Tips and Tricks for Making Bath Bombs in Humid Climates ***SPOILER ALERT *** There is a recipe at the end Bath bombs are a great way to relax, especially after a long day or as an incentive to get headstrong kiddies in the tub. All are good reasons for you to learn how to make bath bombs yourself. With a basic recipe, a few additives and the right liquids, you can create a luxurious experience time and time again. Pro Tip #1 - The Basis of All Bath Bombs Recipes Follow This Key Principle: 4 oz Baking Soda 2 oz Citric Acid 1 oz Cornstarch You can see the pattern - however much baking soda you use, cut the amount of citric acid in half and then cut the amount of cornstarch in half of the citric acid. Knowing the breakdown will allow you to experiment and add ingredients that will suit your specific needs. Pro Tip #2 - Add Citric Acid LAST! When making bath bombs, especially early on in your experiments always, always add the citric acid in last. Once you have your wet and dry ingredients mixed and you have the color you want, add it in. I've also found that when splitting the batch into different colors, not being exact when adding the citric acid in last does not affect the quality, so don’t let OCD get the best of you. Eyeballing it is ok. The key to a successful bath bomb is the right balance between the wet and dry ingredients. Depending on what additives you are using, you will have to tweak it so the consistency is like wet sand. Pro Tip #3 - Popular Wet & Dry Ingredients Dry Additives: Colloidal oatmeal Kaolin, Rose or Bentonite clay Activated charcoal Pumpkin powder SLSA Powdered whole or goat’s milk Epsom salt The list goes on and on Wet Additives: Light oils, such as avocado, almond, coconut or grapeseed If you want to step it up a bit you can use jojoba or argan oil Vitamin E or Pro B Coco betaine (for extra bubbles) Essential or fragrance oil Pro Tip #4 - Mix it up A few other options are embeds: MCT beads, a concentrated bath bomb mix that gives a color blast or molded cocoa butter (but keep them small. You don’t want to slip in the tub). These are just a few ways to give your bath bomb some extra pizzazz. There are countless ways to jazz up your bath bombs. You can add drizzle on the top, bubble bath frosting, sea salt or add toy toppers or hidden treasures. The only limit is your imagination. Pro Tip #5 - It's Getting Hot in Here If you are having trouble with your bath bombs activating while drying, this is especially irksome in humid climates like mine (Texas), in the heat of the summer months. You can try substituting half of the water with 91% alcohol. The alcohol evaporates quickly, which allows your bath bombs to dry faster. And don’t worry, your bombs won’t smell like rubbing alcohol, it really does evaporate. Or you can also try using a dehumidifier in the room where the bath bombs are drying. Pro Tip #6 - The World of Molds Part of the fun in making bath bombs, for me especially, is the molds. There are so many shapes and styles it's sometimes gets too hard to choose. The usual suspects for me is first and foremost the stainless steel round mold. It allows you to knock out a bunch without the wait. Second up would be silicone molds. They are great, because they allow you to make a bath bomb in pretty much any shape under the rainbow, and yes even a rainbow. Last, but not least (usually) is a 3D mold. You can get some unique shapes and really make your bath bombs interesting. I use 3D molds regularly, but sometimes I find them to be a headache. What I’ve found is that if your batch isn’t spot on, the 3D molds can really be a chore. But with that said I love them still. As Promised - The Recipe This is not the exact recipe I use, but it is the basis for a quality bath bomb BATH BOMB RECIPE (makes 7 - 4 oz bombs) 16 oz Baking Soda 8 oz Citric Acid 4 oz Cornstarch 6 Tbsp (dry additive) 1 Tbsp Avocado Oil (or any light oil) 1 Tbsp Distilled water (not tap water) 1 Tbsp Essential or Skin Safe Fragrance Oil 1 Tsp Poly 80 (if using color) 1 Tsp (liquid additive) Mix all dry ingredients together and set aside (minus the citric acid). Mix all wet ingredients. Combine wet and dry and mix until like wet sand. Add color and mix until desired color is achieved. Add citric acid until combined. Put mix into desired mold(s). Allow to dry for 24-48 hours (depending on your climate) ***Very Important*** Color: micas are usually safe to use, but be sure to check the label. Most will tell you if it is safe to use for bath bombs (neons typically are not). Don’t forget the Polysorbate 80 it is regarded as a safe chemical in skincare and is used as an emulsifier to combine oil and water, so the colors don’t stain the tub. Making bath bombs can be very fun, but can also be very frustrating. Keep in mind that you are not just making something to drop in your tub, well you are, but there is science involved in order for the bombs to turn out the way you want. Going rogue on your recipe will more than likely not give you the results you want. As you formulate your unique recipe, take notes and keep track of what you are adding and taking away. Believe me, it makes a difference. Think of it like baking a cake. If you start omitting and adding, you can end up with something inedible. It's the same for bath bombs. I hope that with this basic recipe you will have endless opportunities to explore all the possibilities that bath bombs have in store. With all of the different colors, shapes, scents and additives you'll have many years of bath bomb making adventures. If making bath bombs isn't what you're into, but are interested in creating your own custom handmade soap, bath bombs, mask or scrubs, reach out to me on anytime: phatbathandbody.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhatBathBody Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/customdesignhub Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phatbathandbody TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@phatbathandbody Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/phatbathandbody Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/phatgraphix YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_zE0iOI-IICtJmUfDb_1A *This blog is not a substitute for medical advice. I am not a doctor or dermatologist. This is information is what I have learned from my research and I urge you to do your own research as well. You know your body and what is safe for you to use. As with any new product or ingredients consult your doctor if you are unsure how it will affect your health. Be safe.

Market Host Review: Family Fun Houston & Why I Love Them. A review of one of Houston's hidden gems and why you should set up shop with them. As a small business owner, I have been looking for ways to get my products in front of the right customers. I have been in the All Natural Bath & Body business for 2 years now and I wasn't seeing the growth that I wanted, so I did my research and in March of this year I started participating in local markets. The market I’m going to talk about today is the one that I firmly believe is beneficial not only to the community, but to the vendors as well. To be clear, I don't give out praise easily and definitely not without some comparison. I firmly believe that if you are interested in getting your business out there locally, want to get to know your customers base and allow them to get to know you, then Family Fun Houston is definitely the group for you. Meet your organizers: Colleen & Mary Two great ladies that I cannot say enough about. When I first started participating, they remembered my name and the name of my business although we never met or had spoken before that day. A stellar quality to have when you are dealing with people who have given you their money. From our very first meeting I felt welcome and since that first day, I have been selling at the various markets they have in the Houston Metro area and although I have attended markets with other organizers, I will remain one of their regular vendors. One important aspect I appreciate about them is that they are visible, on market days they are there before everyone else making sure everything is ready to go. During the markets they both can be seen walking around talking to vendors and customers and addressing any issues. I feel like they go above and beyond to make vendors feel comfortable, so much so, that they go to each booth and give out cold water bottles at every market. That may not seem like a big deal to you, but if you’re selling outside, in Texas, in the middle of summer, an extra water can make all the difference in the world. So thanks for that. If the first two reasons weren’t enough, Wait There's More! This dynamic duo doesn’t sit on their laurels. They will not just hang on to an unproductive market. If something isn’t working they'll change the game. And this isn’t something that I’ve heard, this is something that I’ve seen. Initially I started my journey with them at the Gosling Sunday Market (RIP). The customer traffic was slow and the vendors weren’t really seeing enough money to make a profit, so they remodeled and moved the market to and area where vendors were proven to be more successful. Not only were they constantly thinking on how to improve the experience for everyone, but they made a point to keep the vendors in the loop. To me that was HUGE! As a vendor I’m spending money for a booth space, gas, etc., each time I go to any event, so I need a return on my investment each and every time I attend. I saw the customer traffic at the previous market and I was seriously considering dropping this market altogether, but through the honest communication from Colleen and Mary and their dedication to the success of everyone they changed things for the better. Diversity is the Name of the Game Markets they host cater to everyone. The vendors are diverse, coming from all types of backgrounds and the array of products they sell are vast. You can find everything you could want, plus things you didn’t even know you needed. All types of food, jewelry, fresh juices, all natural bath and body products like mine, phatbathandbody.com (i know shameless plug), clothes and so much more. If you want to become a vendor. Here’s the deets: Websites Conroe Sunday Market ConroeSundayMarket.com Rayford Sunday Market RayfordSundaymarket.com Woodlands Square Market on 1488 woodlandssquaremarket.com Social Media https://www.facebook.com/rayfordsundaymarket https://www.facebook.com/conroesundaymarket https://www.facebook.com/woodlandssquaremarket July 2022 Markets 7/6/22 4pm-8pm Woodlands Square Market on 1488 7/10/22 & 7/24/22 11am-4pm Conroe Sunday Market 7/17/22 & 7/31/22 11am-4pm Rayford Sunday Market If you are considering becoming a vendor here are a few takeaways: You're probably not the only vendor in that niche, don't be discouraged. You may sell in the same category, but your style will not be the same as someone else’s. Think of it this way - You’re not in competition you’re providing options. (Unless you're selling a product not making it. Then yes, you are in direct competition, but they limit how many of those can attend-so be the 1st!) Be prepared. Bring everything you will need to be there all day and be comfortable. Fans or heaters, portable chargers, plenty of water and good chairs are worth their weight in gold. Be approachable. You may be there all day, but your potential customers are only there briefly. Ask questions. From the hosts, other vendors and even from your customers. Find out why they came, what they're looking for or what they hope to find. This could be a valuable resource. They might have an itch you can scratch, if not this time then at the next market. Have tons of business cards. No customer should leave your booth without one. They may not want it today, but they may want it tomorrow! Be able to take credit cards. It’s a must, especially Apple Pay and Venmo. that may attract a younger demographic and therefore increase your potential to make sales. Use your followers, especially if they are local. Post! Post! Post! Before, during and after the market. Posting customers with your product is also golden. Final Thoughts To date I have attended each type of market they host and each has its own unique feel. I like this format, because they are spread out, so you are able to reach a different local customer base at each market. For customers that don't want to travel, they don't have to, they will be in a neighborhood near you in a week. I will not claim to be an expert on these markets, far from it, but there are vendors who have been with them a long time. You will find that the vets are always (usually always) willing to share their experiences, do’s and don'ts, and even give you a heads up on other markets to keep you busy during the week (Take that part of the advice with a grain of salt and do your own research). All in all, Family Fun Houston is a great choice if you looking to take the next step in growing your business within the community. If you have any questions or have an experience you would like to share, leave a comment below, give me a shout on social media, my website, or go to the links I provided above, to reach out to Family Fun Houston directly. phatbathandbody.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhatBathBody Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/customdesignhub Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phatbathandbody TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@phatbathandbody Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/phatbathandbody Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/phatgraphix YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_zE0iOI-IICtJmUfDb_1A *This is not a paid endorsement of any kind. They did not ask me to write this or give them any props. I wrote this, because there are so many choices out there for vendor events and so many of us don’t really know who to trust and who we should give our hard earned money. I just wanted to do my part and tell you about one group I personally have experience with and believe in the service they provide. I have worked with other markets, as I earlier stated and those reviews will come later. I wanted to review Family Fun Houston first, because they are the main group I will continue to support.

An informative overview of my top 5 natural oils, Jojoba, Argan, Grapeseed, Olive and Sweet Almond Oil. Why I use them and you should too! If you are anything like me, middle aged, mother and grandmother, you know as well as I do, that our skin has seen better days. Companies are quick to suggest the many anti-aging products that I’m sure you have lining your dresser or vanity. I was that person, but what I have learned in my journey to have the best skin I possibly can, was to use products that would actually help my skin and not make me dependent on commercial products. Over the counter products may have one or more of the Top 5 Oils that I list here, but the other side of the coin is what else are they adding. Chemical preservatives, synthetics that give the illusions of soft skin, harsh fragrances, the list goes on and on. I’ve found in my quest for products that were truly good for my skin and yours, is the minimalist approach. Less is definitely more. I want to give just an overview, which is not by any means the complete list of all the great benefits of the Top 5 Oils that I use personally and in my natural skin care products, but I will give you some important tidbits on why your skin will love it! #1 - Jojoba Oil When most see this oil listed in the ingredients they automatically get excited and think that all of their problems are solved. The answer to that is yes and no. Yes, because Jojoba Oil is a great moisturizer, has antibacterial and antioxidant properties. It also can be used for oil control (weird right), but Yes and it may also help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The NO in this equation, and it is true for most products, is what else is in the commercial product that you are using. The easiest and most effective way to combat this is to find companies that only make all natural products. Their passion and commitment to a healthier skin care regimen will shine through. #2 - Argan Oil Most of us are familiar with it being called Moroccan Argan Oil. It is used in a lot of hair oils and skin serums and has many of the same benefits as Jojoba Oil, (they usually go hand and hand). Like Jojoba Oil it is moisturizing, it has antibacterial and antioxidant properties, helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, it may also help heal minor wounds and the early signs of stretch marks. This light, non-greasy oil has been used for centuries, early on in traditional folk remedies, but has become very well known and used in a wide variety of products in recent years. Being a lightweight oil it absorbs quickly to hydrate dry skin and also improves elasticity. When using oils you don’t want a battle Royale to see what ingredient will win. Oils that compliment and balance each other is the optimum end result that will give your skin the best results. #3 - Grapeseed Oil A lightweight heavyweight. It can help manage acne breakouts and lighten scars. It also fights hard to protect the skin from free radicals, (unstable atoms that can damage the cells in the body), in your skin. Grapeseed Oil penetrates quickly to provide ultimate moisture to dry damaged skin. I could go on and on about Grapeseed Oil, but I digress. #4 - Olive Oil This oil is the best option for those with sensitive skin. Olive Oil is very hypoallergenic, meaning it is relatively unlikely to cause an allergic reaction and is one of the main (or only) ingredients in Castile Soaps, due to it being very mild while still having many skin nourishing benefits. Castile Soap would be a great alternative for someone who may have a nut allergy and cannot use Sweet Almond Oil in any form. I’m starting to sound like a broken record, but Olive Oil also has antioxidants and fatty acids, which help fight the signs of aging. When applied to damp skin it can act as a second barrier for dry, cracked skin, which for many of us is a common complaint, especially in the winter months #5 - Sweet Almond Oil A double edged sword. It has so many benefits: it may reduce puffiness, dark circles around the eyes and improve skin tone and complexion. It is beneficial for very dry skin, can help reduce the appearance of scars and aids in the reversal of damage caused by the sun. The other edge, if you have a nut allergy using this oil may cause a reaction and create more problems than it solves. A couple of key takeaways when using skin care products Product Absorption vs. Penetration Absorption - A product that goes past the outer layers of the skin and enters the bloodstream. (Boo) Penetration - Sounds graphic, but is what you want in your skin care. Products that penetrate help heal, condition and hydrate the skin without going past the skin layers. (yay) The skin’s job is to act as a barrier for your body from toxins, so let’s not shoot ourselves in the foot. You want what's best for our skin, so graphic or not, the goal is Penetration not Absorption Our body lotion, skin serum and turmeric & honey sugar scrub are Top 5 Oil POWERHOUSES. I hope you found some benefit in the Top 5 Oils Your Skin Will Love. In the coming weeks I will be talking about more than just oils, I will also talk about butters, clays and other natural ingredients that your hair and skin will Love! Try to control your excitement. On a serious note, this new blog series is about more than just natural ingredients, and I hope you join me as I share my adventures as small business owner. My triumphs, my failures and everything in between. If you are interested in creating your own custom handmade soap, bath bombs, masks or scrubs, to best suit your individual skin care needs, reach out to me on anytime on any of these platforms: phatbathandbody.com Join my email list to stay up to date on all of my sales, market dates & locations, new products and much more! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhatBathBody Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/customdesignhub Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phatbathandbody TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@phatbathandbody Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/phatbathandbody Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/phatgraphix YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_zE0iOI-IICtJmUfDb_1A See you next time *This blog is not a substitute for medical advice. I am not a doctor or dermatologist. This is information I have learned from my research into the benefits of natural ingredients and I urge you to do your own research as well. You know your body and what is safe for you to use. As with any new product or ingredients consult your doctor if you are unsure how it will affect your health. Be safe. This is my first blog post and I would love your comments and feedback.