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You already love peppermint for its bright, eye-opening scent, but did you know that using peppermint in the shower may actually be good for your skin? The menthol in peppermint cools your skin, making it a great after-sun soap. It also helps improve oily skin and makes dull skin appear brighter. Essential oils have long been thought to improve your mental health as well, and starting your day with a brisk scrub with peppermint soap may help you feel happier and more alert. The coolest thing about peppermint soap? You can make it at home with a few ingredients from the craft store.
1.
If you're using oatmeal, use the coffee grinder to grind it into very small pieces. Not all grinders work the same way, so follow the instructions that came with the one you're using. Set the oatmeal aside to use later.
2.
Put the soap base in the measuring cup and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Microwave on high for one minute.
3.
Remove the plastic wrap and stir the soap base. Re-cover the measuring cup with the plastic wrap and microwave on high for another minute. Continue stirring and microwaving in one minute increments until the soap is completely melted. It may take a few minutes, but don't try to rush and microwave it for more than a minute at a time or the soap could melt and boil over, even with the plastic wrap on. Burnt soap on the bottom of your microwave isn't something you want to smell in your kitchen!
4.
Stir in the peppermint oil.
5.
Add the oatmeal or ground nut shells to the soap and stir well. If the oatmeal or shells sink to the bottom of the container, cover it with plastic wrap, wait a few minutes and stir it again so they get suspended in the soap.
6.
Carefully pour the liquid soap into soap molds.
7.
Spray the top of the soap with alcohol to reduce bubbling.
8.
Let the soap set for several hours or overnight. To remove the soap from the molds, flex them like you would an ice cube tray. Wrap your new peppermint refreshment soaps in plastic wrap to store, and enjoy!
1.8 oz. clear glycerin soap base
3.Coffee grinder (if using oatmeal)
5.Plastic wrap
7.Wooden spoon or glass stirring rod
9.Soap molds
11.Rubbing alcohol
2.1/4 oz. oatmeal or ground walnut shells
4.Large glass measuring cup
6.Microwave oven
8.1/2 oz. peppermint oil
10.Spray bottle
The oatmeal or walnut shells serve as an exfoliant; you can leave these out if you like.
Experiment with different scents for different moods and seasons.
All of the things you need to make peppermint refreshment soap, except the oatmeal and coffee grinder, should be available at large craft stores.
Be careful when handling the melted soap. It will be very hot.
