DIY skincare has always been one of my favorite things to dabble in and it just makes sense when the goal is to use vegan products. As the maker, I have sole control over what goes into the product and what my family ultimately ends up putting on their skin.
To kick off the fall season I am sharing a two-ingredient favorite for a whipped body butter that is truly vegan.… such a favorite that my family requests it.
If you’re new to the world of DIY skincare here are just a few of the known benefits of the ingredients we will be using.
Raw/Unrefined Cocoa Butter - Repairs and protects skin and serves as a good emollient for the skin. It supports collagen production and helps keep skin soft. Being that this particular butter is an occlusive – it aids in the prevention of water loss of the skin and is best used on the body rather than the face.
Virgin Coconut Oil - absorbs into the skin quickly and is ideal for a number of uses since it melts at room temperature. This oil is suitable for softening dry skin and can help heal some skin blisters and rashes. It is also great for oil pulling and moisturizing cuticles.
Cedarwood essential oil - Uplifting scent and great for aromatherapy.
Lavender essential oil - One of the most versatile essential oils, it is known for its calming floral scent. Great for use at bedtime or a relaxing aromatherapy session.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – balancing, calming and relaxing fragrance – both physically and mentally.
As I said, this is a two-ingredient product so you’ll need raw (unrefined) cocoa butter and virgin coconut oil. I purchase my products by the pound but you’ll find a break down of the measurements below.
Let’s Get Started!
Ingredients/Equipment:
Virgin Coconut Oil
Raw/Unrefined Cocoa Butter
Double boiler (if you don’t have one you can Google options for alternative solutions – there are some clever ones out there!)
Lavender or Cedarwood essential oil (optional ingredient – note* always use essential oils in a well-ventilated area)
Hand or standing mixer (no mixer? no problem! Follow the no mixer option below)
Clean dry container(s) for storing
Label maker or marker and sticker for labeling
Unrefined Cocoa Butter is yellow in color, smells distinctly of chocolate and melts at body temperature.
Directions:
Step 1: Measure 3/4 c. Cocoa Butter and melt in a double boiler. Once it starts to melt add 1/4 c. Coconut Oil. Stir oils constantly until completely melted.
Step 2: Once oils are melted remove from heat and pour into your mixing bowl. Set bowl in the freezer (cover with a paper towel to keep any moisture from getting in) for at least 10 minutes or until it cools.
Step 3: Remove bowl from the freezer – if you are adding essential oil now would be the time to add 3-10 drops to your butter mixture. Scrape down any excess body butter from the sides of the bowl and whip on low to medium setting. You don’t want to over-whip the mix just enough for it to look like a {vegan} thick whipped cream.
Step 4: Transfer whipped body butter to clean container with a lid. While it doesn’t need to be refrigerated it should be stored in a cool dark place. Think under the bathroom sink cabinet, not on a window sill or near a direct source of heat. This mix should stay fresh for at least 3 months. Step 5: Label and date your skincare product.
No Mixer Option:
After Step 1 pour your melted butter mixture into a clean and dry mason jar-you will want to protect your hands for this step since the jar can get hot rather quickly. Add 3-10 drops of essential oil (completely optional) and stir it in with a small wooden spoon or popsicle stick. Put the lid on the jar and freeze for at least one hour (or until it is completely solid). And voilá! You still get all of the benefits of a great body butter. Store in a cool dark place and use within 3 months for freshness.
Virgin Coconut Oil begins to melt at room temperature and completely melts at body temperature.
About this recipe…
This recipe can be tweaked. For example, adding an additional 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup of virgin coconut oil will yield a softer butter. I like mine a little firmer since my kids use it and it isn’t as easy for them to scoop out a glob. They work a little to get a little and that helps it go a long way in our house.
Finished body butter – I reused a container that I had on hand. It holds about 7 oz of product.
What are some of your favorite combinations for skincare products? Right now I am trying to master a bath bomb favorite. Any suggestions? Let me know in the comments section below!