This was my first foray into the mysterious world of homemade cosmetics and I am so pleased with the result. For a long time I have been using Neal’s Yard Lemon and Coriander Deodorant but I decided to make my own now in order to avoid plastic packaging. Initially I am re-using the pretty blue Neal’s Yard bottle which does have a plastic top and atomiser, while I am looking for a glass and metal container. To my complete delight I found a book of recipes that includes the lemon and coriander deodorant and it didn’t look too difficult. I had to think long and hard about whether I would buy the essential oils needed for this recipe because they tend to come with plastic lids. In the end I decided that I would buy the essential oils because they last so long and can be used to make many other cosmetics and remedies. Also, making my own essential oils is a bit beyond me at the moment.

After getting all the ingredients together I sterilized the utensils and nervously set about making the recipe. It turned out to be so simple and absolutely gorgeous. I have been using it for some weeks now. Husband Pete commented that I smell nice and my co-workers have not moved their desks away from me – so I’ll put that down as a success!

Recipe from Make Your Own Cosmetics by Neal’s Yard Remedies:

90ml (6tbsp) witch hazel
10ml (2tsp) vegetable glycerine
10 drops of lemon essential oil
5 drops each of grapefruit, lime & palmarosa essential oil
2 drops each of clove, coriander & lavender essential oil

Mix the witch hazel and vegetable glycerine first and then add the essential oils. Store in a dark glass bottle, preferably with an atomiser, for up to 6 months. Organic essential oils are a little more expensive but there are cheaper alternatives. Althogether this costs a fraction of the store bought variety.