The weather has been looking up around these parts, and this time of year we move outside. Summer in the PNW is a glorious time, but it is fleeting, so we spend as much time as we can out of doors.
That being said, a good insect repellent is in order, and I don’t mean one with DEET…
DEET, (chemical name, N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) is classified as a pesticide and according to the EPA is *only* a Category III, being “slightly toxic.”
No thanks. You can keep your “probably safe in moderation” toxic chemicals to yourself. I can make a safe-for-the-whole-family bug repellent that is super moisturizing, smells delightful, and is an authority on insect repelling. With just a few ingredients and an essential oil arsenal, I created a solid lotion bar that acts tough, yet softens. 
The recipe is simple: equal parts of coconut oil, nut butter and beeswax. I used a half-ounce of each and poured it all into one cup of my silicone muffin pan
(Why can’t life always be that easy?)
“Bugless Bar” Solid Lotion
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- 0.5 ounce coconut oil
- 0.5 ounce shea butter
- 0.5 ounce beeswax
- 1/2 teaspoon (or 40-60 drops) essential oils*
For this Bugless Bar, I used:
- 15 drops lavender
- 15 drops cedarwood
- 15 drops lemongrass
- 15 drops “Bugless” blend (purchased at my local herbal shop). “Bugless” contains citronella, tea tree, lavender and peppermint
*Use any combination of bug repelling oils you have on hand.
In a small double boiler, I used a mason jar in a pot of water, melt the beeswax and coconut oil. Then melt the shea butter. I usually try to melt my shea butter last, for she is a fickle one. Remove from heat and pour into your silicone mold. Allow to cool just slightly before stirring in your essential oils. (I waited a bit too long here–matter of minutes– and almost was unable to stir in the oils because the bar had started to set up. It worked out fine, but you’ve been warned
The impatient part of me put this in the fridge to cool, and when it was thoroughly cooled, popped it out of the mold and rubbed it on!
Bugs, I defy you.
Not up for another DIY? Let Sheaberry send you one of their dreamy solid lotion bars– FOR FREE!
(Archived Post–Giveaway Closed)
Sheaberry makes natural, organic solid lotion bars out of Denver, Colorado. Kate from Sheaberry found that “…there was a serious need for natural, organic skin products that were effective in the dry climate.” Sheaberry prides themselves in using the highest quality butters and oils, and stands behind their products proven effectiveness.
I can attest that that statement is true! In May, Kate sent me some of her solid lotion bars to try and I am in LOVE with them! They are super moisturizing and smell amazing! My favorite is the Acai Berry There is a similar amount of scent that you would find in a scented lotion. Not too over-powering, but scented enough to smell like a perfume when applied. Don’t worry; if perfume’s not your thing, Kate has unscented options as well. I really like the travel tin size, and I carry it around in my purse. In a pinch, I have used the solid lotion as deodorant and lip balm. (It actually worked great as a deodorant!)
If you are interested in a solid lotion bar, but aren’t up for making one yourself , let Kate send you one of hers to try. Although she doesn’t have a bug repelling option, (if you want ultimate bug protection you’ll have to make one following the recipe above), she does offer a lavender bar which should help you out a bite, err, I mean bit…
This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only, sorry global friends 
To be eligible to win, you must be friends with Sustain, Create, and Flow on facebook.
“Like” me on facebook! Click here.
If you want to check out Sheaberry on facebook, here’s an easy link. (This is not mandatory, just fun for you :))
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Full Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links that provide a small commission to me when purchases are made through that link–-at no extra cost to you. I only affiliate with companies whose products I personally use and can whole-heartedly recommend. Thank you for supporting Sustain, Create and Flow.
I was provided solid lotion bars by the sponsor, Sheaberry, to sample for myself. Opinions expressed about the product are my own and are no way influenced by the sponsor.
Shared With: Frugal Days, Sustainable Ways, Natural Living Monday, Make Your Own Monday, Fat Tuesday, From the Farm, Wildcrafting Wednesday
The post Make Your Own: “Bugless Bar” Solid Lotion appeared first on Sustain, Create and Flow.