I’m really into the oil cleansing method, and I’ve even tried using raw honey on my face. However, if you’re after a more traditional soap-based way to clean your skin, I’ve been testing out a foaming face wash recipe that works well for all skin types and creates a nice, rich lather.
This face wash recipe is quite similar to my foaming hand soap but with an added touch of skin nourishment from various hydrosols. While using distilled water is a cheaper option, hydrosols last longer on the shelf and offer extra benefits.
Hydrosols are essentially the by-products of making essential oils. Unlike highly concentrated essential oils, hydrosols are gentle and still share many similar properties. The key difference is that hydrosols dissolve in water, unlike essential oils, which simplifies the mixing process and reduces safety concerns.
Hydrosols generally last 12-18 months, depending on how they’re made and any preservatives involved. This is great for DIY skincare products, which usually don’t contain preservatives and can spoil faster than store-bought options.
The best part of making your own face wash is the ability to tailor the ingredients based on specific skin needs. In hydrosols, the essential oils are diluted to around 2%, and keeping dilutions between 1-5% is important to prevent skin irritation. Remember this if you’re making substitutions.
Regarding castile soap in recipes, different brands have different thicknesses, so you might have to adjust the amounts. For instance, Dr. Bronner’s castile soap is quite thick compared to others. If the soap feels too runny, try halving the hydrosol (or distilled water for a budget-friendly version).
Lemon essential oil can be phototoxic at concentrations above 2% in stay-on products like lotions. You can leave it out, but you’ll miss its cleansing and age spot lightening benefits. I think this recipe is safe since it uses only 1% and gets washed off. If you’re worried, use the face wash at night or at least 12 hours before spending time in the sun.
What’s your skincare routine like? Have you ever tried a foaming face wash? Let me know!
