Homemade Oatmeal Lotion Recipe for Dry Skin Relief
Winter weather can be harsh on the skin, leading to dryness, irritation, and itchiness. One of the best ways to combat these issues is by crafting your own skincare products with nourishing, all-natural ingredients. This homemade oatmeal lotion is an excellent solution, offering deep hydration and protection while allowing you to control exactly what ingredients go onto your skin.
Not only is this DIY recipe cost-effective, but it also harnesses the power of oatmeal, shea butter, and coconut oil—three powerhouse ingredients for soothing and replenishing winter skin. Plus, by incorporating seasonal herbs, you can customize your lotion to provide additional benefits suited to your skincare needs.
Herbal Benefits of Key Ingredients
- Oatmeal: Known for its ability to calm inflamed and itchy skin, oatmeal forms a protective barrier that locks in moisture and soothes conditions like eczema and dry patches.
- Shea Butter: A deeply moisturizing butter that restores skin hydration and elasticity, helping to prevent dryness and cracking.
- Coconut Oil: Renowned for its antibacterial and nourishing properties, coconut oil helps to soften the skin and promote healing.
- Vitamin E Oil: Acts as a natural preservative, extends the lotion’s shelf life, and provides antioxidant benefits that support skin health and elasticity.
- Evergreens (Cedar, Pine, Spruce, or Fir): Contain anti-fungal and acne-fighting properties, helping to maintain clear and healthy skin.
- Clove: Boasts antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce acne, irritation, and signs of aging.
- Essential Oils (Lavender, Peppermint, etc.): Offer additional soothing and cooling effects, enhancing the lotion’s therapeutic benefits.
Homemade Oatmeal Lotion Recipe
Materials
- 1/4 cup shea butter
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1 tbsp whole cloves
- 1/4 cup cedar tips (dried)
- 1/4 cup finely ground oats or colloidal oatmeal
- 1/2 tsp vitamin E oil
- 5 drops essential oils for scent (optional)
Note: Cedar can be substituted with pine, spruce, or fir for similar skin benefits. Alternatively, use your favorite seasonal herbs like calendula, rosehips, or even violets!
Method
Infuse the Coconut Oil
- Using a double boiler, gently heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
- Add the cloves and cedar tips, allowing them to steep in the oil for about 3 hours. Do not boil. There should be minimal bubbles.
- Remove from heat and strain the oil to remove herbs.
Making the Lotion
- Grind your oats using a grain mill, high powered blender, or food processor.
- In a clean, dry bowl, combine the shea butter with the still-warm infused coconut oil, using the heat to melt the shea butter. Stir until smooth.
- Stir in the finely-ground oats and vitamin E oil, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- If using essential oils, add them now and mix well.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove large oat particles. I recommend this so it is not gritty.
- Allow the lotion to cool and solidify at room temperature.
- Use a hand mixer with whisk or stick immersion blender to whip the lotion into a creamy, smooth consistency.
- Transfer the lotion to a clean, airtight jar (preferably glass) and store it in a cool, dry place.
- Label the jar with the preparation date for freshness tracking.
How to Use
- Apply a small amount of lotion to dry areas like hands, elbows, and knees.
- Massage gently until fully absorbed.
- Use daily or as needed to keep skin hydrated and protected.
- Suitable for sensitive skin but always conduct a patch test before widespread use.
Storage Instructions
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- If kept in a warm environment, the lotion may soften; refrigerate to firm it up if necessary.
- Use within 3-6 months for best results.
- Always use clean, dry hands or a small spatula to scoop out the lotion to avoid contamination.
With its nourishing ingredients and herbal-infused goodness, this homemade oatmeal lotion is the perfect companion for winter skincare. Enjoy soft, healthy skin all season long while avoiding the harsh chemicals found in commercial products!
Check Out These Other DIY Skin Care Recipes!
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About the Author
Brittany Gibson is a modern suburban homesteader and the founder of The Homestead Challenge. She empowers women to adopt a simpler, more self-sufficient lifestyle, feeling confident to grow, create, and thrive on their own terms with joy and balance.
Read more about my transformation and join me in building our lives from scratch.
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DIY Whipped Oatmeal Lotion
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup shea butter
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1 tbsp whole cloves
- 1/4 cup cedar tips dried
- 1/4 cup finely ground oats or colloidal oatmeal
- 1/2 tsp vitamin E oil
- 5 drops essential oils for scent optional
Instructions
- Using a double boiler, gently heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
- Add the cloves and cedar tips, allowing them to steep in the oil for about 3 hours. Do not boil. There should be minimal bubbles.
- Remove from heat and strain the oil to remove herbs.
- Grind your oats using a grain mill, high powered blender, or food processor.
- In a clean, dry bowl, combine the shea butter with the still-warm infused coconut oil, using the heat to melt the shea butter. Stir until smooth.
- Stir in the finely-ground oats and vitamin E oil, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- If using essential oils, add them now and mix well.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove large oat particles. I recommend this so it is not gritty.
- Allow the lotion to cool and solidify at room temperature.
- Use a hand mixer with whisk or stick immersion blender to whip the lotion into a creamy, smooth consistency.
- Transfer the lotion to a clean, airtight jar (preferably glass) and store it in a cool, dry place.
- Label the jar with the preparation date for freshness tracking.
