DIY LAVENDER SALVE: A SOOTHING BALM FOR SKIN AND MIND

Lavender salve is a versatile and effective topical remedy that can be easily made at home. It offers a range of benefits, including: Skin healing: Soothes irritation, moisturizes dry skin, and can help heal acne, scrapes, and eczema; Stress relief: The calming aroma of lavender is scientifically proven to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Making lavender salve is surprisingly simple. If you’ve followed along with our previous tutorials on calendula or cannabis salve, you’ll find many familiar steps. However, lavender offers its own unique set of benefits. Let’s get started on creating your own soothing lavender salve!

What is Lavender Salve?

Not familiar with salve? Simply put, a salve is a healing solution applied to the skin, which can take the form of creams, ointments, or balms. Typically, salves are thick, shelf-stable, and contain nourishing oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, or sweet almond oil.

In addition to a base oil (or a blend of them), salves usually incorporate natural waxes or butters to help bind the ingredients and give them a semi-solid consistency at room temperature. Beeswax is a popular binding agent due to its availability, ease of use (especially in pastille form), and ability to create smooth, cohesive results.

If you prefer a vegan alternative to beeswax, check the ingredient list below for recommended substitutions. When you incorporate lavender-infused oil (or lavender essential oil) into a salve recipe, you create a delightful lavender salve, enriched with the medicinal benefits of lavender.

Lavender-infused oil vs. lavender essential oils

When you glance at the concise ingredient list below, you’ll notice our preference for a blend of homemade lavender-infused oil and a dash of lavender essential oil in our lavender salve recipe.

But what’s the difference? Lavender-infused oil is made by steeping dried lavender flowers in a carrier oil of your choice for a period of time. This process allows the natural essential oils from the lavender to be drawn out and infused into the carrier oil, which is then strained. In contrast, lavender essential oils, often found in small bottles, are produced through a distillation extraction process, which is typically done on a large industrial scale. While some hobbyists use small distillation stills at home, it’s not the most common method for making essential oils.

We love using lavender-infused oil because it utilizes our homegrown lavender and adds a personal touch along with an extra boost of natural lavender scent to the salve. However, if you prefer, you can also create lavender salve using plain oil and essential oils. If you’d like to make lavender-infused oil for this salve recipe, check out our instructions for preparing homemade lavender oil, and then return to the recipe once it’s ready!

The Health Benefits of Lavender

  • The soothing yet cheerful aroma of lavender is both calming and uplifting, making it a favorite for promoting relaxation. Scientific studies have shown that lavender can effectively reduce anxiety, stress, depression, and insomnia, helping individuals find peace in their daily lives.
  • Beyond its calming effects, lavender boasts powerful anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties, making it a versatile ingredient in natural remedies. It is well-known for deterring pest insects such as mosquitoes and flies, which is why many natural insect repellents include lavender in their formulations.
  • Additionally, lavender has remarkable healing capabilities. It can relieve pain and itching while promoting new cell growth, aiding in the repair of damaged skin tissue and healing wounds. In her book Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner’s Guide, Rosemary Gladstar highlights lavender’s effectiveness in treating a variety of infections, including staph, strep, colds, flus, ringworm, and yeast infections. She also notes its ability to ease headaches and migraines, further showcasing its extensive benefits.
  • With its multitude of uses, lavender is not just a delightful fragrance; it’s a powerful ally in both physical and emotional well-being.

What can lavender salve be used for?

While lavender is often utilized in culinary and medicinal applications, its true gift lies in its ability to soothe our skin and nerves. You may have noticed that lavender features prominently in many natural skincare products, and it’s not just for its delightful fragrance! When applied topically, lavender can alleviate, heal, or treat a wide range of skin issues. Enter homemade lavender salve!

This versatile salve can be applied to irritated skin to reduce swelling, redness, and discomfort. It effectively addresses conditions such as rashes, bug bites, burns (including sunburn), acne, scrapes, eczema, stings, scars, and psoriasis. I find it particularly soothing after shaving, helping to prevent or treat razor burn, and it also calms the small rashes I sometimes get from brushing against certain plants in the garden.

Beyond treating ailments, homemade lavender salve is an excellent remedy for everyday issues like chapped lips, rough elbows and feet, or dry hands, providing essential moisture. After a long day of gardening, I love applying it to my dry, cracked cuticles!

If you’re looking for a natural way to unwind, simply dab some lavender salve on your temples, neck, wrists, and under your nose, then take a few deep breaths. The calming aromatherapy properties of lavender can help you relax, enhance your meditation or yoga practice, or prepare for a restful night’s sleep. I keep a tin on my bedside nightstand and often reach for it in the middle of the night when my mind is racing.

Lavender oil is generally safe for children and babies, making homemade lavender salve ideal for addressing issues like diaper rash or cradle cap. In fact, one study even found that lavender oil may help alleviate colic! Just remember never to use undiluted essential oils directly on the skin, and always double-check the safety of your other salve ingredients for use with infants.

Finally, lavender salve can also assist in shrinking skin ulcers, softening the appearance of scars, and reducing the swelling and discomfort associated with varicose veins.

If you’re skeptical, take a look at these testimonials from our satisfied customers who have experienced remarkable results with our Homestead and Chill organic lavender salve. People have found relief from various skin issues, including cystic acne and persistent large rashes that resisted other treatments. I am genuinely delighted and humbled by this positive feedback. It reinforces my commitment to helping individuals lead their most naturally healthy lives—this is the very reason I started this journey!

Now, without further ado, let’s dive into the process of making your very own lavender salve! Here’s a simple guide to creating a soothing, effective salve at home.

HOMEMADE LAVENDER SALVE RECIPE

INGREDIENTS FOR LAVENDER SALVE

Lavender-Infused Oil: 1 cup (8 ounces)

  • OR 1 cup of your preferred carrier oil (like jojoba, olive, sweet almond, sunflower, or coconut oil) with additional lavender essential oils. To help you choose, check out our article on lavender oils, which details the unique benefits of various carrier oils.

Beeswax Pastilles: 3 to 4 tablespoons (approximately 1 ounce if using shaved, block, or other forms of beeswax)

  • Note: If you decide to add shea butter, you can use only 3 level tablespoons of beeswax. If you skip the shea butter, use 4 tablespoons of beeswax.
  • Vegan Alternatives: Consider soy wax or candelilla wax.

Lavender Essential Oils (EOs):

  • When using lavender-infused oil as your base, add about 20-25 drops of organic lavender essential oil per cup of oil for a delightful scent that isn’t overpowering.
  • If you’re using only essential oils, you can add up to 12 drops of lavender EOs per fluid ounce of carrier oil (up to 96 drops per cup). This is the maximum recommended amount based on a safe dilution ratio of 2%. It’s best to start with half that amount and adjust according to your scent preference.

Optional Ingredients:

  • Shea Butter or Cocoa Butter: 2 tablespoons
    • This adds rich moisture and essential nutrients to your salve.
  • Other Essential Oils: Add a few drops of complementary essential oils, such as chamomile, rose, pink grapefruit, lemon, rosemary, sweet orange, ylang ylang, bergamot, geranium, or sandalwood. Experiment with different blends to create a custom scent, each with its unique benefits.

    These ingredients come together to create a soothing and healing lavender salve perfect for various skin needs!

    Other Supplies Needed

    Double Boiler:

    • You can use a traditional double boiler or create a makeshift version. For example, place a smaller pot or a glass Pyrex or stainless steel bowl on top of a saucepan filled with water.
    • Using a double boiler is crucial to prevent overheating the volatile lavender essential oils, which can diminish their healing properties.

    Storage Containers:

    • Small glass jars or salve tins are needed for storing your finished product.
    • Common choices include 2-ounce amber glass jars for personal use or gifts, and larger 4-ounce jars. For easy shipping, consider using 2-ounce salve tins.

      Recipe Yield

      • The quantities provided will yield just over 1 cup of finished salve (approximately 10 ounces, or five 2-ounce tins).
      • Feel free to scale the recipe up or down as needed. A general guideline for salve is to use about 1 part beeswax/butter to approximately 4-7 parts oil. A higher beeswax-to-oil ratio results in a firmer salve, while using less beeswax creates a softer consistency.

      Note on Quality Ingredients

      • When making salve, herbal oils, or other homemade body care products, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients. Opting for certified organic options is even better.
      • Aim to create a healing medicinal product. For instance, use virgin, unrefined, cold-pressed oils whenever possible. Avoid lesser-quality oils that are extracted with solvents, which can introduce contaminants like hexane—known to be a neurological toxin.
      • Be cautious with non-organic essential oils; as the natural oils in the plant become concentrated in essential oils, so do any pesticides or contaminants present on the plant.

      Using high-quality, organic ingredients ensures that your lavender salve is not only effective but also safe for your skin. Enjoy the process of creating a natural remedy that promotes healing and well-being!

      INSTRUCTIONS FOR MAKING LAVENDER SALVE

      Prepare Storage Containers:

      • Have your salve tins, glass jars, or any storage containers ready for the lavender salve.

      Set Up Double Boiler:

      • In the top portion of a double boiler (or a makeshift double boiler), combine 1 cup of lavender-infused oil (or your chosen carrier oil) and 3 to 4 level tablespoons of beeswax (refer to the sliding scale notes above).
      • If you’re using it, also add 2 tablespoons of shea butter at this point.

      Add Water:

      • Fill the bottom portion of the double boiler with enough water so that the top bowl or pot is resting in the water. This helps create a gentle heat for melting.

      Heat the Mixture:

      • Place the double boiler on the stovetop and heat it over medium-low heat. It’s important to avoid overheating the lavender oil more than necessary to melt the beeswax.

      Melt and Combine:

      • Monitor the mixture closely and stir it routinely until the beeswax (and shea butter, if added) is completely melted. Once fully melted, stir to combine thoroughly.

      Remove from Heat:

      • Immediately take the mixture off the heat once everything is melted and well combined.

      Add Essential Oils:

      • After removing the salve from heat, add the lavender essential oils. Essential oils are volatile and dissipate quickly when exposed to high temperatures, so it’s important to add them at this stage. Whisk the mixture to ensure even distribution.

      Pour into Containers:

      • While the mixture is still hot, carefully pour the liquid lavender salve into your prepared containers. If it starts to solidify while you’re filling the containers, place it back on medium-low heat until it liquifies again.

      Cool and Harden:

      • Set the filled lavender salve containers aside with the lids off, allowing them to fully cool and harden.

      Enjoy Your Salve:

        • Once cooled and set, enjoy your homemade lavender salve for healthy, moisturized skin! Use clean fingers or a salve spoon to collect a small amount and apply as needed. Remember, a little goes a long way!

        Feel free to customize your salve with different essential oils or carrier oils to suit your personal preferences. Happy crafting!

        CONCLUSION

        I hope you’re feeling inspired and ready to create your own healing homemade lavender salve! It’s a personal favorite of ours and makes for a thoughtful gift for loved ones, whether for a special occasion or just because. For storage, keep your salve containers in a cool, dark place. I like to keep one accessible for daily use while storing the others in a cabinet. Homemade lavender salve can last for several years, although its medicinal potency may gradually diminish over time. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask in the comments below! And once you’ve made your own, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to share this post with others. Thank you for reading!

        17 BEST LOTION FOR TATTOOS HEALING

        A tattoo is not just a piece of art; it’s also a personal symbol. To preserve and maintain its elegance, taking care of the tattoo after completion is equally crucial. Ensuring moisture for the wound and creating a protective layer outside the skin are vital steps to prevent the risk of infection. Even when the tattoo has fully healed, the use of moisturizing lotion continues to play a significant role in safeguarding the design and keeping it looking fresh. If you’re in search of the most suitable lotion for your tattoo, refer to a list of the top 17 best lotion for tattoos aftercare designed to meet the specific needs of various skin types. Keep reading!

        BEST OVERALL: LUBRIDERM DAILY MOISTURE

        Lubriderm stands out for its lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs swiftly, leaving no residue. The lotion feels soft and comfortable on the skin, making it a pleasant choice. Its 24oz pump-top bottle is practical for applying on larger areas, such as full sleeves. While this unscented tattoo lotion is among the gentler options, it’s worth noting that it contains parabens. These additives serve to prolong the lotion’s shelf life but may penetrate the skin, potentially mimicking the functions of certain hormones, including undesirable estrogen.

        BEST LUXURY: AFTER INKED TATTOO LOTION

        Boasting a smooth, non-sticky texture and a patented vegan formula, this lotion aids in maintaining the vibrant colors of your tattoo. Apply the lotion using clean hands, gently massaging it over the entire tattoo surface, and repeat this process 2-3 times daily. While it comes at just under $40 for a pack of 2, it falls on the higher-priced spectrum. However, it’s worth noting that a little of this product can go a long way.

        BEST EVERYDAY: MAD RABBIT REPLENISH TATTOO BODY LOTION

        This pure lotion sets itself apart from many other tattoo aftercare products by excluding processed ingredients. Instead, it features nourishing butters, plant-derived ceramides, and plant oil that effectively seal in hydration and restore skin moisture. Suitable for all skin types, it helps maintain the bold and bright appearance of your artwork. The only drawback for me is the cost per ounce. Priced at just under $26, it amounts to approximately $2.74 per fluid ounce, which is relatively high compared to some other unscented lotions. However, if budget allows, consider making it a daily essential.

         BEST UNSCENTED: MALIBU TAN HEMP TATTOO ENHANCING BODY MOISTURIZER


        Malibu Tan Tattoo Enhancing Body Moisturizer is a 25 fl. oz. bottle with a convenient pump dispenser, ensuring a mess-free application. This full-body moisturizer is specially formulated to nourish dry skin and enhance the appearance of tattoos, making them look clearer, bolder, and more colorful. The formulation includes silicones that create a protective hydration barrier, and it features a mild and pleasant fragrance for a sensory awakening. With key ingredients like shea butter, aloe, silicones, and hemp seed oil (THC-free), this moisturizer helps maintain the vibrancy of your tattoos. The 18-fluid ounce bottle is equipped with a dispenser pump for easy and controlled use. Additionally, it is cruelty-free, free of dyes, parabens, and gluten, making it a reliable choice for tattoo care.

        BEST ECO-FRIENDLY: EVERYONE NOURISHING LOTION

        For an eco-friendly choice, look no further than this outstanding unscented lotion designed for tattoos. Crafted with organic herbs, Everyone guarantees to be GMO, cruelty, gluten, paraben, triclosan, and synthetic fragrance-free. As if that wasn’t impressive enough, its sizeable 32 oz plastic bottle is fully recyclable. Positioned as an everyday lotion suitable for everyone, its ultra-gentle and unscented formula truly lives up to this claim. The lightweight consistency makes it equally effective on the face, neck, and body, catering to both small and large artworks. Gently massage into the skin for nourishment, healing, and relief from itching.

        BEST WILDCARD: SORRY MOM TATTOO LOTION

        When searching for unscented lotion for tattoos, key buzzwords to watch for are “revive” and “refresh,” and this product excels in both aspects. No more worries about peeling, fading, or itching—is ideal for healing new tattoos and rejuvenating older ones. Apply the lotion 2-3 times daily, both in the morning and at night, and experience no greasy or sticky residue; a little goes a long way. An added bonus is its immediate absorption, a significant selling point. Reviewers rave about shinier tattoos and super-soft skin. Note that the product has a watery consistency, making the tube a bit challenging to squeeze.

        BEST SUN PROTECTION: NEUTROGENA ULTRA SHEER DRY-TOUCH SUNSCREEN

        Shield your new tattoo completely from the sun for 4-6 weeks. When it’s time to bask in those rays, keep in mind that sun exposure can prematurely fade tattoo ink. For preserving the vibrancy of your healed tattoo, consider using this sheer, touch-dry sunscreen lotion. With water-resistant properties and a high SPF of 70, it provides superior protection. Apply generously 15 minutes before sun exposure and again 80 minutes after sweating, followed by reapplication every 2 hours. However, be aware that it may leave a white cast, and achieving an even application can be a bit challenging.

        BEST FRAGRANCE-FREE: VANICREAM MOISTURIZING OINTMENT

        For those with dry skin, this intensely hydrating ointment proves to be an excellent choice for new tattoos. Its application is incredibly smooth, making it suitable for use on the face, hands, and body. What’s more, the formula is devoid of dyes, fragrances, and parabens (in case you prefer to avoid them). A little of the product goes a long way, and according to some reviewers, it has proven helpful for managing eczema.

        BEST NONGREASY: LUBRIDERM DAILY MOISTURE HYDRATING UNSCENTED BODY LOTION

        If the idea of slathering on body moisturizer makes you cringe at the thought of feeling greasy and slimy, then this choice from Lubriderm is perfect for you. It’s not only fragrance-free but also exceptionally hydrating without that unwanted greasy sensation—allowing you to moisturize your tattoo and continue with your day feeling comfortable. The fast absorption ensures no lingering residue, and many reviewers appreciate its non-greasy feel. However, some users note that frequent reapplication might be necessary.

        BEST VALUE: TATTOO GOO THE ORIGINAL AFTER CARE SALVE

        If the typical creams and lotions don’t quite align with your preferences, you’ll find delight in this beloved tattoo salve. Known as a cult-favorite, it’s not only easy to apply but also non-greasy. Crafted with skin-soothing ingredients such as olive oil, beeswax, and cocoa butter, it aids in the healing process. The thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon attest to its status as a true staple in the tattoo world. Its smooth application and the longevity of a small container add to its appeal, making it a lasting choice for tattoo care.

        BEST CBD: CANNUKA NOURISHING BODY CREAM

        This body cream is a standout performer, enriched with a potent combination of CBD known for its potential to soothe irritated skin, manuka honey celebrated for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and hyaluronic acid recognized as an exceptional hydrator. The addition of CBD serves to enhance the skin-soothing qualities. Moreover, the product proudly boasts cruelty-free status, as it has never been tested on animals.

        BEST ARTIST-APPROVED: WOO SKIN ESSENTIALS AFTER/CARE MOISTURIZER

        This meticulously crafted formula, abundant in shea butter, vitamin E, and sesame seed oil, forms a luxurious blend that goes beyond mere moisturization. During the healing process, these key ingredients work synergistically to deliver not only soothing and hydrating benefits but also a profound sense of calmness to your skin. To reap the full rewards, gently apply a thin layer over your ink once or twice a day until the healing journey is complete. Revel in the immediate relief and deep hydration, all enveloped in a super soothing and calming sensation that elevates your tattoo care routine to a truly indulgent experience.

        BEST SOOTHING TATTOO LOTION: HUSTLE BUTTER DELUXE LUXURY TATTOO CARE & MAINTENANCE CREAM

        Crafted specifically for tattoos, Hustle Butter offers an exceptional experience. Following a gentle cleansing with a trusted antibacterial soap such as Tattoo Goo or Dial Antibacterial Soap, apply a small dollop of this lotion over your tattoo. For optimal results, repeat this process two to three times a day until your skin achieves complete healing. Enriched with shea butter for softening and hydrating effects, alongside mango and aloe butters renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties, and coconut for moisture retention, this lotion goes beyond basic care. Notably, it aids in reducing flakiness and absorbs seamlessly into the skin, ensuring a well-rounded and effective approach to tattoo aftercare.

        BEST HYDRATING TATTOO LOTION: CERAVE HEALING OINTMENT

        If you’re grappling with dryness and flakiness, you absolutely must give this cult-favorite ointment a go. Renowned for seamlessly infusing hydration into the skin without leaving any strange residue, reviewers rave about how it adeptly “sticks” to the skin, ensuring all-encompassing moisture retention. Additionally, its versatility shines as it can double as a lip balm, offering an extra layer of nourishment. The consistency strikes a perfect balance—not too thick—enhancing the overall appeal of this beloved skincare product.

        BEST TATTOO LOTION WITH COCONUT OIL: KOPARI ORGANIC COCONUT MELT

        Coconut oil is a top recommendation for new tattoos due to its rich content of skin-soothing acids and vitamins, working effectively to hasten the healing and moisturizing process for your ink. Kopari’s balm-like formula simplifies the application, eliminating the need to dip your hand into a jar of coconut oil. With its effortless absorption into the skin, this product has garnered praise from reviewers who highlight its ability to impart a radiant, glowy look to the skin.

        BEST OIL-BASED TATTOO LOTION: H2OCEAN AQUATAT MOISTURIZER

        This tattoo lotion blends palm seed oil with a powerhouse of vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, providing a healing touch to your ink while ensuring it stays moisturized and protected. A little of this product goes a long way—a small dollop is all you need. Beyond its moisturizing prowess, it effectively soothes irritation and redness, preventing dryness and scabbing in the process. Trusted by professional tattoo artists, it boasts a fast-drying and quick-absorbing formula, making it a practical and efficient choice for tattoo aftercare.

        BEST TATTOO LOTION KIT: BILLY JEALOUSY MARKED IV LIFE TATTOO CARE KIT

        What sets this tattoo care kit apart is its versatility—you can utilize it to heal new ink or rejuvenate existing tattoos. The kit includes a lightweight balm, enriched with vitamin E and olive oil for added hydration, an antioxidant-rich lotion, and a gentle wash featuring soothing ingredients like cucumber extract and hydrolyzed oat protein. All of these components come together for a reasonable price of $30, in my opinion. Users praise its highly moisturizing and soothing effects, with the wash proving effective for cleaning both old and new tattoos.

        BEST VALUE TATTOO LOTION: EUCERIN DAILY HYDRATION LOTION

        In the quest for a budget-friendly, hydrating tattoo lotion, consider grabbing this set of three Eucerin bottles available on Amazon. Boasting a gentle, fragrance-free formula, the lotion proves to be extremely hydrating, as highlighted by reviewers. This bulk package is particularly convenient for individuals with large tattoos or sleeves, eliminating the need for frequent replacements.

        CONCLUSION

        Searching for the best skin moisturizer to heal your tattoo is a crucial step in ensuring its longevity and vibrancy. Our recommended lotions are designed to soothe, moisturize, and promote the healing process effectively. We hope that after reading our article, you will find the best lotions for tattoos and most suitable product for your skin.