Like magic, the texture of the lotion will change. The lotion will change from a mushy mess to the consistency of whipped buttercream. The longer it cools the harder it will get. If you're going to pipe it, do it immediately. Shea butter lotion has so many great benefits for the skin and will only cost a few cents per each use. Making your own organic skincare is definitely the most cost-efficient option. And of course, you will know it is made with the purest ingredients that will leave your skin soft and smooth. If you do not have a double boiler, you can make your own by placing a glass bowl over a pot of boiling water. Ayankunle AA, et al. (2012). Antibacterialactivity and sub-chronic toxicity studies of Vitellaria paradoxa stembark extract. DOI:

Pumpable lotion prevents contamination since you don't dip your fingers in the lotion. Water is added to make lotion pumpable. Which means more preservatives to keep it fresh. Plus you’re paying for a watered down product. Good thing its easy to use since you'll have to apply it over and over again to get the desired moisturizing effect. Lotion is so easy to make and much healthier for your skin. This homemade shea butter lotion recipe is non-greasy, cost-efficient, and extremely moisturizing for dry skin. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this simple shea butter lotion in no time. You will want to avoid citrus essential oils if you plan to use your lotion before being outside in direct sunlight. Some citrus essential oils are photosensitive and can cause the skin to sunburn or get a rash. Draelos ZD. (2015). A pilot study investigatingthe efficacy of botanical anti-inflammatory agents in an OTC eczema therapy[Abstract]. DOI: Veraldi S, et al. (2009). Treatment of pruritusin mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis with a topical non-steroidal agent[Abstract].It is best to store any DIY product with essential oil in a glass container. I am using a wide-mouth mason jar. If you are using essential oils, be sure to dilute further if making this recipe for a child by cutting the number of oils in half. Add less oil for a harder lotion. In the summer I choose to make my DIY shea butter lotion with only shea butter. With the winter cold, I need the 2nd liquid oil to make it soft enough to use.

Suter F, et al. (2016). Heptapeptide-loadedsolid lipid nanoparticles for cosmetic anti-aging applications [Abstract]. DOI:

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Catteau L, et al. (2017). Synergy betweenursolic and oleanolic acids from Vitellariaparadoxa leaf extract and β-Lactams against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: In vitro and invivo activity and underlying mechanisms. DOI: It is also important to note that the amount of essential oils you use will depend on who you are making it for. If making this lotion for an adult, you can add 10-15 drops of essential oil to the lotion. If making the lotion for a child, you can add 5-10 drops of essential oil to the lotion. BEST ESSENTIAL OILS FOR SKINCARE Fill a small pot ¼ the way with water. Bring it to a boil and put a small glass bowl in the pot to act as a double boiler. Like magic, the texture of the lotion will change. The lotion will change from a mushy mess to the consistency of whipped buttercream. The longer it cools the harder it will get. If you're going to pipe it, do it immediately. Don't wait an hour for your favorite show to be over.