Avocado Oil Hand Balm for Dry Winter Skin
There’s something quietly powerful about a product that can sit on your kitchen shelf and your bathroom vanity. That’s the beauty of avocado oil—a true multi-tasker that’s just as happy in your salad dressing as it is soothing your dry, winter-worn hands.
As the air gets drier and the heaters crank up, our skin—especially our hands—takes a serious hit. Whether you’re washing up after supper, carting groceries, or just feeling the sting of chilly mornings, your skin deserves a little extra love. And what better way to deliver that than with a soft, dreamy hand balm you can make yourself?
Avocado oil isn’t just trendy—it’s packed with scientifically supported goodness. Rich in oleic acid (a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid), it’s known for improving skin permeability and retaining moisture. This means it helps your skin actually absorb the hydration, not just sit on the surface. Studies have shown avocado oil can promote collagen synthesis and wound healing, making it a smart pick for repairing cracked knuckles and dry cuticles during winter.
It’s also brimming with vitamins A, D, and E—nutrients that help fight inflammation and nourish the skin barrier. And because it’s a thicker, more emollient oil, it forms a protective layer without leaving your hands greasy. In other words: your winter skincare hero.
But Wait, There’s Beeswax
Beeswax works as a natural emulsifier and gives the balm that perfect, velvety texture. It’s also antibacterial and forms a breathable protective layer on the skin to lock in hydration while still letting your skin breathe.
Pair that with the uplifting scent of bitter orange and grapefruit essential oils, and this balm becomes a moment of sensory self-care every time you dip your fingers in.
The Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup beeswax (we used Simply Bee Pure Beeswax from Faithful to Nature)
- 1 cup Wilson’s Avocado Oil
- 10–15 drops bitter orange essential oil
- 10–15 drops grapefruit essential oil
Method:
- In a small, heat-safe bowl, add the Wilson’s Foods avocado oil and beeswax.
- Microwave on high for about 2 minutes, or until the wax is fully melted.
- Stir in your essential oils. Waft your hand over the mixture and adjust the scent to your liking.
- Pour into clean jars and cover. Let it set undisturbed overnight. The next morning, it’ll be beautifully solid and ready to use!
Yields: About 1 ½ cups.
- If you’re a fan of antibacterial balms, add a few drops of tea tree oil.
- This recipe has a softer consistency. If you prefer something firmer, increase the beeswax to ½ cup.
Shelf Life: It keeps for 3–4 months at room temperature, especially if stored in sterilised jars.
There’s a quiet joy in smoothing something over your hands that you made yourself. No harsh chemicals, no artificial fragrance—just pure, nourishing ingredients and a bit of care. And with avocado oil as the star, your skin gets a dose of rich, replenishing moisture every time.
Whether you’re giving it as a gift or keeping it all to yourself (no judgement here), this balm is winter wellness in a jar.

Snoek Fishcakes with Rosemary Oil Drizzle
A South African favourite, these snoek fishcakes are crisp, herby, and finished with a drizzle of Wilson’s Rosemary Oil. Perfect for lunch or light dinners.

Beef Shin Potjie with Fluffy Dumpling
This slow-cooked Beef Shin Potjie with fluffy dumplings is a South African classic. Rich, tender, and finished with Wilson’s Rosemary Flavoured Oil for bold herb flavour.

Biltong and Caprese Salad with Olive Oil Balsamic Dressing
A proudly South African take on a classic Italian salad — this Biltong and Caprese Salad with Olive Oil Balsamic Dressing is simple, fresh, and full of flavour.

Peri Peri Steak Marinade
Fire up the braai! This bold Peri-Peri marinade brings serious flavour with garlic, lime, and Wilson’s Peri-Peri Oil. Perfect for steak and packed with South African heat.

Sweet and Sour Peanut Stir-Fry
Peanut Day calls for something bold, bright, and crunchy—like this Sweet and Sour Peanut Stir-Fry featuring Wilson’s Peanut Oil. High heat, full flavour, and pure peanut-powered deliciousness.

Garlic and Mozzarella Pizza
This garlic and mozzarella pizza is simple, cheesy, and full of flavour. No red sauce, just crispy dough, bold garlic, and bubbly cheese.
