What you will need: measuring cups, double boiler, rubber spatula,
jars to hold 8 ounces of balm, plastic wrap
- To Make: Start the double boiler on medium heat. Once it reaches a boil,
reduce heat to simmer. Place the cocoa butter in the top of the double
boiler and cover. Simmer until it is melted, stirring occasionally. To
preserve the beneficial nutrients, do not overheat. Remove from heat,
take the top pan off the double boiler, and dry off with a towel so no
water drips into your melted butter. Add the coconut oil and stir until it is
melted. Add the sweet almond oil and stir. Let stand for 10 minutes, or
until the oils have cooled to the touch but are not yet forming a hard layer
around the edges of the pan. At this point, stir in the essential oils. Pierce
the vitamin E capsules and squeeze the liquid out into the melted oil,
discarding the gel caps. Add the essential oils if desired and stir well,
scraping any of the hardened cooled mixture off the sides and back into
the melted oils. Pour into jars, cover with plastic wrap, and let stand
undisturbed for 4 hours or overnight. - To Store: Put the jar lids on tightly and label with contents and
expiration date of 1 year. Store in a cool dry place away from direct
sunlight. - To Use: To use, remove a small amount from the jar and melt between
your fingertips and spread onto dry skin.
SKINCARE SECRETS
Note that this formula is unscented. There are several fun ways to
incorporate scent into this formula: Substitute the sweet almond oil
for an infused oil from Chapter 7); use an essential oil blend from
Appendix A; use scented versus unscented cocoa butter or coconut