How to Make Oil Infusions: A Beginners Guide

In this project, I am going to share with you the ultimate beginners guide to making your own oil infusion.

Infusions are a really great way to use plant based ingredients, sometimes even ingredients that otherwise would go to waste, and turn them into a new product that is good for your skin. 

Infused oils offer numerous benefits for the skin. They provide moisture, nourishment, and can help soothe and calm the skin. Certain infused oils possess anti-aging properties, promoting a youthful appearance by reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

Recipe 

This recipe makes 1 oil infusion in a jar of c.a 250-300g/8-10 oz | 6 months shelf life

Download the recipe card here

Oil of your choice

c.a 250-300 g/8-10 oz or to fill up the jar

Some recommendations: 

• sweet almond oil
• sunflower oil
• olive oil

Dried flowers of your choice

• lavender buds
• chamomile flowers
• calendula petals
• daisy
• roses

Optional ingredients

• vitamin E 

1% Vitamin E: calculate this on your total oil amount. If you used 250 g/8 oz of oil, use 2.5 grams/0.088 oz of vitamin E. This is about 1 teaspoon.

This is optional, but it helps extend the shelf life of your oil infusion as it prevents your oil from going rancid too early. 

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Tools

• 2x Glass Jars

You can repurpose any clean, old jar.

I usually use jars that can fit c.a 250-300 g/8-10 oz of oil, but you can use smaller or bigger ones too!

If you are making a heat-induced infusion, make sure that the jar you are using is heat-resistant and specifically made to sustain high temperatures.

• Teaspoon
• Nut-milk bag or pair of stockings or a thin muslin cloth

How to Make The Oil Infusion

1. Fill a jar with flowers and oil of your choice.
   
   
2. Cold process method:
   Leave the jar in a dark place to infuse for at least 2 weeks (ideally 4-6 weeks)
   Hot process method:
   cook the herbs in a bain-marie in a heat-resistant jar for 30-49 minutes, keeping the heat to a minimum. Never leave the jar unattended.
3. Add the optional vitamin E at 1% of your recipe 
   
   
4. Wrap the top of the jar with the cheesecloth.
   
5. Pour the oil from the old jar to a new one.
   
   
6. Label the jar (name, ingredients, date of infusion)

Your very own infused oil will quickly become a beloved companion, enriching your skincare routines, and moments of self-care. Ready to make your own infused oil? 

If you try this recipe, I'd like to see the results and your journey of making them. Make sure to tag me @bottegazerowaste on Instagram!