Soothing Rough Hands

The honey in this recipe is a wonderful moisturizer, while the cucumber and oatmeal are soothing on chapped hands. This mix will also exfoliate and clean.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup grated cucumber
1/4 cup honey
2 Tbs. water
1 dash fruit or nut oil (apricot or olive, for example)
2 Tbs. oatmeal
1/2 cup facial cleanser

Directions:

Combine ingredients. Use a small amount to wash hands and rinse under running lukewarm (not hot) water.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup grated beeswax
3 Tbs. aloe-vera gel and plant glycerin
6 drops sandalwood oil
1 tsp. water or rose water
1/2 fruit or nut oil

Directions:

Combine ingredients and microwave for one minute.

Notes:

• You can get beeswax at art- or craft-supply stores, or simply grate a beeswax candle.

• The plant glycerin gives the lotion a nice slip. If you don’t want to use sandalwood oil, use an herbaceous oil like chamomile.

• This soothing, hydrating lotion should be applied warm and left on the skin.

• Microwave the mixture each time you use it. It will keep indefinitely out on the counter.

Lemon Exfoliant

This mixture works well for calluses. The lemon juice has lightening effects on discolored calluses. It is too rough to use on the face. Substitute honey for the sugar for a wonderful facial scrub.

Ingredients:

1 cup sugar
1/2 cup lemon juice

Directions:

Combine ingredients to make a loose paste. Rub the mixture into the top and bottom of hands, working well into cuticles. Play close attention to callused areas, rubbing for about five minutes. Repeat daily until calluses have softened or disappeared.