ButtahBalm

Have you ever noticed darker patches or freckles appearing on your skin and wondered why? That’s hyperpigmentation in action a common (and completely normal) shift in pigment production that affects people of all ages and skin tones. By understanding what triggers these changes, you’ll be better equipped to identify and eventually manage uneven skin tone. The Biology Behind Pigmentation Your skin’s natural colour comes from melanin, a pigment produced by specialised cells called melanocytes. When melanocytes are stimulated by sunlight, hormones, or injury they activate an enzyme called tyrosinase, which converts the amino acid tyrosine into melanin. Normally, melanin is evenly distributed, giving skin its consistent tone. But if production or distribution becomes uneven, patches of darker skin appear. So basically let's think of it this way, your skin has colour-making cells called melanocytes, and melanin is part of that system, acting like a protective shie...

If you've ever browsed the butter/cream/lotions aisle or dabbled in DIY formulations, you've probably noticed that products fall into two main categories: water-based or  oil-based . But what exactly sets them apart, these two types serve different purposes, and knowing which one to choose can make all the difference for your skin. Let's dive in and explore ingredients, formulation, and perfect pairings to knowing what is right for your skin. What is Water-Based Skincare? Skin care products such as lotions and creams contain water and  water-soluble ingredients as primary ingredients. This is simply because water is essential for skin hydration, making these formulations ideal for replenishing moisture and keeping your skin feeling fresh and vibrant. They typically come in lightweight forms such as gels, serums, lotions, and creams. Common Water-Based Products: Body Lotion – Lightweight, fast-absorbing formulas for daily hydration. Body Cream – Sl...

Developing your own skincare products by incorporating natural herbs and remedies is an exciting and creative journey that transforms the way you care for your skin. Every step from choosing the perfect herbs to selecting the ideal extraction method can elevate your formulations into products that truly nurture and nourish your skin. In this comprehensive guide, we explore a variety of herbal extraction techniques designed to boost your skincare creations, whether you’re crafting a simple cream or a complex, multi-ingredient serum. 1. Infusions: The Gentle Method for Extracting Herbal Benefits Infusions have been trusted for centuries. In ancient times, people steeped herbs in water or oil to unlock their healing properties, and today, this method remains popular for capturing the benefits of herbs for skincare. Simply put, it’s one of the easiest extraction methods just add your herbs to a liquid medium, let them work their magic, and you’re on your way. ...

This two-oil soap recipe is a go-to for anyone looking for an effective, budget-friendly cleaning solution for the home. Whether you need to wash dishes, freshen up napkins and rugs, or even launder clothes, this gentle, fragrance free bar gets the job done without the harsh chemicals. (Note: This soap isn’t intended for bathing.) Let’s dive in! Why Coconut & Palm Kernel Oil? Think of these two oils as a dream team for a bubbly, cleansing bar: Coconut Oil: The superstar for big, fluffy lather and excellent cleaning power. Palm Kernel Oil: Boosts lather and adds hardness, ensuring a longer-lasting bar while remaining gentle on surfaces and skin. Together, they create a bar that cleans effectively for household tasks while being kind enough for sensitive skin. Ingredients Handmade Coconut & Palm Kernel Oil Cleaning Soap 30% Coconut Oil (RBD) 70% Palm Kernel Oil Per ~970g of oils (fo...

When planning your soap batches, calculating the right amounts of oils, lye, and water is essential for perfect saponification. Whether you’re using a standard rectangular mold or an irregularly shaped one, precise measurements are crucial. In this guide, I’ll walk you through three proven methods to calculate your batter-mold with step-by-step examples: Method 1: Measure your rectangular or square mold by its dimensions. Method 2: Use water displacement for odd-shaped molds. Method 3: Base your calculations on the number of soap bars you want to produce. Accuracy is key, small errors can impact your final product so it is always a good idea to double-check your numbers with a reliable soap calculator. I personally use Soap Calc to verify my measurements. Choose the method that best suits your mold or production goals, and enjoy creating your perfect batch of soap! Method 1: Measure a Rectangular or Square Mold by Dime...