Calendula oil is easy to make and excellent for soothing irritated or dehydrated skin. One benefit of making it instead of buying it* is that you can choose the type of carrier and essential oils you need for your skin type or concern!
You can make Calendula oil by infusing the dried petals of the calendula flower (Calendula officinalis) in a natural plant carrier oil, like olive oil, jojoba, or Argan oil, to extract its beneficial compounds. Calendula oil has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties and has been used for centuries for its calming, natural healing properties, making it the ideal skin soother!
You can combine calendula-infused oil with other skin-calming ingredients to make a calendula oil serum for the skin or use the oil infusion as it is. Either way, you can easily make this beautiful golden oil at home and use it to soothe, calm, and treat problematic skin conditions!
Calendula oil suits all skin types, especially sensitive, dry, or for skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and acne-prone. The oil is gentle enough for babies, making it a popular choice for treating diaper rash, dry patches, and minor skin irritations in infants. Its natural, mild nature helps protect delicate skin without irritating it.
How To Make a DIY Calendula Oil Infusion!
Making calendula oil at home is simple. Letting the flowers infuse into the oil requires only a few ingredients and time. Here’s how you can make it!
Ingredients.
- Dried calendula flowers* (organic is best)
- Carrier oil (such as olive oil, sweet almond oil, or jojoba oil)
- A clean, dry glass jar* with a lid
- A cheesecloth* or fine mesh strainer*
- A glass bottle for storage
Instructions.
1. Prepare the Flowers:
If you use fresh flowers, dry them thoroughly to prevent moisture from spoiling the oil. You can either air-dry the flowers or purchase dried calendula flowers*.
2. Fill the Jar:
Place the dried calendula flowers into your glass jar*, filling it halfway.
3. Add the Oil:
Pour your chosen carrier oil or oils over the flowers until fully submerged. Read this post on the best carrier oils for your skin. Leave about 1 inch of space at the top of the jar to allow for expansion. Stir gently to release any air bubbles.
4. Infuse the Oil:
There are two ways to infuse calendula oil:
- Slow Infusion: Seal the jar and place it in a sunny, warm spot for about 4–6 weeks. Shake the jar every few days to help the infusion process.
- Quick Infusion: Heat the jar in a slow cooker or double boiler on low heat for 2–3 hours. To avoid burning the oil, keep the temperature between 100°F and 120°F (38°C and 49°C).
5. Strain the Oil:
Once the oil is infused, strain it through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer* into a clean, dry bottle. Squeeze out as much oil from the flowers as possible.
6. Store the Oil:
Transfer the calendula oil to a dark glass bottle* and store it in a cool, dark place. It should last for up to a year.
How to Use:
Calendula oil can be used in many ways to soothe dry skin. Rub it into problem areas, pour it into the bath, or add it to homemade serums, creams, and balms!
DIY Calendula Oil Serum for Soothing Skin!
This recipe takes calendula oil up a notch by adding potent essential oils known for their skincare benefits and other carrier oils, like jojoba, for an everyday serum you can use under moisturizers!
While jojoba, lavender, and chamomile are used in this recipe, substitute them with other more beneficial oils for your skin type!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of calendula-infused oil (can be homemade or purchased*)
- One cup of jojoba oil (balances the skin’s natural oil)
- 4–5 drops of lavender essential oil (calms irritation and inflammation)
- 4–5 drops of chamomile essential oil* (soothes sensitive skin)
- One capsule of vitamin E oil* or a few drops. (optional for added moisture and skin healing)
Instructions:
- Pour the calendula-infused jojoba oil into a small glass bottle (preferably with a dropper).
- Add the essential oils—lavender and chamomile.
- If using, puncture a vitamin E capsule* and add its contents.
- Shake the bottle gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Store in a cool, dry place.
How to Use:
- Apply a few drops of the serum to cleansed skin, focusing on irritated or inflamed areas. Massage gently until absorbed. For best results, use morning and night.
This serum helps soothe irritation, reduce redness, and moisturize the skin while promoting healing!
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