Botanical Beauty

January 30, 2017
Readers needn’t look much further than their own homes for wholesome body and beauty products, suggests Andrus in this extensive collection of recipes for bath salts, scrubs, masks, shaving cream, and other items often sold at health and beauty stores. Airy photographs of ingredients and finished products accompany each recipe, emphasizing their simplicity and natural components (one exfoliating scrub uses only baking soda and jojoba oil). Other recipes include a mocha salt scrub, DIY deodorant, lavender- and tea-tree-oil-based bug spray, lip balm, and toothpaste made from essential oil and baking soda. Broadening the book’s scope are craft ideas for hair wraps, ties, and a towel wrap, as well as decorating and packaging tips—a small reminder that homemade gift-giving can feel as good as self-care. Ages 14–up.

December 15, 2016
Grades 9-12 Spa treatments, while delightful, tend to be pricey. Everyone enjoys being pampered, but teens on limited budgets, or who have acne or sensitive skin, may feel especially frustrated. This unique compendium comes to the rescue, offering soothing, all-natural treatments for the hands, feet, body, face, and hair. Some of the 80 recipes are actually craft projects (headbands, nail appliques) or involve whipping up concoctions from basic kitchen supplies (sugar scrubs, foot soaks). Others are more ambitious and require special containers, access to stoves or microwaves, or supplies usually found in health food stores. Ingredients, tips, and safety concerns (never apply essential oils directly to skin; how to dispose of leftovers) are prominently cited along with clear directions, scenarios for maximum enjoyment, and solutions to problems such as smelly feet, frizzy hair, or puffy eyes. Attractive color photographs show off successful results and encourage experimentation. Whether readers are seeking a little coddling or looking for gift ideas, this accessible collection offers fun and original maker projects.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)