I strive to stay hydrated and ensure I intake plenty of minerals, including salt water. However, when my skin feels like it needs extra moisture, this aloe vera lotion comes to the rescue. It softens dry skin and leaves it feeling hydrated, suitable as both a body lotion and a facial moisturizer. The best part is, it involves only a few simple ingredients!
This nourishing lotion blends organic aloe vera gel, rich shea butter, and nourishing almond oil, all while avoiding parabens, sulfates, and dimethicone that are often present in commercial skincare products.
Aloe Vera Body Lotion
As the weather cools down, many notice increased skin dryness. Residing in a humid environment, I experience this less frequently. Yet, there are occasions when my skin craves a bit of light hydration. While I enjoy using lotion bars and my homemade lotion for deep nourishment, this aloe lotion is ideal for a lighter touch.
Aloe offers a similar texture to glycerin in skincare recipes but does not feel as sticky. It absorbs readily into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. If you’re using fresh aloe from a plant, the lotion keeps for a week or two before expiring. In contrast, store-bought or online-sourced aloe vera gel, which is preserved, will last up to six weeks.
Skin Benefits of Aloe Vera
I keep an aloe plant at home due to its numerous benefits! They’re excellent for treating burns and other skin irritations. You might have used aloe vera gel before to calm a sunburn.
Aloe barbadensis leaf juice is nutrient-rich, containing potassium, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and antioxidants. It assists our skin in producing hyaluronic acid and boosts collagen production, keeping the skin firm and wrinkle-free. Aloe enhances the skin’s elasticity and suppleness, helping it to "bounce back."
Ingredient Options
This lotion can also serve as a facial cream. Depending on the ingredients, it works well for those with acne or eczema. Oils such as olive and avocado are excellent for dry or mature skin types. If you wish to prevent acne or lessen wrinkles, incorporating rosehip seed oil is advisable. Personally, I prefer sweet almond oil (non-greasy) or jojoba oil, which resembles the skin’s sebum and absorbs well.
Shea butter is used for a richer consistency, but it’s optional. Cocoa butter or mango butter can be alternatives. Cocoa butter offers deeper moisture, while mango butter is lighter and absorbs quickly.
Homemade Aloe Vera Lotion
This aloe-based lotion is smooth and lighter compared to some other options. It’s suitable for all skin types, even for little ones!
Yield: 6.5 ounces
Author: Katie Wells
- Melt the beeswax, oil, and shea butter (if using) in a double boiler or glass bowl over a pan of water.
- Remove from heat and pour into a blender or mason jar (if using an immersion blender). You can also use a stand mixer.
- Add vitamin E (if using) and any essential oils.
- Let it cool to room temperature. It should be room temperature and just starting to harden at the edges. This ensures the lotion emulsifies correctly.
- Add Leucidal complete to the aloe if using.
- Start blending on low with a blender or immersion blender. Gradually add room temperature aloe vera gel until combined. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides and re-blend several times until fully combined.
- 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.
Preserving and Storing the Lotion
While vitamin E prevents oils from oxidizing quickly, it won’t preserve the lotion. To use a natural preservative, you can incorporate some Leucidal complete, slowing down microbe growth. With it, the lotion should last several months in the fridge.
Always store it in a cool, dark place away from direct light and heat. Moist bathroom counters are not ideal locations! Only use clean fingers when applying.
Consider trying homemade non-toxic sunscreen as well.
Have you tried making your own lotion before? Share your experiences in the comments!
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