If you have ever wondered How to Make Lotion, it’s so easy with step-by-step instructions. This simple DIY lotion works great to restore moisture to dry skin.
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 doesn’t cut it, and I never liked the idea of using medicated creams.
Plus, store bought lotion is so expensive. I knew there had to be another solution, so I started experimenting with DIY Lotion recipes. We have made DIY Body Scrub, Homemade Body Wash and Honey Body Wash and loved it so I thought we could give this easy homemade lotion a try.
Also, learn How to Make Perfume with Essential Oils, How to make Clarifying Shampoo and Homemade Foot Scrub.
Table of contents
Why We Love Homemade Lotion
- Simple instructions. You do not need anything fancy to make this such as a double boiler or immersion blender. No water bath needed.
- Minimum ingredients. This recipe without emulsifying wax is effortless to mix together.
- Perfect for dry skin. Dry skin will be a thing of the past as this lotion works on numerous skin types.
- Budget friendly. Save money on high priced cosmetics by making lotion at home. You get a better product and save money as well.
- Eliminates waste. Making homemade lotion is very sustainable. It allows you to make only what you need and eliminates excess products in the cabinet.
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup coconut oil (I buy mine on Amazon or at Sam’s in bulk to save)
- ⅓ 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)
Variations
- Vitamin e oil. This can be added to the lotion. Add one or two drops of this for every 10 drops of jojoba oil, almond oil, avocado oil or olive oil.
- Body Butters. You can use cocoa butter to make a thicker body butter type lotion.
- Drops of essential oil. We used therapeutic grade chamomile essential oil but you can use any essential oil you prefer. Lavender would be another great one to try.
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1. Place your Shea butter in the microwave to soften for about 30 seconds. I used a microwave safe glass bowl, but you can use a pot or pan as long as it’s suitable for the microwave. Be careful that you do not burn this or microwave it too long.
Step 2. Mix in room temperature coconut oil. The mixture should be in a solid or soft state but not melted into liquids. Do not let it boil in the pan.
Step 3. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for about 15 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 4. Now blend in your essential oils. We love lavender or chamomile essential oil in ours. Calendula is also a good option. It will smell amazing when you stir in these scents.
- Step 5. Transfer to an 8oz mason jar. This is great to keep at home. You can transfer a portion of the lotion into smaller containers for travel or on the go.
Storage
I use small jars with a lid to store the lotion. It is handy to keep a small jar in my purse for dry hands.
That way I can keep my large jar at home and just use the small batches for on the go. This is so convenient. It’s perfect to grab for dry elbows or hands and just dab a little and go.
If stored properly, the shelf life of homemade lotion can last up to 6 months.
Expert Tips
- Adapt the base lotion if needed. This is a great base lotion that can be adapted for all skin types including oily skin.
- Clean containers. Make sure that all containers, mixing bowls and ingredients are very clean. This will make sure the lotion lasts safely without bacteria or mold growth.
- Thoroughly combine. Combine the ingredients until it forms a smooth consistency. It should resemble normal lotion and be nice and smooth.
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
- DIY Makeup Remover Wipes
Try making homemade lotion recipe. This wonderful lotion is so easy to make and will leave your skin refreshed. Please leave a comment once you try it.
How to make Lotion – DIY Body Lotion
Equipment
- ⅓ cup coconut oil (I buy mine on Amazon or at Sam’s in bulk to save)
- ⅓ 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)
Instructions
- Place your Shea butter in the microwave to soften for about 30 seconds
- 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.
- Now mix in your essential oils. We love lavender essential oil in ours. It will smell amazing. Transfer to an 8oz mason jar.
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Cheers!
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.
Hello,
Is there a shelf life with the finished product?
Sarah – 3-6 month. Thank you!
Does the moisturizer need to be refrigerated? Thank you.
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!
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.
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.
I like it really
This sounds easy enough to make so I will try it
Love this and it sounds so easy!
Where do you get the shea butter?
michaels, or joanns Fabric, or any craft store near u.
Go to Amazon I get mines there all the time
I am looking forward to trying this, recipe, ty, you make it so easy to follow. I am excited!
Where do you buy Shea butter.?
Cosmetic store or drug store ?
You can get it on Amazon.
How much essential oil do i put in it?
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.
This is awesome. I will try your way.
How do you store the extra jars of lotion?Do you refrigerate them and how long do they last?
Hi where do you find plain Shea butter.
Health food store sells it or order online.
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.
Hi, many thanks for you post. I got some ideas on what to mix with my shea butter from it.
Do you have to use the lavender?
It makes me sneeze.
No you can use any of the essential oils as long as they are the theraputic grade. For summertime lime is a nice blend.
You could use any essential oil you choose, based on needs and preferences.
Can you substitute another oil for the coconut oil?
I have a similar recipe that uses avocado oil
I love this and am going to make it
Looking forward to making it
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.
Made it, it’s great! I used vanilla with the lavender and I love the way it smells! Thanks for the recipe!
That combination smells like Baby Powder!
My Grand kids Love it.
I’m glad you loved it!
Sounds easy enough, can’t wait to try it!
I’ve made this and it’s amazing thanks for sharing the recipe!
Kristina
Thanks for the recipe!!!
I will definitely make this, the weather is making my skin so dry and I need this moisture.
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
Is this too thick to use in a squeeze bottle?
Loved this recipe!
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……
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.
What is the best way to store it? Is there something I can add to it to make it not so greasy?
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.
Hello, how long can this product be kept for ?
Emilie – I keep mine for up to 6 months
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.
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 ?
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 🙂
Awesome ideas !
I’m unfortunately allergic to shea butter, and it is in EVERYTHING nowadays. Do you have any alternatives for this ingredient?
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!
Songs very easy and great to do I will try it thanks for sharing those recipes
Can you use a pump style container?
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.
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?
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.
I need 12 small containers. Will this be anough or should I plan on doubling the recipe?
Amber – I would double it just to be sure you had enough.
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.
Awesome! I’m glad you enjoyed it!
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!
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.
I’m glad you loved it!
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
Thanks Diane. I hope your husband and you both love it. Thank you.
New to DIY lotions!! Can’t wait to try!!!
I hope you love it!
Where can you buy chamomile?
I buy mine on Amazon. Thanks.
What is a good preservative for this DIY lotion?
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.
Is there something you recommend to make this a little less greasy?
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!
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!
😍 Will try this…
I hope you enjoy it!
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.
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!
I don’t like the smell of lavender. What can I replace it with?
You can use any essential oil that you like the cent of. I think lemon would be great in this recipe as well!
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?
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.