How to Make Your Own Essential Oil Hand Sanitizer
In these uncertain times, it’s important to have a reliable and effective hand sanitizer at your disposal. While store-bought options are readily available, many people prefer to make their own hand sanitizers, especially those with essential oils for added benefits. Not only does making your own hand sanitizer save you money, but it also allows you to customize the scent and ingredients to suit your preferences. Here’s a simple guide on how to make your own essential oil hand sanitizer.
Ingredients:
To make your own essential oil hand sanitizer, you will need the following ingredients:
– 60% rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol)
– 30% aloe vera gel
– 10% witch hazel
– Essential oils (optional, but recommended for scent and benefits)
Instructions:
1. Measure the Ingredients: Begin by measuring out the rubbing alcohol, aloe vera gel, and witch hazel. Make sure you have the correct proportions to ensure your hand sanitizer is effective.
2. Add Essential Oils: If you want to add essential oils, now is the time. Choose your favorite scents or opt for therapeutic oils like tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus. Add a few drops of essential oil to your mixture, but be careful not to add too much, as it may dilute the alcohol concentration.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a clean, sterilized container, mix the rubbing alcohol, aloe vera gel, and witch hazel together. Stir well until the ingredients are fully combined.
4. Shake Well: After adding the essential oils, shake the container well to ensure that the oils are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Label and Store: Label your hand sanitizer bottle with the date and ingredients used. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
6. Use the Hand Sanitizer: Apply a small amount of the hand sanitizer to your hands, and rub them together until dry. Remember that hand sanitizers should not replace handwashing with soap and water, especially when hands are visibly dirty.
Benefits of Using Essential Oils:
Adding essential oils to your hand sanitizer not only makes it more pleasant to use but also offers additional benefits. Some essential oils have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, which can help kill germs and protect your skin. For example:
– Tea tree oil: Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, tea tree oil can help combat infections.
– Lavender oil: Known for its calming and relaxing effects, lavender oil can also help soothe your skin.
– Eucalyptus oil: Known for its antibacterial properties, eucalyptus oil can help kill germs and protect your skin.
By making your own essential oil hand sanitizer, you can ensure that you have a safe, effective, and customized product at your fingertips. Happy crafting!
