There is a certain fragrance blend by a certain company that may or may not include notes of eucalyptus and spearmint, to which I am rather partial. However, in my personal journey towards a more natural and cruelty-free life, as well as my transformation into a scent-mixing master (uh, maybe not, but more on that later), I set myself the task of recreating this gloriously relaxing blend.

I hope we’re all on the same page as to what brand I’m talking about. On their website as well as their packaging, every product has the line Not tested on animals; however, their animal testing policy also states that they do not test “except in rare cases when required by government regulations.” I do not personally choose to support a company that chooses that as an excuse. Besides all that, I do not enjoy the formula of their body lotion because it is petrochemical-based which, apart from not benefiting the skin in any way (apart from being a slight protectant), also happens to irritate my already red and inflamed keratosis pilaris (KP) covered skin.

So naturally I had to just go ahead and make my own. Through extensive research and testing, I have created Cool Eucalyptus Body Balm, a refreshing blend of eucalyptus, mint, clary sage, and citrus. Does it smell exactly like the fragrance we all know and love? Well, no, it doesn’t. It’s definitely more spearminty and herbaceous that the other one, with a sharp sweetness to it. To be honest, I can’t say that I like it more than the original, but I honestly enjoy it so much that I don’t really want to change it (though I can’t say that it won’t continue to evolve over time).

Next week, we’ll take a look at a lip balm that is definitely not a standard in your local chain store: Whisky Lip Balm. I know it sounds weird, but it’s seriously good!