Q&A for How to Make Your Own Body Lotion

Technically you can, yes, but keep in mind that fish oil has a pretty strong and unpleasant odor! You may not want to cover your body with that scent. If you have a scentless fish oil product, go for it.

Yes, definitely! For natural scents, try incorporating about 3 ml of your favorite essential oil. You can also use synthetic fragrance oil, but you might to make sure it doesn't irritate your skin before adding it to the lotion.

Do not add water to this lotion recipe. It is oil-based, which makes it richer and prevents spoilage.

Yes. Olive oil makes the lotion feel softer and richer.

Two common white pigments include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They are commonly found in sun tan lotions, cosmetics and white paint. Amazon sells it. Use the pharmaceutical grade since you're going to add this to skin lotion.

When it cools, it thickens. You do have to blend it as it cools, or the oil and water will separate.

You cannot remove odor, you can add essence to mask the odor. Infuse ricebran oil with orange peels, orange blossoms, lavender, etc. (not all at the same time!) and keep these ingredients in oil for a few months, then use that oil with shea butter.

It usually lasts about one or two months, depending on how much you use it. I recommend using it straight after you come out of the bath or shower; it will really have a nice affect on you, and you'll see the results in about two to three weeks.

One that I like and find very useful is Clinique. They use very natural and raw products. If you look at the ingredients, you won't find a single type of alcohol or other chemical or damaging products.

Yes. baby oil will help moisturize your skin. Dab a bit on your skin before putting it into your lotion though to make sure you are not allergic.

Yes. Orange peels are better than lemon peels, but they could do the job. Just make sure you don't add too much. Add less than the recommended orange peels, as lemon is stronger. I used half the amount and it worked out well.

You'll need an emulsifier, and oils such as coconut butter won't serve this purpose. Beeswax is a good alternative to petroleum-based emulsifiers.

Yes. You could use baby oil, olive oil or any other vegetable-based oil.

Yes, baby oil is good for your skin. If you've never used it before, dab a little on your skin first to make sure you're not allergic.

You can add essential oils by using just a few drops.

No, the consistency won't be correct if you use olive oil.

You should heat the mixture in the microwave.

You can use this on your face as long as your skin is not sensitive. If it is, then it might make your skin dried, red, or itchy.

It could be. It depends on your skin type and what you want to do with it. It is an effective moisturizer.

Goats milk is great for your skin, so you can substitute it in your product if you wish.

A few drops of essential oil will work. If you’re using multiple types of oil, use about two drops of each.

I was able to mix oils together by boiling water on a stove, then placing a bowl of my mixture on the hot water, and the oils melted. Be careful to not put too much water in the pot so that when you place your bowl in it, water doesn’t get into your mixture.

You could use a foundation that matches the skin tone of your body.

Vaseline is petroleum jelly, so yes.

Yes, you can add turmeric powder to homemade body lotion. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening properties. However, use it sparingly, as turmeric can stain the skin and clothing. Start with a small amount (such as 1/4 teaspoon per batch) and mix thoroughly to avoid clumping. Be aware that the color and scent of your lotion will be affected by the turmeric.

To add honey and milk to your lotion, gently heat them with the water phase of your recipe. Then, blend them with your oils and emulsifiers as you would with any standard lotion recipe. For example, you can combine 160g of milk and 6g of honey with water, and then emulsify with the oil mixture using a stick blender. Ensure you use a preservative, as milk and honey can shorten the shelf life and increase the risk of spoilage.

Homemade lotions containing water, milk, or honey are prone to spoilage and bacterial growth if not refrigerated. Without a preservative, such lotions should be used within a week and kept in the fridge. If you use a broad-spectrum preservative, storage at room temperature may be extended to several weeks or even months, but always check for changes in smell, texture, or color as signs of spoilage.

Yes, aloe vera gel can be added to or replace part of the water content in your lotion. Aloe vera is hydrating and soothing, making it an excellent addition. You can substitute aloe vera gel for some or all of the water in your recipe, typically using up to 1 cup in a standard batch (or a 1:1 ratio with water). Adjust to your preferred consistency and always use a preservative if the lotion contains water or aloe vera gel.