There is nothing more relaxing than a long soak in the bathtub, when filled with the luxuriant foam of bubble bath. Add some candle light and soft music and the problems of the day just seem to fade away. It comes in different forms and makes a great gift.

There are fizzy bath cubes and bath balls, scented with lemon, lime or bergamot, that explode into life when they hit running water or you can buy the more traditional bath salts that work their restorative magic into the skin. They feel good, smell good and keep the temperature of the water constant.

Cream versions come in many varieties, such as pungent ginger. Foaming bath oil is another way of appreciating ingredients like orange, jojoba, avocado and cardamom. There is also coconut, lemon, spearmint, shea butter, anise, clary sage and grape seed oil. Vapor Bath products are another type of bubble bath, very often scented with peppermint, eucalyptus and basil. Bath Spirit can be massaged into the body, using a sponge or added to the tub. Lavender and vanilla milk baths are ideal for chilling. For anyone having difficulties getting to sleep, milk baths containing chamomile, lemon or tangerine are affective.

Different ingredients have different properties and you can tailor bubble bath to your personal needs. The more calming scents include sandalwood, rosewood, myrrh and frankincense. If you want something to energize you, perhaps in a morning bath before setting off for work, lemon oil, spearmint and peppermint are ideal. Eucalyptus is also good for this and breaks down congestion if you are suffering from a head cold. If improving the skin is your goal, coconut or almond oil is wonderfully soothing.

A great invention that has hit the shops lately is the bubble bath machine. It sits on the side of the bathtub and fills it up with the bubbles of your choice. It’s also possible to make your own bubble bath but make sure to find out how to do it properly. The essential oils must not be over used and some ingredients are not suitable for pregnant women.

If made correctly, homemade potions are a good idea for people with very sensitive skin, as they know exactly what has gone into the mixture and won’t suffer any allergies. Most recipes to be mixed at home have a base of distilled water, castille soap and liquid glycerin. You can experiment with different oils and find the ideal bubble bath for you.