Topical Applications

Balms, ointments and liniments are a semi-solid blend of vegetable/nut oil and wax that form an occlusive preparation.  This means they have a tendency to sit on the surface of the skin causing sweat to be trapped beneath, thereby softening the skin and aiding absorption of the active ingredients.  They are ideal for the treatment of arthritis, joint pain, sports injuries (e.g. as a liniment), as well as inflamed, dry or cracked skin (e.g. lip balm).

Gels are a mix of a gel powder and water or hydrosol.  They hydrate, soothe and cool the skin and may be used as an alternative preparation when a carrier oil is either unsuitable or undesired.  Blended with suitable additives of essential oils, they can make a rejuvenating foot and leg gel, a cooling preparation for insect bites, fungal infections or sunburn, or an oil-free alternative that is beneficial for oily and sensitive skin.

Emulsions are a blend of oil and water that has been combined with an emulsifier to make a stable mixture.  These products can be utilised where the client prefers a cream or lotion to a carrier oil, where the where the consistency/feel of the carrier is important or where a ‘non-greasy’ carrier is more suitable.  The benefits will be dependent upon the essential oils, hydrosols or macerated oils contained in the emulsion that may help, for example, in the relief of muscular aches and pains or to treat skin conditions such burns, eczema, psoriasis etc.