How to Make Herbal Skin Cleansing Cream

You've seen the products touting the benefits of "all-natural" ingredients. Why not make your own? You'll save money and have fun in the process.

Things You'll Need

• Toners
• Beeswax
• Ceramic Or Enamel Pots
• Vegetable Or Fruit Oils
• Water
• Herbs
• Lanolin
• Double Boilers
• Strainers
• Wire Whisks

Instructions

1. Crush 1 oz. herb leaves or bruise 1 oz. flowers in 1 c. water.

2. Pour the mixture into a ceramic or enamel pot.

3. Add 1 c. water and cover.

4. Bring to a boil slowly. If using flowers, boil very gently.

5. Simmer for about 3 minutes, then remove the mixture from heat and let it cool.

6. Strain leaves and flowers.

7. Store herb water in the refrigerator for about 1 to 2 hours.

8. Melt 1 oz. lanolin and beeswax together using a double boiler.

9. Stir in 3 to 4 oz. oil slowly. Use vegetable oil or fruit oil, such as almond, avocado or soybean oil.

10. Remove from heat and mix in 1 oz. herb water using a whisk.

11. Apply to face and wash off with water. If you have oily skin, wash off with an astringent or soap.

Tips & Warnings

• Herbs to use for face cleansing are chamomile, fennel, lady's-mantle, linden, lovage, nettles, parsley and plantain.

• To make an astringent cream, use herbs such as agrimony, bay, chamomile, lemon, mint, primrose, sage, pansy, yarrow, wintergreen, rose and raspberry.

• To stimulate and tighten pores, use elderberry flowers or peppermint. Comfrey and houseleek are good for healing; rosemary and nettles increase circulation; and yarrow makes an excellent astringent.

• Test an area of your skin for allergic reactions before applying anything to your face.