To browse or shop for ingredients suggested in our Lotion Kaking Tips, use the links in the information below to be directed to the main product directory for that product or category.
Use the link at the bottom of this page to navigate back to the Homemade Skin Care Recipes Directory.

• When making a lotion the main objective is to keep the temps as moderate as possible to preserve the integrity of the often fragile ingredients, this is especially true when working with natural ingredients such as essential oils and nutritive carrier oils.On the other hand, the ingredients need to be warm enough to melt any solid ingredients and keep them that way, and to be within the same temperature range as the water phase when mixing. It can seem tricky sometimes but it’s quite rewarding and fun to make up your own amazing lotion. You’ll know what I mean when you make one, it’s quite the same as the pride you feel when you create something of your own as opposed to buying it off the shelf. You won’t believe you did it yourself!

• I find another main benefit to making your own lotions and creams to be that you can use many nutritive and soothing ingredients that aren’t practical in off-the-shelf items. Teas and hydrosols are a good example. When using these items keep in mind that they have a reduced shelf life. I wouldn’t personally recommend putting them up for sale but would store them in the fridge or freezer – see below.

• When making your own lotions and creams, make smaller batches. Divide them into even smaller portions and freeze, unthawing a bit at a time as you use them. You can do this in what ever way suits you – some use ice cube trays and transfer to a freezer bag or container when they are frozen. It is quite common practice among those who make creams and lotions for themselves, I have never detected a comprimize in consistancy or texture in doing this.

• Vitamin E is always a good idea to add when using oils that may go rancid quickly. This is more of a concern if you are using a preservative for the water portion and plan to keep the lotion or cream at room temperature for the life of the product. While the preservative will cover the mold and nasties aspect, it will not protect the oils from going rancid.
• If your lotion or cream develops an off scent, even if there is no mold or discoloration or change in consistency, it’s best to dump it as the oils have probably deteriorated (rubbing oxidized, rancid oils into your skin isn’t helping anything :0)

Back to the Homemade Skin Care Recipes Directory