Making your own lotion can have many benefits as well as improve your quality of life bit by bit. You will know what is in your skincare, and how to customize it to what your skin needs. I've been enjoying this recipe a lot and it's fun to make and gift to friends as well as treat yourself.
What will you need?
3 tablespoons beeswax (to help lock in moisture and protect skin)
3 tablespoons shea butter (full of vitamins and fatty acids that nourish the skin)
1 cup coconut oil or any carrier oil of choice
10-15 drops essential oil of choice
1 teaspoon lanolin (optional for smoothness and protection)
you will also need a double boiler system. I usually take a glass measuring cup and set it in a boiling pot of water. It is important that water does not get in the ingredients, so be careful of boiling over.
Carrier Oils
You have the creative licence to choose what carrier oil you want in your lotion. Coconut oil is very nourishing and useful, but if you cannot afford it, many cooking oils such as olive oil or canola oil also do. Olive oil tends to be heavier for dry skin, and canola oil is a bit lighter if oily skin is a problem for you. Grapeseed and jojoba oil are usually the lightest oils for oily skin. It's helpful to do your research on what oil fits best. I tend to use a combination of canola and sweet almond or coconut oil.
Essential Oils
Essential oils can have many uses and benefits. Again, research is the best way to figure out what fits best for you. I tend to use lavender because it is antimicrobial and helps with acne. I also use frankincense oil because it makes a great toner and helps heal scars and blemishes. Tea tree oil is also great with acne and kills bacteria, however it is a very strong oil so use it in small quantities (only a few drops). Always look up the warnings for each essential oil, and keep it in mind when using them.
Part 1
Melt the beeswax first in the double boiler, since it takes longer to melt. Once it is fully melted, add in the shea butter, carrier oil, lanolin, and essential oils. Do not continue until it is all fully melted into liquid, or it will have odd chunks in the lotion.
Part 2
Pour the liquid carefully into a container and let cool for 12 hours. The lotion will solidify and is now ready to use if you choose to stop here.
Part 3 (Optional)
If you want your lotion to have a creamier fluffier texture, beat it with a hand mixer in a mixing bowl until it is whipped to your preference.
You're done! Use to your enjoyment or gift to friends and family. I like to use this recipe as a core for making other skincare products. For facial moisturizer I tend to use only coconut oil and shea butter, and sometimes arrow root powder to make it less greasy. Lip balm would need more beeswax. Get creative, and treat yourself.
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