Facial cleansing cream is a mixture of oil, wax and water that lifts dirt from the skin, making it easier to rinse away with water. Cleansing creams are often lighter than moisturizers and cold creams because they're made with lighter oils, such as sweet almond or jojoba. According to Acne.org, jojoba oil moisturizes the skin all day and doesn't evaporate like the ingredients in water-based creams. Using jojoba oil ensures your skin is cleansed and moisturized, which makes it an ideal base ingredient in a facial cleansing cream.
Step 1
Place the beeswax in a glass measuring cup. Fill a small saucepan with about 2 inches of hot water, and place the measuring cup in the center of the pan.
Step 2
Place the pan over medium heat, and bring the water to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, and continue simmering for about five minutes, or until the beeswax melts, while stirring the beeswax constantly.
Step 3
Add the jojoba oil and cocoa butter to the beeswax. Stir constantly until all the ingredients are well-combined.
Step 4
Remove the measuring cup from the pan. Stir the contents vigorously for about five minutes with a wire whisk, until the cream cools somewhat and begins to thicken.
Step 5
Add the essential oil, and stir again to incorporate. For the best results, use an essential oil suited to your specific skin type.
Step 6
Transfer the facial cleansing cream to a glass or plastic storage jar, and allow to cool completely before sealing the lid. Store in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Tips and Warnings
- Melt the beeswax in the top of a double boiler, if desired. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use. If cocoa butter is not available, use lanolin or shea butter instead for similar results. In her book, "Aromatherapy Massage," Margie Hare recommends lavender or geranium essential oils for normal skin, rosewood or patchouli for dry skin, lemon or cypress for oily skin, and sandalwood or chamomile for sensitive skin. To use, apply the facial cleansing cream to the entire face and throat with a cotton ball. Rinse thoroughly with warm water, and follow with a gentle moisturizer. Use daily, just as you would a liquid or soap-based facial cleanser. Jojoba oil does not become rancid easily, making this cream's shelf-life very long. For maximum freshness, however, use within six months.
Things You'll Need
- 2 tsp. grated beeswax
- Glass measuring cup
- Small saucepan
- Spoon
- 1/3 cup jojoba oil
- 2 tbsp. cocoa butter
- Wire whisk
- 20 drops essential oil
- 4-oz. glass or plastic jar with lid
References
- Acne.org: What is jojoba oil anyway?
- Mountain Rose Herbs: Organic Jojoba Oil Profile
- "Aromatherapy Handbook for Beauty, Hair, and Skin Care"; Erich Keller; 1999
- "Aromatherapy Massage"; Margie Hare; 2004
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