Title: Basic Cold Cream
Categories: Cleanser *
Yield: 8 Ounces

1/8	ts	Borax powder
1/4	c	Distilled water
1/2	c	Mineral oil
2	tb	Grated beeswax

Cold cream is a mixture of oil, wax, water and a mild alkali. The combination of oil and wax provides a cleansing action when it comes in contact with your skin; dirt and oil on the skin surface are loosened and can then be gently wiped off with a clean, soft tissue or cloth. Left on, it acts as an emollient to soften and smooth the skin and relieve dryness.

Dissolve the borax in the water in a glass measuring cup and set aside.

Mix together the oil and beeswax in another glass measuring cup. Place the glass cup in a pan of water (1 to 2 inches), making a water bath. Heat the oil-beeswax miture in the water bath over medium heat until the beeswax is melted, 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

When the wax is melted, bring the borax-water mixture almost to boiling by microwaving on High for 1 minute (you may also heat it on the stove top in a water bath). Remove the oil-beeswax mixture from the water bath. Slowly add the borax-water mixture to it, stirring briskly (you can also put the mixture in a blender and whip).

Pour the cream into a clean container with a lid. This mixture will last virtually forever - or at least until you have used it up. To use, massage a small amount into your skin and tissue off or rinse off with warm water.

Note: The mixture will become white and fluffy but will be a little runny until it has cooled completely. Once cooled, you will have a nice basic cold cream. Because you have not added any perfumes, it will remain unscented. If you choose to prepare a cold cream with a fragrance, just add a few drops of your favorite scent as the mixture is cooling.

Source: "Natural Beauty at Home" by Janice Cox

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