How Do I Make Wax Ointments? History of wax ointments and benefits.
Beeswax ointments are a traditional and timeless skincare product that combines natural simplicity with effectiveness. Made from pure ingredients such as beeswax, olive oil, and herbs, they offer hydration, protection, and healing to the skin. Today, more and more people choose to make wax ointments at home, embracing a natural, handmade approach to daily skincare.
History of wax ointments
From ancient Greece to the monasteries of the Middle Ages, beeswax ointments were preserved as a natural solution for treating wounds, burns and skin conditions. Hippocrates and Galen used beeswax with herbs for healing, and the tradition continued through the centuries.
What are wax ointments?
Beeswax balms (known in Greek as “kēra-loifés”) are among the purest and most traditional natural skincare products, standing the test of time and still widely used today. These handmade, all-natural creams are made from a base of beeswax and plant oils, and are often enriched with essential oils, herbal extracts, or therapeutic botanical infusions—depending on their intended purpose and function.
The simplicity of their formula and the ease of preparation have led many people to explore how to make beeswax balms at home—choosing for themselves exactly what ingredients will touch their skin.
The key ingredients of a traditional beeswax balm are:
- Beeswax: Provides protection, forms a barrier against moisture loss, and offers antiseptic and healing properties.
- Plant oil (such as olive oil, St. John’s wort oil, calendula oil, etc.): Acts as a moisturizer and nourisher, carries the properties of the infused herbs, and softens the skin.
- Essential oils or herbal extracts: Enhance the balm’s effectiveness with targeted properties (e.g., lavender for relaxation, propolis for antiseptic care, arnica for muscle relief).
Thanks to their versatility, beeswax balms are commonly used for:
- Dry or irritated skin
- Wound healing
- Muscle pain relief
- Even as a natural aftershave or lip balm.
They contain no preservatives, parabens, synthetic chemicals, or artificial fragrances, making them safe for all ages—including children.
The Benefits of Wax Ointment
- Hydration & Nourishment – Locks in moisture and deeply nourishes the skin.
- Antiseptic Action – Ideal for healing small wounds and irritations.
- Chemical-Free – Natural care for sensitive skin.
- Soothing Skin Conditions – They relieve dryness, redness and irritation.
Uses of Wax Ointments in Everyday Life
Wax ointments are versatile and are used in many situations:
- Lip and body hydration: Suitable for chapped lips and dry spots.
- Treating burns and wounds: Soothes and heals irritated skin.
- After-shave care: Ideal for reducing irritation.
- Heel and elbow care: Softens rough skin areas.
How Do I Make Waxing Ointments?
Making wax ointments at home is easy and requires simple ingredients and a little attention.
Basic Beeswax Ointment Recipe
- Materials:
- 20 gr beeswax
- 120 ml olive oil or other vegetable oil
- 5-10 drops essential oil (e.g., lavender)
- Implementation:
- Melt the beeswax in a bain-marie.
- Add the olive oil and mix well.
- Remove from heat and when the temperature drops below 45 degrees, add the essential oil.
- Pour the mixture into glass jars and let it cool.
How do I make a balm?
Materials
- 20 gr Beeswax
- 120 gr St. john wort oil
- 5 drops lavender essential oil optional
Implementation:
- Melt the beeswax in a double boiler.
- Add the swordfish oil. Stir the mixture well until completely homogenized and let it cool.
- When the temperature reaches 45 degrees Celsius, add the lavender essential oil and mix well.
- Place the wax ointment in sterile jars of your choice.
Beeswax and Herbs: An Ideal Combination
Herbs can enrich wax ointments with additional therapeutic properties:
- Calendula: Anti-inflammatory and ideal for sensitive skin.
- Chamomile: Soothes irritations and relieves itching.
- St. john wort: Helps heal wounds and burns.
Conclusion
Waxing balms are a unique product that combines tradition, nature and skin care. With the right ingredients and a little effort, you can make your own waxing balm and enjoy the benefits of natural care.
Try making waxing cream today and see the difference!
This article is an offer of oliveflower.gr, which offers reliable information and recipes inspired by the Greek tradition. In our store you will find cosmetics, soaps, herbs, oils, spices, essential oils.
The information about herbs and their therapeutic properties provided by olivenflower is purely informative in nature. It cannot replace a medical opinion or a visit to a doctor.
