I’d been eating organic produce and using sulfate-free shampoo for several years, but it didn’t dawn on me that I was applying toxic ingredients to my face every day until I recently glanced at the list of ingredients for my favorite foundation. It was full of unpronounceable chemicals, parabens, talc and other potentially irritating ingredients. Yuck.
So I set out on a quest to find the perfect natural foundation for my fair, freckled skin. I tried a few before settling on a skin-friendly combination of Eco Bella FlowerColor liquid foundation and Honeybee Gardens Pressed Mineral Powder.
But as a curious soul, I wondered – could I make my own? I’ve made natural mouthwash, deodorant, lip balm and even eyeshadow. Why not foundation?
After some internet sleuthing, recipe testing and some mess making, the results were in. Good news: it’s possible. Even better news: it’s easy! Simply follow the instructions below – and be sure to leave a comment to let me know how it turned out for you.
DIY Natural Foundation (powder)
For each spice, start with a very small amount (1/8 tsp or less) so you can adjust the color levels as you go. Write down the recipe that works for you so you can easily replicate it!
Ingredients:
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- Organic ground nutmeg
- Organic ground ginger
- Organic ground cloves
- Organic ground sage
- Organic cocoa powder (as needed to darken)
- 10 drops vitamin E, jojoba or sweet almond oil
- Optional: 3-5 drops pure tea tree oil
Directions:
- Add arrowroot/cornstarch to a small glass bowl.
- Mix in spices, paying close attention to the color – test the color by lightly brushing onto your face or forearm. Adjust amounts as necessary. Whisk to combine.
- When you’re done mixing the color, add vitamin E oil and tea tree oil (optional). Whisk again.
- Scoop into a small glass jar or other airtight container – OR you can buy an empty powder compact!
- To use, apply to face with a clean powder puff or makeup brush.
DIY Natural Foundation (cream)
If you’re like me and need a little extra coverage under your powder foundation, it’s easy to whip up a quick cream base.
Simply use the powder you created above, combine with your favorite natural, skin-moisturizing oil (apricot kernel, sweet almond, jojoba, olive, etc. – note that each one has a slightly different tint to it) or lightweight natural lotion until creamy. Mix and play with the amounts until you get the perfect color and consistency.
For the cream foundation, mix only what you need for that day. It’s easy to make this process part of your routine!