I try to stay hydrated and drink lots of minerals (even salt water), but sometimes my skin needs a little extra moisture. This aloe vera lotion softens dry skin and leaves skin feeling moisturized. It works great as a body or face lotion. Even better, it contains just a few simple ingredients!
This moisturizing lotion combines organic aloe vera gel, shea butter, and nourishing almond oil. All without the parabens, sulfates, and dimethicone found in many store-bought skin care products.
Aloe Vera Body Lotion
As the weather gets colder, many of us notice our skin getting dry. Since I live in a humid climate, I don’t have this problem as much anymore. However, sometimes my skin needs some light hydration. While I love lotion bars and this homemade lotion for intense nourishment, this aloe lotion is ideal when you want something lighter.
Aloe has a texture similar to the glycerin used in skin care recipes, but it is not as sticky. It absorbs well into the skin without leaving a greasy feeling. If you use fresh aloe from a plant, this lotion will only last a week or two before it goes bad. Aloe vera gel sold in stores and online will keep and last longer, up to 6 weeks.
Benefits of aloe vera for the skin
I have an aloe vera plant in my house because I love them. Not only are they great for treating burns, but they also work well for other skin irritations. You’ve probably used aloe vera gel at some point to soothe a sunburn.
Aloe barbadensis leaf juice is rich in nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and antioxidants. It also helps our skin create hyaluronic acid and stimulates collagen production to keep the skin firm and wrinkle-free. Aloe helps the skin become more elastic and supple so that it “regains its original shape.”
Ingredient Options
This lotion can also be used as a face cream. It can also work well for those with acne or eczema, depending on the exact ingredients you use. Oils like olive and avocado are great for dry or more mature skin. If you are acne prone or want to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, then adding a little rosehip seed oil is a good option. I prefer sweet almond oil (non-greasy) or jojoba oil, which mimic the skin’s sebum and absorb into the skin very well.
I use shea butter for a richer texture, but it’s optional. You can also use cocoa butter or mango butter. Cocoa butter is more intensely moisturizing, while mango butter is very light and absorbs quickly.
Homemade aloe vera lotion
This aloe-based lotion is gentle and lighter than other options. Great for all skin types, even the little ones!
Produce: 6.5 ounces
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Melt the beeswax, oil, and shea butter (if using) in a double boiler or in a glass bowl over a saucepan of water.
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Remove from heat and pour into a blender or glass jar (if using an immersion blender). You can also use a stand mixer for this.
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Add the vitamin E (if using) and any essential oils.
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Let it cool to room temperature. It should be room temperature and just starting to harden around the edges. This will help ensure the lotion emulsifies properly.
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If using, add Leucidal Complete to the aloe.
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Begin mixing on low speed with a blender or immersion blender. Very slowly, begin adding the room temperature aloe vera gel until it is incorporated. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides and mix again a few times until it is fully incorporated.
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Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to six weeks.
If your family uses a lot of lotion, feel free to double the recipe.
Preservation and storage of lotion
Vitamin E helps keep the oils from oxidizing faster, but it doesn’t preserve the lotion. If you want to use a natural preservative, you can add a little Leucidal Complete to slow down the growth of microbes. With the preservative, it should last several months in the refrigerator.
As always, make sure to store it in a cool, dark place, away from direct light and heat. Damp bathroom counters are not the best place. And only use clean fingers to apply it.
Also try making non-toxic homemade sunscreen.
Have you ever made your own lotion? Leave a comment and let me know!
