Minimal Living: How We Make Our Own Creamy Creosote Soap in the Mojave Desert

In a world that often feels overwhelmed by excess, we’re choosing something simpler — something closer to nature. Out here at our Mojave Desert campsite, where the creosote bush thrives under endless blue skies, we found a way to create a piece of this desert to carry with us every day: homemade creosote soap.

Making soap ourselves isn't just about saving money (though it definitely helps); it’s about reconnecting with what’s real. We use just a few simple, pure ingredients — creosote leaves, olive oil, and coconut oil — to craft a soap that's rich, creamy, and grounding.

The Magic of Creosote
Creosote (also called "the desert rain smell") has powerful natural properties. When you gently infuse it into oils, it releases a warm, earthy scent that feels like the desert after a fresh rain — peaceful, clean, alive.

Why Olive and Coconut Oil?
We chose olive oil for its moisturizing qualities and coconut oil for its lush, creamy lather. Together, they make a bar that's nourishing for the skin and gentle enough for daily use.

Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Connection
No perfumes, no dyes, no unnecessary extras. Just the desert, the oils, and a simple process that brings it all together. It’s a reminder that living well doesn’t need to be complicated — it can be as easy as gathering, creating, and enjoying.

Ready to try?
Stay tuned — I'll be sharing the full recipe and steps soon. Until then, maybe next time you're out under the desert sun, you'll see the creosote a little differently — not just as a plant, but as a gift from nature.