I try to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water and getting plenty of minerals, even salt water, but sometimes my skin still needs extra moisture. This aloe vera lotion softens and moisturizes dry skin really well. It’s perfect as a body or face lotion and is made with just a few simple ingredients!
The lotion includes organic aloe vera gel, rich shea butter, and nourishing almond oil, skipping the parabens, sulfates, and dimethicone you often find in store-bought options.
When the weather cools down, a lot of us experience drier skin. Although living in a humid climate has helped, I still occasionally need light hydration. While I love rich lotion bars and homemade lotion for deep nourishment, this aloe lotion is ideal when you prefer something lighter.
Aloe vera feels similar to glycerin in skincare products but doesn’t leave as much stickiness. It absorbs nicely into the skin without any greasy residue. Keep in mind that if you’re using fresh aloe from a plant, the lotion will last only a week or two. Aloe vera gel from the store is preserved and can last up to six weeks.
I keep an aloe plant at home because they’re fantastic for treating burns and other skin irritations. You’ve probably used aloe vera gel to soothe sunburns before.
Aloe barbadensis leaf juice is full of nutrients like potassium, vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and antioxidants. It helps your skin produce hyaluronic acid and collagen, keeping it firm and wrinkle-free. Aloe makes skin more elastic and supple, so it “bounces back” better.
This lotion can also be used as a face cream and might be great for those with acne or eczema, depending on the ingredients. Oils like olive and avocado oil work well for dry or mature skin. If you’re looking to tackle acne or reduce wrinkles, try adding rosehip seed oil. I usually go for sweet almond (non-greasy) or jojoba oil, which mimics the skin’s natural oils and sinks in well.
I like to use shea butter for a richer texture, but it’s optional. You can swap it out for cocoa butter, which is intensely moisturizing, or mango butter, which is light and fast-absorbing.
Vitamin E can help keep the oils from oxidizing too quickly but won’t preserve the lotion itself. For a natural preservative, you can add Leucidal Complete to slow down microbe growth, allowing it to last several months in the fridge.
Always store the lotion in a cool, dark place, away from heat and light. A moist bathroom countertop isn’t ideal! Also, use clean fingers when applying.
Why not try making your own homemade non-toxic sunscreen too?
Have you made lotion before? I’d love to hear all about it!
