If you’re still using store-bought lotion, here’s a super easy natural alternative that’s fun to make! This DIY lotion recipe is made with just three basic ingredients and only takes 10 minutes to whip up.
The basic recipe is a very moisturizing, waterless version that lasts for years without preservatives. While lotions are technically a formulation of water and oil-based skincare ingredients, this product is oil-based. It is more like a body butter and is great for dry skin.
Homemade lotion
I discovered that I could make my own skincare products using natural ingredients a few years ago and I haven’t looked back since! From homemade lip balms to whipped body butters, I love making my own products. Lotion bars were one of the first products I made and I’ve made other types of lotions too. This version uses unrefined coconut oil, almond oil, and shea butter to deeply nourish your skin.
Most lotions use emulsifying wax mixed with distilled water and a carrier oil. This can be tricky to do at home. Plus, you need a preservative to prevent spoilage! This DIY lotion solves that problem by removing the water. You can extend the shelf life even further by using vitamin E. This antioxidant helps prevent the oil from going rancid quickly.
Choosing a Carrier Oil
As a carrier oil, I use sweet almond oil because it is a medium-weight oil. It is not as heavy as coconut oil, but it is more moisturizing than something like grapeseed oil. You can substitute your favorite liquid carrier oil. Jojoba oil, olive oil, or avocado oil are also good choices.
This lotion is very moisturizing and oily compared to water-based lotions, so you don’t need to use as much. It also has a longer shelf life than some homemade lotion recipes. All the ingredients are already shelf-stable and no water has been added.
Make a custom lotion
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, have fun customizing your lotion to suit your skin type, skin condition, and desired scent!
There are countless variations, but here are some of my favorites:
- Baby lotion – Before making the lotion, soak dried calendula and chamomile in oil.
- Cooling Muscle Massage – For muscle pain, add peppermint, wintergreen, and ginger.
- Anti-aging face lotion – Use argan oil and add lavender and patchouli essential oils.
- Lavender and Vanilla Lotion – Add a few drops of lavender and a little natural vanilla extract.
Essential Oil Safety
So how many drops of essential oil should you add to your DIY lotion? It depends on your essential oil and your preference. If you add the optional shea butter, 45 drops of essential oil would be a 1% dilution. A 2% dilution is generally considered safe for skin care products like lotions.
If you like a really strong scent, you can double the amount (2%). Or, if you prefer a lighter scent or have more sensitive skin, you can halve the amount (even less!). I especially don’t use essential oils on babies.
Certain oils, such as wintergreen, cinnamon, and lemongrass, are stronger and should be used in smaller amounts. Other oils, such as grapefruit and lime, are phototoxic. My favorite skin-friendly essential oils are:
Don’t you want to make it?
If you want a healthy lotion but don’t want to make it or don’t have the ingredients, there are good store-bought options that have clean ingredients and will help moisturize your thirsty skin.
Homemade DIY Lotion Recipe
Make a soft, luxurious lotion at home using almond oil, coconut oil, beeswax, and optional essential oils.
Produce: 9 oz.
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Combine almond oil, coconut oil, beeswax, shea, or cocoa butter in a double boiler. Or, place a glass bowl over a pan of simmering water.
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Stir occasionally until ingredients are dissolved.
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Once the ingredients are completely melted, add the vitamin E oil and essential oil or vanilla.
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Pour into a glass jar or tin for storage and let cool to room temperature. Small mason jars work perfectly. Lotion pumps don’t pump well!
- A little goes a long way! This lotion is super nourishing and great for preventing diaper rash, eczema, and stretch marks.
- If stored in a cool, dry place, it can be stored for up to 1 to 2 years.
Other Homemade Lotion Recipe Variations
There are a number of ways to make your own lotion at home. Here are some lotion tutorials you can try.
Have you ever tried making DIY lotion? How was it? Let us know below!
