Making skin care lotions enables you to choose safe ingredients using available apothecary products. Those with sensitive skin may find a DIY approach helpful, as they can leave out ingredients such as parabens, dyes, and fragrances. Individuals can focus on the formulation of quality lotions by choosing good oils and forms of butter to retain moisture. Here are a few tips when making lotion for sensitive skin:
Opt for Pure Oils and Butters
Plant-derived oils and quality butters become the hydrating base of the lotion. You can use expeller-pressed products rather than solvent-extract for purity. Oils high in linoleic acid, like safflower, sunflower, and grape seed, absorb without clogging pores. Heavier oils such as olive, avocado, and apricot kernels seal in moisture. Butters like shea, mango, and cocoa soften and smooth dry patches. Combining lightweight and rich oils enhances moisture retention.
Use Antioxidant Vitamins C and E
Antioxidant vitamin C prevents skin damage. It supports collagen synthesis and tones and firms the tissues of the skin. Vitamin E provides antioxidant protection while softening and conditioning the skin. Vitamin-rich oils include rosehip seed, carrot root, and seabuckthorn vitamin C and E concentrates.
Infuse With Healing Botanicals
Plant botanicals are suppliers of vitamins, antioxidants, and therapeutic compounds of medicinal value. Calendula’s properties include soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial benefits. Chamomile soothes irritation due to the presence of bisabolol in high amounts. Lavender imparts antifungal and antibacterial activity combined with a calming fragrance. Oil infusions involve steeping dried herbs in a carrier oil for weeks. After you remove the solids, you can add the resultant botanical oil to your lotion.
Skip Dyes and Fragrances
Makers of natural apothecary products can avoid artificial fragrances and colorants during the production process. These additives may irritate sensitive skin. Use a base with conditioning oils and butter for a luxurious feel. Add therapeutic essential oils for a natural fragrance option. Use calming lavender, uplifting citrus, or earthy sandalwood. Essential oils may be less likely to irritate sensitive skin compared to artificial perfumes.
Be Mindful of Essential Oils
Though concentrated and volatile, essential oils contain beneficial botanical compounds. Oils, like eucalyptus and peppermint, may irritate sensitive skin. Reduce your use of known irritants to avoid adverse reactions. Oils like chamomile, helichrysum, and sandalwood that are high in calming sesquiterpenes are better.
Balance pH Levels
Use botanical oils, butter, and extracts in moderation. Too much castile soap or citrus oil drives pH upwards. Test the final blends using litmus paper and adjust the pH levels as necessary.
Incorporate Humectants
Humectants draw moisture into the skin, and sealants prevent it from evaporating. Vegetable glycerin and aloe vera gel work by attracting water to the skin. Avoid using too much glycerin, as it can become sticky. Aloe extracts offer anti-inflammatory properties that calm sensitive skin types. A small amount of beeswax, jojoba, or olive oil can also act as moisture-locking agents.
Monitor Shelf Stability
Homemade apothecary lotions do not contain preservatives and have a shorter shelf life, which may be extended by refrigeration. Bottles may also be stored in dark, cool cabinets to reduce heat exposure. Separation of the formula, off odors, or clumping of ingredients are all signs of instability. Use your lotion by the expiration date to avoid irritating sensitive skin.
Purchase Quality Apothecary Products Today
Making lotion yourself allows you to choose ingredients that are safe for the skin. Quality oils, healing botanicals, and humectants can combine into one moisturizer to treat sensitive skin. With your preferred apothecary products, you can choose ingredients that suit your needs or the needs of your customers. Start your search for an online apothecary shop that sells high-quality ingredients today.
