Ever since I found the right way to make lotion bars, I’ve experimented with completely different variations together with sunscreen bars, Vapo-Rub bars, and others. At this time’s favourite: bug repellent lotion bars!
They’re as straightforward to make as the unique bars, they usually appear much more efficient at protecting bugs away than common do-it-yourself bug spray. In all probability as a result of they really coat the pores and skin with a protecting layer. They’re straightforward to take alongside and the youngsters can apply it themselves.
What’s the Downside With Bug Spray?
Whereas I’m actually not a fan of mosquitos or tick bites, I’m not a giant fan of typical bug spray both. These often comprise DEET, a chemical that research have linked to a complete host of potential well being points.
Among the reported unwanted effects embrace wheezing, muscle cramping, pores and skin rashes and blisters, dizziness, disorientation, and problem concentrating. There are additionally stories of elevated most cancers threat, aggressive behaviors, and uncontrollable physique actions. Specialists guarantee us the danger seems to be low although…
Bug Repellent Lotion Bar Substances
As an alternative of being crammed with toxins like typical bug sprays, this recipe nourishes and moisturizes the pores and skin whereas defending it. It makes use of a base of coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax. You may also use cocoa butter or mango butter if most popular for a barely more durable bar.
I’ve additionally included a wide range of herbs which might be nice at repelling undesirable bugs. You don’t have to make use of all of them if you happen to don’t have them available, however I do assume it really works higher. If you might want to substitute an herb, simply add some extra of the others as an alternative.
Dried herbs work finest on this recipe since recent herbs may cause the infused oil to mildew. If in case you have recent herbs out of your backyard you’d like to make use of, merely dehydrate them some first. Right here’s a information on drying herbs.
The vitamin E is non-compulsory but it surely helps prolong the shelf life and stop the oils from oxidizing as rapidly. I additionally add some further safety with important oils. These are extra concentrated than the herbs and assist increase the bar’s effectivity. I like this kidsafe mix from Plant Remedy.
Lotion Bar Molds
I take advantage of silicone molds to set the bars. These are the cupcake molds I used however I additionally love these coronary heart ones or easy flower molds which might each be nice for items. There are additionally precise bar formed ones. In case you don’t have a silicone mildew, then a lined cupcake pan can even work.
On to the recipe!
Bug Repellant Lotion Bar Recipe
Hold away bugs with out chemical compounds utilizing herbs and important oils in a nourishing lotion bar.
Yield: 5 bars
Infuse the Oil
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Utilizing a double boiler or glass bowl on high of a small saucepan, warmth some water within the backside of the pan to boiling.
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Place the coconut oil within the high a part of the double boiler and add the dried rosemary, cloves, thyme, cinnamon, catnip, and mint.
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Cowl the bowl or high a part of the double boiler and maintain the water at a medium temperature for no less than half-hour or till the oil has adopted a darker shade and smells strongly of rosemary. You may also fill a gradual cooker about half full with water, put the coconut oil and herbs in a glass mason jar with a decent lid, cowl and carry on the lowest setting for a number of days to make a fair stronger infused oil.
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Pressure the herbs out of the oil utilizing a small mesh strainer or cheesecloth and pour the oil again into the double boiler. The oil could have lowered by virtually half and you must have about ½ cup of the infused oil. If in case you have extra, reserve it for subsequent time!
Make the Lotion Bars
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Add the butter(s) and beeswax to the double boiler with the infused coconut oil and stir till all have melted.
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Take away from the warmth and add the vitamin E oil and important oils (if utilizing).
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Pour the liquid into the molds.
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Depart within the molds till utterly set (in a single day is finest). Or you may velocity up the method by putting them within the fridge.
- To make use of, rub the bars on uncovered areas of DRY pores and skin to guard in opposition to mosquitoes.
- I take advantage of cupcake-size molds for my lotion bars. In case you use a unique dimension, your yield will probably be completely different.
Don’t Need to Make Them?
If you wish to use lotion bars however don’t have the time or elements to make them your self, I discovered an awesome various. Made On is a small enterprise that makes every kind of lotion bars, soaps, pure child merchandise and hair merchandise which might be as much as my requirements. You possibly can browse all of their non-toxic merchandise right here and use the code wellnessmama for a reduction!
How do you retain the bugs away? Share under!
