Moisturizers, both commercial and natural, work to hold water in the outermost layer of skin and prevent or treat dryness. Most moisturizers contain a humectant, emollient, fragrance and preservative, each of which plays an important role in the moisturizer's effectiveness. Homemade and natural moisturizers typically contain glycerin as a humectant, oils or solid fats as emollients, essential oils as fragrances, and vitamin E as a preservative. When emulsified, these ingredients create a healing, soothing natural face moisturizer customizable to all skin types.
Combine the almond oil, vegetable glycerin and beeswax in a small saucepan. Place over very low heat, and warm the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax melts.
Warm the distilled, spring or rose water over low heat in a separate saucepan.
Remove both pans from the heat. Allow their contents to cool to almost body temperature, or until the wax and oil mixture just begins to thicken but is still liquid.
Drizzle the warm water into the oil and wax mixture, while stirring rapidly with a wire whisk. Continue whisking vigorously for three to four minutes, or until a pale-yellow emulsion forms.
Pierce the vitamin E capsule and squeeze the contents into the cream. Add the essential oil and continue whisking for another four to five minutes. You should now have a thick, shiny cream.
Spoon the moisturizer into a glass storage jar, secure the lid in place and store in a cool, dry place. Allow the cream to set for at least an hour before using for the first time.
Tip
For best results, use essential oils that benefit your skin type. Because this moisturizer is meant for use on the face, use gentle, nourishing oils such as lavender for normal skin, neroli for oily skin or rose geranium for dry skin.
No refrigeration is required if used within 30 days. The cream will last three to six months if stored in the refrigerator, however.
This cream is highly concentrated and requires only a pea-sized amount for each application. Before using, rub the moisturizer between your palms to warm it, and then massage into the face and neck.
