I have always been fortunate in finding ways to get around paying high prices for skincare, mainly because I want to get things from individuals who are most like me. Small businesses with educated people striking out on their own. They feel like my friends and not a method to control my behavior. I am especially drawn to those that don't advertise, but quietly turn out their product, or write the recipes I can tweak for my own evil purposes.
If you are ready to do some mild experimenting there are some staples you should have on hand. These are basic and harmless, and help you evaluate how your skin will respond.
Oils
The oils you stock will reflect your skin type. Heavier oils, like Avocado and Jojoba are great for dry skin and can also be used as warm oil treatments before shampooing. Grape Seed Oil is great for mature skin that cannot bear the weight of a heavier oil. Try blending it with a bit of Jojoba if you need the extra moisture. Apricot Kernal oil is another choice for blends or to use alone.
Along with these base, or carrier oils, a few essential oils can be added. Since science hasn't determined the exact effects of different essential oils, we all go by their reputations which have been passed down through the ages. My favorite essential oils are Lavender, Lemon, Frankincense, Ylang Ylang, and Rosemary. Always mix the essential oils with another oil or cream and put no more than about 12 drops total in any blend, assuming your goal is to have about 8 ounces of finished product. For me, 3 or 4 drops each of Lavender, Lemon, and Ylang Ylang is a great blend. Adding a few drops of this blend to an inexpensive face cream or premade base is always nice. Lavender is known for its healing properties, Lemon for its skin lightening properties. Ylang Ylang has been touted as an aphrodesiac, but I use just two or three drops in my dreams because it creates a nutty under tone. Any more than about 3 drops is overpowering.
Start with small amounts while you experiment, then reinvest in those ingredients that you use the most of. An essential oil starter kit is a great way to sample the different possibilities. Many kits will have a booklet listing the properties attributed to each essential oil making the "learn as you go" process much easier.
Why not make this project one of your New Year's resolutions. Taking control of your skincare is your right. In the long run, you save money by not paying for corporate advertising and creating your own, sustainable program of skincare.
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