Unlock the secret to beautiful, soft-looking skin with a simple DIY clove-infused oil. This easy home remedy uses readily available ingredients to help your skin feel nourished and appear more radiant.
Quick Recipe
Prep time: 10 minutes (plus 2-3 weeks for infusion)
Best for: Dry, dull skin, promoting a soft and glowing appearance
Use type: Body and face oil
Main ingredients:
- Johnson’s Baby Oil (or similar light carrier oil)
- Whole Cloves
Ingredients
- 1 cup Johnson’s Baby Oil (or unscented mineral oil, or other preferred light carrier oil like sweet almond or grapeseed oil)
- 2 tablespoons whole cloves
- 1 clean, dry glass jar with a lid
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
How to Make It
- Prepare the Cloves: Gently crush the whole cloves just enough to break their outer shell, but not into a powder. This helps release their natural oils and aroma. You can use a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the crushed cloves into your clean, dry glass jar. Pour the Johnson’s Baby Oil over the cloves, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Infuse the Oil: Seal the jar tightly with the lid. Place the jar in a cool, dark place, or on a sunny windowsill for a solar infusion. Shake the jar gently every day or two to mix the contents. Let it infuse for at least 2 to 3 weeks. The longer it infuses, the stronger the scent and potential benefits may be.
- Strain the Oil: After the infusion period, strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or several layers of cheesecloth into a clean, new bottle or jar. Make sure to squeeze out as much oil as possible from the cloves. Discard the used cloves.
- Store Your Oil: Label your bottle and store the finished clove-infused oil in a cool, dark place.
How to Use It
- Patch Test: Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin (like your inner arm) at least 24 hours before widespread use, especially if you have sensitive skin.
- Clean Skin: Apply the oil to clean, slightly damp skin after a shower or bath to help lock in moisture.
- Gentle Massage: Take a small amount of the clove-infused oil in your palms and warm it up slightly. Gently massage it into your skin using upward, circular motions. A little goes a long way.
- Face Application (Optional): For facial use, apply a tiny drop and gently pat it onto areas where you desire a smoother-looking glow, avoiding the immediate eye area.
How Often to Use It
You can use this clove-infused oil daily as part of your evening skincare routine or as needed for an extra boost of moisture and radiance. Adjust frequency based on your skin’s response.
Why These Ingredients Are Used
Johnson’s Baby Oil (Mineral Oil)
Johnson’s Baby Oil, primarily mineral oil, is a classic choice for its ability to create a protective barrier on the skin, effectively locking in moisture and leaving skin feeling soft and smooth. It’s gentle, non-comedogenic for most, and a stable base for infusions, helping to carry the beneficial properties of cloves.
Whole Cloves
Cloves are cherished in traditional beauty remedies for their aromatic and warming properties. They contain compounds like eugenol, which are known for their natural attributes. When infused into oil, cloves can impart a subtle, spicy fragrance and are traditionally believed to support a healthy-looking, vibrant complexion.
What Results to Expect
Regular use of this clove-infused oil may help your skin feel incredibly soft, smooth, and deeply moisturized. It can support a natural, healthy-looking glow and improve the appearance of dullness over time. The subtle, warm aroma of cloves can also add a delightful sensory experience to your self-care routine.
Safety Notes
- Patch Test First: Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin 24 hours before applying the oil more broadly, especially if you have sensitive skin or known allergies.
- Use Gently: Apply the oil with a gentle touch. Do not rub vigorously.
- Avoid Irritated Skin: Do not use this oil on broken, irritated, or freshly shaved skin, as cloves can be stimulating.
- Stop if Discomfort Occurs: If you experience any redness, itching, burning, or irritation, discontinue use immediately and wash the area with mild soap and water.
- Eye Area: Avoid direct contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Pregnancy/Nursing: If you are pregnant or nursing, consult with a healthcare professional before using any home remedies containing essential oils or strong botanicals.
- Allergies: If you have allergies to spices, particularly cloves, do not use this remedy.
FAQ
Can I use a different carrier oil?
Yes, while Johnson’s Baby Oil is shown, you can certainly use other light carrier oils like sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil, or jojoba oil for this infusion. Choose an oil that suits your skin type.
How long does the infused oil last?
When stored in a cool, dark place, your clove-infused oil should last as long as the shelf life of the carrier oil you used, typically 6-12 months. Always check for changes in smell or appearance before use.
Can I use ground cloves instead of whole cloves?
It’s generally recommended to use whole or lightly crushed cloves for infusion. Ground cloves can make the oil cloudy and harder to strain, potentially leaving fine particles that could irritate the skin.
Final Thoughts
Embracing natural skincare doesn’t have to be complicated. This DIY clove-infused oil offers a simple yet luxurious way to nourish your skin, leaving it feeling wonderfully soft and looking beautifully radiant. Give it a try and share your glowing results with us!
