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Our skin is the first protective layer that separates us from the outside world. For this reason, taking care of it properly and creating a barrier between it and any harmful substances and phenomena is essential. Luckily, there is an easy way to do so at home. We’re talking about a high-quality moisturizer, of course.

The Moisturizers in Your Pantry

If you want to make your own lotion for the face and body at home, you won’t have to search for materials too long. The homemade face moisturizer recipes you will find online are always based around some key ingredients that are readily available in your pantry following a quick trip to the market.

The most important ones are:

• Shea butter. Shea butter is a classic ingredient in homemade moisturizers, as it is thick and nourishing. Alongside mango butter or cocoa butter, it is perfect for dry skin.

• Coconut oil. Coconut oil is absorbed quickly by the skin, providing it with an added layer of sun protection as well. In addition, it also has antibacterial properties that are great for treating acne and other breakouts.

• Olive oil. A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, olive oil is a deeply conditioning substance full of antioxidants and natural acids. Due to this, it has been used for centuries as a lotion by men and women alike.

• Aloe vera. It comes as no surprise that aloe vera gel is the main ingredient in many store-bought creams and lotions as well. Its hydrating properties soothe the skin without leaving any oily residue behind.

• Vitamin E. Vitamin E is one of the most nourishing compounds for the skin, and it also extends the shelf-life of your homemade cream.

• Grapefruit seed extract. Alongside its preservative properties, grapefruit seed extract also draws and locks in moisture at the level of the epidermis.

• Jojoba oil. Not only is jojoba oil easy to find on the market, but it is suitable for any skin type too. This makes it a great addition to any DIY face and body product.

• Rose water. Instead of using traditional H2O, you can try this rose-infused version. Lavender water works as well, as both plants have amazing benefits for the skin.

• Glycerin. Many skincare products on the market contain glycerin, as do soaps and shampoos. It is a natural by-product that results from making vegetable oil, and it is colorless and odorless. Thus, it soothes and moisturizes the skin without irritating it.

3 Recipe Ideas

As mentioned above, these ingredients each serve a specific purpose. Therefore, formulas may vary if you want to cater to the needs of your skin type. Fortunately, the three recipes detailed below are a great place to start your homemade moisturizer project regardless of what your complexion requires.

1. The Classic Cream for Dry Skin

Dry, flaky, and dull-looking skin usually benefits from a thick and rich formula that hydrates and restores plumpness. Due to this, you will want to prepare a DIY cream that contains shea butter and coconut oil, two of the most heavy-duty naturally nourishing ingredients on the market.

Ingredients

• ½ cup jojoba oil;

• ¼ cup coconut oil;

• ¼ cup beeswax;

• 2 tbsp shea butter;

• 1 tsp vitamin E oil;

• 5-10 drops essential oil of choice.

Directions

Using a double boiler, add the jojoba oil, coconut oil, beeswax, and shea butter. If you do not own such an appliance, placing a heatproof glass bowl on top of a steamer works as well. Allow the products to melt and stir regularly so that everything blends together. Then, add the vitamin E oil and essential oil of choice. Store into mason jars for no longer than 6 months.

2. Aloe Vera Lotion for Oily Skin

If your skin is oily, then you most likely want a light lotion that won’t leave any residue behind. Thus, to moisturize the skin without any buildup or excess, try an aloe vera gel-based recipe like the one detailed below.

Ingredients

• ½ cup aloe vera gel;

• ¼ cup jojoba oil;

• 1 tbsp rose water;

• 1 tsp carnauba wax;

• 5 drops rose essential oil.

Directions

Put the carnauba wax, jojoba oil, and rose water in a heatproof glass bowl and place it over a steamer. Allow the mixture to melt and stir to incorporate. Let everything cool down until it reaches room temperature, then add the aloe vera gel. Drizzle the essential oil, and you will achieve a light lotion that is incredible for oily skin in particular.

3. Glycerin Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin

It’s a known fact that sensitive skin reacts poorly to moisturizers that are too fragrant or full of heavy ingredients. To avoid this, use glycerin and water as the main ingredients. These are light and odorless, which makes them perfect for your needs.

Ingredients

• ½ cup distilled water;

• 1 tsp vegetable glycerin;

• 1 tsp vegetable oil;

• 5 drops essential oil of your choice.

Directions

Whisk the glycerin and water in a bowl, then add the vegetable oil and stir vigorously until everything is incorporated. Afterward, add the five drops of essential oil. If your skin tends to get irritated by fragrances altogether, you will want to avoid this step. When refrigerated, this mixture has a shelf life of 4 months. If not, use it in 30 days at most.

Conclusion

Mother Nature offers plenty of hydrating ingredients that make wonderful additions to a homemade lotion recipe. Depending on what your skin’s specific needs are, you will want to use some of them more than others. The three recipes presented above are a good way to start, but you can always add new things along the way as well.