How to Make Homemade Body Wash

Many people have discovered the joys of making their own soaps, often giving them as presents. The problem is that most folks just don't use bar soap. That hand-crafted gift will probably sit in the soap dish in the guest bath for years, if it makes it out of the cupboard at all.

One idea for more practical homemade gifts is custom-blended body or hand wash. It's easy to make and you can create beautiful liquid soap that will remind the recipient of you every time they take a shower or wash their hands!

The easiest way to make your own body wash is to start with a bottle of inexpensive, unscented shampoo. Cheap store brands work very well as a base. Although it's not required, one additive that will quickly become a favorite is Xanthan gum, a natural thickener that helps make your finished product easier to use and much more like store-bought brands. You'll need about a 1/2 teaspoon for a cup of body wash.

If you prefer, you can purchase liquid soap base at many web sites and craft stores. If you do, you will only need a thickener if you are adding certain oils, such as citrus, or an infusion that will thin the soap.

To make a simple batch of homemade body wash, add 25 to 30 drops of skin-safe essential oils to a cup of base and mix well. Use peppermint and rosemary oils for invigorating body wash, lavender and vanilla oils for a relaxing shower, or sandalwood and jasmine for a nice pick-me-up. Tea Tree oil and lavender oil make a great antibacterial soap.

You can also infuse 1/4 cup of water with your favorite herbs, flower petals, or citrus peel. Just bring the water to a boil and pour over your ingredients, let them steep for 15 to 30 minutes, and strain the liquid. Slowly stir in the thickener and then mix it with about 3/4 cup of base.