welcome back! today’s formula is super simple. it’s a lightweight, hydrating treat, perfect for hot weather.
cucumber gel serum!
this recipe is fully customizable, as usual, so get creative!
note the links provided are not affiliates and i do not benefit in any way. they’re provided only to help you find good quality ingredients.
INGREDIENTS
- cucumber hydrosol
- deeply hydrating, calming, and conditioning
- fresh and earthy smelling
- gentle enough for all skin types
- xanthan gum
- gelling agent; used in miniscule quantities
- found in your local grocery baking aisle
- aspen bark powdered extract
- water-soluble preservative
- skin-conditioning
- high in salicin
- optional – a lightweight carrier oil
- suggested: prickly pear seed oil or amaranth seed oil, both great for all-things-“eye”
- note: xanthan gum can hold about 1% oil without needing an emulsifier, but it can separate over time
- optional – water-soluble colorant
FORMULA
- 55 mL cucumber hydrosol
- the tiniest sprinkle of xanthan gum (less than 1/16 teaspoon)
- 1/4 teaspoon aspen bark powdered extract
- 1/8 tsp prickly pear seed oil or amaranth seed oil
HOW TO
- in your bottle of cucumber hydrosol, sprinkle in your aspen bark powder and shake well.
- in the same bottle, gently and evenly sprinkle the xanthan gum across the top of the hydrosol. let sit for a few hours until the gum is fully swelled/hydrated. you can shake it after a few hours to make sure, but not before (or else you will get clumps called “fish eyes”)
- add up to 1% of your oil. shake well.
apply to clean skin before any creams or oils. store in a cool, dry area, away from sunlight. toss if the smell or color turns.
BONUS: you can easily turn this into a hyaluronic acid serum, since it’s mostly hydrosol. if you opt for that, omit the xanthan gum.
enjoy!
XO, ALEXRAYE
almostexactlyblog.com 