"Design It Yourself" Skincare

Limited Edition Body Scrub Poll

2009-11-12T15:08:00.001-05:00

Each quarter, we are now introducing two (2) Limited Edition Body Scrubs to be available seasonally.

The Limited Edition Body Scrubs for Q4 of 2009 are:

Pumpkin Sugar Scrub

Frank & Myrrh Sugar Scrub

These two Limited Edition Scrubs will be laid to rest in early January. In December, we will introduce the two NEW Limited Edition Scrubs for Q1 of 2010.

We need your help! Which scrub fragrances from the poll listed in the right hand column embody January-March? Stand and Be Counted by selecting your choices from the poll!

You can view our stock Body Scrub Bases here! (Limited Edition Scrubs are offered in addition to stock bases for a 3 month period of time before they are replaced.)

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Last Day To Win Is 11/30/09!

2009-11-11T14:59:00.000-05:00

We want your feedback! Did you know you can review the products you purchase from us at the bottom of any product pages of our website? Your comments help other shoppers make informed decisions regarding the purchases they make!

Plus, from now until the end of the year, we will choose one comment per month to be featured on our blog and to receive a $20.00 gift certificate good towards goodies at BathBodySupply.com!

You may only review products you have purchased in the past and you must be logged into your account online to be eligible! Wednesday is the final day to submit your feedback for the month of September and Thursday we will choose the winner! You can submit feedback on as many products as you wish as long as you follow the pre-stated requirements! More entries under your account means more chances to win!

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Save 10% on 16 oz Massage Oil Bases

2009-11-10T15:19:00.000-05:00

It's a great time to try out (or stock up on) our Massage Oil Bases!

Massage is the practice of soft tissue manipulation. The word comes from the French massage "friction of kneading," or from Arabic massa meaning "to touch, feel or handle". An older etymology may even have been the Hebrew me-sakj "to anoint with oil". Massage oil is used as an aid in this treatment to provide "slip" in the manipulation of the skin.

All of our massage oil bases will accept fragrance or essential oils; including the very popular CERMT Aromatherapy Blend highlighted yesterday. The natural color of these bases ranges from Amber to Yellow.

For a Limited Time, you can save 10% on all 16 oz Massage Oil Bases!

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

CERMT Aromatherapy Blend

2009-11-09T19:37:00.002-05:00

CERtified Massage Therapists and Aromatherapists used this blend on the rescue workers during the 9/11 crisis in New York City. CERtified Massage Therapist Essential Oil Blend contains oils including Wild Crafted Lavender, Organic Rosemary, Organic Eucalyptus, Organic Fir, Organic Naiouli, Organic Tea Tree and Peppermint Super. Originally developed to go into massage oil, this blend is safe for diffuser use as well. This is a pure, concentrated essential oil blend, if using for massage then it needs to be diluted in your favorite carrier oil or massage oil.

Lavender essential oil is probably the most well-known and most-used essential oil. It promotes burn and wound-healing, is safe to apply 100 percent neat to the skin, and is also good for bruises and scrapes. Lavender essential oil has a characteristic fragrance. Lavender also has a profound affect on the mental and emotional affect, with low doses acting as a sedative and high doses as a stimulant.
Rosemary essential oil is a warming, stimulating oil, with the characteristic fragrance of the rosemary herb. Its stimulant properties include its affect on the nervous system and brain. It is also sometimes used for treating headaches (with other oils like lavender and peppermint). Another common use for rosemary essential oil is for alleviating muscular aches and pains or rheumatic pains, for which it is classed as possessing analgesic properties. It is also sometimes used in skin-care, and especially in shampoos. However, high percentages can be irritating in some people.
Eucalyptus essential oil is well-know for its use (in steam inhalations) as an expectorant, for colds, coughs, flu, etc. Of all the different varieties of eucalyptus, the radiata is considered by most aromatherapists to be the best choice for most therapeutic uses, as it is milder than most of the others, yet just as effective. Eucalyptus oil is also cooling, stimulating, anti-infectious, astringent and anti-inflammatory.
Fir Needle essential oil is mainly known by aromatherapists for its excellent expectorant properties, making it ideal for use in steam inhalations for head and lung infections. Its other properties include as an analgesic for the relief of muscular pain and rheumatic and arthritic pain. Fir essential oil also is reputed to help alleviate anxiety and stress.
Niaouli essential oil is one of the oils from the family that tea tree belongs to. It is higher in cineole than tea tree, and lower in terpinen-4-ol, so its properties could almost be described as being intermediate between tea tree and eucalyptus. This oil is strongly antiseptic and also has expectorant properties, so is often used in steam inhalations for respiratory tract infections. It is also recommended for use in cleaning wounds and burns, as it also has analgesic and antirheumatic properties, it is sometimes used in the relief of joint pain and muscle aches and pains.
Tea Tree essential oil is so well-known that most people have some familiarity with its properties, including its very strong antiseptic and antimicrobial action. It is often the oil of first choice for use against any form of bacterial, fungal, or viral infection, including flu, colds, skin infections and head lice. It also has immunostimulant properties, in that it stimulates the body's immune system into action. Tea tree essential oil is also often used for its strong antiseptic properties for cleansing wounds of all types, including insect bites, stings, and also burns.
Peppermint essential oil is one of the most stimulating of all the oils. Its unique fragrance is unmistakable and uplifting. It is also a very cooling oil, great to apply a drop or two neat on the forehead for a tension headache, but be very careful to keep it well away from the eyes and other mucous membrane areas, as it stings these areas severely. Alongside its cooling effect, it also has vascoconstrictive properties, ie. it constrincts the blood vessels, which also is associated with it being a tonic for the lymphatic system.

This blend is excellent in massage oils and lotions or use it as is in a diffuser or humidifier.

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

We're in Pregnancy & Newborn Magazine (Nov 2009)

2009-11-06T10:27:00.003-05:00

Our Old Fashioned Root Beer Body Scrub is on page 49 of this months Pregnancy & Newborn Magazine!

Check us out in the column titled "Get Your Fix" - Safe Indulgences for Pregnant Women

The Root Beer Scrub shown is available at our sister site: www.SmellNoEvil.net

Allison B. Kontur
Smell No Evil, Ltd.

Video Tutorial: Simple Pumpkin Sugar Scrub

2009-11-06T01:21:00.002-05:00

This video shows how to make a Pumpkin Sugar Scrub from just 4 ingredients!

Not feeling crafty? We carry pre-formulated Body Scrub bases ready for you to scent or we can Custom Scent our pre-made base for you from over 100 stock fragrance choices!

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Life Support System: Letting Your Soul Catch Up

2009-11-04T09:47:00.001-05:00

When you own your own business, it isn't uncommon to burn the candle at both ends. It's important to find balance between your work life and your personal life and although these are often one and the same, sometimes you just need to take a break.

One of my favorite guilty pleasures is reading and I am a big fan of Steve Goodier's Life Support System. Click the link below for some very wise words from Steve about balance:

Life Support System: Letting Your Soul Catch Up

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

New! Natural Kraft Gable Box

2009-11-03T17:03:00.000-05:00

Handy Gable Boxes are great for gift sets or as an alternative to a bag for lighter, take away items. Natural Kraft boxes offer a versatile look that can be personalized any number of ways (labels, stamping or other decorative accents).

Made in the USA of 100% recycled kraft paper, you can feel good about buying local and protecting the environment!

Box dimensions measure: 8 x 4.875 x 5.25"

Looks great paired with our Natural Crinkled Paper Filler!

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

October Product Feedback Winner!

2009-11-02T15:43:00.001-05:00

Kim from Milford, PA

Product: BTDS10 - Botanical Dead Sea Salts - CUSTOM - (10 lbs)

Feedback: "I have ordered the fine grain botanical dead sea salts and they have been selling very well and i just love it for myself, it is soothing and detoxifying."

Kim, you have won yourself a $20.00 gift certificate good towards goodies at BathBodySupply.com! Check your email for your coupon code!

We appreciate your feedback! For more information on how to enter, visit our blog post here! Remember, we will be choosing one comment per month through the end of 2009. You can re-qualify each month by giving more feedback on products you have purchased! The more feedback you give, the more times you are entered to win!

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Video Tutorial: Making Clear Linen Sprays

2009-10-30T18:27:00.000-04:00

This video shows how trial and error helped us solve a readers problem manufacturing clear linen spray products. Whether you prefer a clear product or not, we've vlogged about 6 separate formulas for making your own linen sprays from scratch!

Not feeling crafty? We carry pre-formulated Linen Spray bases ready for you to scent or we can Custom Scent our pre-made base for you from over 100 stock fragrance choices!

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Manufacturing Non-Beverage Alcohol Products - Where Do I Start?

2009-10-29T11:29:00.009-04:00

Feeling undeterred by the taxes, fees and regulatory documentation required for your company to be compliant in manufacturing/shipping non-beverage alcohol products discussed here and here?

You will need to acquaint yourself with the regulatory agencies involved:

Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB.gov): http://www.ttb.gov/ssd/faqs.shtml#no

Information for Specially Denatured Spirits Applicants (Application): http://www.ttb.gov/tax_audit/p51503.pdf

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms (ATF.gov): http://www.atf.gov/alcohol/alfd.htm

US Food & Drug Administration (FDA.gov): http://www.fda.gov/ohrms/dockets/DOCKETS/02n0278/02n-0278-c000024-vol3.pdf

US Dept. of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA): http://www.phmsa.dot.gov/hazmat

US Dept. of Transportation: http://www.phmsa.dot.gov/

International Air Transport Association: http://www.iata.org/training/regulation-compliance/

Ohio State Liquor License Agency: http://www.com.ohio.gov/liqr/docs/liqr_ResourceDirectory.pdf (You will need to check with your own state liquor license agency to be sure you are within local compliance requirements)

US Postal Service (USPS.com): http://www.usps.com/aviationsecurity/

United Parcel Service (UPS.com): Hazmat Service Definition

Federal Express (FedEx.com): Hazmat Service Definition

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Shipping Hazardous Materials - What's the Law?

2009-10-28T11:04:00.001-04:00

If you missed our discussion regarding the regulation of alcohol in cosmetics, see our post here to get up to speed.

Once you have procured an ATF license to ship products containing alcohol and paid the required fees, you still need to be aware of the requirements for shipping dangerous goods. Two organizations govern shipping of dangerous goods like alcohol.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) has created rules for shipping dangerous goods by ground transport. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has rules for shipping dangerous goods by air. The IATA rules are much more stringent than the DOT ground shipping rules.

Specially Denatured Alcohol (often called Perfumers Alcohol) is defined as a dangerous good because of its flammability. Bulk shipments of SDA alcohols or products containing SDA alcohols must conform to the shipping rules. These rules include selection of the proper container, proper labeling of the container and any packaging, and the preparation of appropriate shipping documents. Additionally, training is required for all shippers to ensure compliance with these requirements.

For the producers of consumer products, exemptions from these rules do exist. DOT allows an exemption from the labeling and documentation requirements for consumer commodities. IATA, however, DOES NOT allow an exemption. Consumer commodities are defined as products which are packaged and designed for direct use by consumers, like a bottle of perfume or linen spray.

Both DOT and IATA rules provide limits on the size and construction of the inner containers as well as the amount of product per package. Air Parcel, Express and Priority Mail are air shipments. United States Postal Service (USPS) forbids shipment of alcohol via these services. Parcel Post may be used, but there are limits on the percentage of alcohol that may be shipped using this method. Refer to www.usps.com for more details. Additionally, your outer boxes must be labeled "ORM-D" and "inner packings comply with prescribed requirements".

UPS ground service is the simplest option for the shipment of consumer commodities. Even they have some restrictions, though.

1) UPS will not accept consumer commodities at UPS Stores or drop-off locations
2) you must have a UPS account and pick-up service
3) UPS will also accept consumer commodities for air shipments if you label and document the shipments correctly. Expensive third party software is required for documentation of all UPS air shipments plus a $35 fee applies to EACH shipment.

UPS ground shipments have several requirements.

1) All packages must weigh less than 20 pounds if packed in EC32 boxes (the most common type of single wall box)
2) a label bearing the notation "ORM-D" and the statement "inner packings comply with prescribed requirements" must be affixed to the outside of the box
3) the inner packages must be tightly sealed and properly cushioned to prevent breakage and spillage. All lids must be sealed to prevent opening during transit. Tape or tamper-evident seals are required. Secondary containment, such as over-bagging, is also desirable.
4.) Glass, metal or plastic containers may be used. Glass containers may hold no more than 500 mL. Metal or plastic containers may hold up to one liter.

While these are ground restrictions, air shipments may require smaller containers and/or additional documentation to be within compliance.

As you can see, there is a great deal of paperwork and expense involved in shipment and resale of hazardous materials. While SD Alcohol has its place in cosmetic formulating, it is important to educate yourself on the safety and regulation of any and all products that you manufacture and/or ship so that you are aware of the requirements. Feigning ignorance or hoping to skirt around the issue do both your business and your clients a huge disservice. Remember, no attorney or court will accept the excuse that, "such and such company is doing it, so we did it too". Save yourself unnecessary hassle and expense by educating yourself about compliance, you'll be glad you did!

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Beverage Alcohol & Cosmetics - What's the Law?

2009-10-27T17:06:00.000-04:00

We get a lot of questions from those making perfumes, linen sprays or other cosmetics using drinking (beverage) alcohol like Vodka. The law regarding beverage alcohol in cosmetics and toiletries is finite. You may NOT legally sell skincare products manufactured with beverage alcohol.

The Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms rules concerning the use of alcohol in cosmetics are straightforward and fairly easy to understand.

The first ATF rule is that beverage alcohol MAY NOT BE USED in cosmetics. Technically, the ATF considers you to be selling beverage alcohol without a license, proper reporting and payment of taxes.

The FDA also has specific rules about the use of alcohol. The FDA rule is straightforward: Bitrex must be added to prevent ingestion and accidental poisoning with no exceptions.

Specially denatured alcohol (SDA) must be used but only in certain approved formulas. Some denatured alcohol formulas contain toxic compounds that are not suitable for skin contact. These forbidden formulas include the paint and lacquer thinners available from the hardware store. Formulas that are legal for use in cosmetics may be directly distributed only to permitted users.

Many of the legal formulas contain compounds such as phthalates and coumarins. Some formulas use essential oils as denaturants, but this can restrict your fragrance choices as these products will smell like whichever essential oil was used as a denaturant. SDA 40 B is one of the more popular choices because it is denatured with other alcohols and Bitrex.

Once you have chosen the SDA alcohol you need for your project, you must legally obtain it in order to use it in your formulation. Sellers of SDA alcohol must possess an ATF permit to sell such material and may only sell SDA alcohol to a permitted user. A permitted user is someone or an organization that registers with ATF and pays the $250 annual tax. (NOTE: Only users and sellers of SDA alcohol are required to pay the $250 per year tax.)

Obtaining a permit from ATF simply allows you to obtain SD alcohol. It does not allow you to sell products made from it. ATF must approve your formula before you can begin selling. You must submit your formula and possibly samples to the ATF national laboratory for examination where an ATF agent will approve or reject your formula. Once your formula is approved, it may be sold without restriction to unlicensed individuals who may use it as they desire, but no one may attempt to convert it to beverage alcohol.

Tomorrow we will discuss shipping restrictions for products containing alcohol.

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Nylon Mesh Bath Puffs - Update

2009-10-26T16:28:00.004-04:00

We have been notified by the producer of our Nylon Mesh Bath Puffs that they will no longer manufacture the small 30 gram size and will no longer offer any color other than white in the large 50 gram size.

We have limited quantities available of colored bath puffs online. By the end of the day, we will have an exact count of the remaining inventory.

If you are looking for an inexpensive accessory to add to gift bags/baskets for the upcoming holidays, now is a great time to stock up on these puffs. Both the 30 gram and 50 gram sizes are compact and tightly constructed. The mesh used in the construction of these items is a dense, tightly woven material (not the loosely woven construction commonly seen in discount stores, etc.).

We will continue to stock the White 50 gram Nylon Mesh Bath Puffs. Unless we are successful locating another supplier of high-quality, affordable, colored puffs we will no longer be able to stock the colored versions.

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

The Importance of Communication

2009-10-21T18:30:00.003-04:00

Our website was down for nearly 6 hours on Tuesday. We received no advance warning and there was very little communication from our web host during the outage. As you can imagine, we were a bit flummoxed trying to determine the cause and navigate the consequent lack of communication.

This morning we received the following email from the COO of Volusion, our webhost:

As you likely noticed, we experienced a critical hardware failure yesterday that resulted in your storefront not functioning properly. We take full responsibility for this incident; our mission is to help you succeed online, and yesterday we didn't live up to that promise. We apologize for the issues this caused you and your customers.

In addition to the technical issues, we also did not communicate with you throughout the incident as we should have. In our efforts to get your store back up and running, we neglected to keep you informed.

While I cannot promise that problems will never arise, I can promise that we are committed to mitigating future issues in a way that minimizes the impact on your business. I've attached a technical explanation of what occurred yesterday to the bottom of this message.

Sincerely,

Clay Olivier
Chief Operating Officer
Volusion

Technical Root Cause Analysis

Early yesterday, one of our blade server chassis lost connectivity to our Storage Area Network. This resulted in many of our customers experiencing downtime or errors on their storefronts.

Upon identification of the issue, we immediately brought HP on-site. After extensive troubleshooting, HP engineers diagnosed the issue as a failed mid-plane within the chassis. The engineers replaced the mid-plane, and all connections were restored.

This is the second HP mid-plane that has failed in the past 30 days. While the chances of two failures of a similar nature are very remote, HP was able to confirm this to be the case. Based on the serial numbers of the two failed components, we have reason to believe that both came from a bad batch. We are researching this further with the help of HP's labs, as well as performing a full audit on all of our HP equipment

We recognize the impact that yesterday's outage may have had on your business. We are working diligently with HP to prevent a recurrence of this issue in the future.

While this update provides much more insight into the problem that severed our connection with our online customers, I can't help but feel that a little transparency from the beginning would have saved a lot of anger. Not to mention the subsequent finger-pointing that occurred on Twitter as those who were affected desperately tried to get immediate answers using the only medium readily available to them (A very public medium).

What's your company policy? Do you believe in being transparent up front or do you prefer to fly by the seat of your pants and follow up with damage control later?

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Video Tutorial: Scented Straw Brooms/Wreaths - P2

2009-10-20T19:43:00.001-04:00

This video (Part 2 of 2) shows how easy it is to scent and/or refresh home decor items using Manufacturers Grade Fragrance Oil.

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Website Issues

2009-10-20T16:23:00.006-04:00

*UPDATE: As of 6:00PM EST, the site appears to be up and functioning as per normal. If you encounter any difficulties, please contact us!

Since approximately noon eastern time today, our website, Live Chat and email have been unavailable. Our ecommerce software is hosted through Volusion, and while we have rarely ever had down time since we started using Volusion service, today has been an exception.

Email was restored at approximately 3:00PM EST, but we still do not have Live Chat capabilities and when trying to access our site, you will likely receive a "Page Not Found" or "Server Timed Out" error. We have been assured by Volusion that most other stores have been restored and that the remaining "few" (ours is apparently one of the "few") will be restored shortly.

We apologize for any inconvenience this causes as you are trying to place your order or find product information. We are accepting orders by phone: 330-467-1637, fax: 330-467-2166 or via email: admin [at] bathbodysupply [dot] com until this issue is resolved.

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Video Tutorial: Scented Straw Brooms/Wreaths - P1

2009-10-19T13:24:00.002-04:00

This video (Part 1 of 2) shows how easy it is to scent and/or refresh home decor items using Manufacturers Grade Fragrance Oil.

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Balms, Ointments, Creams & Salves - What's in a name?

2009-10-15T13:10:00.009-04:00

In a recent interview, I was asked how to avoid getting stuck in a rut as a business owner. Part of my reply was that you should challenge yourself every day by learning something new.

Today, I am researching the difference between a Balm, an Ointment, a Cream and a Salve. All of these products appear to contain moisturizing ingredients, but their technical uses are very, very different.

A Balm (also called liniment) is traditionally a medicated topical preparation to be applied to the skin. The viscosity (thickness) of a balm is somewhere between that of a lotion and a cream or ointment. However, unlike a lotion, a balm requires friction and must be rubbed or massaged into the skin for proper application. Most balms or liniments are sold to relieve pain and stiffness such as sore muscles or arthritis and are typically formulated with fast-evaporating solvents such as alcohol or counterirritants such as menthol or capsaicin. (This definition excludes Lip Balm which will be discussed in another post).

An Ointment is a semisolid product generally consisting of 80% Oils and 20% Water to provide a barrier on the skin which prevents moisture-loss. An ointment may or may not be medicated. They are used as emollients or for the application of active ingredients (such as herbal infusions, tinctures or medications) to the skin for protective or therapeutic purposes. Ointments allow slower delivery of active ingredients as the lower percentage of water content prevents excessive evaporation.

A Cream is a semi-solid emulsion of oil and water in approximately equal proportions which penetrates the outer layer of skin. Creams are generally applied with ones fingers or palms. Creams are easy to apply but may be inappropriate for application to regions of hairy skin such as the scalp, while a lotion is less viscous and may be readily applied to these areas. Creams create a barrier on the skin, help skin retain moisture and help to soften and smooth skin.

A Salve is an ointment, cream or balm with soothing, healing or calming effects. Generally, salves are used as an adhesive substance for application to wounds or sores.

So, while all for of these products create varying levels of a barrier on the skin, the purpose of the barrier is not necessarily the same. It is important to note that Balms, Ointments and Salves may all be associated with the delivery of medications or other drugs. If you are using active ingredients that fall into this category, your product may be regulated by the FDA as a Drug rather than a Cosmetic. This can create an issue if you are making claims about a product that you have not proven through proper testing and certification. The simple act of naming your product can create an issue if the end user will "imply" a specific use for the product (even if that implication is made in name only). Keep this in mind when naming your products and remember, if you can't PROVE it, you can't CLAIM it.

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Save 10% on Organic Liquid Soap Bases*

2009-10-14T12:45:00.002-04:00

It's a great time to try out (or stock up on) our Organic Liquid Soap Bases!

Help protect the environment from intensive farming methods and chemical treatment of natural ingredients, while also passing these benefits directly to your skin. Contains a natural liquid soap base derived from organic oils, blended with gentle surfactant & skin enhancing ingredients. All of our bases will accept fragrance or essential oils; However, in the spirit of providing a product in as organic a form as possible, we do not offer custom scenting for these products. Although color could be added, the natural color of these bases ranges from Amber to Yellow.

For a Limited Time, you can save 10% on both of our Liquid Organic Soap Bases (*excludes 5 Gallon sizes and Overstock items.)!

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Recipe: Cuticle Cream

2009-10-13T13:31:00.007-04:00

Cold weather settles in, my hands start feeling parched, then my cuticles get ragged and catch on everything. I also talk with my hands, so I get self-conscious about how they look (not to mention the strands of sweater clinging to my shredded cuticles). This simple cuticle cream offers a burst of moisture for winter-weary hands. Use as a spot treatment for cuticles or slather it on to condition skin, your hands will thank you!

You will need:

Oil Phase:
0.50 oz Shea Butter, Unrefined (Ivory)
0.75 oz Olive Butter
0.25 oz Emulsifying Wax NF
0.25 oz Polysorbate 20

Water Phase:
2.25 oz Distilled Water
1.25 ml (1/4 tsp) Allantoin USP

Cooldown Phase:
1.25ml (1/4 tsp) Phenonip (Preservative)
5 drops Tea Tree Essential Oil
5 drops Lavender, Bulgarian Essential Oil
3 drops Sandalwoods Essential Oil Blend

Phase 1: In a double boiler over low heat, combine all ingredients in oil phase until melted & clear. Remove from heat.

Phase 2: In a separate, heat-proof container, heat the water until it reaches approximately the same temperature as the liquified oils/wax. Use a thermometer to accurately determine the temperature. Remove from heat and add Allantoin, stirring thoroughly until dissolved.

Phase 3: Slowly combine water mixture with oil mixture using a stick blender or mixer to fully incorporate. Allow to cool to room temperature.

Phase 4: When lotion has cooled to the touch (as close to room temp as possible), add preservative and optional fragrance. Blend well to incorporate before packaging in airtight containers.

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Save 10% on Select Exotic Butters

2009-10-12T11:26:00.004-04:00

For a Limited Time, save 10% on the following Exotic Butters:

Aloe Butter

Mango Butter

Olive Butter

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Recipe: Eau de Parfum

2009-10-08T18:35:00.009-04:00

You will need:

Fragrance Blend (or experiment to create your own!):
5 ml (1 tsp) Blood Orange Essential Oil
2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) Jasmine Fragrance Oil
10 ml (2 tsp) Orange Blossom Fragrance Oil
1.25 l (1/4 tsp) Vanille Essential Oil Blend
2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) Patchouli Fragrance Oil
2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) Egyptian Musk Fragrance Oil

Base Solvent: Liquid Perfume Base

Container: Silver Perfume Sprayer

Using a clean dropper for each scent, blend all of your scent options in a glass bottle. For best results, allow scents to marry overnight to allow the blend to develop. This allows you to tweak ratios before diluting the concentrated fragrance.

Make sure you keep detailed notes so that you are able to duplicate the blend at a future date. There is nothing more frustrating than achieving your perfect scent and then not being able to duplicate it. Once you have achieved the scent profile you prefer, it is time to dilute!

In most Eau de Parfum Fragrances, the scent is diluted at 10-15% of the base. For easy math, this translates to 4.5 ml fragrance blend to 25.5 ml liquid perfume base to yield 1 oz of Perfume. Once you have diluted the fragrance blend and mixed it well to incorporate, it's time to package your masterpiece. We suggest convenient fine-mist purse atomizers for alcohol-based perfumes.

FYI: It is NOT okay to substitute rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) or Vodka (ethanol) for the Liquid Perfumers Base. In order to formulate with drinking alcohol (ethanol) or Perfumers Alcohol (SDA Alcohol), you are required to register and maintain a license with the ATF as well as pay taxes on the sale of the alcohol. Our Liquid Perfumers Base is formulated so that this licensure and the subsequent taxes do not apply.

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Recipe: "Ooo la la" Eau de Toilette (Roll-On)

2009-10-07T15:35:00.003-04:00

You will need:

Fragrance Blend (or experiment to create your own!):

10 ml (2 tsp) Orchard Peach Natural Fragrance Oil
5 ml (1 tsp) Lemon Essential Oil
1.25 ml (1/4 tsp) Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil
2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) Rosewood (Renewable Source) Essential Oil
2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) Amber Musk Natural Fragrance Oil

Base Solvent: Jojoba Oil, Clear (Organic)

Container: Roll On Bottle, 7 ml

Using a clean dropper for each scent, blend all of your scent options in a glass bottle. For best results, allow scents to marry overnight to allow the blend to develop. This allows you to tweak ratios before diluting the concentrated fragrance.

Make sure you keep detailed notes so that you are able to duplicate the blend at a future date. There is nothing more frustrating than achieving your perfect scent and then not being able to duplicate it. Once you have achieved the scent profile you prefer, it is time to dilute!

In most Eau de Toilette Fragrances, the scent is diluted at 5-10% of the base. For easy math, this translates to 3 ml fragrance blend to 27 ml jojoba oil to yield 1 oz of Perfume. Once you have diluted the fragrance blend and mixed it well to incorporate, it's time to package your masterpiece. We suggest convenient roll-on applicators for oil-based perfumes.

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com

Recipe: Solid Perfume (Vegan)

2009-10-06T15:48:00.001-04:00

You will need:

1 oz Coconut Oil (Fractionated)
1 oz Soy Wax Pastilles
2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) Fragrance or Essential Oil (We used Euphoria Essential Oil Blend)

Phase 1: In a double boiler over medium heat, melt together oil and wax until clear. Remove from heat.

Phase 2: Allow to cool slightly before adding your choice of fragrance. Stir well before pouring into small containers.

To Apply: Rub finger over solid perfume and allow body heat to slightly melt the solid before applying to pulse points. Reapply as needed!

Alternate Packaging Idea: Natural Slim Lip Tube & Cap

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com