Back to Basics (For Health and Beauty!)

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Witch hazel—an alcoholic solution of an extract from the bark of the witch hazel bush—is another household product that can be diluted with an equal amount of water to make a pleasant astringent, or used full strength as an aftershave.

An application of the lotion will also alleviate the pain of bruises, bites, stings, sunburn, and minor scalds: Splash it on freely . . . cover the area with a soft cloth ... and keep the bandage saturated. A witch hazel rub can ease stiff muscles as well, though several applications may be necessary to bring about the desired results. And, if you happen to be unlucky enough to stray into a patch of poison ivy, just make a paste of witch hazel and baking soda, and spread it on the affected areas for quick relief.

Witch hazel can be a boon to folks with tired eyes, too. Such sufferers can soak cotton pads in the fluid and place them on their closed eyelids while taking a (probably deserved) ten-minute rest.

You can even apply the versatile liquid after you shampoo (for a sweet, clean scent), or use it for a hair- setting aid.

MULTIPURPOSE MINERAL OIL

One of the most versatile home cosmetic ingredients is mineral oil . . . or—if that lubricant seems too heavy—you can sub stitute one of the various vegetable oils: cottonseed, corn, olive, wheat germ, soybean, peanut, sesame, safflower, or whatever you like best.

Any of these can be used to replace a number of the oil-based products probably found in your bathroom. Baby oil, for example, is often no more than mineral oil with added scent . . . but you'll pay up to four times more for the leading brand of baby oil than you will for plain mineral oil!

The inexpensive skin softeners can also stand in for costly bath oils. If you pour two or three tablespoonfuls into your tub, the beauty aid will float on top of the water, and coat you with a fine, velvety film. If, however, you'd like the oil and water to mix, simply combine 1/2 teaspoon of very plain, clear shampoo (such as those made for babies) with a quarter-cup of mineral or vegetable oil . . . and pour the mixture under the running tap.

Mineral oil can take the place of your cleansing lotion as well! Just smooth it on with your fingertips ... wipe it off with cotton . . . and follow the application with a splashed-on astringent. It can even be used as a gentle but effective eye makeup remover!

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