best shea butter hand cream

HOW TO MAKE WHIPPED BODY BUTTER

This DIY whipped body butter is perfect for winter, especially if you have dry skin. Cold weather and hot showers can leave skin feeling dehydrated, so this nourishing body butter is a great solution.

Made with simple, natural ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and coconut oil, this recipe is safe enough to eat, ensuring you know exactly what you’re putting on your skin. Essential oils can be added for fragrance and their beneficial properties.

The result is a light, fluffy body butter that feels like a cloud and provides deep hydration. Learn how to make this easy, homemade skincare treat!

WHAT IS BODY BUTTER?

If you’ve never tried body butter before, you’re in for a treat! It’s like butter for your skin—rich, moisturizing, and easy to make at home. By simply melting and whipping your favorite oils, you can create a luxurious body butter.

While coconut oil is a popular choice, it can sometimes feel greasy or melt at room temperature. For a better balance, try experimenting with different plant-based butters to create a nourishing, non-greasy moisturizer.

This homemade body butter not only feels smooth and nourishing on the skin, but it also smells amazing—especially if you add essential oils. It’s perfect for sensitive skin and makes a thoughtful, personalized gift!

STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO MAKE WHIPPED BODY BUTTER

INGREDIENTS FOR WHIPPED BODY BUTTER

  • 1/3 Cup Coconut Oil: Organic coconut oil is a skincare powerhouse! Its low molecular weight allows it to deeply penetrate the skin, delivering moisture and nourishment by binding to proteins in the skin.
  • 1/3 Cup Shea Butter: Shea butter is an incredibly effective emollient, making it perfect for hydrating and softening dry skin. Its rich, moisturizing properties are a key component in body butter recipes.
  • 1/3 Cup Cocoa Butter Wafers: Cocoa butter lends a creamy, thick texture to lotions and body butters, softening at body temperature for easy absorption. It also contains natural antioxidants like vitamin E, as well as other beneficial vitamins and minerals.
  • 1/3 Cup Jojoba Oil: A non-comedogenic carrier oil, jojoba oil is soothing and deeply moisturizing, making it ideal for calming irritated skin. If jojoba oil isn’t available, sweet almond oil is a great alternative due to its quick absorption and nourishing fatty acids and vitamins A and E.
  • 2 Teaspoons Arrowroot Powder: To reduce the oily feel of this rich moisturizer, arrowroot powder helps create a smoother, less greasy finish. If you don’t have arrowroot powder, cornstarch or tapioca starch can be used as substitutes.
  • Essential Oils (Optional): Add a few drops of essential oils for a natural fragrance and extra skin benefits. Essential oils are preferred over synthetic fragrances due to their plant-based origins and numerous healing properties.

WHY THESE INGREDIENTS

  • Coconut Oil – Provides deep moisture, promotes wound healing, and has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
  • Jojoba Oil – Moisturizes, supports wound healing, reduces inflammation, and offers anti-aging benefits.
  • Cocoa Butter – Forms a protective barrier to lock in moisture and protect the skin.
  • Shea Butter – Rich in antioxidants, it deeply hydrates and promotes skin healing.
  • Essential Oils – Add a pleasant scent and offer various beneficial properties depending on the oil used.

DIRECTIONS FOR MAKING YOUR WHIPPED BODY BUTTER

  • Begin by melting the coconut oil, cocoa butter, and shea butter together in a double boiler or a saucepan over low heat. If you don’t have a double boiler, a large glass measuring cup will work just fine.
  • Once the butters are melted, remove from heat and stir in the jojoba oil. If you’re using essential oils, add them now and mix well to evenly distribute the scent.
  • Pour the mixture into a medium-sized glass bowl and place it in the refrigerator to cool for about two hours. You can also chill the oils in the fridge to speed up the process.
  • When the mixture has fully solidified, remove it from the refrigerator and transfer it to a stand mixer (or use a hand mixer). Whip the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy.
  • Once whipped, add the arrowroot powder and whip again until the body butter reaches a smooth, airy consistency.
  • Finally, scoop the whipped body butter into containers and store in a cool, dry place.

TIPS FOR MAKING DIY BODY BUTTER

This whipped body butter makes a wonderful gift for friends and family, and you can easily double or triple the recipe for larger batches.

However, be cautious when using citrus essential oils, such as lemon or orange, as they can increase sun sensitivity. If you choose to include them, avoid sun exposure for a while after application, or opt to use the body butter at night for extra safety.

HOW TO STORE HOMEMADE WHIPPED BODY BUTTER

Because the oils and butters in this body butter are natural and prone to melting in warm conditions, it’s best to store it in a cool, dry place. If the butter does melt, you can refrigerate it and re-whip it to restore its texture.

Stored in an airtight jar in a cool, dark environment, this body butter will last up to six months. For longer storage, you can add preservatives. Although I haven’t added preservatives to this recipe, Geogard ECT (also known as Preservative ECO or Plantaserv M) would be a good choice. Use between 0.6% and 1% of the mixture.

If you prefer natural preservatives, vitamin E oil or rosemary extract are great options. These help extend the shelf life without introducing harsh chemicals.

Another way to prolong freshness is by storing the body butter in smaller containers. This limits exposure to air and contaminants each time you open it, ensuring it stays fresh for longer.

Be sure to keep the body butter away from direct sunlight and high temperatures, as these can cause the natural ingredients to break down more quickly and spoil.

If you like experimenting with different scents or textures, you can customize this recipe by adding essential oils or botanical extracts. Lavender, chamomile, or rosemary essential oils are popular for their soothing properties, while citrus oils like lemon or orange can provide a refreshing scent. Just remember, citrus oils can make skin sensitive to sunlight, so it’s best to use them at night.

For added hydration and soothing benefits, consider mixing in a tablespoon of aloe vera gel, especially helpful for sun-exposed or irritated skin.

Lastly, if you prefer a firmer body butter, adjust the ratio of butters to oils. Increasing the amount of cocoa butter or shea butter will create a firmer consistency, while adding more liquid oils will make the body butter softer and easier to spread.

CONCLUSION

Whipped body butter is a luxurious and nourishing treat for your skin. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can easily create your own customized version at home. With the flexibility to choose your preferred ingredients and scents, you can tailor your body butter to your specific needs and preferences. Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting a homemade product that will leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and beautifully hydrated.

LIST OF 19 THE BEST SOAPS FOR DRY SKIN

If you struggle with dry, itchy skin, you know the importance of finding a gentle cleanser that hydrates instead of stripping away moisture. Regular soap can be too harsh for sensitive skin, so opting for a specially formulated option can make a big difference. Here’s a look at some of the best soaps for dry skin that will leave you feeling soft and comfortable.

OUR TOP PICKS 

DOVE DEEPLY NOURISHING ADVANCED CARE BODY WASH SHOWER GEL

Dove Deeply Nourishing Advanced Care Body Wash is a shower gel designed to be gentle on dry skin. It contains ingredients that mimic your skin’s natural moisturizers, so it cleanses without leaving your skin feeling tight or itchy. This body wash claims to provide 24 hours of hydration, leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth for a whole day. It also has a rich lather, which can make showering more enjoyable.

NATURIUM THE GLOW GETTER MULTI-OIL BODY WASH

If you’re looking for a luxurious shower experience, Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash might be a good fit. This body wash is unique because it starts out as a silky oil, then transforms into a gentle lather when you wash. The special oils in this wash are meant to cleanse your skin without drying it out. They also claim to leave your skin feeling hydrated and nourished. This could be a good option for those with dry skin who want a body wash that provides a touch of moisture.

E45 BODY WASH FOR DRY, SENSITIVE & ITCHY SKIN

E45 Body Wash is a fragrance-free and gentle cleanser specifically designed for dry, sensitive, and itchy skin. Unlike some soaps that can irritate sensitive skin, E45 is free of harsh detergents and perfumes. Instead, it uses calming ingredients to soothe itchiness and redness. It also contains emollients, which are like lubricants for your skin, that help lock in moisture and prevent dryness. This can be especially helpful if you struggle with flaky or uncomfortable skin. Because it’s fragrance-free, E45 is less likely to trigger allergies or further irritate sensitive skin.

CERAVE HYDRATING BODY WASH

CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash is another great option for dry skin. This fragrance-free cleanser is designed to cleanse your skin without stripping away moisture. It contains three special ceramides, which are like tiny bricks that help rebuild your skin’s natural barrier. This barrier helps keep your skin hydrated and protects it from irritants. CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash also contains hyaluronic acid, which acts like a magnet for moisture, attracting and holding onto water in your skin. This can leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated all day long.

AVEENO DAILY MOISTURISING BODY WASH

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash is a fragrance-light option that’s gentle on dry skin. The key ingredient is prebiotic oat, which is known for its calming and moisturizing properties. It helps soothe irritation and itchiness often associated with dry skin. This body wash cleanses your skin without leaving it feeling stripped or tight. It also boasts a formula that helps maintain your skin’s natural moisture barrier, which is important for keeping dryness at bay. Many users report feeling noticeably nourished skin after using Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash, making it a good choice for those seeking a simple and effective cleanser for dry skin.

BIODERMA ATODERM CLEANSING SHOWER OIL

If you have very dry or even sensitive skin, Bioderma Atoderm Cleansing Shower Oil might be a perfect choice. Unlike most soaps, it’s an oil-based cleanser. This means it gently cleanses your skin without leaving it feeling dry or itchy. Instead, Bioderma Atoderm replenishes your skin’s natural oils, which helps lock in moisture and keep dryness away. It also contains calming ingredients to soothe irritation and tightness. This shower oil is suitable for the whole family, even babies, because it’s so gentle. It’s also fragrance-free, so it’s less likely to irritate sensitive skin.

CLINIQUE DISHLESS FACIAL SOAP – EXTRA STRENGTH 150G

Clinique Dishless Facial Soap – Extra Strength is a bar soap specifically designed for the face. This soap is meant to be gentle enough for everyday use, even on oily skin. However, the “extra strength” label indicates it might be more powerful than some other facial soaps. While it cleanses dirt and oil, it claims to do so without leaving your skin feeling dry or tight. It’s also hand-milled, which means it’s made using a traditional method that can sometimes create a gentler product. However, it’s important to note that some people with very dry skin might find this soap too cleansing. If you have concerns about dryness, it might be best to choose a different option on this list or speak to a dermatologist about what facial cleanser is right for you.

SEEN BODY WASH

SEEN Body Wash is designed to be gentle on all skin types, including dry skin. It’s formulated by a dermatologist, so you can trust it to be effective yet kind to your skin. This fragrance-free body wash cleanses without stripping away moisture, leaving your skin feeling fresh and balanced. It’s also non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog your pores. SEEN Body Wash is a good option for those looking for a simple, fragrance-free cleanser that hydrates and soothes dry skin.

FENTY SKIN COCOA CLEANS’R SOOTHING ALL-OVER CLEANSING BAR

Fenty Skin Cocoa Cleans’r Soothing All-Over Cleansing Bar is a bar soap that promises to be gentle on dry skin for both your face and body. It’s made with ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter, which are known for their moisturizing properties. These ingredients aim to cleanse your skin without leaving it feeling dry or tight. The soap also boasts a beach-inspired scent, so you can enjoy a tropical feel in your shower. It’s designed to be suitable for all skin types and tones. Keep in mind that bar soaps can sometimes be drying, so if you have very dry skin, you might want to consider another option on this list or try it out on a small area first.

PALOROMA CLEAN BEAN WASH

Paloroma Clean Bean Wash is a gentle and effective facial cleanser. It’s designed to clean your face thoroughly without harsh chemicals. This wash removes dirt, oil, and makeup, leaving your skin feeling fresh and smooth. Its formula includes natural ingredients that are kind to your skin, making it suitable for daily use. Paloroma Clean Bean Wash helps maintain a healthy complexion by keeping pores clear and minimizing breakouts.

AESOP RESURRECTION HAND WASH 500ML

Aesop Resurrection Hand Wash in the 500ml size is a luxurious liquid soap for your hands. It’s known for its refreshing scent and gentle cleaning power. This hand wash effectively removes dirt and grime while leaving your skin feeling soft and hydrated. Made with botanical extracts, it nourishes your hands and helps maintain their natural moisture balance. Aesop Resurrection Hand Wash comes in a convenient pump bottle, making it easy to use and a stylish addition to any bathroom or kitchen. It’s a popular choice for those who appreciate quality skincare products that also provide a pleasant washing experience.

LA ROCHE-POSAY LIPIKAR WASH AP+ GENTLE FOAMING MOISTURIZING WASH

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash is a gentle cleanser specially formulated for sensitive and dry skin. It creates a soft foam that cleanses without drying out your skin. This wash helps to restore the skin’s natural barrier and provides long-lasting hydration, leaving your skin feeling comfortable and smooth. It’s suitable for the whole family, including babies and children. With a soap-free formula and enriched with niacinamide and shea butter, it helps soothe irritation and protects against the drying effects of hard water. La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ is recommended by dermatologists for its effectiveness and gentle care.

KOSAS GOOD BODY SKIN AHA + ENZYME EXFOLIATING BODY WASH

Kosas Good Body Skin AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body Wash is a skincare product designed to cleanse and exfoliate your skin gently. It contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and enzymes that help remove dead skin cells, revealing smoother and brighter skin underneath. This body wash is formulated with hydrating ingredients to keep your skin moisturized and nourished. It’s suitable for all skin types and can help improve the appearance of rough or dull skin over time. Kosas Good Body Skin AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body Wash aims to leave your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated after each use.

HELLO KLEAN NOURISHING MICRONUTRIENT WASH 400ML

Hello Klean Nourishing Micronutrient Wash in the 400ml size is a gentle and nourishing body wash designed to care for your skin. It contains essential micronutrients and vitamins that help cleanse and replenish the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and healthy. This wash is formulated without harsh chemicals, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. It provides a soothing lather that effectively cleans away dirt and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Hello Klean Nourishing Micronutrient Wash aims to promote skin hydration and maintain a balanced skin barrier, leaving you with soft and smooth skin after each wash.

RED FLOWER PURIFYING BODY WASH IN ICELANDIC MOONFLOWER

Red Flower Purifying Body Wash in Icelandic Moonflower is a luxurious cleansing product for the body. It features a refreshing scent inspired by moonflowers from Iceland. This body wash is designed to gently cleanse your skin while leaving it feeling soft and hydrated. It contains natural botanical extracts that help purify and revitalize the skin, promoting a healthy glow. The formula is free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Red Flower Purifying Body Wash in Icelandic Moonflower aims to provide a spa-like experience at home, leaving your skin delicately scented and rejuvenated after each use.

L’OCCITANE SHEA LAVENDER SOAP 250G

L’Occitane Shea Lavender Soap in the 250g size is a luxurious bar soap enriched with shea butter and lavender essential oil. It gently cleanses the skin while moisturizing and leaving a soothing lavender scent. This soap is crafted using traditional methods and natural ingredients, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. The shea butter helps to nourish and protect the skin, keeping it soft and supple. L’Occitane Shea Lavender Soap is ideal for a relaxing bathing experience, offering both cleansing and aromatic benefits in one bar.

WELEDA CALENDULA SOAP 100G

Weleda Calendula Soap in the 100g size is a gentle and soothing bar soap designed for sensitive skin, including babies and children. It is made with organic calendula extract, which helps to calm and nourish the skin. This soap is free from synthetic fragrances, colors, and preservatives, making it ideal for those with delicate skin. Weleda Calendula Soap produces a creamy lather that cleanses effectively without drying out the skin. It provides gentle care while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance. This soap is dermatologically tested and recommended by midwives and dermatologists for its mildness and effectiveness in caring for sensitive skin.

FRESH FREESIA OVAL SOAP

Fresh Freesia Oval Soap is a fragrant and luxurious soap known for its delightful scent of freesia flowers. This oval-shaped soap is designed to cleanse the skin gently while leaving a lingering floral fragrance. It produces a rich lather that effectively removes dirt and impurities without drying out the skin. The Fresh Freesia Oval Soap is crafted with care to provide a pampering experience during each use. It is suitable for daily use and is a favorite choice for those who enjoy floral-scented skincare products that leave the skin feeling refreshed and lightly perfumed.

MOROCCANOIL SHOWER GEL CLEANSING HYDRATION ARGON OIL 250ML

Moroccanoil Shower Gel Cleansing Hydration with Argan Oil in the 250ml size is a nourishing shower gel designed to cleanse and hydrate the skin. It features the benefits of argan oil, known for its moisturizing properties, leaving the skin feeling soft and refreshed. This shower gel creates a creamy lather that gently cleanses away impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. It has a luxurious scent that lingers lightly on the skin, providing a pleasant and rejuvenating shower experience. Moroccanoil Shower Gel is suitable for daily use and is ideal for those looking to indulge in a hydrating and aromatic shower routine.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SOAPS FOR DRY SKIN

Choosing a body wash for dry skin requires focusing on ingredients and scents. 

For ingredients, prioritize those that hydrate and support the skin barrier. Look for glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides for moisture retention, and emollients like shea butter, coconut oil, or jojoba oil for softening. Gentle cleansers like sodium lauroyl sarcosinate or coco-glucoside effectively cleanse without stripping natural oils. Finally, simpler formulas with minimal ingredients minimize irritation.

Regarding scent, fragrance-free is generally best for dry skin, as synthetic fragrances and foaming agents can irritate. However, some scented options exist, so we’ve noted which ones have a fragrance.

CONCLUSION

In addition to soaps, consider using additional products for dry skin such as face oil or toner. In conclusion, everyone’s skin is different, so it’s important to find a body wash that works best for you. If you have any concerns about your dry skin, be sure to talk to your doctor or dermatologist.