If you are still using store-bought lotion on yourself or your family, there are super easy natural alternatives that are fun to make! This homemade lotion recipe has three basic ingredients and takes only ten minutes to whip together.
The basic recipe is an ultra-moisturizing water-free version that last for years without preservatives.
Homemade Lotion Ingredients
. 1/2 cup almond oil or jojoba oil (or any other liquid oil)
. 1/4 cup coconut oil
. 1/4 cup beeswax
. 1 tsp vitamin E oil (optional)
. 2 TBSP shea butter or cocoa butter (optional)
. essential oils, vanilla extract, or other natural extracts to suit your preference (optional)
How to Make Lotion
. Combine almond oil (or any other liquid oil), coconut oil, and beeswax in a double boiler or a glass bowl on top. If using shea or cocoa butter, add it as well.
. As the water heats, the ingredients will start to melt. Stir occasionally as they melt to incorporate.
. When all ingredients are completely melted, add vitamin E oil (if using) and any essential oils or scents like vanilla.
. Pour into whatever jar or tin you will use for storage. Small mason jars work perfectly for this.
. Use as you would regular lotion. This lotion is ultra-moisturizing and more oily than water-based lotions so you won’t need to use as much. It also has a longer shelf life than some homemade lotion recipes since all ingredients are already shelf stable and no water is added. Use within 6 months for best moisturizing benefits.
Note: A little goes a long way! This lotion is incredibly nourishing and is also great for diaper rash on baby, for eczema and for preventing stretch marks!
Making Custom Lotion Blends
Once you master the base recipe, have fun customizing your lotion to your skin type, skin conditions, and desired scent!
There are endless variations, such as:
. Baby lotion - Infuse the oil with calendula and chamomile before making the lotion.
. Cooling Muscle Rub – Add peppermint, wintergreen, and ginger for sore muscles.
. 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.
Other Homemade Lotion Recipe Variations
Lotion Bars
If you want an even easier solution, make these easy lotion bars! It only has three ingredients, takes less time to make, and lasts even longer.
Aloe-Based Homemade Lotion
If you’d prefer a lighter lotion recipe, this aloe-based version is much smoother and not as greasy. Unlike the version above, it does not have an indefinite shelf life and should be used within a month since it does not contain any preservatives.
Aloe Lotion Ingredients
1 cup aloe vera gel
1 tsp + 1 TBSP beeswax pastilles
1/2 cup almond oil or jojoba oil (or any other liquid oil)
1 tsp vitamin E oil (optional)
1 TBSP shea butter (optional)
essential oils of choice
Aloe Lotion Instructions
. Melt the beeswax, almond oil (or other liquid oil), and shea butter (if using) in a double boiler or glass bowl over a pan of water.
. Remove from heat and pour into a blender or mason jar (if using an immersion blender).
. Let cool to room temperature. You want it to be room temperature and just barely starting to harden around the edges. This will help make sure that the lotion emulsifies correctly.
. Add the vitamin E (if using) and any essential oils.
. Start blending on low using a blender or immersion blender. Very slowly, start adding the aloe vera gel until incorporated. Use a spatula to wipe down the sides and re-blend a few times until fully incorporated.
. Store in a glass jar in the fridge for up to six weeks.
