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!

10 BEST BLUSHES FOR FAIR SKIN: HOW TO FIND THE BEST BLUSH 

Do you ever crave that healthy, youthful flush on your cheeks but worry about blush looking too harsh on your fair skin? You’re not alone! Finding the perfect blush shade for fair complexions can feel like a challenge. But fear not! This guide will be your roadmap to achieving a natural, rosy glow. Get ready to kiss dullness goodbye and embrace a radiant, healthy look!

WHAT IS BLUSH MAKEUP?

Blush serves as a makeup staple, offering a flushed appearance to the skin with shades ranging from pink, red, coral, to even purple. Available in various formulations such as powder, cream, and liquid, blush also offers diverse finishes like matte, shimmer, and satin.

Traditionally applied to the apples of the cheeks, blush can also be strategically placed higher on the cheekbone to impart a lifting and sculpting effect to the face. Moreover, it can be skillfully applied on the nose to simulate a sun-kissed flush. In recent trends, platforms like BeautyTok have introduced innovative techniques such as “blush contouring,” employing blush for a softer, rosier approach to facial sculpting.

10 BEST BLUSHES FOR FAIR SKIN

RARE BEAUTY BY SELENA GOMEZ SOFT PINCH LIQUID BLUSH ON PALE SKIN

For those with fair skin eager to experiment with the sought-after Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush, there’s encouraging news: this versatile product can indeed cater to lighter complexions. When selecting the ideal shade, it’s crucial to consider your undertone. For individuals with cool undertones, shades like “Bliss” (a nude pink) or “Happy” (a cool pink) in the matte finish are recommended, as they can provide a natural flush. On the other hand, if you possess warm undertones, “Joy” (a muted peach) with a dewy finish could add a touch of warmth to your complexion. One of the standout features of this liquid blush is its buildable color. Beginning with a small dot and blending it out for a sheer wash of color allows for customization, enabling you to achieve anything from a subtle hint to a more intense flush. Despite not being explicitly marketed for pale skin, reviews suggest that the formula blends seamlessly and can be sheered out for a natural appearance. 

MERIT FLUSH BALM LIGHT PINK NATURAL BLUSH FAIR SKIN

For fair-skinned individuals seeking a natural, rosy glow, the Merit Flush Balm in Light Pink offers a compelling solution. Renowned for its sheer, buildable formula, this cream blush delicately layers onto the skin, allowing for a customizable intensity—a boon for fair complexions prone to blush overload. Light Pink, with its cool-toned pink hue, harmonizes effortlessly with fair skin and cool undertones, imparting a fresh, outdoor-inspired flush. 

The creamy texture of the Flush Balm seamlessly melds with the skin, yielding a dewy finish that enhances the natural luminosity of lighter skin tones, steering clear of the potential cakeiness associated with powder blushes. Beyond its cosmetic benefits, the Merit Flush Balm boasts skin-nourishing properties, fortified with vitamin E to nourish and condition the skin, aligning with a holistic approach to beauty. 

FENTY BEAUTY BY RIHANNA CHEEKS OUT FREESTYLE CREAM BLUSH

Fenty Beauty’s Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush is another great option for those seeking a flattering blush on fair skin. Its lightweight, cream formula blends effortlessly, leaving a buildable wash of color that won’t overwhelm a lighter complexion.  Available in a wide range of shades, Fenty Beauty caters to a variety of cool, warm, and neutral undertones, making it easy to find a perfect match. The long-wearing, sweat and water-resistant formula ensures your flush stays put throughout the day.  Whether you prefer a subtle hint of color or a more dramatic pop, the Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush offers the versatility to achieve your desired look.

PATRICK TA MAJOR HEADLINES DOUBLE-TAKE CRÈME & POWDER BLUSH DUO

For fair skin seeking a customizable blush option, Patrick Ta’s Major Headlines Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush Duo is a great choice. This innovative duo combines a silky, buildable cream blush with a weightless, finely-milled powder blush. The cream blush provides a natural flush of color, while the powder layer allows for setting and adding intensity. This lets you tailor the look to your preference, from a sheer wash of color to a more sculpted and dramatic effect. Plus, Patrick Ta offers a range of duo shades, including options with cool, warm, and neutral undertones, so you can find a perfect complement for your fair complexion.

SAIE LIQUID GLOW BLUSH

Unlike some cream or liquid blushes that can appear heavy on  complexions, the Dew Blush boasts a unique water-based gel texture. This innovative formula feels lightweight and refreshing, while still depositing a buildable wash of color.  Because it’s a cream product, it blends seamlessly for a flush that looks natural and fresh.  While Saie’s Dew Blush doesn’t offer a massive shade range, the available shades tend to lean sheer and rosy, which can be flattering for fair skin.  If you’re looking for a buildable, dewy blush that enhances your natural radiance, the Saie Dew Blush is definitely worth considering.

CHANEL LIP AND CHEEK BALM SHADE HEALTHY PINK

Chanel’s N°1 de Chanel Lip and Cheek Balm in “Healthy Pink” presents a versatile option for those with fair skin, contingent on their desired color intensity. Known for its sheer, buildable pigment, this balm offers a subtle flush on fair complexions, with the option to layer for a more pronounced hue. Its multi-use functionality allows for coordinated lip and cheek application, catering to those who prefer a harmonized makeup aesthetic. Furthermore, enriched with hydrating ingredients like camellia extract, this balm addresses the dryness often associated with fair skin, contributing to a nourished complexion. However, it’s worth considering that individuals with very fair skin may find the “Healthy Pink” shade less visible, particularly if seeking a more prominent blush effect. 

HOURGLASS AMBIENT LIGHTING BLUSH COLLECTION

The Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush Collection stands out as a favored option among makeup enthusiasts. Its appeal lies in several key features that contribute to its popularity. Firstly, these blushes uniquely blend Hourglass’s signature Ambient Lighting Powders with vivid cheek colors, resulting in a captivating multidimensional effect. The Ambient Lighting Powders not only help to blur imperfections but also impart a subtle glow to the complexion, while the cheek colors deliver a flattering wash of color. Moreover, the blushes are celebrated for their sheer and buildable nature, starting with a delicate application ideal for fair skin and allowing for layering to achieve a more intense look if desired. Although not every shade may perfectly suit fair skin tones, Hourglass offers a commendable range with options leaning cooler or warmer.

MILANI BAKED BLUSH – LIGHT PINK BLUSH ON LIGHT SKIN

Milani’s Baked Blush offers a budget-friendly option that can be particularly appealing for those with light skin, provided the right shade selection. While not every shade may cater to fair complexions, the range includes options like “Petal Primavera” and “Rosa Romantica,” which tend to complement light skin tones with their soft pinks and cool rose hues. One of the standout features of this blush is its buildable formula, allowing for effortless application on fair skin where heavy pigmentation might appear harsh. With the ability to start with a light touch and gradually intensify the flush, users have greater control over the final look. Being a drugstore product, Milani’s Baked Blush comes at a very affordable price point, making it an attractive choice for those new to blush or looking to experiment with different colors without a significant financial commitment. 

WESTMAN ATELIER BABY CHEEKS LIP + CHEEK CREAM BLUSH STICK

Westman Atelier’s Baby Cheeks Lip + Cheek Cream Blush Stick is a fancy option for people with fair skin who want one product for both lips and cheeks. It’s easy to use because it has a creamy texture that blends well and gives a natural-looking color. You can start with a little bit and add more if you want a stronger color without it looking too strong. It’s good for fair skin because it won’t make it look dry. Just remember to check if the colors match what you like and your skin color. Overall, it’s a nice choice for anyone who wants a fancy and easy-to-use product for a natural flush on their fair skin.

TOWER 28 BEAUTY BEACHPLEASE LIP + CHEEK CREAM BLUSH

Tower 28 Beauty’s BeachPlease Luminous Tinted Balm, also known as the BeachPlease Lip + Cheek Cream Blush, is a great choice for people with fair skin who want a natural, shiny look. It’s light and doesn’t have silicones, so it won’t feel heavy or block your pores, which can be a problem for fair skin. It gives a light color that you can easily control, so you won’t put too much on by mistake. There are different shades that work well for fair skin with cool undertones, like “Sunkissed” and “Afterglow,” giving a natural-looking blush. You can use it on your lips and cheeks, which is handy if you like to keep things simple or want your makeup to match. Overall, Tower 28 Beauty’s BeachPlease Luminous Tinted Balm is a good choice for people with fair skin who want a gentle, glowing blush that’s easy to use in different ways.

CHOOSING THE BEST BLUSH FOR YOUR PALE SKIN TONE

Choosing the right blush for your fair skin is like painting a picture. You need to understand if your skin has cool or warm undertones first. If it’s cool, go for blushes with a bit of pink or purple. They’ll make your cheeks look fresh and lively. For warm undertones, peach or light coral shades are perfect. They’ll give you a warm, sunny glow without being too much.

Also, think about the kind of blush you want. Powder blushes give a matte finish, which is good if your skin tends to be oily. Cream blushes give a dewy look, great for dry or combination skin. And remember, you don’t need a lot of blush. Start with a little and add more if you want it to be stronger. The goal is to make it look like a natural blush on your cheeks.

CONCLUSION

Here’s a roundup of fantastic blush options tailored specifically for fair skin tones! Keep in mind that the key to finding the perfect match is understanding your skin’s undertone (cool, warm, or neutral) and your preferred finish (matte, dewy, or somewhere in between). Additionally, some individuals explore using eyeshadow as blush, which offers a broader color range and can be an intriguing experience. Embrace experimentation with various shades and textures to uncover the hues that enhance your complexion and complement your makeup style. With a bit of exploration, you’ll soon master the art of achieving a radiant, confident look that celebrates your natural beauty!