Violet cleansing cream

Do you remember using Pond’s cold cream? There was not much moisturizers and creams to choose from before. Cold creams were intended to clean make up and grime off the face by placing the cream on your face and using a tissue or a pad to remove all the make up, grime and cold cream. As a result, it also moisturizes your skin.

Cold creams were invented in the 16th century by Galen. The wax and the oils are used to soften dirt and make up for easy removal from the skin. The water cleans and help moisturize, making skin smooth and the borax is used as a binder. This cream will clean your skin, eliminate excess oils, replenish them with good plant oils, smooth wrinkles and lemon will provide antiseptic properties. Almond oil helps clean the surface layer of the skin and witch hazel is a tonifying herb.

I am excited to make this cold cream with you, as it is simple and fun. I actually used it in my whole body and it made my skin so smooth in one application. Homemade creams does not have a long shelf life as we do not put preservatives to it so we make small batches and use them right away. This cream will last 2 to 4 months in the refrigerator, depending on your climate. I suggest to use a spoon and not scoop it out with your fingers to extend its cleanliness.

VIOLETS

The star herb is violet. Native to Europe, violets were the favorite of the Romans and Greeks and was the national flower of Athens. In the 1930’s, violets were used as an alternative therapy for lung cancer, soften pimples and lumps, boils, abscess in breast cancer. It aids in lymphatic circulation, is an astringent and an anti inflammatory. Methyl salicylate is the active constituent that acts as a mild analgesic that helps with breast tenderness. Violets are rich in saponins, alkaloids and flavonoids. It can also be made as a gargle for respiratory disorders and a syrup for sore throats and dryness of the respiratory tract.

Ingredients :

1 tbsp. beeswax

3 tbsp. Almond oil

1 tbsp. Witch hazel

1 tbsp. Lemon juice

1/8 tsp. Borax

6 drops of lemon essential oil

Directions :

Phase 1

1. Infuse the dry wilted violet flowers in almond oil for 5 hours on low heat. Strain.
2. Prepare a double boiler or bain marie and melt the beeswax in a glass heat proof container on low heat. (Beeswax discolors if heated above 180 degrees Fahrenheit).
3. Add the violet infused almond oil.
4. Beat for 5 minutes until it becomes creamy and has a smooth consistency.

Phase 2

1. In a separate heat proof glass container, gently warm witch hazel and lemon juice.
2. Stir in borax until completely dissolved.

Phase 3

1. When both temperatures are the same temperature, 118 degrees Farenheit, add Phase 2 to Phase 1.
2. Steadily beat the mixture into a creamy consistency. I use an electric hand beater to speed up the process.
3. When cooled, add lemon essential oil.
4. Spoon into clean, glass jars.
5. Label and date.
6. Place in a cool, dry lace or refrigerator.
7. Enjoy!