If you, or anyone in your family suffers from dry, irritated skin, then this DIY dry skin cream will be a lifesaver.
This recipe is full of natural butters and oils that moisturize and relieve skin. And you don’t need to worry about any nasty chemicals or artificial ingredients.
I have used this recipe successfully on kids too and it made a big difference immediately. The cream will help stop the endless scratching which means no more bleeding.
Here’s a bit of information about the moisturizing ingredients.
- Shea butter
has been used for centuries to treat dry skin, eczema and psoriasis. It protects the skin, improves its suppleness and elasticity and promotes skin healing.
- Mango butter
has similar moisturizing effects to shea butter, plus a lot of antioxidants and vitamins. It reduces the itch and inflammation.
- Coconut oil
is well known for its antibacterial qualities.
- Almond oil
is a wonderful all-purpose emollient suitable for most skin types.
- Calendula oil
heals all kind of irritations. It is antiseptic, healing, soothing and anti-inflammatory.
With all of these butters and oils, look for unrefined and cold pressed products. These will be the best quality and ensure you get the maximum benefits. Refined products lose many of their qualities.
The recipe also includes some essential oil. Choose a single or combination of oils taking into consideration their properties for skin care. Some suggested essential oils for dry skin are Lavender
DIY Dry Skin Cream
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp shea butter
- 2 tbsp mango butter
- 2tbsp coconut oil
- 4 tsp almond oil
- 4 tsp calendula oil
- 2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 30 drops essential oil (see notes above)
Equipment
- 1 clean 8 oz glass jar for blending ingredients
- Small pan, half filled with water
- 1 clean 6 oz jar
for storage (you could use an 8 oz jar
– it will just have a bit of space left)
If you are using a glass jar to store the finished product, then it can also be used for blending. This saves the need to transfer the product at the end.
Directions
- Put the coconut butter, mango butter, shea putter and olive oil in the glass jar.
2. Place the jar in the pan and warm over low heat.
3. Add the almond oil and calendula oil, then stir with a metal spoon until well combined.
4. Continue warming the pan on a low heat until the butters fully melt.
5. Remove the pan from the heat and take out the jar – be careful not to get burned. Allow it to cool slightly and add the essential oils. Stir well to combine.
6. If using another jar for storage, pour into that jar.
7. Allow the lotion to cool down and harden. It will harden in 2-3 hours. If you are in a hurry, you can put it in the fridge.
Notes:
- The recipe makes up just over 5 oz (150g). If you want a larger amount, simply multiply the quantities accordingly, including the equipment used.
- Remember, there is no preservative in this product so it won’t last indefinitely. It should keep for up to 2 months but if you want it to last longer, store it in the fridge. But, if you are using it daily, it is unlikely to last that long 🙂
- Always remember to use the cream with clean, dry hands so that no bacteria gets into the cream. This will cause it to deteriorate quickly.