Do you every wonder how your toiletries were formulated, or how different the cosmetics your great great grandmother used vary from the ones you use today? Well, I am working on a project collecting old cosmetics and toiletries recipes and it has been quite an experience. I am planning on sharing these recipes and what I discovered. I will give you the original recipe as well as the source from which I received the recipe. I will share the “modern” recipe. Many recipes call for spermaceti, of which we don’t have access to. Spermaceti is an oil that comes from the Sperm Whale. Spermaceti was in so much demand, that the whales became an endangered species. The Sperm Whale was nearly hunted to extinction! I will also add preservatives so that these fabulous toiletries do not begin to grow. Come join me as we travel back in time for the making of heirloom toiletries. Here we go!
I had to make some changes to the formulation before I even headed for the test kitchen. First, there is no way am I going to get my hands on any spermaceti. No point of trying to formulate with a banned product. So I did some research and decided that Palm Oil would act as a replacement for the spermaceti. Second, I didn’t have any white wax (paraffin). I replaced the paraffin with beeswax, both of which contribute similar properties to toiletries. I also wanted to add emulsifying wax to my formulation to prevent it from separating. So far so good. Last, I felt the need to add a preservative to the formulation to prevent the mixture from growing bacteria and fungi. We don’t work this hard on our projects to lose them to micro-organisms.
I really enjoyed this project. The Glycerin Balsam is fabulous and really fun. I must admit that I was rather surprised by the final product. When put on my hands, I liked it but the Glycerin Balsam seemed a little too oily. However, when I used it on the softer skin of my arms, legs and face, I felt as if I were being pampered and spoiled. The Glycerin Balsam really hydrates and protects the skin. Personally, I think the the Glycerin Balsam rivals a lotion with Hydrovance! It was also exciting that I had created a product similar to one used by women over a century ago. That, in itself, was amazing. I wish to thank those who came on this fabulous journey with me. What fun! I hope you delight in making and using the Glycerin Balsam as much as I did. Enjoy! I’ve sent 100 samples to the shipping department. Please ask for one if this formulation is of interest to you. I don’t expect any samples to remain after March 22nd.
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 Finished Balsam  Weighing Oils  Weighing Palm Oil  Weighing Emulsifying Wax  Mixing Balsam  Mixing Balsam  Mixing Balsam  Whipping Balsam |
How would I be able to get a sample? I would love to try this out.
Taylor, how is this product used? I hate to expose myself as completely clueless, but there it is! I have no idea if this is for hands, face, all over, or what. 🙂
Also, would palm kernel oil be an acceptable substitute for the palm oil? Thanks!
MKMmom, the best way to get a sample is to request one. We see these requests on all our orders. In the comments field you can write something like “On March 8th Taylor showed how to make Glycerin Balsam on the blog. Please send a sample with my order.” That is it! Your comment stays with your order right on through shipping.
Best!
Tina
ABaird,
This is used just like a lotion or cream. The key is the different ingredients and manufacture. I would use it on my hands, knees, elbows and feet. I tend not to put a lot on my face but I have very oily skin so putting more oil on my face is just too much.
You could use jojoba oil, particularly the waxes near the bottom, for the palm oil. This will make a more fluid mixture but also similar in feel of the finished product. I would not suggest Palm Kernel Oil in this formulation. Palm kernel oil feels like a firmer coconut oil and not at all like palm oil.
Best!
Tina
This looks like a good recipe. Thank you for the link to the book, it is very interesting. Are you going to do anymore recipes from it?
Yes! I am slowly working my way through this book and several others. I hope I will be ready for a new one soon.
Taylor