safe and simple baby shampoo

{P.S. (pre-script) I took a spring picture of the tree in my front yard for my new blog header. If you're in reader, click over to look at it. I think it looks like a Van Gogh.}

Here's an update on my natural health and beauty new year's resolution...

Did you know that the classic Johnson & Johnson tear-free baby shampoo contains known carcinogens? And that the company sells different, safer versions of its product in other countries, but not in America?

Neither did I. Granted, we're talking trace amounts, but this is my baby! A trace amount is still too much for me.

After checking out several homemade baby shampoo ideas, I went with this one from Erin Odom guest posting at Kitchen Stewardship.

In an old foaming pump dispenser, I combine

1/4 cup baby mild castille soap
3/4 cup water
8-10 drops essential oil (sometimes)

That's it! I use this on Rosie's hair and body, and I also use it as hand soap. And here's the crazy part: when I ran out of shaving gel, I used this to shave my legs, and it left my skin softer and smoother than gel ever does. I'm never going back.