Articles

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Feasting season is upon us as we celebrate holidays with fun, friends, family, and - most importantly - food. Make your post- party clean up so much easier by using my secret weapon against grease – d-Limonene! 

This article answers commonly asked questions on Flavor Oils, what they are and how they are used. 

This article addresses commonly asked questions with making melt and pour soap.

You've researched the safety of lye, tackled the task of using a soap calculator and made what appears to be a successful batch of CP soap...but is it successful? Testing the soap's pH is a critical part of soap making to ensure your soap is safe and within an acceptable pH range. Soap can range from a pH of 7 to 10 with most soap being 9 to 10. Soaps greater than 10 are considered lye-heavy and can irritate or burn the skin. Saponification, the chemical process in which lye and oils turn into soap, usually takes between 24-48 hours. After this time, the pH can be tested and it should be within the soap range of 7 to 10. Note that the pH can lower further during the 4-6 weeks of curing. Here are three ways to test a soap's pH.

Theobroma cacao, also known as cacao tree and cocoa tree, is a small evergreen native to deep tropical regions. Its seeds, called cocoa beans, are used to make cocoa powder and chocolate. Africa is the world's leading cocoa producing area with Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) and Ghana as top producers.[1]

“Rose Quartz and Serenity demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace.”1“Rose Quartz and Serenity is a symbolic color selection; a color snapshot of what we see taking place in our culture that serves as an expression of a mood and an attitude.” 1

With the boom of social media, it may be difficult to distinguish which platforms will help your small business. Since it has been launched, Pintertest has been especially popular due to its visually attractive content. Within this article you can find information on why 'pinning' may give your small business some influence.

Setting up a temporary presence at local’s farmers markets, festivals and trade shows can be an inexpensive way to expand the amount of potential customer’s you can reach—and allow you to revel in a little summer fun while you work!  In fact with the many mobile tools that are now financially and operationally accessible to small business owners, there’s no reason not to hit road as a means to grow your business this summer. Here’s how

Finding an effective, natural deodorant can be a challenge, especially if you're looking for one free of harsh chemicals. That's where magnesium hydroxide deodorant comes in. This gentle, skin-friendly ingredient neutralizes odors while maintaining your body's natural balance, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin. In this guide, we'll explore the benefits of magnesium hydroxide, why it's a game-changer in natural deodorants, and how to make your own homemade deodorant with magnesium hydroxide. Magnesium hydroxide is a mineral compound that works as a natural alternative to aluminum in deodorants. Unlike aluminum-based antiperspirants that block sweat glands, magnesium hydroxide allows your body to sweat naturally while neutralizing odor-causing bacteria on the skin's surface.Here's why it's an excellent choice for deodorants: Gentle on Skin: Magnesium hydroxide is non-irritating and less likely to cause redness or itching compared to baking soda, which can be abrasive for sensitive skin. Neutralizes Odor: It effectively combats odor by creating an environment where odor-causing bacteria can't thrive, keeping you fresh all day. Non-Toxic: Free of synthetic chemicals, magnesium hydroxide is safe for long-term use and aligns with the growing demand for clean, natural products. Why opt for a DIY deodorant with magnesium hydroxide? Here are the benefits: Customizable Formula: You can tailor the scent, texture, and strength to suit your preferences. Cost-Effective: Homemade deodorants are often cheaper than store-bought options, especially high-quality natural ones. Skin-Friendly Ingredients: You control what goes into your deodorant, ensuring it's free of allergens, synthetic fragrances, and harsh chemicals. Eco-Friendly: Making your own deodorant reduces waste, especially if you use reusable or biodegradable packaging. To create a magnesium hydroxide deodorant recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients: Magnesium Hydroxide Powder: The star ingredient, responsible for neutralizing odors. If you're wondering how much magnesium hydroxide to use in deodorant, 2-3 tablespoons is ideal for most recipes. Coconut Oil: Acts as a base, providing a smooth texture and additional antibacterial properties. Arrowroot Powder or Cornstarch: Helps absorb moisture and keeps the formula smooth. Shea Butter (Optional): Adds a creamy consistency and nourishes the skin. Essential Oils (Optional): Choose oils like lavender, tea tree, or peppermint for fragrance and added antibacterial benefits. Vitamin E Oil (Optional): Acts as a natural preservative and skin conditioner. Gather the following tools to ensure a smooth process: Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients. Measuring Spoons: To ensure accurate quantities. Whisk or Spoon: To blend the ingredients thoroughly. Double Boiler or Heatproof Bowl: For melting solid ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil. Deodorant Containers or Jars: Use empty deodorant tubes, small glass jars, or tins for storage. Here's how to make your own homemade deodorant with magnesium hydroxide: Melt the Base Ingredients: In a double boiler, combine 3 tablespoons of coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of shea butter. Heat gently until fully melted, then remove from heat. Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of magnesium hydroxide powder and 1 tablespoon of arrowroot powder or cornstarch. Mix well to ensure a smooth consistency. Incorporate Optional Add-Ins: Add 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil and 1 teaspoon of vitamin E oil if desired. Stir until everything is evenly combined. Cool and Whisk: Let the mixture cool slightly, then whisk it to achieve a creamy texture. Transfer to Containers: Pour the mixture into deodorant tubes, jars, or tins. Allow it to set at room temperature or in the fridge until firm. Using your DIY deodorant with magnesium hydroxide is simple, but here are a few tips for the best results: Apply to Clean Skin: Ensure your underarms are clean and dry before applying deodorant to maximize its effectiveness. Use a Small Amount: A pea-sized amount is usually sufficient. Spread it evenly across the underarm area. Allow to Absorb: Let the deodorant absorb into your skin for a few minutes before dressing to avoid transfer onto clothing. Store Properly: Keep your deodorant in a cool, dry place. If your home is warm, consider storing it in the fridge to maintain its consistency. Q: How much magnesium hydroxide should I use in deodorant?A: Use 2-3 tablespoons of magnesium hydroxide powder per batch for an effective and skin-safe deodorant.Q: Is magnesium hydroxide safe for sensitive skin?A: Yes, magnesium hydroxide is one of the gentlest deodorant ingredients, making it an excellent choice for sensitive skin. It's less likely to cause irritation compared to baking soda-based deodorants.Q: How long does homemade deodorant with magnesium hydroxide last?A: Stored properly in an airtight container, your deodorant can last up to six months. Adding vitamin E oil can help extend its shelf life.Q: Does magnesium hydroxide deodorant stop sweating?A: No, magnesium hydroxide deodorant does not block sweat glands like antiperspirants. Instead, it neutralizes odor while allowing your body to sweat naturally.Q: Can I add other ingredients to customize my deodorant?A: Absolutely! You can add ingredients like kaolin clay for additional detoxifying benefits or beeswax to create a firmer texture for stick deodorants.

Everyone has a presentation style that’s unique and there’s no reason to change what’s working for you. If you think your presentation style and methods could use some enhancement, here are a few tips to consider.

Men's skincare trends are fueled by a continuing surge in spending by this often overlooked market. A recent study revealed that the men's skincare market was expected to reach $13 billion by the end of 2022 — a $10 billion increase since 2016. If your skincare company isn’t already catering to men, you’re leaving money on the table.Luckily, you don't have to reinvent the wheel in your business. By focusing on these rising trends in the natural men's skincare vertical, you can quickly expand your product line to include the most sought-after items.

You began making those luxurious body creams and beautifully scented candles for a reason; what was it? Relaxation? Meaningful gifts? A creative outlet? Probably all of the above and more, right?And now you not only enjoy the outcome of your creative prowess but select friends and family members feel quite fortunate to garner the benefits these decadent treats. You never planned on it, but now you’re thinking, why not go big and spread a little happiness to people everywhere? Why not make it an official business?This decision is all fine and well, but you’ll want to be as prepared as possible for the challenges that most certainly lie ahead. Begin by asking yourself these five questions to position the reality of entrepreneurship versus hobbyist more clearly in your mind.