If you have skin allergies, or of you're really choosy about the products and chemicals you expose your body to, making lotion is a simple and cost-effective way to solve these problems. You can make large or small batches and complete the whole process in less than 30 minutes. Most importantly, you have full control over every ingredient and every preparation method. The final product is a thick, nourishing lotion made with all-natural ingredients.
Step 1
Choose an oil. Oils provide the base for your lotion. Common oils are almond, olive and jojoba, as these are nourishing and quickly absorbed skin oils. Combine oils, if you like, to get each oil's benefits (see Resources). You'll need 2 oz. of oil.
Step 2
Choose essential oils or fragrance oils. Essential oils add both healing qualities and scent, while fragrance oils are only meant to smell pleasant. You need 10 to 12 drops of oil total, in any combination you like. You can also add vitamin E oil for its skin healing properties or aloe vera gel for its soothing qualities.
Step 3
Pour 2 oz. of oil into a double boiler. Stir in 1 oz. of beeswax, shredded or in pellet form. Set the heat on low and slowly warm the oil. Stir until all the wax is melted into the oil. Remove from the heat.
Step 4
Allow the mixture to cool. Stir occasionally to create a smooth, thick lotion. If it's too runny, add it back to the double boiler and stir in another pinch of shredded wax. If it's too firm, place it back in the double boiler and add another teaspoon of oil. Repeat until you have the texture you want.
Step 5
Stir in the fragrance or essential oils, once the lotion has cooled to room temperature, but hasn't become completely set. Never add oils to hot liquid or they will dissipate and their fragrances and healing benefits will be less potent.
Step 6
Use a fork to whip the lotion into smooth, batter-like consistency. This step is optional but makes your product take on lotion's creamy consistency. Skipping this step yields and equally good body butter.
Step 7
Spoon the lotion into pots or small containers with lids. Add labels with the listed ingredients if you are giving them as gifts. Use the lotion within six months.
Things You'll Need
- Double boiler
- 2 oz. oil
- 1 oz. beeswax
- Essential oils
- Vitamin E oil (optional)
- Aloe vera gel (optional)
- Glass containers with lids
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