Summer is here, and with it comes the annoying presence of mosquitoes. These pesky insects not only leave itchy bites but can also carry diseases.

Commercial mosquito repellents often contain harsh chemicals that may not be suitable for everyone, especially children and individuals with sensitive skin. The good news is that you can easily make your own mosquito cream at home using essential oils.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating a natural and effective mosquito repellent cream that will keep those blood-suckers at bay.

The Power of Essential Oils

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that possess various therapeutic properties. They are not only known for their beautiful scents but also for their ability to repel insects.

Certain essential oils, such as citronella, lemongrass, lavender, and peppermint, have been found to be particularly effective against mosquitoes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather the necessary ingredients:.

1/4 cup of shea butter
1/4 cup of coconut oil
2 tablespoons of beeswax pellets
20 drops of citronella essential oil
15 drops of lemongrass essential oil
10 drops of lavender essential oil
5 drops of peppermint essential oil
Double boiler or a heatproof glass bowl and saucepan
Sterilized glass jar for storage

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your materials, it’s time to create your homemade mosquito cream. Follow these steps:.

Fill the bottom of your double boiler or saucepan with water and place it on the stove over medium heat. If you don’t have a double boiler, place a heatproof glass bowl on top of a saucepan.
Add the shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax pellets to the top part of the double boiler or to the glass bowl. Stir occasionally until everything has melted and combined.
Once melted, remove the mixture from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Add the citronella, lemongrass, lavender, and peppermint essential oils to the mixture. Stir well to ensure even distribution.
Carefully pour the mosquito cream into your sterilized glass jar. Leave it to cool and solidify completely. This may take a few hours, so be patient.

Using Your Homemade Mosquito Cream

Your homemade mosquito cream is now ready to use! Apply a small amount of the cream to exposed areas of your skin before heading outdoors. Remember to avoid contact with your eyes, mouth, and any open wounds.

Reapply the cream every few hours or as needed, especially if you’ve been sweating or swimming.

Benefits of Homemade Mosquito Cream

Not only is homemade mosquito cream free from harsh chemicals, but it also offers some additional benefits:.

Customizable: You can adjust the concentration of essential oils according to your preference and the effectiveness you desire.
Nourishing: Shea butter and coconut oil provide hydration and nourishment to your skin, leaving it soft and smooth.
Pleasant scent: Unlike commercial mosquito repellents, homemade cream infused with essential oils releases a pleasant aroma.
Cost-effective: Making your own mosquito cream is a budget-friendly option compared to purchasing expensive commercial products.

Precautions and Tips

While essential oils are generally safe, it is essential to keep the following precautions in mind:.

Perform a patch test: Before applying the cream to larger areas of your body, do a patch test on a small area of skin to ensure you are not allergic or sensitive to any of the ingredients.
Avoid sun exposure: Some essential oils can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so make sure to use sunscreen if you’ll be spending time outdoors.
Keep away from children: Essential oils are potent substances and should be stored out of reach of children.
Consult a professional: If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any underlying medical conditions, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils.

Conclusion

Using essential oils to create your own homemade mosquito cream is a natural and effective way to repel mosquitoes without exposing yourself and your loved ones to harsh chemicals.

By following the simple recipe outlined in this article, you can create a cream that not only keeps the mosquitoes away but also nourishes and hydrates your skin. Enjoy a mosquito-free summer while harnessing the power of essential oils!.