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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!

        SOFT SUMMER: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

        Soft Summer is a distinctive seasonal blend that combines the cool undertones of summer with the soft, muted grace of autumn. As part of the 12-season color analysis system, it helps individuals discover the shades that truly enhance their natural beauty.

        Do your features exhibit a gentle, understated coolness where no single trait stands out, yet everything works harmoniously? Are you drawn to soft, subtle colors that seem to elevate your look effortlessly? Perhaps the serene beauty of a misty morning over calm waters speaks to your soul?

        If you’re nodding along, you might be a Soft Summer! This is your ultimate guide to understanding Soft Summer in the 12-season color system. From physical characteristics and ideal makeup to color palettes and wardrobe essentials, we’ve got everything you need to build your perfect Soft Summer wardrobe and create a personalized palette that suits you.

        FEATURES OF SOFT SUMMER

        DEFINING CHARACTERISTICS

        Soft Summer is defined by three key traits: a cool hue, medium value, and muted chroma. Let’s break down each of these characteristics:

        • Cool Hue: Soft Summer’s undertone is always cool, meaning it has a blue base. However, overtones of beige or yellow can sometimes give a warmer or olive appearance, which may cause confusion when distinguishing Soft Summer from Soft Autumn.
        • Medium Value: Soft Summers generally fall in the middle of the value spectrum, from light to medium-dark. Some individuals may even have such dark features that they resemble Deep Winter. These darker Soft Summers should stick to the deeper, richer muted shades within the palette to stay aligned with their season.
        • Muted Chroma: The defining trait of Soft Summer is its muted chroma, which refers to the lack of intense, bright colors. Everything about Soft Summer is softened, with low contrast between features like skin, eyes, and hair. Bright or saturated hues should be avoided, as they overwhelm the subtle beauty of this season.

        Soft Summer holds a unique place in the color spectrum with its cool blue undertones, often tempered by beige or yellow overtones, creating a neutral yet nuanced appearance.

        Unlike other summer seasons, what truly sets Soft Summer apart is its muted chroma. This refers to the soft, low-saturation quality that characterizes the skin, eyes, and hair. The overall look is less about contrast and more about a harmonious, grayed softness.

        In terms of value (lightness or darkness), Soft Summer offers one of the widest ranges within the Summer family. While some may lean towards lighter tones, most Soft Summers fall in the medium-dark range, making it the darkest of all summer seasons.

        SOFT SUMMER FEATURES

        • Skin Tone: Soft Summer skin can vary from creamy beige or ivory to dark beige. For people of color, dark beige is common, and light-skinned Black women often fit within this season as well.
        • Eye Color: While soft blue, gray, or green eyes are frequently associated with Soft Summer, eye color can also include muted brown shades. The defining feature is the subdued quality, often showing patterns like crypts or autumnal flecks, giving the eyes depth without sharp contrast.
        • Hair Color: Hair tends to range from medium to dark brown, though lighter hair or even gray is also common. Soft Summer hair generally lacks warm highlights, often displaying an ashy, gray tone. Although hair color is less critical in determining one’s seasonal palette, it complements the overall soft, cool aesthetic of this season.

        HARMONIOUS BALANCE

        Soft Summer features are characterized by an overall harmony created by their muted chroma and the gentle, seamless contrast between skin, eyes, and hair. This balanced combination gives Soft Summers a soft, understated beauty that truly shines when they wear the right colors. Although their features may appear subtle or neutral at first glance, they become strikingly captivating when accentuated by the muted, cool tones that complement their natural palette.

        MAKEUP FOR THE SOFT SUMMER WOMAN

        To truly enhance Soft Summer features, your makeup should align with the season’s cool and muted color palette. The aim is not just to enhance beauty, but to create a seamless harmony with your natural tones. Soft, cool shades like dusty pinks, mauves, muted lavenders, and cool browns will complement your complexion and bring out your understated elegance without overpowering your features.

        To enhance your Soft Summer look, choose light neutrals like icy pink, blush, and dusky blue for an effortless, everyday vibe. For more dramatic occasions, opt for rich shades such as charcoal or navy. If you want to add an unexpected pop of color, soft plum or warm teal are perfect accent hues.

        When it comes to cheeks, neutral cool shades are your best friends. Look for soft hues like sand, soft pink, or rose to create a creamy, glowing complexion that aligns with the Soft Summer aesthetic.

        For lips, nude tones work beautifully, along with blush pink and mauve. If you want to go bold, choose cooler shades like rose, berry, or plum.

        Avoid warm tones that clash with your natural coloring, such as fiery reds, oranges, and yellows for your eyes, or bronze shades for the cheeks. Steer clear of overly dark lip colors, which can create a harsh contrast and disrupt your natural softness.

        INSPIRATION: THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF SOFT SUMMER

        Soft Summer is more than just a seasonal color type; it embodies an aesthetic deeply connected to the natural world. Its palette draws inspiration from the calming hues of misty mornings, serene oceans, and soft sunsets, showcasing the beauty created by the greatest Creator (Genesis 1:31).

        Picture a foggy dawn over still waters—the cool grays and muted blues reflect Soft Summer’s essence. This color range includes gentle tones of gray, blue, purple, pink, and understated red.

        Ocean Views: Soft Summer echoes the soft beauty of an island volcano veiled in pink and purple fog, blending seamlessly with the tranquil sea.

        Mountain Scapes: A pink sunset fading into lavender mist over subdued green mountains captures the cool, muted vibe of this season.

        Wintry Waters: A wintry lake scene, showcasing various muted blues, further illustrates Soft Summer’s peaceful, soft color profile.

        Soft Summer’s palette is a reflection of the earth’s natural harmony, blending delicate, muted beauty with the tranquility of nature.

        SOFT SUMMER COLOR PALETTE

        When building a color palette for Soft Summer, start with versatile neutrals before exploring a range of colors.

        Charcoal and denim are softer alternatives to harsh black, while a muted soft white works better than bright white. Add foundational shades like sage, blush, and dove gray to your wardrobe for a balanced look.

        For reds, choose cool shades like ruby or soft red, and skip orange since it’s too warm. Stick to cooler yellows, such as corn or chiffon. Greens should have a touch of blue and stay in the medium range. Soft Summers can enjoy a variety of blues, from purple-blues to green-blues. Finish off with purples that have cool undertones.

        Although every color may have a version that works for Soft Summer, some are harder to match. Cool pinks can sometimes look more like purples, many reds may appear too warm, and yellows without a green tint are often too warm. Blues and purples leaning more toward blue rather than red will flatter Soft Summers best.

        It’s important to avoid certain colors, like stark black and white, which create harsh contrast. Bright, saturated shades can overwhelm Soft Summer’s natural softness. Medium pastel colors like rouge and steel blue are ideal choices.

        Lastly, be cautious with colors from other seasonal palettes. Bright Spring, Bright Winter, and Warm Spring shades are often too vivid, warm, or high-contrast for Soft Summer, making them less harmonious with your natural tones. Stick to muted, cool shades for a balanced and flattering look.

        CHOOSING PRINTS FOR SOFT SUMMER

        Choosing the right prints is key to enhancing your Soft Summer look. To make sure your prints work with your color palette and personal style, consider the following:

        • Color Consistency: Ensure that at least 90% of the colors in your print come from the Soft Summer palette. This keeps your look cohesive and harmonious.
        • Scale: Opt for small to medium-sized prints. Large prints can feel overwhelming and take away from the soft, balanced nature of Soft Summer.
        • Contrast Level: Stick with low-contrast prints. Soft Summer looks best in muted, blended patterns that reflect its subtle and gentle charm.

        Following these guidelines will help you choose prints that enhance your wardrobe and boost your confidence.

        WARDROBE ESSENTIALS FOR SOFT AND COOL COLORING

        No matter your style, there are a few key items every woman should have in her wardrobe.

        Start with neutral basics, as they are the foundation of any outfit. Sticking to similar neutral shades creates a cohesive and polished look. Layering different tones of the same color adds depth and a luxurious feel.

        If you prefer a more colorful style, neutrals are still essential, but you can bring in personality with vibrant accessories. Adding fun pieces in shades of pink, green, purple, or blue can give your outfits an exciting pop of color while still looking put together.

        CONCLUSION

        The Soft Summer color palette offers a refreshing and timeless aesthetic that suits a wide range of individuals. Its soft, muted tones create a harmonious and sophisticated look. By understanding your undertones and incorporating these colors into your wardrobe, you can enhance your natural beauty and radiate confidence. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different shades and textures to create your unique style. With a little creativity and confidence, you can effortlessly rock the Soft Summer look and feel your best.