This title comes to us courtesy of my client, Cathy. I was sharing with her the idea for my next posting. She said, ” a pantry spa!” Thanks Cathy, for the name. I love it.

Years ago I started a small business called Homegrown Healing. Branching out on my own after working in the spa industry for 10 years, I was eager to make my own skin care products. So I did! I had an extensive herb garden and made preparations the night before a client’s facial. Everything was fresh and raw so the leftovers were bottled up and sent home to be used within a week’s time. Now here we are 10 years later! I’d like to share some of the recipes with y’all. I love to hear feedback so let me know how your skin likes them!

quick cleansing milk

This preparation is good for all skin types. The lemon juice is astringent and quickly restores the pH balance of the skin.

1/2 small container of natural yogurt. ( I like White Mountain - made right around the corner!)
1 T extra virgin olive oil
1/2 T lemon juice

Whisk together and massage onto skin for one minute. Rinse with lukewarm water and follow with a toning infusion. ( Use within 2-3 days)

toning flower infusion

A nice way to add moisture to the skin after cleansing.

Make a tea (infusion) using fresh, organically grown herbs. Use 1 tablespoon of herbs to 1 cup of water. If you are using dried herbs, use 1/2 the amount.

Allow it to cool and store in a sterilized glass bottle or jar. Keep it in the fridge. Stays fresh for 3 days or so. Here’s a list of some herbs specific for different skin conditions:

normal/dry: rosehips, scented geranium, linden, calendula
normal/oily: lavender, chamomile, rosemary, thyme

When you’re ready to use the infusion, pour a small amount into your palm and massage into skin.

sage and yarrow moisturizer

The grapefruit seed extract (available at most health food stores) , acts as a natural preservative helps to keep this moisturizer “good” for a couple of weeks without refrigeration.

2 t. dried yarrow flowers
2 t. dried sage leaves
1/2 c. filtered water
1/2 c. rosewater
2 T. vegetable glycerin
1 T. witch hazel
2 drops grapefruit seed extract

Boil the herbs in the filtered water in a stainless steel pan, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Allow to cool, then strain into a sterilized glass jar or bottle. Add the rosewater, glycerin, witch hazel, and grapefruit seed extract. Smooth into skin for an easily absorbed moisture treat.