Over time, I’ve developed a few simple habits that have greatly improved my health, and making sure I get quality sleep is one of them. One thing that helps is a calming sleep lotion that uses aromatherapy to enhance sleep.
This lotion, also known as body butter, is perfect for adding to your bedtime routine, and it’s safe for kids too. I use lavender and cedarwood essential oils, both of which are safe for children. These oils help soothe and relax, but you can try other calming essential oils to find a scent you enjoy. For children, I usually stick with 20-40 drops of essential oils (a 0.5 to 1% dilution). Adults can use double that amount, although you might not need much. Personally, I prefer more subtle scents.
The base of this lotion consists of moisturizing oils and butters, making it great for dry skin. Even if your skin tends to be oily, you can just apply it to your feet or legs, which works for most people. However, I would avoid using it on the face as coconut oil might clog pores.
When it comes to body care products, I prefer to stay away from ingredients like phthalates and parabens for my family and myself. Some popular sleep lotions, such as Dr. Teal’s, include melatonin. Melatonin can be controversial, especially for kids, and controlling its dose in skincare products can be tricky. Another popular brand, Bath & Body, doesn’t even list its ingredients clearly.
Though there are many brands I’d avoid, there are a few with great sleep lotions that contain skin-friendly ingredients like aloe and glycerin. If making your own isn’t your thing, there are clean, cruelty-free options out there. One of my favorites is the magnesium lotion from Magnesium Lotion Shop, which has a version specifically for sleep with lavender. Just watch out if you’re trying to avoid melatonin, as it contains some.
This sleep lotion is made with coconut oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter. The shea and cocoa butter are nourishing and firm up the lotion, which I then whip into a creamy consistency. It’s a bit heavy, so I only use it on my feet and up my legs. You can replace some coconut oil with rosehip seed oil if you prefer, as it helps keep things less oily. Jojoba oil is another great option since it resembles the skin’s natural oils.
Adding vitamin E oil is optional and can help prolong the oils’ shelf life. It’s not a preservative, but because the lotion doesn’t contain water, it can last around 6-12 months if stored well. Look for vitamin E blends labeled as “mixed tocopherols” or “tocopheryl acetate.”
If you’re keen to go further, you could infuse the coconut oil with relaxing herbs like lavender, chamomile, or rose. Here’s how you can make solar-infused herbal oil if you’re interested.
For more tips on getting a good night’s rest, I’ve gathered several strategies over the years to help you and your family sleep better, and you don’t have to rely on just one.
What’s your favorite way to wind down in the evening? Feel free to share your thoughts!
