How to Make Your Own Scented Hand Sanitizer
Germs and bacteria are everywhere. They are present even if we don't see them. They are there now -- on our hands, on our desk, on the very computer keyboard used to type this article. We have not choice but to live with these ultra-small creatures despite the fact that some of them may produce very negative effects on our bodies. This can lead to illness and disease in some cases. Some of these bacteria can even be deadly. This is why hand washing is very important. Why hands, you may ask? Well, while some germs and bacteria manage to find their way into our bodies simply by breathing in, approximately 99% of the bacteria and germs that enter our bodies are transmitted by our hands.
It is recommended that we wash our hands several times throughout the day. Particularly, before mealtime. This is because those nasty germs that have gathered on your hands can quickly found their way into your mouth as you eat an otherwise healthy and satisfying meal. While hand washing is very important, however, it is often quite inconvenient. Hand sanitizer can be easily carried and used whenever necessary as a means of making sure our hands stay free of dangerous germs and bacteria. There are various hand sanitizers on the market today. Many contain moisturizing agents and some have various scents that many find appealing. Instead of spending your hard earned money on these, however, why not try making your own. This is a fun and easy way to stay safe, make a useful product that you're sure to make good use of, and save a few pennies in the process. Unlike products purchased at the store, products made at home by your own hand are know mystery. You always know what is in them and whether they are safe for you and your family.
What You Need to Make Your Own Scented Hand Sanitizer
- 1/4 cup aloe vera gel
- 3/4 cup rubbing alcohol (at least 91%)
- 1/8 cup vegetable glycerin (optional) (if omitted, use an extra 1/8 c. aloe vera gel)
- 10 drops essential oil of your choice.
Blend all ingredients together in a food processor or blender. Bottle and use. This recipe lasts about 6 months. The glycerine is an additional moisturizing agent that can ad softness to your hands. it is optional and can be omitted if you prefer. Be creative. Try new scents and see which one appeals to you the most.
Essential oils are a great way to add scent to your hand sanitizer. Many of these oils have anitviral and/or antibacterial properties that give you a little extra protection against the dangerous germy elements you may come in contact with throughout your day. Some good choices include:
- Cinnamon: And antiseptic. Reduces drowsiness, enhances concentration, may even decrease headache pain
- Lavender: Relaxing and rejuvenating with a calming affect. Relieves headaches and migraine pain.
- Lemon: Rejuvenates, helps to ease depression and energizes
- Peppermint: Calming, energizes, and can improve mental clarity
- Tea Tree: Very antiseptic though not the best smelling option.
- Rosemary: Helps with information retention, alertness, and memory.
- Geranium: Floral scent, lifts moods, eases PMS, promotes relaxation.