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DIY Summer Cooling Salve

Woman’s hand holding a small tin of cooling salve, gently applying the balm to her wrist for soothing relief.
Stay cool all summer long with this easy DIY cooling salve — natural relief in a jar! Perfect for sun-kissed skin and itchy bug bites.

This one’s for all the herbal enthusiasts and self-care lovers who asked for a natural way to beat the summer heat while soothing tired, sun-exposed skin. Whether you’ve been out in the sun too long, dealing with itchy bug bites, or just craving a refreshing, cooling balm to keep on hand, this DIY Cooling Salve is your new best friend.


Let’s get into how you can make this easy, effective salve at home with ingredients you can trust and love.


Here's what you'll need to create approximately 7 ozs:


Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup unrefined, extra virgin coconut oil

  • 2 tablespoons raw, unrefined shea butter

  • 1 tablespoon beeswax (for a softer, more balm-like consistency). You can use 2 tablespoons of beeswax pellets if you desire a firmer salve.

  • 10 drops peppermint essential oil

  • 10 drops lavender essential oil (Bulgarian lavender is my favorite because of its deep, rich scent)

***Pro-tip: If you really want a stronger cooling effect, feel free to increase the total essential oils to 20 drops. Just remember to patch test first to ensure your skin tolerates the extra strength.


Equipment:

  • Double boiler or heat-safe bowl + pot (I like to use a heat-safe mason jar inside a pot of simmering water to create the double boiler effect)

  • Glass jar or tin for storing your finished salve


Instructions:


  1. Melt the base:

    In a double boiler or heat-safe bowl over simmering water, combine the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax pellets. Stir gently until fully melted and blended.

  2. Add essential oils:

    Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly (approximately 1-2 minutes). Stir in the peppermint and lavender essential oils thoroughly.

  3. Pour and cool:

    Pour the mixture into clean jars or tins. Allow it to cool at room temperature or in the fridge until solidified. (I allow my salves to cool at room temperature in a cool, dry place - like the pantry - for 24 hours before use).

  4. Store:

    Label your salve and keep it in a cool, dry place. It should last 6 months to a year.


How to Use:

Apply to sun-exposed skin, bug bites, or any area needing a refreshing, cooling salve — but avoid sensitive private areas.


Summer heat and sun exposure can take a toll on our skin, but with this simple, all-natural cooling salve, you have a soothing remedy right at your fingertips. Made with skin-loving ingredients and refreshing essential oils, it’s perfect for calming irritation, cooling down hot spots, and bringing relief whenever you need it most.


Give this DIY recipe a try and enjoy the cool comfort of nature’s healing touch all season long.


Don’t forget to like this post and share your experience or any custom tweaks you make. I love hearing how you personalize your herbal creations!


Stay cool and cared for, naturally.

Wynter Michelle


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