Perfumes are commonly made from synthetic chemical compounds, and while that isn’t always a bad thing, it isn’t always a good one, either. These synthetic fragrances may attract the male of your species, but they will also attract flying little insects that bite and sting. That is definitely not a good thing. You have some options for smelling good and staying natural. Let’s start simple and work our way from there.
- The smell of citrus is fresh, appealing, and cheerful. I prefer lime, but you can also find lemon, grapefruit, and sweet orange. A dab of citrus-infused oil on your wrists and neckline will create a lingering scent that freshens but does not overpower.
- Of course, there are many options with aromatherapeutic oils. If you don’t like the idea of just dabbing a bit on your bare skin, consider a wearable aromatherapy diffuser. Yes, you read that right. These terra cotta pendants absorb the one drop of oil you place on the surface; then you wear it (necklace and bracelet styles are available) and it diffuses continually for a few days. When you can’t smell it anymore, you just add another drop. I think it’s a neat idea, and you’ll have unique jewelry.
- Make your own body oil by combining a carrier oil (sesame, jojoba, coconut) with an essential oil that has a pleasing scent. You can play with the proportions a bit to get the fragrance as strong or as subtle as you prefer; a good ratio to start with is 1 cup of the carrier oil to about 8 drops of the essential oil. Use body oil in the shower, while your skin is still damp. Rub it in well, then pat yourself dry. You won’t need lotion, your skin will be moisturized, and you will smell good all day.
- Get a little more complex by creating your own fragrance blend. Simply combine essential oils to achieve the fragrance, as complex, layered, and subtle as you like. Read this guide for a great introduction to creating your signature blend. You can use your signature scent in your body oil, or…
- You can make your own perfume by combining your signature scent (or any essential oil/oil combination) with vodka. This guide recommends adding spring water as well (after it has diffused). The vodka (or vodka-water combination) serves as the carrier for your scent. Put it in a perfume diffuser and spray it on at will.
Caution: Be careful with essential oils, especially if you have never used them before. They are very strong and some can be extremely dangerous. Read this introduction to essential oils for some basics and be sure to review the list of dangerous oils at the bottom.
Note: Essential oils can also be expensive, and stocking up on enough to create your own signature blend might set you back a bit. Remember, however, that they last a long time, as you only use a few drops in each batch of body oil or perfume that you make. It’s a good investment.
Image Credit: Ayala Moriel.
