Easy Homemade Hand Cream for Gardeners
Whip up a batch of homemade hand cream with basic ingredients and just a few minutes of time, for the gardeners on your list or anyone with dry hands.
Yield: 6 ounces
Calories:
Cost: $2-$3
Materials
- 1/3 cup Sweet Almond Oil
- 2 Tablespoons coconut oil
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 3 Tablespoons grated beeswax (about 1-1/2 oz.)
- 30-35 drops lavender essential oil (or other fragrant oil, see variations for suggestions)
- small vintage jars or 4-oz mason jars
Instructions
- Combine the oils in a small saucepan and heat over medium heat just until warm, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and add the grated beeswax, stirring until the was is completely melted.
- Refrigerate for 5 to 10 minutes to start the oils cooling, then stir in the essential oil (30 drops for less scent, 35 for more). At this point, the cream can be poured into a glass container (or two containers, if desired) to cool completely.
- Since this method doesn’t use water, there is no need to use a blender or processor and you won’t have to worry about the cream separating (it really is easy!). It will be softer in warmer weather and harder in cooler, but still be spreadable either way. It can be stored at room temperature (storing in the refrigerator will result in a stiffer cream).Storage: This hand cream keeps 6-8 months in a covered jar, so the smaller the container, the better for gifts.
Notes
Variations:
- For a thinner consistency to use with a pump, use only 2 Tablespoons beeswax.
- For a thicker, salve-like consistency, use up to 4 Tablespoons beeswax.
- Replace lavender with the essential oil of your choice like lemon, orange, pine, rose, or another floral scent.
- Since a little goes a long way, the hand cream can also be packaged in small salve tins like these to give as gifts.
