The handymade learning centre

Homemade cosmetics academy

Recipes, ingredient profiles and regulations in one place. Learn step by step — and add the ingredients of any recipe to your cart in one click.

170articles

84recipes

480ingredients

Learning paths

Level I · 4 parts

Getting started with homemade cosmetics

First steps in making your own cosmetics: measuring pH, preservation, working with actives and essential oils. The parts build on each other, but each one also stands alone.

Start with part one Level II · 5 parts

Mineral make-up from A to Z

A complete series on home-made mineral make-up: powder foundation, a cream version in five shades and liquid make-up, including how to mix your own shade.

Start with part one Level III · 6 parts

Cosmetics legislation for makers

INCI names, correct product labelling, IFRA standards and cosmetic certificates — a learning path for everyone who wants to make cosmetics properly and legally.

Start with part one

Guides & how-tos21 Nov 20197 min read

How to make your own macerate?

A Handymade blog article explaining how to correctly make a herbal macerate at home.

Guides & how-tos14 Oct 20194 min read

How to use inulin in natural cosmetics?

An article on the effects and use of inulin in natural cosmetics.

Guides & how-tos25 Sept 20196 min read

SOLUBILIZER - what is it and how to use it?

A solubiliser is a solvent that helps increase the solubility of a small amount of essential oils, fragrance oils or preservatives in purely water-based products.

Guides & how-tos28 Aug 20195 min read

Not all shampoos are the same - types of shampoos

How do you correctly read the back of a shop-bought shampoo? Which substances should you avoid in cosmetics?

Guides & how-tos9 Aug 20196 min readBeginner

How to make a natural lip balm?

A recipe for a natural lip balm that will nourish and protect your lips through the summer.

Guides & how-tos18 Jul 20196 min read

How to make a homemade repellent?

You can make a homemade repellent on an oil or alcohol base using essential oils such as cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, lavender, mint, lemon and lemongrass.