In the Inland Northwest winter can be brutal and the cold harsh weather is damaging to our skin. I think most anyone would appreciate a nice non-toxic lotion that is creamy and hydrating, but doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy. I know I would!!
I was tired of buying expensive hand creams and lotions to beat the dry skin, which was made worse with all my time outdoors running. I stick to coconut oil and a good night cream for my face, but didn’t want to invest money in body cream, and I don’t like toxins, but unfortunately toxin free lotions can be pricey. What’s a woman to do? Create her own.
I decided I wanted to make my own lotion, since I already make most of my own facial care products and with the holidays around the corner, it’s a perfect gift for those picky friends or family. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to look much further than you bathroom and kitchen cupboards either for making lotion at home.
I perfected this recipe with a friend, after loving her own homemade lotion. The key was finding the right consistency in the aloe vera and in the coconut oil, and sticking with those same brands. Need a gift idea this Christmas? I’ve found the perfect one.
My favorite coconut oil is Barleans organic virgin coconut oil. It’s non-GMO & cold pressed, and perfect for my Cooling Peppermint Lotion. Use it in the kitchen and in the bathroom!! You don’t have to just stick to peppermint essential oil, try lavender, orange, lemon or a blend of your favorite essential oils.
This lotion is thick and creamy, but also non-greasy and rubs on nicely. It’s has the best whipped feeling and perfect for any type of year. For winter I add some almond oil to add more protection for my skin, just a few drops goes a long way. I love the way my skin feels after using it, and I love the cooling effect it has, great for easing sore muscles. I recommend organic, toxin free ingredients and pure essential oil. It may be a bit pricier, but you are making enough lotion to last awhile and in the long run it’s cheaper than buying pre-made lotions.
I love the smoothness of my skin after using it and the scent is heavenly. It’s relaxing, while refreshing. Rubbed on the neck it helps with headaches and tension, and helps me relax. I lather up with it daily, and love that it leaves a less greasy feel than using straight coconut oil, which had been my go to lotion for years. I am a minimalist when it comes to skin care. I’d rather create my own, because it’s relatively easy and cheap, and I know what’s in the mix.
It’s been great for stocking stuffers and little additives in my friends gifts. Christmas is the best time for Do It Yourself gifts and I always feel handmade gifts are that much more meaningful and enjoyed.
This lotion is 4 simple ingredients, 5 if you count the almond oil or vitamin E oil. It doesn’t take long to prepare, and I make large batches to get me through months and months and to give to friends and family. Everyone loves it and I am happy to be sharing it with all of you.
DIY Cooling Peppermint Lotion, non-toxic & non-greasy & creamy #toxinfree #skincare #barleansdiy Share on XCooling Peppermint Lotion
Time: 1-2 hours total (with cooling & mixing)
Ingredients:
- 1/2 c beeswax pellets
- 1 c Barleans Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
- 1 c aloe vera gel (pure & toxin free)
- 20-30 drops pure peppermint essential oil (or try another essential oil like lavender, orange or lemon)
- 2-3 tsp almond oil (optional)
Directions: 1. Place beeswax in a small sauce pan. Create a double boiler by placing water in another pan (medium or large sized) and bringing to a boil, than a simmer. 2. Place pan with beeswax in the boiling water. While water is simmering, melt the beeswax. 3. Add coconut oil to the nearly melted beeswax, melting the coconut oil & beeswax completely. 4. Remove from heat and allow to cool (placing in the fridge speeds up the cooling process). You want mixture to firm up. I like a softer firm, because it’s easier to blend or process.
5. Add mixture to a food processor or blender, add in the aloe vera, essential peppermint oil and almond oil. Process or blend until whipped like and thoroughly combined. Drop into jars, I prefer glass.
*Takes about an hour to cool at room temperature or 15-30 minutes in the fridge.
Servings: about 24 ounces
Need a Christmas gift idea for someone picky or special? Try this DIY Cooling Peppermint Lotion #barleansdiy #lotion Share on XEnjoy a creamy lotion this holiday season and throughout the year!! Perfect for any season, and more simple than you think. Need more great gift ideas? Try the Olive Leaf Complex Throat Spray from Barleans. It’s a super-antioxidant solution for promoting a healthy immune system and seasonal wellness during the busy holiday season. It’s convenient, just spray and go, and take anywhere!!
Disclaimer: I am part of the Barleans Blogger team. The FTC requires that I disclose this. Although I was compensated by Barleans for this post and given free product, I have been using their products long before being compensated. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Until Next Time Be Whole and Be Fit
Shannan Palomba says
Hi Brie,
Where do you get your beeswax pellets?
Bryanna says
Off of amazon would be the easiest!!
Mom says
It’s my favorite lotion. Thanks for giving me a jar.
StephanieRMontgomery says
Hi, this an interesting article. You have described very well. The really descriptive post you have shared with us.