If you’ve been reading Wellness Mama for a while, you’ll know I’m not a fan of using chemicals with complex names for cleaning my home or applying them to my skin, where they can be quickly absorbed. To avoid harmful chemicals, I’ve turned to natural alternatives for personal care products and makeup. I’ve made my own shampoo, toothpaste, and even started a company to share these recipes. However, finding natural and affordable makeup options I liked was a bit more challenging.
I enjoy experimenting with DIY eye shadow recipes and have also come up with a liquid foundation recipe that provides excellent coverage for acne and skin discoloration. However, since I don’t wear makeup every day, I wanted a simple tinted face lotion that I could use daily, giving me a touch of color without looking like I had makeup on.
My solution? A lighter version of liquid foundation with extra moisturizing benefits. This tinted face lotion is similar to natural foundation but with a lighter texture and coverage. It’s also known as a beauty balm or BB cream by many companies and can double as a natural facial moisturizer.
With a slight bronzing effect, I can use it daily without it feeling or looking like makeup. It applies smoothly and finishes with a soft, powdery texture. I used a store-bought lotion for this recipe because it was available to me, but you can also use a homemade face lotion. The key is adjusting the powders to create a tinted lotion rather than foundation.
For the tint or color, there are a few options, and the recipe is easy to customize to match different skin tones. I used a combination of bronze mica powder and cocoa powder. Mica powder adds a subtle shimmer, so if you prefer a matte finish, stick to cocoa powder. You can also add cinnamon for warm undertones. Just ensure all powders are finely ground for smooth application.
Start with a small amount of cocoa powder and mica (if using), adding more as needed to match your shade. It may seem darker in the jar than on your skin, so don’t worry if it looks too dark at first. And with any leftover cocoa, you can even make some dry shampoo!
The lotion should absorb well into the skin, leaving it soft, moisturized, and slightly tinted. It offers a powdery finish like a sheer foundation powder or bronzer. It’s not heavy, so it won’t cover up acne, scars, or other blemishes.
The great thing is that this recipe uses healthy ingredients that nourish your skin instead of just covering it up. Over time, it can help improve skin tone. Cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants and has some caffeine to invigorate the skin. Plus, using a chocolate-scented lotion feels luxurious!
Unlike my homemade foundation powder, this recipe doesn’t include sun protection. While I appreciate safe sun exposure, there can be too much of it. If you want to add a bit of SPF, consider incorporating non-nano uncoated zinc oxide powder. Just be aware it will alter the texture and increase coverage the more you use.
Making this tinted lotion is straightforward, especially if you’re using a pre-made lotion. It can be as simple as combining lotion with cocoa powder or mineral makeup, or you can add more ingredients for a fancier touch. Choose a lotion that works well with facial skin, as heavier lotions like body butter might be too much. Find one that suits your skin type without being too greasy or drying.
Ever tried making your own face lotion or other makeup? Share your experience!
