Making your own skincare products isn’t just a fun DIY project — it’s one of the simplest, most empowering things you can do for your health and home.
Herbal infused oils and salves are easy to make, incredibly versatile, and allow you to take control over what goes on your skin. When you make them yourself, you avoid synthetic fragrances, preservatives, and fillers commonly found in store-bought products — all while connecting with the ancient tradition of using herbs as medicine.
Let’s dive into the basics and get you started.
What Are Infused Oils and Salves?
Infused oils are made by steeping dried herbs in a carrier oil, allowing the oil to absorb the plant’s medicinal compounds. These oils can be used as moisturizers, massage oils, or the base for natural remedies.
Salves are simply infused oils thickened with beeswax to create a balm that stays put on the skin. They’re perfect for soothing dry patches, bug bites, minor cuts, rashes, and more.
The best part? You only need a few basic tools, and once you learn the method, you can make endless combinations tailored to your needs.
Why Make Your Own Herbal Products
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You Control the Ingredients: No hidden chemicals, no synthetic preservatives — just pure plant medicine.
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Cost-Effective: One jar of infused oil can make several batches of salves, saving you money over time.
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Customizable: Choose herbs based on what your skin or body needs — lavender for calming, calendula for soothing, comfrey for aches and bruises.
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Sustainable & Low-Waste: Skip plastic packaging and store your products in reusable glass jars.
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Empowering: Making your own remedies gives you confidence and a deeper connection to your health.
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Great for Gifts: Homemade salves and oils make thoughtful, personalized presents.
How to Make an Herbal Infused Oil
What You’ll Need
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8 oz. dried herb of your choice (e.g., lavender for relaxation, calendula for skin-soothing, oregano for bug bites)
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16 oz. carrier oil (olive, almond, jojoba, avocado, or coconut — avoid quick-oxidizing vegetable oils)
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Quart-sized mason jar
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Crockpot for gentle heat
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Muslin, cheesecloth, or a clean t-shirt for straining
Tip: Start with just one herb to keep things simple — you’ll learn how it works before trying blends.
Instructions
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Chop the Herbs: Finely chop or grind 8 oz. of dried herbs and place in the jar.
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Add the Oil: Pour 16 oz. of carrier oil over the herbs, fully submerging them. Stir well.
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Seal and Heat: Place the sealed jar in a crockpot water bath set to warm (about 110°F) for 3–5 days.
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Cool and Strain: Let it cool, then strain through cloth to remove plant material.
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Store: Keep in a clean jar, in a cool, dark place — good for up to a year.
How to Turn It Into a Salve
What You’ll Need
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8 oz. herbal infused oil
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1 oz. beeswax (pellets melt easiest)
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Double boiler
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Clean jars or tins
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Optional: a few drops of essential oil
Instructions
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Heat the Oil: Warm your infused oil in a double boiler on low.
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Melt the Beeswax: Add 1 oz. beeswax and stir until fully melted.
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Add Essential Oils (Optional): For extra scent or therapeutic benefits, add a few drops now.
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Pour and Cool: Carefully pour into jars or tins and let cool until solid.
Quick Fix: Too soft? Reheat and add more beeswax. Too hard? Add a bit more oil.
Safety First: Always Patch Test
Before using your new oil or salve, do a patch test:
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Apply a small amount to the inner elbow.
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Cover with a bandage and leave for 24 hours.
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Check for irritation. If there’s none, you’re good to go.
The Joy of DIY Skincare
Making your own herbal oils and salves is easier than most people think. With just a few ingredients and tools you probably already have, you can create effective, natural remedies that are safe for your whole family.
You’ll know exactly what’s going on your skin, save money, and connect with a tradition of plant-based care that’s been used for thousands of years. Whether you’re soothing dry skin, supporting your immune system, or just indulging in a little self-care, these simple recipes can become a staple in your natural living toolkit.
Pair Your DIY with Our Professional Formulas
While DIY herbal remedies are a beautiful way to connect with nature and create personalized care, sometimes your skin needs a little extra support. That’s where our Ambaya Gold beauty line comes in. We’ve spent years formulating advanced, nutrient-rich creams, serums, and oils designed to deeply nourish, repair, and rejuvenate your skin. These products complement your homemade creations perfectly — giving you professional-level results when you need a more complex formula, without sacrificing purity or quality.
