunch of Posies. This will enhance the mosquito-repelling properties of your candles!

        DIY BUG SPRAY

        A simple DIY bug spray is an essential hack for keeping bugs away in the backyard, while camping, or anywhere your kids are having fun outdoors. To make your own, all you need is:

        • A small spray bottle
        • Witch hazel (which also works as a natural treatment for blackheads!)
        • Any combination of essential oils that bugs dislike or herbal tea

        For some fantastic tips on how to make bug spray with essential oils, check out One Essential Community.

        I make mine with a quick infusion of lavender, rosemary, and mint:

        1. Steep a handful of herbs in boiled water for 3 to 4 minutes.
        2. Let it cool (you can speed up the process by putting it in the fridge if you’re short on time).
        3. Combine the infusion in a spray bottle with equal parts of witch hazel.
        4. Shake well to mix everything together.

        You can then spray it all over, but be sure to keep it away from your eyes!

        NATURAL BUG BALM

        If you really struggle with bug bites, you can make your own bug balm. The simplest trick is to add a few drops of essential oils with scents that bugs dislike to a big dollop of sunscreen in your hands. Lightly rub them together to combine, then apply to bare arms and legs—but avoid your face.

        While I’m not a huge fan of essential oils—since many can be a bit of a con—there are a few that are worth having, like tea tree oil for head lice, athlete’s foot, and dandruff, plus lavender for bug spray and balm.

        If you’re interested in making simple potions, check out this quick bug balm recipe from Wendy Polisi.

        MOSQUITO BITE TREATMENTS

        If you do get bitten, there are plenty of natural mosquito bite remedies in your kitchen for quick relief. Ice cubes and honey are among the best treatments, but you can also use everything from lemon juice to raw potato or banana peel!

        If you’re going camping, hiking, or heading out on an outdoor adventure, be sure to take aloe vera gel or witch hazel with you.

        For a comprehensive list of bug bite remedies, check out this bug bite treatment guide.

        ANT REPELLING HACKS

        Nothing ruins a summer morning quite like an army of ants marching across your kitchen! I still have nightmares about it years later. The problem is that many ant poisons are toxic to other wildlife and pets.

        However, a few simple natural hacks can help keep them at bay:

        • Act Fast: Address the problem as soon as you see them inside.
        • Squish Any You See: This helps reduce their numbers right away.
        • Thoroughly Clean: Use dish soap to clean the areas where you see them entering.
        • Wipe Down with Vinegar: After cleaning, wipe the surfaces with vinegar and let them dry.
        • Create a Barrier: Make a barrier line at the entry points using:
        • Diatomaceous earth
        • Baking soda (bicarbonate)
        • Cornflour or cornmeal
        • Crumbled chalk

        You can strengthen the barrier by mixing in these repellents:

        • Cinnamon
        • Ground cloves
        • Pepper
        • Paprika

        Once you’ve stopped the ants from coming inside, tackle the source outside. For simple, practical tips on getting rid of ants naturally, check out this guide!

        NATURAL SUNBURN TREATMENTS

        It’s easy to get sunburned in the summer, even when we take precautions. Interestingly, cooler breezy days can be the most dangerous, as we often underestimate the sun’s strength. Fortunately, many common kitchen ingredients can effectively soothe pain and help prevent blisters naturally.

        I have a long list of natural remedies for sunburn, but my favorite for severe burns is an oat milk bath. My super pale Scotch-Irish skin tends to burn easily, but a cool oat milk bath provides quick relief from the pain.

        Here’s how I make it:

        1. Blend a few tablespoons of oats with a cup of tepid water until smooth.
        2. Pour the mixture into a cool or tepid bath deep enough to submerge the affected area.
        3. Relax in the bath for about 15 minutes.

        For extra soothing benefits, you can enhance the oat milk mix by adding chamomile and lavender, as suggested by Shaken Together Life.

        OUTDOOR FUN FOR KIDS

        I love these summer hacks for outdoor play for kids! They’re not only super fun but also incredibly easy to make, allowing older kids to enjoy the process of creating them before diving into playtime. It’s a win-win situation!

        DIY GARDEN HOSE SPRINKLER

        This DIY garden hose sprinkler from Housing A Forest is a fantastic way to entertain the whole family! It can be assembled quickly and easily, making it perfect for spontaneous summer fun without any prior planning.

        BUBBLE SNAKES

        These bubble snakes are also super simple but super fun.

        To make the bubble snake, you’ll need:

        Materials:

        • A plastic bottle
        • An old sock
        • An elastic band
        • Dish soap bubble mixture

        Instructions:

        1. Cut off the bottom of the plastic bottle.
        2. Pull the sock tightly over the cut end of the bottle.
        3. Secure it in place with the elastic band.
        4. Dunk the bottle into the bubble mixture.
        5. Blow hard through the neck of the bottle.

        Watch as your bubble snake wiggles through the bottom!

        TIC TAC TOE STONES

        These DIY tic-tac-toe stones from Taryn Whiteaker are a wonderful project for making something with kids that they can enjoy outdoors all summer long. They’re not only fun to create but also provide endless hours of play!

        And they couldn’t be easier to make! Just collect some stones during a hike or at the beach, and spend an afternoon painting them however you like. Older kids can get creative and artistic, while even little ones can leave their mark.

        NATURAL PAINT BRUSHES

        These delightful natural paintbrushes from Messy Little Monster are another fantastic no-prep activity that kids of all ages can create and enjoy using. They’re a great way to inspire creativity and make art in the great outdoors!

        Simply head outside to your backyard, a park, or the woods to:

        1. Gather leaves, grasses, and flowers.
        2. Collect a bundle of twigs.
        3. Attach everything together with rubber bands.

        Then, it’s time to paint away! Enjoy your creative outdoor fun!

        CONCLUSION

        In conclusion, these easy and fun DIY activities provide fantastic opportunities for kids to engage creatively with nature. From making bubble snakes and tic-tac-toe stones to crafting natural paintbrushes, each project encourages exploration and artistic expression without requiring extensive preparation. So, gather your materials, head outside, and enjoy the summer by creating lasting memories with your children!