There are so many situations in which a lotion is a better choice than a carrier oil to apply your essential oils to your skin. Plus, you have the added benefit of being able to customize the scent – especially if you just want a nice scented body lotion to apply after showering or bathing. I have tried several recipes over the years and this is one I like because it’s very simple, doesn’t require a lot of time and lasts for several months! If I make a larger batch – then I can share it with family, friends and neighbors! Join me in making your very own, customizable lotion!
What you’ll need:
- 1 cup Carrier Oil ~ choose oils like olive oil or Grapeseed oil
- 1/2 cup virgin coconut oil ~ the solid kind, not fractionated (liquid)
- 1/2 cup beeswax pearls
- 1/2 teaspoon Vitamin E Oil (or 4-5 capsules pierced and squeezed out)
- 20 drops essential oils of your choice (see below for blend ideas)
What you’ll do:
- Add beeswax pearls to a glass jar
- Add olive or grape seed oil and coconut oil
- Place jar (on a mason jar ring to discourage cracking) in a pan of water on the stove. Keep trepan on low or med-low.
- Allow mixture to heat and melt the beeswax, stirring if needed
- Once melted, remove from heat
- Stir in the Vitamin E oil along with your essential oils of choice.
- Allow to cool, capped, on the counter
- Store in a cool, dry place. Best used within 6 months. Refrigeration increases shelf life. I keep a small jar in the bathroom and the rest in the refrigerator for later use.
This is a thick lotion, and should be stored in a lidded jar. If you want to make a pump-dispensing lotion omit 2 tbsp of the beeswax pearls. Measure out the 1/2 cup recommended above, then remove 2 tbsp. This creates a looser version of the lotion and should be fine to dispense in a pump!
Blend Ideas for your lotion:
These formulations are per ounce of unscented lotion. Use desired amount of lotion and scale up appropriately.
- Pain/Inflammation blend {great for sore muscles, sprains & strains} mix 4 drops Rosemary , 4 drops Black Pepper 2 drops Vetiver
- Sweetly Floral blend {a nice everyday scent, for use after bath/shower} 2 drops Chamomile Roman , 2 drops Lavender, 1 drop Neroli
- Good Night blend {have a relaxing nights sleep} 4 drops Chamomile Roman, 2 drops Sandalwood
- You can always use one of our synergies, which are pre-blended for certain purposes, to add to your unscented lotion.
You can also keep your unscented lotion on hand for when you need a carrier to blend in certain situations like upset stomaches, chest colds, etc. Scoop out desired amount, generally 1 ounce, and mix oils into the lotion. Apply as needed to area of concern.
Don’t forget, we have aromatherapists on-staff to answer your questions or concerns!! Please email us at aromatherapist@planttherapy.com or join our Facebook group Safe Essential Oil Recipes.
