At our house, we absolutely love lotion bars. We almost never use regular lotion anymore because these bars are so much easier to make and they work like a charm. Best of all, they’re mess-free, even when the kids get their hands on them!
While I could easily buy lotion bars at the store, I enjoy the hobby of making my own beauty products and toiletries. It feels great knowing exactly what ingredients I’m putting on my family’s skin—no confusing labels or chemicals here!
Making these bars is incredibly straightforward. I’ve tried my hand at making lotion before, but I was thrilled to discover this version, which stays solid at room temperature and looks just like a bar of soap. Without needing to emulsify with water, this version is even easier to create. Just like soap bars, they’re solid at room temperature, but when you rub them on your skin, a small amount melts, leaving behind a thin, moisturizing layer.
There are endless ways to customize these lotion bars. They make fabulous and easy gifts, too. You can create a neutral or masculine scent for the men in your life with a simple mason jar or opt for floral oils with a decorative jar and label for a more feminine touch. They’re perfect for baby showers, birthdays, Christmas, or expectant mothers!
For shipping, I sometimes use empty deodorant sticks, which I’ve found at the dollar store. Adding a personal touch, like wrapping burlap around the stick, can make the gift even more special.
I’ve been making lotion bars for a while now, experimenting and coming up with recipes for different needs over the years. That’s the fun part—creating whatever you need, whenever you need it!
For those allergic to coconut oil, these bars use an alternative ingredient that is equally easy to make and perfect for eczema or dry skin.
There are also 3-in-1 lotion bars that combine bronzer, sunscreen, and bug repellent, thanks to coffee-infused coconut oil. They smell fantastic and provide a slight bronzing effect. Be cautious, however, as the SPF is quite low.
Being fair-skinned, especially in winter, I find these bars perfect for adding a little glow. Essential oils can add an exotic scent, too.
When our family started martial arts, these bars were fantastic for soothing sore muscles with ingredients like arnica, menthol, and mint. They offer a natural cool/heat relief but shouldn’t be used if you’re pregnant or nursing.
During summer, mosquitos are a real problem at our place. These bars protect your skin with natural oils and keep it moisturized at the same time.
On days when we need more sun protection, we sometimes use sunscreen bars made from zinc oxide and other lotion bar basics, providing a low SPF option.
Another blend uses wintergreen, peppermint, lavender, and orange essential oils for an invigorating winter scent, which makes for a perfect Christmas gift, suitable for everyone except kids and pregnant moms.
For a festive touch, consider a blend with mica powder, frankincense, and myrrh, celebrating the true meaning of Christmas. These make great gifts as well!
If you find the bars a bit messy, you can make them in a stick form using an empty deodorant container. This version is perfect for travel or gifting as it offers lightweight packaging.
If coconut oil isn’t for you or you have sensitive skin, try an eczema-friendly version with cod liver oil for soothing vitamins and omega-3s. It’s gentle enough even for babies.
In the winter, an added dose of shea butter in your recipe can do wonders for chapped, dry skin.
If you’re short on exotic ingredints like mango, shea, or cocoa butter, you can easily make a lotion bar with just coconut oil, beeswax, and a few drops of essential oil.
On the other hand, if you’re allergic to coconut oil, an alternative version with skin-soothing CLA from tallow is a great option.
If you lack the time or ingredients to make your own, check out a small business called Made On. They make all kinds of quality lotion bars, soaps, natural baby products, and hair care items. Use the code WELLNESSMAMA to get a 15% discount on your order!
Do you already use lotion bars? Thinking of making your own? Share your thoughts and any variations you’ve come up with!
