Blog Posts

Essential oils are nature's treasures and pack an amazing punch!  Here are just a few reasons why we at AumOui absolutely LOVE adding essential oils to our wonderful skin-loving potions...including artisan soaps! Aromatherapy:  Essential oils contribute natural scents to artisan soaps, providing aromatherapeutic benefits.  Different oils, like lavender for relaxation or peppermint for invigoration, can positively influence mood and emotions during use. Skin Benefits:  Many essential oils have inherent properties that benefit the skin. For instance, tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial properties, lavender for its calming effects, and eucalyptus for its refreshing feel.  These oils can contribute to specific skincare needs. Natural and Plant-Derived:  Essential oils are derived from plants, making them a more natural alternative to synthetic fragrances.  They contain compounds that not only add scent but also offer potential healing and wellness properties. Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties:  Some essential oils, such as tea tree oil, thyme, and lemongrass, possess natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.  When added to soaps, they can help cleanse and protect the skin. Customization:  Artisan soap makers often blend different essential oils to create unique scent combinations and provide varying benefits.  This allows for a wide range of choices catering to different preferences and needs. Mind-Body Connection:  Using essential oils in soaps can create a sensory experience that enhances the overall bathing or handwashing routine, promoting relaxation, stress relief, or an energizing effect. When using essential oils in handmade soap, it's essential to consider a few factors: Proper Dilution:  Essential oils should be properly diluted according to recommended guidelines to ensure they are safe for use on the skin and to avoid irritation. Individual Sensitivities:  Some individuals might be sensitive or allergic to certain essential oils, especially when pregnant.  It is crucial to perform a patch test before using a new product to avoid adverse reactions. Pets & Children:  Do your due diligence when selecting products for children and/or pets as not all essential oils -- or their concentrations -- are safe for your children or pets. Quality Matters:  @AumOui, we only use the highest-quality, pure essential oils to ensure they retain their beneficial properties and offer the desired scent and skin-loving benefits. We at AumOui take pride in crafting self-care products that contribute to the overall well-being of individuals through the thoughtful use of essential oils, making the experience of using soaps, etc. with them all the more holistic and enjoyable!

In the gentle flicker of a candle's flame lies the history, which spans millennia.  A story of illumination woven through time.  Candle making -- an ancient craft -- has traversed epochs, evolving from rudimentary beginnings to a multifaceted art form.  Below, a fast-track journey through the captivating history of candle making, tracing its origins and remarkable evolution. Ancient Origins:  Illuminating the Past Candle making's origins date back to antiquity, where civilisations such as Egypt fashioned rudimentary light sources from reeds soaked in animal fats. These simple rushlights provided early societies with light after sundown, laying the foundation for a craft that would endure for centuries. European Medieval Mastery:  The Rise of Chandlers Throughout the Middle Ages, chandlers emerged as skilled artisans, refining the candle-making process. Tallow and beeswax became prominent materials, with beeswax candles adorning the domains of the affluent and churches due to their costly nature. Evolutionary Leaps:  Innovations and Techniques The candle-making process witnessed pivotal transformations.  Techniques like "dipped candles" emerged, where repeated dips of wicks into melted wax or tallow created more substantial and efficient light sources.  The 18th century introduced stearin and spermaceti wax, marking significant strides in candle quality. Industrial Revolution:  Mechanising Candle Production The advent of the Industrial Revolution in Britain catapulted candle making into a new era. Joseph Morgan's ingenious candle-making machine revolutionised production, enabling mass-scale manufacturing.  This breakthrough democratised access to candles, making them more affordable for the masses. 20th Century:  Innovations and Diversification Advancements in technology and chemistry defined candle making in the 20th century.  Paraffin wax, derived from petroleum, emerged as a cost-effective alternative to traditional materials, further democratising candle ownership. The era also witnessed the advent of scented and decorative candles, diversifying candle usage beyond mere illumination. Modern Craft:  Candle Making Today In contemporary times, candle making transcends utility, transforming into a creative hobby and entrepreneurial pursuit.  Enthusiasts experiment with various waxes, scents, dyes, and molds, crafting bespoke candles that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Embracing Tradition in a Modern World Though candle making has adapted to modernity, it cherishes its roots, blending age-old techniques with contemporary innovation.  The craft continues to enchant, offering an array of choices—from aromatic scents to ornate designs—that captivate candle enthusiasts worldwide. Illuminate your space with the rich history and artistry of candle making. Join us as we celebrate this timeless craft that has illuminated homes and hearts for centuries.