I’ve always loved the historical approach to soap and cosmetics. After all, back in “olden times” all they had to work with were natural ingredients and essential oils. In fact, many of these recipes served as the foundation for the products I made and sold through my own soap and cosmetic business.

Of course, “natural” ingredients can include materials that are actually harmful, so I’ve selected only the recipes that include safe ingredients. We don’t want to make cosmetics with mercury, lead, or arsenic (or opium, laudenum, or cocaine!) all of which were common ingredients in past times. For general interest, there is a short section on recipes that you SHOULDN’T make–they contain some pretty interesting ingredients, including snails and slugs and a variety of poisonous, addictive, and/or illegal substances.

Also included in the book you’ll find:

• an historical overview of cosmetics and soap
• general explanations of how to make each of the different types of products
• measurement conversion charts
• directions for increasing or decreasing batch size
• a glossary of ingredients (including alternative replacements)
• list of suppliers

Ordering Information

There are several options for purchasing the book. You can make your choice based on how fast you want it, if you want a signed copy, and the cost of the book and shipping. Price is usually $29.95, although there are sometimes discounts. Use the buttons below to order.

I hope you enjoy the book. I’d love to get your feedback!

Wholesale

Wholesale copies of this book can be purchased from Cinnabar Press.