How to Make Moisturizing Cream

Incorporating antiviral essential oils into moisturizing cream is another way to apply their medicinal properties topically. Dryness can cause microscopic tears in the skin, which are open invitations to outbreaks. Using a natural skin cream can help reduce this occurrence. The benefit of using cream rather than oil or ointment is that it hydrates the skin. Hydration helps to prevent tissue damage and scarring.

While ointments, salves, and balms cover, protect, and help heal damaged and sensitive skin, they tend not to absorb well and aren't moisturizing. That said, they are soothing, but when the intention is to soften and smooth skin, a cream is required. Why? Because creams contain moisture for better absorption. However, since oil and water don't mix, creams are formulated differently from ointments to prevent ingredients from separating.

How to Make Moisturizing Cream

The following recipe makes about 3/4 cup of moisturizing cream.

• 1/2 cup of rosewater
• 1/2 teaspoon glycerin
• 2 tablespoons witch hazel
• 1/4 teaspoon borax
• 2 tablespoons emulsifying wax (or white beeswax)
• 1 teaspoon lanolin
• 2 tablespoons almond oil
• 2 drops of rose oil

Gently heat the rosewater, glycerin, witch hazel, and borax in a saucepan until the borax has dissolved. Melt the emulsifying wax (or white beeswax), lanolin, and almond oil in a double boiler over low heat. Slowly add the rosewater mixture to the oil mixture, whisking as you do so. It will quickly turn milky and thicken. Take it off the heat, continue whisking as it cools, then add the rose oil. Pour the cream into glass pots or jars. Cap tightly.

Apply a fingertip amount to the face and neck before bed.

This recipe comes from Stephanie Donaldson's book, The Country Store, 1996 (Lorenz Books).

You might also try making Rosemary Gladstar's moisturizing skin cream recipe (Gladstar, R. (2008). Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health. Storey Publishing: North Adams, MA).