You already know how obsessed with skincare I am. However, as much as I appreciate the newest skincare launches and beauty innovations, sometimes it just feels so good to go back to our roots. And where can we find our roots? In our gardens, of course. As someone who grew up in the countryside, I always had a soft spot for DIY skincare recipes that you can make from ingredients in your own garden. After all, we’re part of nature as well. So, shouldn’t nature be the main source of our beauty and health routines? And even though it may sound a bit gimmicky — there are actually some amazing ways to use homegrown ingredients in your beauty products.
Chamomile Toner
Let’s begin with something to calm and refresh your skin: a soothing chamomile toner. Known for its incredible anti-inflammatory properties, chamomile is much more than just a delicious tea. It’s a powerful botanical ingredient that works wonders on the skin. Especially when it comes to reducing redness and soothing irritations. However, simply rubbing a chamomile flower on your face won’t do the trick.
To make an actual chamomile toner, simply gather a cup of fresh chamomile flowers from your garden. Steep them in two cups of boiling water until the mixture cools, then strain out the flowers. Pour the remaining liquid into a clean bottle and store it in the refrigerator. Using this toner is as simple as dabbing it on your face with a cotton ball after cleansing, especially in the evening to calm the skin before bedtime. If you don’t have chamomile flowers in your garden — don’t worry. You can also use conventional chamomile tea bags instead.
Mint and Cucumber Face Mask
Next on our garden beauty list is a mask that’s perfect for those warm summer days or whenever your skin needs a bit of a boost. Mint and cucumber make a fantastic duo for skincare. Why? Because mint has the ability to invigorate your skin, while cucumber has the power to hydrate it. Which makes for the perfect combination, especially during the spring and summer months.
To prepare this refreshing face mask, blend together a handful of fresh mint leaves with half a cucumber until smooth. If you find the consistency too thin, you can add a spoonful of organic oats to thicken up the mix and give it a creamy texture. Apply this mask to your face, let it sit for about 15 minutes, then rinse off with cool water. You’ll skin will feel revitalized and toned, all thanks to your garden.
Lavender Sugar Scrub
Our final recipe is an exfoliating lavender sugar scrub that soothes as it smoothens your skin. But because this is a physical exfoliant, I have to warn you — I wouldn’t recommend it for anyone with super sensitive skin. Especially if you’re thinking about using it on your face, and not just your body.
However, for those who can handle it — lavender can be an amazing ingredient when it comes to cleansing and soothing. For a homemade lavender sugar scrub, mix half a cup of granulated sugar with a quarter cup of finely chopped dried lavender flowers. Add a quarter cup of melted coconut oil to bind the mixture, and if you like, a few drops of lavender essential oil.
Once you get in the shower, gently massage this scrub into damp skin in circular motions and then rinse. I can’t imagine a better step in your bedtime shower routine than this! Your skin will feel smoother, and fresher, and the scent of lavender will also help you unwind and relax from a stressful day.
