Winter Pampering

I looked far and wide for signs of spring, which is a testimony to my undying optimism, and there is nothing, nothing, I tell you! Not even a little shivering primrose, or a tentative daffodil, just nothing on ice with a side of leafless trees. As it very well should be, what self-respecting plant would consider sprouting in single digit temperatures?
In view of the seasonal gloom, I turn my attention to decadent, unabashed pampering: moisturizing oils, nourishing face and hair masks, nail treatments, the world is my spa.
That's where the essential oils come in, they can turn prosaic kitchen fats into superior skin care products in seconds. Coconut oil, almond oil and avocado oil are rich in the vitamins the skin craves, sink in quickly and leave it soft, supple and silky. If you add to this the essential oils with their active ingredients and delightful fragrance, you can almost forget nature is so unfair that it made winter last three months.
I blended sweet violet essence in half a cup of peanut oil and ended up with a luxurious make-up remover/moisturizer and instant aromatherapy in a bottle! It is a beautiful cobalt blue bottle too, with a stylish artisanal label, I've got a finished product right there, I'm so proud of myself! Tedious weather begone!
You don't need to use essential oils for their therapeutic value, the self-indulgent enjoyment of your favorite fragrance will enhance your well-being just as much.
When using essential oils keep in mind they are very concentrated and will irritate your skin if not properly diluted. A proportion of no more than 3% of essential to base oil works best.