The Benefits of Palm Kernel Oil for Home Made Cosmetics

Palm kernel oil is made from the kernels of the palm tree, and it is often used in as a carrier oil for cosmetics.

Palm kernel oil has a higher melting temperature than regular palm oil, and is often also used in soaps and hair products to provide a thicker texture.

Palm kernel carrier oil is in fact almost exclusively used in the soap industry, and is also an excellent addition to cosmetics. Palm Kernel oil provides a smooth texture for home made cosmetics, and makes home made soap lather well.

When used in cosmetics, palm kernel oil provides a moisturizing agent. However, it should be used in moderation, since using palm kernel oil in excess can lead to dry skin.

Palm kernel oil has no scent, and is great for scent infusions, since it will not interfere with the aroma of essential oils.

Since palm kernel oil is a solid at room temperature, you need to add liquid oils to make creams and lotions. Some oils, like sweet almond or hazel nut oil, will add a sweet nutty aroma to the odorless palm kernel oil. Liquid oils will also make the palm kernel oil thick and rich.

Orange Lotion

• ½ ounce palm kernel oil
• 1 ounce olive oil
• 1 ounce orange juice
• 2 drops orange essential oil

Melt palm kernel oil, and then add all other ingredients. Mix well to make a smooth lotion.
Use quickly (within a week) or keep refrigerated.

Repairing Lip Balm

• 3 tablespoons palm kernel oil
• 3 teaspoons avocado oil
• 1 teaspoon glycerin
• ¹/₈ teaspoon lecithin
• ½ teaspoon honey
• 10 drops vitamin E oil
• 4 drops tea tree oil
• 4 drops grapefruit essential oil

Melt the palm kernel oil and avocado oil in a double boiler. Let cool slightly, then add the vitamin E and lecithin. In a separate bowl, mix glycerin and honey, then add to oils. Lastly, add the essential oils, stir well, and place into a re-sealable container.

Rose Face Cream

• 3 tablespoon sweet almond oil
• 1 ½ teaspoon palm kernel oil
• 2 teaspoons cocoa butter
• ¼ teaspoon lanolin
• ½ teaspoon beeswax
• 2 tablespoons distilled water
• 1 ¾ rose water
• ¾ tablespoon glycerin
• 1 tablespoon aloe vera
• 1 drop lavender oil

Melt the oils, butters and lanolin over low heat in a double boiler, and allow the mixture to cool slightly.

While the mixture cools, place the water, rose water, glycerin, aloe vera and lavender in a blender. Turn the blender on medium, and slowly begin adding the oil mixture. Add oils until the mixture is thick and creamy.

Pour into re-sealable containers, and use as a face cream. You should keep this cream refrigerated to prevent bacteria.