Falling oil prices and a collapsing state-led sector have left the OPEC nation struggling to keep shelves stocked.

Venezuelans with a knack for crafts and a flare for do-it-yourself projects are filling in the gaps with their own wares that they promote via the country's viral social networks.

"This year I started production of cosmetics and have been making more and more as a result of the positive response," said Mimi Ossorio, who sells organic skin products made from raw materials including essential oils, honey, and cocoa under the brand "Beauty Mimi."

Venezuelans routinely spend hours in line at supermarkets and pharmacies to obtain everything from skin cream and diapers to chicken and milk.

Popular homemade substitutes for scarce personal hygiene products now include cloves mixed with alcohol as insect repellent or a mixture of lemon and vinegar instead of acetone.