How to Make Homemade Hand Cream

Dry hands

Dry hands can crack, itch and even burn. Many factors dry out your hands' skin, such as heat, dry air, detergent and even water. Store-bought hand creams and lotions are not typically too expensive, but many are composed of mostly water and do not do much good. Others are petroleum- or mineral oil-based and do not allow skin to breath properly. Make your own homemade hand cream that is rich, nourishing and safe to use.

Things You'll Need

• 6 oz. shea butter
• 1/2 oz. cocoa butter
• 3/4 cup almond oil
• 1 tsp. cornstarch
• 2 tsps. essential oil
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Medium metal bowl
• Large bowl
• Ice
• Electric mixer
• Glass jar with lid

Instructions

1. Combine shea butter and cocoa butter in microwave-safe bowl. Melt in microwave by use the medium or 50 percent power setting in 30-second increments, stirring each time until completely melted.

2. Fill large bowl 1/3 full with ice. Place a medium metal bowl into the bowl of ice. Combine the melted shea butter mixture with the almond oil in the metal bowl.

3. Sprinkle cornstarch on the mixture. Beat on low with an electric mixer, adding the essential oil a few drops at a time while mixing.

4. Continue mixing until the mixture has a thick, creamy texture much like frosting. Allow the hand cream to cool completely in the bowl.

5. Spoon the homemade hand cream into a glass container and put the lid on tightly. Apply the cream to your hands as desired. Store out of direct heat and sunlight.

Tips & Warnings

• Use your favorite essential oil or play with combinations for a scent that you love. Some combinations to try include vanilla and lavender, rosemary and cedar wood or lemon and peppermint.

References

• Basics of hand cream