How to Make Homemade Lotion: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Give your skin a glow-up with the best DIY natural body lotion
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Making homemade body lotion is a fun project that you can complete in less than an hour! The ingredients are easy to get your hands on and all you need is a blender to combine them. In this article, we’ll teach you how to make natural oil-based lotion and water-based lotion. Plus, learn the benefits of making your own body lotion and how to troubleshoot common problems with expert tips from Lorena Barcal, a clinical herbalist and clean beauty specialist, and Barbie Ritzman, a professional beauty and skincare specialist.

Easy Body Lotion Recipe

  1. Mix 1 cup (230 g) of shea butter and 1 cup (240 ml) of coconut oil in a bowl.
  2. Add 2 tbsp (30 ml) each of vegetable glycerin and vitamin E oil.
  3. Transfer the contents to a blender and blend until thoroughly combined.
  4. Add up to 2 tbsp (6 ml) of essential oils for scent and blend for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Pour the lotion into a 20 oz (600 ml) container with an air-tight lid.
  6. Store in a cool, dry place and use within 18 months.

Ingredients

Oil-Based Lotion

Makes about 20 ounces (600 ml) of body lotion

Water-Based Lotion

Makes about 16 ounces (473 ml) of body lotion

Section 1 of 4:

How to Make an Oil-Based Body Lotion

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  1. Watermark wikiHow to Make Your Own Body Lotion
    Use a measuring cup to portion out 1 cup of unrefined, 100% organic shea butter , then scrape it into a bowl with your fingers or a spoon. Shea butter is a natural butter that is high in vitamin E, has anti-inflammatory properties and natural SPF, and helps with collagen production, making it a great base for homemade lotion. [1]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Make Your Own Body Lotion
    Measure out the coconut oil and dump it into the bowl with the shea butter. It’s okay to use the same measuring cup you used for the shea butter. Coconut oil reduces inflammation and keeps the skin moisturized. [2]
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Make Your Own Body Lotion
    Measure out 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of vegetable glycerin and dump it into the bowl with the shea butter and coconut oil. Then, do the same with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of vitamin E oil. Vegetable glycerin helps moisturize and soften skin, while vitamin E oil is an antioxidant that helps protect your skin. [3]
    • Buy vegetable glycerin and vitamin E oil at natural food stores, specialty shops, and online.
    • Get the highest quality products you can afford if you plan to sell your lotion.
    • Alternatively, make your own vitamin E oil by combining a non-comedogenic base oil with the contents of vitamin E tablets.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Make Your Own Body Lotion
    Measurements don’t have to be precise, but about 2 ounces (60 ml) is recommended. Olive oil is nice and thick, so it’s great for body lotion. However, if you prefer, substitute olive oil with an equal amount of one of the following oils: [4]
  5. Pulse the blender on high speed until the ingredients are fully incorporated. Body lotion is thick, so stop the blender occasionally and scrape down the sides to ensure the ingredients distribute evenly. Once they’re thoroughly blended, scrape down the sides a final time. [6]
    • Check the consistency by dipping a finger into the lotion and massaging it into your hand. If there are still lumps, blend the mixture for another 1-2 minutes.
    • Be sure to thoroughly clean and disinfect your blender first!
    • If you plan to make lotion regularly, consider buying a dedicated blender for this instead of using your everyday kitchen blender.
  6. While the lotion is still in the blender, add a single essential oil or blend several oils together to give the mixture a subtle fragrance. Blend the lotion for 1-2 minutes to incorporate the oil, then test it on your hand. If you want a stronger scent, add another teaspoon and blend the mixture again. However, avoid using more than a total of 2 teaspoons (6 ml) of essential oil. [7]

    Tip: Always use high-quality, therapeutic-grade essential oil for your lotion. Avoid synthetic fragrance oils unless you're sure they won't irritate your skin.

  7. Watermark wikiHow to Make Your Own Body Lotion
    Instructions will vary by brand, but you’ll typically dissolve the pigment in oil and blend it into the lotion mixture with the other ingredients. Keep in mind that adding color only affects the way your lotion looks, so using it is completely optional. These products are oil-soluble, so they're perfect for this recipe. Shop at specialty stores and always check the packaging to make sure products are skin-safe. [8]
    • Some skin-safe mica formulas can even add a little sparkle to your lotion!
    • Check product instructions for how much pigment to use with the amount of lotion you made.
  8. The general usage rate is 1 teaspoon (4.9 ml) of extract for every 1 pound (453 grams) of product, so it’s difficult to use them unless you’re making big batches. Check individual instructions for different products for more information about how to add them to your lotion. Buy extracts at specialty soap-making and beauty stores. There are many extracts out there and the properties are different for all of them. [9]
    • For example, chamomile extract has anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe irritated skin.
    • Green tea extract and aloe extract are skin soothing extracts.
    • Evening primrose and buckthorn extracts are often used for their anti-aging properties.
    • Oat extract soothes irritated skin and is a great option if you have sensitive skin.
    • Mallow extract has intense moisturizing properties.
    • Barcal recommends “chamomile and calendula, which can really help with dry skin and promote anti-aging.”
  9. Watermark wikiHow to Make Your Own Body Lotion
    SPF 20 is a pretty standard amount and offers great daily sun protection. [10] Simply stir the zinc oxide into the lotion after it’s been blended. To calculate how much zinc oxide you need to add to achieve SPF 20, multiply the total amount of lotion you have by 0.20. Zinc oxide is usually weighed in grams, so it may help to convert the lotion’s measurements to grams. [11]
    • For example, if you have 4 ounces (113 g) of lotion, you would use .8 ounces (22.6 g) of zinc oxide.
    • Use a digital kitchen scale to measure out the zinc oxide for the most precise results. If you don't have a kitchen scale, measuring cups and spoons will work fine.
  10. You should be able to pour the lotion straight from the blender into the container, but if the lotion is super rich, use a spoon to help transfer the mixture. It’s best to store it in an air-tight container, like a glass lotion bottle , especially if you don’t plan on using it right away. Keep it in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight and use it within 18 months. [12]
    • Since this lotion is oil-based rather than water-based, you don’t have to worry about mold and bacteria growing during storage. However, oil is prone to oxidation and degradation over time.
    • If you’re making lotion to sell, definitely use an air-tight container. If you’re making it for yourself, feel free to screw a pump dispenser onto the mouth of the container instead. Glass and plastic containers both work well.
    • Ritzman recommends using a beauty spatula to remove the lotion from its original container, explaining how “this specialized tool ensures clean and hygienic scooping, [which prevents] contamination and waste. Insert the spatula into the lotion [bowl], glide it along the sides, and easily collect the desired amount.”
    • Ritzman also suggests using a funnel to prevent spillage: “A small funnel can be incredibly helpful when transferring lotion into a new bottle. It will smoothly guide the lotion into the new container without spills or mess.”
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Section 2 of 4:

How to Make a Water-Based Body Lotion

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  1. Watermark wikiHow to Make Your Own Body Lotion
    Because water and oil don’t mix, water-based oils need an emulsifier to combine them. Measure out 2 tsp (16 g) of emulsifying wax and ⅔ cup (157 ml) of jojoba oil and pour them into a glass bowl. Place the bowl over a double-boiler and heat until the wax is fully melted. Then, remove the bowl from heat. [13]
    • If you want, use beeswax in place of an emulsifying wax. Just know that your lotion likely won’t remain as stable for as long.
    • Don’t microwave the mixture to melt the wax, as this will break down the nutrients in the oil.
  2. Since the lotion is going on your skin, the water should be distilled, as tap water and filtered water have a lot of chemicals and debris. As the wax and oil heat, start heating the water as well. Once both are heated, carefully pour the water into the oil and mix with a small whisk or milk frother for 30-60 seconds. The color should be off-white and opaque. [14]
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Make Your Own Body Lotion
    Leave the mixture in the glass bowl and let it sit for 15 minutes. Stir it a few times to ensure the ingredients are well mixed. Then, let it sit for another fifteen minutes. [15]
  4. After letting your lotion mixture rest for 30 minutes, add your cosmetic preservative to preserve the mixture and prevent it from spoiling as quickly. Read the package instructions on your chosen preservative to determine how much to add, although it’s usually between 0.5%-1% of the lotion’s total weight. [16]
    • It is possible to make a natural lotion without preservatives, but it won’t last as long as lotions that contain them.
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Make Your Own Body Lotion
    Add 4 tsp (4 g) of vegetable glycerin to the mixture. The addition of glycerin will help to moisturize and soften the skin, adding that extra bit of moisture to make your skin feel glowy and hydrated!
    • Optionally, you can add 2 tbsp (6 mL) of vitamin E oil for additional moisture.
    • Vitamin E oil is especially good to include if you have dry skin.
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Make Your Own Body Lotion
    Optionally, you can swirl a few drops of essential oils into your lotion—but don’t exceed 2 tbsp (6 ml) total. These oils only add scent to your lotion, so don’t add them if you prefer an unscented lotion. If you do want a scent, mix in a few drops at a time until you’re happy with the strength of the fragrance.
  7. Watermark wikiHow to Make Your Own Body Lotion
    For best results, use a glass container with an air-tight lid. Pour or spoon the mixture into your container, cover it, and let the lotion cool for at least an hour before you use it. For plastic containers, the lotion will likely need to cool for a longer period of time before use. [17]
    • The best bottles to use are those made of dark glass. This protects the lotion from UV light, which damages the oils and breaks down the chemical structures.
    • If you have trouble pouring the lotion into a new container, Ritzman advises “warming it slightly” to make it easier to pour. If it’s too thick, she says to place the lotion “in a ziplock bag, snip a corner, and use it as a makeshift piping bag.”
  8. Anything made with water is capable of growing mold and bacteria, which is why you want to add a preservative to your lotion. If the lotion was mixed properly, it should last for up to 6 months when stored in an air-tight container. If you notice any mold or bacteria growth, dispose of the lotion immediately. [18]
    • If you choose not to use a preservative, the lotion may last up to 2 weeks when stored in the refrigerator.
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Section 3 of 4:

Troubleshooting Common Problems

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  1. The mixture may separate if the oils and water weren’t heated to a hot enough temperature. To fix this, reheat the mixture over a double-boiler and whisk until it’s properly emulsified. Do this before adding heat-sensitive ingredients, like essential oils. [19]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Make Your Own Body Lotion
    Try adding a wax. Natural waxes like beeswax , carnauba wax , and candelilla wax help thicken lotion and other homemade cosmetics. They also help create a barrier that keeps your skin moisturized. [20]
  3. Homemade lotion shouldn’t be greasy, so it likely means the mixture didn’t emulsify properly and that the oils separated. Try adding some tapioca starch to combine the mixture, and consider decreasing the amount of oil you use in future batches. [21]
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Section 4 of 4:

FAQs & Benefits

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  1. If you make your own lotion, you can control exactly which ingredients are used. If you have sensitive skin, are vegan, or prefer to use skin care products with all-natural ingredients, it’s important to know exactly what goes into your lotion. Store-bought lotions may have chemicals or ingredients that harm your skin, so the best way to avoid negative reactions is to make your own. This way, you approve of every ingredient that goes into the product. [22]
    • For example, if you’re allergic to a certain oil that many store-bought lotions contain, use an alternative in your own mixture.
    • Seek out vegan-friendly or locally-sourced ingredients, if that’s something important to you.
    • Develop your own signature scent by using your favorite essential oils. No more hunting for the perfect scent in stores!
  2. Making your own natural lotion typically costs around $7-$8 for a 16 oz bottle (and smaller bottles can cost anywhere from $1-$5), compared to paying around $20 for a bottle off the shelf. The exact cost depends on the ingredients you use. Sometimes, buying ingredients in bulk helps lower the cost. [23]
    • While it’s possible to buy cheap lotions, these usually don’t have the best ingredients.
  3. Yes. Once you learn how to make your own lotion, it’s easy to tweak the ingredients and instructions to make other creamy cosmetic products. Try making facial moisturizers, natural hair conditioner, and even roll-on deodorant. [24]
  4. Homemade lotion is much more sustainable than store-bought. When you buy premade lotion, you’ll likely throw the plastic bottle away when it’s empty. Making your own lotion and storing it in glass containers allows you to reuse those containers over and over again, reducing waste. [25]
  5. If you’re making water-based lotion, opt for distilled water, as tap water and other types of water often have chemicals and debris. [26] Hydrosols , which are made by distilling plant matter, also work well.
  6. Body lotions are typically a more liquid product with a higher water content—which allows them to spread over your entire body. Body butters, on the other hand, have creamier and more spreadable texture. They tend to be more solid with a lower water content and a higher amount of butters and oils as ingredients.
    • If you want a more lightweight and fast-drying option, stick to body lotions. But if you prefer a richer and thicker feel (and don’t mind an oily residue), then try body butter!
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  • Question
    Can I use fish oil with this recipe?
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    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.
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  • Question
    Can I add fragrance to the above recipes?
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    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.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    How much water should I add to the lotion?
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    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    Do not add water to this lotion recipe. It is oil-based, which makes it richer and prevents spoilage.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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      Things You’ll Need

      • Blender
      • Measuring cups and spoons
      • Regular spoon or spatula
      • Air-tight container that can hold 20 ounces (600 ml) of product
      • Double-boiler (for water-based lotion)

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/introducing_shea_butter
      2. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6335493/
      3. ↑ https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/skin-health/vitamin-E
      4. ↑ https://www.aboutoliveoil.org/should-you-put-olive-oil-on-your-skin
      5. ↑ https://www.goingzerowaste.com/blog/diy-lotion
      6. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Io-OFhgRzm8&feature=youtu.be&t=285
      7. ↑ https://sustainability.ncsu.edu/blog/changeyourstate/diy-lotion/
      8. ↑ https://www.naturalbeautyworkshop.com/my_weblog/2012/02/the-natural-beauty-workshops-guide-to-using-color-additives.html
      9. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10607442/
      1. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4120804/
      2. ↑ https://www.modernhippiehw.com/blog/homemade-moisturizing-sunblock-with-zinc-oxide
      3. ↑ http://www.soapqueen.com/bath-and-body-tutorials/tips-and-tricks/free-beginners-guide-to-soapmaking-common-soapmaking-oils/
      4. ↑ https://sustainability.ncsu.edu/blog/changeyourstate/diy-lotion/
      5. ↑ https://manoa.hawaii.edu/exploringourfluidearth/chemical/chemistry-and-seawater/salty-sea/weird-science-pure-water-and-water-mixtures
      6. ↑ https://homesteading.com/homemade-lotion-recipe/
      7. ↑ https://sustainability.ncsu.edu/blog/changeyourstate/diy-lotion/
      8. ↑ https://sustainability.ncsu.edu/blog/changeyourstate/diy-lotion/
      9. ↑ https://sustainability.ncsu.edu/blog/changeyourstate/diy-lotion/
      10. ↑ https://cottagediy.com/can-i-save-lotion-that-has-separated/
      11. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7036894/
      12. ↑ https://www.greatcakessoapworks.com/handmade-soap-blog/index.php/making-lotion-troubleshooting-your-recipe/
      13. ↑ https://publications.achs.edu/making-a-lotion-bar/recipe/
      14. ↑ https://thefamilyfreezer.com/2013/09/16/homemade-coconut-oil-lotion-recipe/
      15. ↑ https://www.ouroilyhouse.com/how-to-make-homemade-conditioner-simple-recipe-using-essential-oils/
      16. ↑ https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/where-we-work/united-states/delaware/stories-in-delaware/delaware-eight-ways-to-reduce-waste/
      17. ↑ https://manoa.hawaii.edu/exploringourfluidearth/chemical/chemistry-and-seawater/salty-sea/weird-science-pure-water-and-water-mixtures

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Making your own body lotion can be fun and gives you more control over what you're putting on your skin. Pulse shea butter, coconut oil, vegetable glycerin, vitamin E oil, and extra virgin olive oil in a blender on high speed until they’re fully mixed together without any lumps. You can also add 1 teaspoon of an essential oil to give your lotion a nice fragrance. Transfer your lotion to an airtight glass or plastic container. If you keep the lotion in a cool, dry area, it should last for at least 18 months. Make sure you clean and disinfect your blender before using it for food. For more tips, including how to make an anti-inflammatory body lotion, read on!

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