Summer can be harsh on our hands, leaving them dry and chapped due to exposure to sun, water, and other outdoor activities. This soothing summer salve is a perfect remedy, combining the nourishing properties of beeswax, shea butter, calendula-infused herbal oil, and sweet almond oil, with the calming scents of lavender and sandalwood essential oils. This salve not only moisturizes but also soothes and heals chapped skin, making it an essential addition to your summer skincare routine.
Soothing Summer Salve for Chapped Hands
Equipment
- 1 Digital kitchen scale
- 1 Double boiler or heat-safe bowl and saucepan
- 1 Silicone spatula
- 1 Small glass jar with lid for storage
- 1 Candy or digital thermometer
Ingredients
- 14 grams Beeswax
- 14 grams Shea butter
- 50 grams Calendula infused herbal oil
- 50 grams Sweet almond oil
- 15 drops Lavender essential oil
- 5 drops Sandalwood essential oil
Instructions
- Clean and sanitize your work area and all equipment to ensure your salve remains free from contaminants.
- In a double boiler or heat-safe bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, add the beeswax and shea butter. Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until both the beeswax and shea butter are completely melted.
- Once the beeswax and shea butter are melted, add the calendula infused herbal oil and sweet almond oil to the mixture.
- Continue to heat and stir until the oils are well combined and the mixture is completely liquid. Do not overheat.
- Remove the mixture from heat and take its temperature using your thermometer.
- Add the lavender essential oil and sandalwood essential oil, once the mixture is 140 degrees or below. Stir well to ensure the oils are evenly distributed.
- Carefully pour the hot mixture into your prepared glass jar or tin.
- Let it sit undisturbed at room temperature until it cools and solidifies completely.
- Once the salve has cooled and hardened, secure the lid on the jar or tin.
- Label your salve with the date and ingredients.
- Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
About the ingredients
Calendula Infused Herbal Oil: Calendula is known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a soothing oil for dry, irritated skin making it an excellent addition for calming chapped skin. Learn more about calendula here.
Essential Oils: Lavender essential oil adds a calming scent and also has antiseptic properties. It is a great essential oil to turn to for skincare. It may help to soothe and heal wounded skin.
Sandalwood essential oil can be supportive in helping dry skin and may provide relief from irritation while it may also help in skin regeneration.
Consistency: If you prefer a firmer salve, increase the amount of beeswax. For a softer consistency, use more sweet almond oil or shea butter.
Keep this salve on-hand for times when daily activities require repeat hand washing. Or make it as a gift for someone who gardens frequently or works outside.
You can personalize the scent by using different essential oils. Consult a professional aromatherapist for guidance on essential oils that are gentle on the skin, and fun scent combinations!
Creating your own soothing summer salve is a rewarding and simple process that ensures you know exactly what is going into your skincare products. This salve is perfect for treating chapped hands during the summer months, offering both nourishment and a delightful fragrance. Enjoy the benefits of natural ingredients and keep your hands soft and healthy all season long!
