Kentish Express Ashford & District
Take a leaf out of nature
How to make skincare products such as bath bombs, spritzes and soaps from common garden plants
Want to create your own bath fizzers, soaps and other skincare favourites with botanicals from your own garden?
If you grow roses, chamomile, lavender and other common plants, you can use them in your regular skincare routines, says organic gardener Tanya Anderson, author of A Woman’s Garden: Grow Beautiful Plants And Make Useful Things, a guide to how you can use your garden plants to aid wellbeing.
“We tend to think of botanicals as plant extracts that come pre-packaged, but the truth is that you can transform chamomile, roses, lavender, and even more exotic plants, into high-end skincare in the average kitchen,” Tanya insists.
“You don’t need a huge amount of space,” she continues. “You can grow plants in pots or window boxes, or even forage for plants such as chickweed.”
Which plants should we grow for skincare?
Cucumbers are a soothing astringent, the roots of echinacea can be made into a tincture or glycerite, which is beneficial for healing skin, while soaking the roots of marsh mallow in water can provide a cooling and hydrating infusion for the skin, Tanya says.
Rosemary, thyme violet and peppermint also have beneficial properties for skin, she adds.
Anyone with an indoor space could grow an aloe plant, for the obvious benefits the gel from a leaf can provide to soothe sunburn or regenerate tired skin.
“Different plants have different functions for your skin. Some promote healing, so if you have eczema or acne, it can help create regenerative tissue.
“Some plants have natural tannins which help to tighten skin, so you can use them as toners. Witch hazel, for instance, has tannins in it. You use the extract in firming lotions and creams.
“If you’re a beginner, I’d grow gentle plants which are also edible. Chamomile, for instance, is fantastic for regenerative skincare, as is calendula. They can both be used as edible flowers, in calming tea, or in skincare.”
What about carrier oils?
To make herbal oils, you’ll need a carrier oil suitable for your skin type.
“My favourite carrier oil is sweet almond oil, which is popular when used in massage,” says Tanya.
“Those on a budget might use extra virgin olive oil, if your skin isn’t too oily.
“Coconut oil is good for your skin but can cause breakouts if you use it on your face – but we all have different skin types, so it’s a matter of trial and error and research.”