Honey & Chamomile Lotion Bars Recipe: Natural Skincare at Home

Indulge in creating homemade lotion bars infused with the gentle touch of honey and chamomile. These twist-up lotion bars offer a unique way to moisturize dry and chapped skin, using chamomile's natural soothing properties and honey's sweet aroma. Chamomile, known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits, pairs wonderfully with the included Honey L’Occitane-Type Fragrance Oil, though a natural scent option is available for purists. This guide will take you through making these delightful skincare treats, ideal for your use or as thoughtful gifts. Chamomile-infused apricot kernel oil forms the heart of this recipe, harnessing chamomile's soothing qualities and bisabolol content for your skin's benefit. When paired with honey's sweet fragrance, it creates a nurturing and aromatic skincare experience. This combination is pleasing to the senses and beneficial for the skin, making these lotion bars a must-have in your natural skincare arsenal. TIMING
Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Perform Time: 30 Minutes
Cooking Time: 4 Hours 30 Minutes
Cooling Time: 25 Minutes
Total Time: 5 Hours 45 Minutes, 40 Minutes active time

SUPPLIES
Digital Scale
1-2 qt Saucepan or Skillet
Wire Rack (to fit in saucepan or skillet)
Spatula or Spoon
Spray bottle with 70% Isopropyl Alcohol
Funnel Pitcher
Pipettes (for preservatives and essential oils)
Paper towels
Fine-mesh sieve
Freezer
Stovetop or Portable Burner
Timer
Slow Cooker or Sous Vide Cooker (optional)
12 oz Mason Jar with Lid
Small Bowl
5 x 2 oz Green Twist-Up Tubes

INGREDIENTS
Approx. 1.2 oz / 1.5 cups Chamomile Flowers
3.5 oz / 99 g Mango Butter
Approx. 8 oz Apricot Kernel Oil
3.5 oz / 99 g Beeswax (White)
3 g / about 3 ml Honey Fragrance Oil

1. Infuse the Apricot Kernel Oil: Start by infusing chamomile flowers in apricot kernel oil, a process that can be done via slow cooking, sous vide, or natural sunlight. Line the strainer with a paper towel or coffee filter. Strain the oil a second time. Squeeze the paper towel to extract as much oil as possible.
2. Melt the Oils: Melt the beeswax, mango butter, and infused oil, ensuring a smooth blend. Allow the butter and wax to melt, stirring occasionally, for about 25 minutes. Remove from the water bath and allow to cool for 2 minutes. Add the fragrance oil. Stir to combine.
3. Combine and Pour: After adding the fragrance, pour the mixture into twist-up tubes and allow it to set. Place the tubes in the freezer to harden for about 25 minutes.

While this recipe features Honey Fragrance Oil for a sweet and complementary aroma, options for a 100% natural scent are also discussed. Lavender or Sweet Orange Essential Oils can replace the fragrance oil, however the amount may need to be adjusted to fit the recipe above. The chamomile's natural scent stands out by adding a different natural fragrance profile. The perfect lotion bar consistency depends on careful melting and accurate ingredient measurements. Suggestions for alternative butters and their effects on the bars’ texture provide flexibility in crafting a product tailored to your preferences. The guide also offers practical advice for molding, ensuring smooth, professionally finished lotion bars. Once your lotion bars are set, they're ready to soothe and moisturize any area of your body that needs extra care. The guide concludes with tips for using and storing your bars to maximize their benefits, ensuring your skin enjoys honey and chamomile's complete soothing and moisturizing properties.