If you have ever wondered how to make lotion, this post is for you! This simple DIY lotion is very easy to make and works great to restore moisture to dry skin. No worries about what all you are putting on your skin with this all natural homemade lotion.
How to make Lotion
We really struggle with dry skin. My daughter especially gets terrible dry skin all year round. Whether it is in the Summer or in the middle of Winter, we get tons of crazy dry patches. Regular body lotion just didn’t cut it and I didn’t like the idea of rubbing crazy medicated creams on her. Plus, has anyone noticed how expensive lotion is these days? Goodness some of those tiny tubes of lotion come with a hefty price tag!!!
I knew there had to be another solution so I started experimenting with homemade lotion. We have made DIY Body Scrub and Honey Body Wash and loved it so I thought we could give this easy homemade lotion a try.
We are trying to implement more and more all natural products into our home. It can be overwhelming so I just focus on one item a at time. I have learned in life that if I try to do it all at once, I will get frustrated. However, if I tackle my goals into bite size pieces that are more readily obtainable it’s so much easier! Plus, it’s so satisfying to mark it off my list and move on to something else the next week. Please tell me I’m not the only that gets overwhelmed with my to do list? You can also make DIY Face Moisturizer with ONLY 2 ingredients! Your skin will feel wonderful!
This week my goal is to learn how do you make a lotion from scratch?
By just focusing on one product, I don’t get overwhelmed. Plus, this homemade lotion recipe is so simple to make and requires so few ingredients you won’t ever buy store bought again! One week we focused on All Natural Cocoa Body Lotion and the next was The Best Natural Dandruff Shampoo. Slowly but surely we are working out way to all natural and actually knowing what is in our products! I feel so much better using all of these things on my kids. It’s a great feeling knowing and being able to pronounce all of the ingredients!
Homemade Lotion
I finally made this DIY lotion and it works perfectly. We use it every single day right after shower or bath time and the dry patches stopped popping up. I know some people make a thicker homemade body lotion for summer and a lighter homemade body lotion for winter but this homemade lotion recipe seems to work for all seasons!
This is a natural body lotion that is super easy to make. You really just need three ingredients for this homemade body lotion. You can’t get any easier than that, right?
You might also want to try DIY Shaving Cream for Women. It’s so moisturizing!
Homemade Lotion Recipe ingredients:
- 1/3 cup coconut oil (I buy mine on Amazon or at Sam’s in bulk to save)
- 1/3 cup pure Shea butter
- 10 drops therapeutic grade lavender essential oil
- 8 oz mason jar (to store the DIY body lotion)
- 5 drops therapeutic grade chamomile essential oil (optional but I love it)
How to Make Homemade lotion:
1. Place your Shea butter in the microwave to soften for about 30 seconds
2. Mix in your room temperature coconut oil (should be in a solid or soft state, not melted) with a hand or stand mixer for about 15 minutes until light and fluffy. Any mixer will do but I have a KitchenAid stand mixer that comes in so handy.
3. Now mix in your essential oils. We love lavender essential oil in ours. It will smell amazing.
4. Transfer to an 8oz mason jar.
Now I only made an 8 oz mason jar worth when I first made it. However, now that I love it I mix up huge batches of it. I will triple or quadruple it and pour it into 3 or 4 8 oz mason jars. That way I have several made up with just one mess. It takes no more effort to make several.
Everyone always asks how do you make homemade lotion?
So we started giving jars of this homemade body lotion as gifts. They really make amazing and practical gifts for people. We have given them at Christmas time and we have given them as fun teacher gifts. You can also give them out for birthday gifts and more! Everyone loves how great it smells. We love using lavender essential oil. It’s so calming and it smells amazing. I bet you could experiment with other oils but we just love lavender. Essential Oils are just amazing and we use them for all sorts of things around here. I love these 6 Amazing Essential Oil Blends for Allergies!
I love to keep a small jar in my purse for dry hands. I use these smaller jars here that are so easy to just pop into my purse. This smaller size is also great for traveling! That way I can keep my large jar at home and just use this small one for on the go! So handy! It’s perfect to grab for dry elbows or hands and just dab a little and go!
Now that you know how to make your own body lotion, are you going to try it?
I promise if we can do it, you can too! I think you will love this homemade body lotion once you start making it. I bet you will never buy store bought lotion again. Whether you have sensitive skin, or just want a good natural body lotion make sure you make this easy recipe. The shea butter makes it so soft and just leaves your skin feeling so nourished and moisturized. Sometimes, I also add a little vitamin e oil. We just love homemade body lotion with coconut oil and these other moisturizing ingredients.
If you prefer almond oil, there is a Luxurious Homemade Lotion recipe that uses almond oil. I can’t wait to finally get rid of my dry skin!
Let us know how you like this homemade lotion!
It has truly changed things around here. I know that sounds sort of crazy but it really has. When my kid’s have severely dry skin, it makes them sort of cranky. They have trouble sleeping because they are tossing and turning from their skin feeling “itchy” as they call it. They wake up sleep deprived and the cycle just starts all over. Now, everyone sleeps so good and the lavender in the lotion has such a calming effect.
Do you know how to make makeup remover? It’s also very simple and works amazing!
We also love Homemade Hair Detangler . It’s so simple to make DIY Hair Detangler and you will save a ton of money!
I don’t know about you but my hands stay so dry all year. This easy DIY hand cream does the trick and keeps hands well moisturized.
Learn how to make homemade bath salts that are luxurious and will leave your skin so soft and smooth.
Learn how to make makeup remover. It is very simple and truly the best makeup remover!
Looking for a way to moisturize your lips? This Homemade Lip Balm recipe is so easy to make and will have your lips moisturized in a matter of seconds.
DIY BODY BUTTER is so simple to make and for a fraction of the price of department stores.
If your feet are dry and need to be exfoliated, try this super easy homemade foot scrub.
Try these other natural ideas:
- Honey Body Wash
- The Best Natural Dandruff Shampoo
- 6 Amazing Essential Oil Blends for Allergies
- 25 of the Best Natural Moisturizers
- All Natural Cocoa Lip Balm
Allumiderm Renewal says
Very nice pattern and great subject matter, hardly anything else we
require :D.
Paula says
Great ideas!
La Vie Age Defying Serum says
I do not even understand how I stopped up here, but I assumed this submit was good.
I don’t realize who you are however definitely you are going to a famous blogger if you are not already 😉
Cheers!
Barbara C says
I tried this recipe and I love it. I can’t believe what a difference it’s made in my skin-all over. Thanks so much for sharing.
Sarah says
Hello,
Is there a shelf life with the finished product?
carrie says
Sarah – 3-6 month. Thank you!
Becky Epstein says
Does the moisturizer need to be refrigerated? Thank you.
carrie says
If doesn’t have to be but it can. If it’s hot outside, something I keep it in the refrigerator as it melts a little. Thanks!
Kat says
Your easy description of making this hand lotion sounds so easy and makes a great gift idea. I will order things in bulk wanting to make a large quantity. I love the use of lavender oil. This will bring joy into my life.
Marlene James says
I loved this recipe of making this beautiful lotion. I have a homeless foundation for veterans. This is would be great for the homeless. Thank you so much for sharing this recipe! Please keep more recipes coming.
Virginia Clay says
This sounds easy enough to make so I will try it
Pamela Parker says
Love this and it sounds so easy!
Shella says
Where do you get the shea butter?
jody says
michaels, or joanns Fabric, or any craft store near u.
Josie says
Go to Amazon I get mines there all the time
Karen says
I am looking forward to trying this, recipe, ty, you make it so easy to follow. I am excited!
Laura H.Sischo says
Where do you buy Shea butter.?
Cosmetic store or drug store ?
Bee says
You can get it on Amazon.
Debbie Musick says
How much essential oil do i put in it?
Bonni says
I make mine with a little less coconut oil.
I melt the shea butter and coconut oil then put in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Then I whip it with the mixer and add the essential oil. I make this for my grandson that gets really bad dry spots on his back. I also make another batch for my son inlaw for his hands because he is a mechanic and has sensitive skin. I add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch for him because he doesnt like it greasy.. We live in Arizona and only put this on at night or we would burn super super bad in the sun. I have had more people tell me my hand and cuticle look and feel awesome and I am 52.
Davina says
This is awesome. I will try your way.
Charlene says
How do you store the extra jars of lotion?Do you refrigerate them and how long do they last?
Michelle says
Hi where do you find plain Shea butter.
Monica says
Health food store sells it or order online.
Amber says
Amazon, health food stores, etc… the best I’ve found is on Amazon. It’s an raw shea butter and it comes in a 16 oz. Container. African raw shea butter is the best. I love it.
Irene Anum says
Hi, many thanks for you post. I got some ideas on what to mix with my shea butter from it.
Cindy says
Do you have to use the lavender?
It makes me sneeze.
Susan Bainter says
No you can use any of the essential oils as long as they are the theraputic grade. For summertime lime is a nice blend.
Phoenix says
You could use any essential oil you choose, based on needs and preferences.
Carolyn says
Can you substitute another oil for the coconut oil?
annie says
I have a similar recipe that uses avocado oil
Ovaline keen says
I love this and am going to make it
Ovaline keen says
Looking forward to making it
Emily says
I appreciate this post, I’m definitely going to try this. Both my kids have eczema and the stuff that works is so expensive. Its like the industry knows how much people who suffer with eczema need it and take advantage. So when this works, I will be eternally grateful.
Samantha says
Made it, it’s great! I used vanilla with the lavender and I love the way it smells! Thanks for the recipe!
Gail Anglin says
That combination smells like Baby Powder!
My Grand kids Love it.
carrie says
I’m glad you loved it!
LuAnn Morris says
Sounds easy enough, can’t wait to try it!
Kristina says
I’ve made this and it’s amazing thanks for sharing the recipe!
Kristina
Themysterykey says
Thanks for the recipe!!!
I will definitely make this, the weather is making my skin so dry and I need this moisture.
Deborah says
I want to make this as a pain reliever. I know a lady who puts cbd oil in her lotion. I have tried it and it really works. My question is how much cbd oil should I use
Shannon says
Is this too thick to use in a squeeze bottle?
Barbara Landrum says
Loved this recipe!
Lori says
I have been making this cream for over a year now…..I also love the lavender oil but I also add frankincense and myrrh as they are anti cancer essential oils……
Kay says
What’s the best way to store the lotion? Will a closet shelf be alright. Am going to try another essential oil, lavender makes me sneeze.. Thanks for the lotion Receipe.
Carla says
What is the best way to store it? Is there something I can add to it to make it not so greasy?
carrie says
Carla – I store it in a air tight glass container. If yours is greasy, maybe try using less coconut oil or trying a different oil (olive oil or almond oil). Coconut oil has a low absorption rate so it can feel greasy at times.
emilie says
Hello, how long can this product be kept for ?
carrie says
Emilie – I keep mine for up to 6 months
Paige Beck says
I just tried this and it eventually turned out great. 15 minutes isn’t really long enough. I needed to let it rest and cool before it became light and fluffy. I added 5 drops of tea tree oil, 5 drops of Frankincense, and a smidge of vitamin E oil. Love it!
Linda says
Linda.
I love it, going to try make it. Any suggestions, I like aloe and my skin loves it. There is any chance that I can get something with aloe Vera ?
carrie says
Linda – I have not tried it with aloe vera yet. Maybe try to use aloe vera gel instead of the shea butter and coconut oil? Let me know how it turns out! I can’t wait to hear about it 🙂
Al says
Awesome ideas !
Erica says
I’m unfortunately allergic to shea butter, and it is in EVERYTHING nowadays. Do you have any alternatives for this ingredient?
carrie says
I think you could use coconut butter. I haven’t tried it before but I bet it would work great! Let me know how it turns out!
Loretta says
Songs very easy and great to do I will try it thanks for sharing those recipes
Haley Cox says
Can you use a pump style container?
carrie says
Haley – I’m not sure. I have never put in a pump container. It’s pretty thick so I’m not sure that it was work so well.
Nancy says
I have tried this twice and love the effect it has on my hands- but I can’t get rid of the Shea butter smell- no matter how much or what kind of essential oil I put in- it still has a strong aroma of Shea butter – which is annoying after a while. Does anyone have and suggestions?
carrie says
Nancy – I usually mix this with a fruity essential oil. I think that these scents balance out the shea butter the best. I like to use lemon or grapefruit. Thanks.
Amber says
I need 12 small containers. Will this be anough or should I plan on doubling the recipe?
carrie says
Amber – I would double it just to be sure you had enough.
Muniyrah says
Thank you very much for sharing this easy recipe! I made it with my granddaughters to show how easy it is to make a natural lotion without all the hard to pronounce chemicals listed on the ingredient list on most lotion containers.
carrie says
Awesome! I’m glad you enjoyed it!
Wendy says
Made this for the first time tonight. I’m used to using a eucalyptus scented lotion, so used a combination of eucalyptus and peppermint oils. I used 12 drops but think the next batch is like a stronger scent. My lotion is slightly yellow as opposed to the pure white in your photos. Is this the magic of photo editing or is it my shea butter?
For the most part I am happy with the results for the first time. I too was thinking it was more greasy than store bought, and saw the suggestions to replace the coconut oil and also to add cornstarch. Does anyone have experience with either of these to cut down on the grease?
Thanks so much for the super simple recipe!
Dezendra says
Thank you for sharing this recipe. It is really simple and easy. I am a member of the Doterra Essential Oil world and have a ton of oils here at home. This recipe is a great base to add different oils. I am making as Christmas gifts, LAVENDER WITH PEPPERMINT.
carrie says
I’m glad you loved it!
Diane Wolf says
Recipe sounds lovely and I can’t wait to gather the ingredients and give it a try. My hubby and I have typical “old people’s” skin-very dry and rough elbows, etc (age 80&85 years young. Thanks. I am so glad I happened upon the recipe. Diane
carrie says
Thanks Diane. I hope your husband and you both love it. Thank you.
Bonnie says
New to DIY lotions!! Can’t wait to try!!!
carrie says
I hope you love it!
Marla Bearrows says
Where can you buy chamomile?
carrie says
I buy mine on Amazon. Thanks.
Teresa says
What is a good preservative for this DIY lotion?
carrie says
Generally, I don’t add a preservative to it. I haven’t had any issues with it going bad before I use it all. Thanks.
Amanda says
Is there something you recommend to make this a little less greasy?
carrie says
The coconut oil is what makes it greasy as it has a slow evaporation rate but I love it because it’s the most moisturizing. Generally I use this overnight to allow it to evaporate but I still get the moisturizing benefit. You can make this with a different oil alternative like almond oil or jojoba oil that evaporate quicker but those will not whip into a cream so it will likely still be an oil form. Thank you!
Bonnie says
I am fairly new to EO’s and to making my own creams and lotions! I just found this and I am so very excited to try this! As I have gotten older (60) my skin has changed and begun to react to all kind of store bought, even “natural” lotions and cream. I finally decided that it was time to start researching and making my own!
Rose says
😍 Will try this…
carrie says
I hope you enjoy it!
Tania says
Gonna make it but with essential oils i have on hand. I have ylang ylang which i love but the hubby hates. I’ll use orange lemon and lime. Do you think this would work or do you have any advice against these? Waiting for your response.
Thank you.
carrie says
I love ylang ylang too! If you go the citrus route, I would just add one, the orange, lemon or the lime as I think the combination might be overwhelming in the lotion. Thanks!
Maria says
I don’t like the smell of lavender. What can I replace it with?
carrie says
You can use any essential oil that you like the cent of. I think lemon would be great in this recipe as well!
Desiree says
Hi, I am wanting to try this out. Does the coconut oil make this go back to a hardened state once settled or refrigerated? Or does it stay whipped like lotion?
carrie says
It stays whipped like a lotion. If you live in a more humid area, you might want to store in the refrigerator to prevent it from melting.