Making your own lotion at home does not need to be complicated. In fact, some of the most nourishing body care comes from keeping things simple, intentional, and well balanced.

This homemade lotion recipe is designed for everyday use, supports skin hydration, and allows you to safely incorporate essential oils at a 1% dilution. It is ideal for pregnancy and postpartum when used appropriately, and it fits beautifully into a gentle, holistic self care routine.

This recipe yields eight ounces of lotion and has an approximate shelf life of one year when stored properly.

Why simple lotions work best

When you make your own lotion, you are in control of the ingredients that touch your skin daily. Simple formulas reduce the risk of irritation, work well for sensitive skin, and allow essential oils to remain supportive rather than overpowering.

A 1% dilution is considered a gentle and effective range for body care. Higher dilutions and stronger essential oils may extend shelf life, but that is not always necessary for everyday lotion use.

Ingredients for an 8 oz homemade lotion

This recipe uses oils and butters that are easy to find and versatile.

You will need 7 tablespoons coconut oil, 7 tablespoons shea butter, and 2 tablespoons of beeswax for structure. These ingredients create a rich, nourishing lotion that melts into the skin and provides lasting moisture.

For essential oils, you can use what ever you are comfortable using. In this recipe the examples are lavender, frankincense, geranium, or sweet orange. You may choose one oil or a blend, as long as the total amount equals 1% dilution.

Essential oil dilution for this recipe

An 8 ounce lotion equals approximately 240 milliliters.

A 1% dilution equals about 48 drops of essential oil total.

You can use all 48 drops of one oil, or divide them between multiple oils. For example, lavender and frankincense blend beautifully together, as do geranium and sweet orange.

The key is keeping the total drop count consistent.

How to make the lotion

Begin by melting the beeswax gently using a double boiler method. Once melted, add the coconut oil and shea butter and allow them to fully combine into a smooth liquid.

Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly but not solidify. Once warm but no longer hot, add your essential oils and stir gently.

Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar or container and allow it to cool completely. As it sets, it will thicken into a lotion consistency that is easy to scoop and apply.

Store your lotion in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Shelf life and storage

This lotion has an estimated shelf life of one year when made with clean tools and stored properly. It may last longer, but that typically requires higher essential oil dilution and oils with stronger antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.

If the smell changes or the texture becomes unusual, it is best to discard and make a fresh batch.

Important notes about facial use

If you make this lotion using coconut oil, it is best used on the body only. Coconut oil can block pores and cause buildup on facial skin, which may lead to breakouts and irritation.

If you want a lotion texture for your face, jojoba oil is a better option in place of coconut oil. Jojoba closely mimics the skin’s natural sebum and is generally better tolerated for facial use.

If you prefer very minimal facial care, an oil only facial blend using jojoba oil and a low essential oil dilution is often the most supportive option.

A gentle reminder about intentional self care

Making your own lotion is not about perfection. It is about slowing down, learning what works for your body, and creating products that feel nourishing and supportive.

At Nurturing Dyad, my coaching work is centered on helping mamas feel confident and informed as they care for themselves during pregnancy and postpartum. Inside my coaching community, I offer bonus videos that walk you through lotion making step by step and explain how to choose the right dilution amounts for your lotions.

My goal is always to help you feel empowered, not overwhelmed, as you build simple, sustainable self care practices at home.

With grace and gratitude,
Sasha