How to Make Cleansing Cream for Dry Skin

Dry skin is a common problem in the winter months when indoor heating and outdoor wind take its toll. Mature skin is also more prone to becoming dry, which can exaggerate the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, making skin appear aged. Most women know the importance of removing make up in the evening to allow the skin to breathe, but soap is too harsh on dry facial skin, and commerical products are expensive and contain a plethora of chemicals.

The good news is that you don't need any of those expensive commercial products or harsh chemicals to cleanse dry skin. In fact, you can make your own homemade and all-natural cleansing cream for dry skin with just a few basic ingredients. Below is a recipe to help you get started.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 3/4 cup Cocoa Butter
• 6 Tablespoons Grape seed Oil
• 6 Tablespoons Water
• Essential Oil (optional)

1. Add 3/4 cup of cocoa butter to a microwave safe bowl.
   
   Cocoa butter can be purchased from your pharmacy, health food store, or online, and is the base for many homemade beauty products.

2. On 50% power, microwave the cocoa butter until fully melted. Stop the microwave every 30 seconds to stir the cocoa butter.
   
   If you have a double boiler, you may alternatively use a double boiler to melt the cocoa butter.

3. Add 6 tablespoons of grape seed oil, and 6 tablespoons of plain water to the cocoa butter.

4. Using a hand whisk or blender, mix the ingredients well.

5. Optionally, you may add 4 drops of essential oil to this mixture. Be sure to use an oil safe for facial skin, such as rose, lavender, chamomile, or sandalwood. Blend well.

6. Pour into a jar or container. Allow to cool, stirring occasionally until the mixture has thickened. It will thicken as it cools.
   
   Use as you would any other cleansing cream.

Tips & Warnings

• Always do a patch test before using this or any cosmetic product on your face or body. Simply apply a small amount to a small, inconspicuous area, and wait 24 hours. If you have no reaction, it means you are not allergic and can use the product.
• This cleansing cream should be kept away from temperature extremes. If it is too cold, the mixture will become solid. If it is too warm, it will become liquid. Should either happen, simply place in more favorable conditions and the texture should return to normal.

[ponchomeg]

on 1/10/2010 Great article on how to make a cleansing cream for dry skin. I sure this would be very helpful to lots of people, especially during the winter months. Thanks!