Even though I try to stay hydrated and drink lots of minerals (including salt water), sometimes my skin just needs a little extra moisture. This aloe vera lotion softens dry skin and leaves it feeling hydrated. It’s great as a body or face lotion. And best of all, it contains very little ingredients.
This moisturizing lotion is infused with organic aloe vera gel, rich shea butter and nourishing almond oil – free of the parabens, sulfates and dimethicone found in many commercial skin care products.
Aloe Vera Body Lotion
As the temperatures drop, many people find that their skin becomes dry. Since I live in a humid climate, this isn’t as much of an issue. But sometimes my skin just needs a little extra hydration. Lotion bars and this homemade lotion are great for nourishing it, but this aloe lotion is perfect for when you just want something light.
Aloe feels similar to glycerin in skin care recipes, but it’s not as sticky. It absorbs well into the skin without leaving a greasy feeling. If you use fresh aloe from the plant, this lotion will go bad in 1-2 weeks. Aloe vera gel sold in stores and online is preserved and can last up to 6 weeks.
Aloe vera benefits for skin
I love aloe vera, so I have an aloe plant in my house. Not only is it great for treating burns, but it’s also great for other skin irritations. You may have used aloe vera gel to soothe a sunburn.
Aloe vera leaf juice is rich in nutrients such as potassium, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene and antioxidants. It also helps the skin produce hyaluronic acid and stimulates collagen production, which helps firm the skin and prevent wrinkles. Aloe vera makes the skin more elastic and supple, “revitalizing” the skin.
Material Options
This lotion can also be used as a face cream. Depending on the ingredients used, it can also be effective for people with acne or eczema. Oils such as olive or avocado oil are great for dry or mature skin. Those who are acne-prone or want to reduce the appearance of wrinkles can add rosehip seed oil. I prefer sweet almond (not greasy) or jojoba oil, which mimic the skin’s sebum and penetrate the skin well.
I use shea butter for a rich feel, but this is optional – you could also use cocoa butter or mango butter instead – cocoa butter is more intensely moisturizing, while mango butter is very light and absorbs quickly into the skin.
Homemade Aloe Vera Lotion
This aloe-based lotion is smoother and lighter than other products, making it perfect for all skin types, even young children.
yield: 6.5 Ounce
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Melt the beeswax, oils, and shea butter (if using) in a double boiler or glass bowl over a saucepan of water.
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Remove from heat and pour into a blender or mason jar (if using a hand blender) or you can use a stand mixer.
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Add Vitamin E (if using) and essential oils.
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Allow to cool to room temperature. It should be room temperature and just beginning to set around the edges. This will allow the lotion to emulsify properly.
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If used, add Leucidal complete to the aloe.
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Using a blender or hand blender, begin mixing on low speed. Slowly add the room temperature aloe vera gel and continue mixing until combined. Use a spatula to wipe down the sides and mix again a few times until thoroughly combined.
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Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 6 weeks.
If your family uses a lot of lotion, just double the recipe.
Lotion storage and preservation
Vitamin E will slow down the oxidation of the oil but will not help preserve the lotion. If you use a natural preservative, you can add a bit of Leucidal complete to slow down microbial growth. With a preservative, it will keep in the fridge for several months.
As always, store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat (a damp bathroom counter is not the best location), and only apply with clean fingers.
Make your own non-toxic sunscreen.
Have you ever made your own lotion? Leave a comment and let me know!
