Alright, I’ll confess: Not too long ago, I used to judge the effectiveness of my body lotions solely on how whimsical and sweet their aromas were. When I found a fragrance I liked, I’d buy as many as I could in case it got discontinued - which happened too often! Flash forward to today, I now have an awkward drawer in my bathroom full of lotion that I hardly ever, ever use.
One fateful day I decided to do a full-fledged investigation of the ingredients in all of my moisturizers, regardless of how magnificent they smelled. After becoming ever so slightly mortified by how unfamiliar and unpronounceable the ingredients were in my fragrant and not-actually-that-effective lotions, I chucked all of my moisturizers into the aforementioned shame drawer. Yes, yes I am frustrated about the money I wasted.
Then I found Simply Earth! I have used essential oils through the years for fragrance and maybe for disinfecting but never thought of them as a way of life! I’ve learned so much since I started subscribing to the Simply Earth Monthly Recipe Box!! I’ve discarded all of the lotions, creams, shampoos, and many other things and make my own!
The main ingredients in a lotion are:
Distilled Water As anyone who has ever made their own lotion knows, one of the most important ingredients is water. Distilled water is often used in lotion recipes because it helps the product last longer than if tap water were used. The reason for this is that distilled water is free of minerals and other impurities that can speed up the degrading process.
Vegetable Glycerin can help improve the appearance of the skin by drawing water to it. The main function of glycerin is to attract and retain moisture, which is essential for keeping the skin looking plump, hydrated, and smooth.
Solid Coconut oil is a natural ingredient that can be used to nourish the skin. It is packed with nutrients and antioxidants that help protect the skin from damage. When used in a lotion, coconut oil can help soothe and hydrate the skin.
Emulsifying Wax is a natural ingredient derived from plant sources that help mix water and oil. When used in lotions and creams, it helps create a smooth, evenly textured product. It helps prevent separation and clumping, keeping the product looking fresh and new for longer.
Beeswax is a natural substance not only helps thicken the lotion, but also has numerous benefits for the skin. Beeswax is a natural emollient, meaning it helps moisturize and protect the skin. In addition, beeswax creates a barrier on the skin that helps to lock in moisture and keep environmental pollutants out.
Almond oil has been used for centuries as a natural treatment for the skin. Rich in vitamins and minerals, almond oil is a highly effective way to nourish and moisturize the skin.
Geoguard ECT Preservative (optional) is derived from natural sources and helps prolong the shelf life of the lotion.
Here is a BASIC Natural Lotion Recipe
Ingredients
¼ cup distilled water
½ tsp vegetable glycerin
2 tsp coconut oil (solid)
2 tsp emulsifying wax
¼ tsp beeswax
1 Tbsp almond oil
Essential Oils of Choice (see below for suggestions)
Small blender or Stick blender
Food thermometer
Small sealable container
DIRECTIONS
In a double boiler, stir distilled water and vegetable glycerine together.
In a separate double boiler (or a jar resting in a pan with 2 inches of water) add almond oil, coconut oil beeswax, and emulsifying wax.
At the same time, heat mixtures until they reach 150 °F. Both mixtures need to be this temperature in order for the emulsion to occur correctly.
Once both mixtures have reached the same temperature, take them off the heat. Pour water mixture into a bowl (if using a stick blender) or into a blender. Turn on the blender so that a vortex forms. Slowly add wax mixture and blend for 5-7 minutes until it is thoroughly blended.
Allow to cool. Add essential oils and blend to incorporate.
Pour into a sealable container and label. To use, apply to hands or feet. Wrap a warm wet towel around the area for a deep moisturizing mask.
Suggested Essential Oils for this recipe
My favorite summer time recipe
4 drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil
7 drops Mandarin Essential Oil
My favorite night time sleep recipe
60 drops Sweet Dreams Essential Oil Blend
Fight off bugs with:
12 drops Camphor Essential Oil
Or
10 drops Bug Fighter Essential Oil Blend (Safe for children over 2 yrs)
You can get these essential oils from my website My Simply Earth Site
Join me!
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