A body oil serves the same purpose as a lotion, but some prefer it for moisturizing as it’s a simpler and more customizable option than a pre-made lotion. You can choose all your ingredients based on your skin type and preferences!

I have found that at times when self-care is challenging (due to life circumstances or mental health issues), using body oil instead of lotion can help me to fit moisturizing into my day and give me that extra level of self-care, as the application is a little quicker and easier than lotion.

Body oils are great to use just after the shower. Pat yourself down with a towel, but don’t get completely dry. Then, stand outside the shower (presumably on a bath mat), and apply your oil.

How To Make a Body Oil

First, take your skin type into consideration. Is your skin dry, oily, sensitive? It may be normal, combination, or mature as well. Then, do a little research into which oils are best for your skin (we have outlined some below).

Choosing Your Carrier Oils

Apricot kernel is a standard choice for body oils. It’s nice because it can be used for those who are allergic to nuts and seeds.

Argan oil is a heavier, more nourishing oil, great for dry skin.

Calendula-infused oil is great for eczema or skin irritation.

Camellia seed oil is fast absorbing and good for oily skin. Add a little bit to a mix of more affordable oils.

Coconut oil is not my favourite option as I don’t find it moisturizing, however it is hypoallergenic.

Evening primrose oil is a nourishing oil that makes a good addition to a blend mainly comprised of more affordable and lighter oils.

Grapeseed oil is another great, common choice.

Jojoba is a more nourishing and also more expensive option that can be added in smaller amounts to the more affordable carrier oils.

Rosehip seed oil can stimulate skin elasticity and help to heal scars, and is a great choice for aging skin. It is an expensive oil so it’s best to add a bit to more affordable oils.

Sunflower seed oil is fast absorbing, so it’s nice to pair with jojoba or argan, or rosehip if you want to splurge.

Sweet almond is a slightly more hydrating option.

Adding Essential Oils

You can use your carrier oil(s) plain (without essential oils), especially if the rest of your shower routine is heavily scented. For more information on pacing yourself with scent, check out our blog post on fragrance layering.

You may also wish to add essential oils for their therapeutic properties or for their scent. For instance, if you suffer from dry or sensitive skin you might add calming oils like lavender, chamomile, cedarwood, vetiver, palmarosa, myrrh or frankincense. Regardless of your skin type and your reasons for adding oils, remember to always double check to make sure the oils are considered safe for topical use and stick to a 1-2% dilution, as your pores are more open immediately after a shower.

For those with body acne, the ClearSkin synergy blend would be a good addition. Use this in addition to a little jojoba, as jojoba has same pH as body’s sebum. Other good choices for acneic skin include sunflower, apricot and camellia oils. All three are fast absorbing, meaning they won’t sit on the skin as long which means they won’t clog pores. If you do have a problem with clogged pores, be mindful of how much body oil you apply. If you notice it’s not absorbing, wipe off excess and use less next time.

Mixing Your Oil

Start with an 8 - 16 oz bottle. You likely will not be using this oil daily, but rather every couple of days. If you’re not exfoliating or washing with soap every day, use it on the days you do so. If used daily, some people will find they get a buildup of oil on their skin.

Using a funnel, simply add your oils to the bottle and add essential oils in no greater than a 2% dilution, if using. Agitate gently and enjoy!