DIY HOMEMADE LAVENDER LOTION RECIPE WITH ESSENTIAL OILS
This DIY Lavender Lotion Recipe is Light, Creamy, and Made with Natural Ingredients like Shea Butter and Lavender Essential Oil.
Switching to all-natural skincare can feel expensive, especially when you see the price difference between Burt’s Bees lip balm and regular chapstick. I thought there was no way I could make it work long-term on a budget!
But here’s the good news: making your own beauty products like body butter, lip balm, and even baby wash is super easy—and often cheaper than store-bought versions!
Most commercial lotions are packed with chemicals, fragrances, parabens, and preservatives, which aren’t exactly the ingredients you want soaking into your skin. Making your own lotion with ingredients you know and trust is a much better choice!
I personally struggle with dry hands, especially in the winter (and all year since we don’t have a dishwasher). This lavender lotion has become a key part of my nighttime routine to help me unwind after a long day.
It’s also great for my kids—rubbing it on their legs and backs helps them relax and get ready for sleep, as the calming scent of lavender is perfect for sweet dreams.
Prefer a solid option? Check out my recipe for homemade lavender lotion bars!
What You Need To Make Homemade Lavender Lotion
Ingredients:
White Beeswax Pellets – Beeswax helps reduce the greasy feel of your lotion while still locking in moisture, leaving your skin feeling soft and hydrated.
Shea Butter – Known for its skin-softening, soothing, and anti-inflammatory properties, shea butter is a fantastic choice for homemade skincare. If you prefer, you can substitute it with cocoa butter for a slightly different texture and scent.
Almond Oil – This oil has healing properties that make it great for acne and skin blemishes. If you don’t have almond oil, jojoba oil or olive oil are good alternatives.
Vitamin E Oil (optional) – A teaspoon of vitamin E oil adds extra healing power to your lotion, making it great for dry or sensitive skin.
Lavender Essential Oil – The star of this recipe, lavender essential oil, provides a calming, natural scent perfect for a relaxing lotion. I recommend this particular brand for DIY skincare because it’s both strong and affordable.
Supplies:
Electric Mixer – You can use a blender, food processor, stand mixer, or a hand mixer with a bowl to blend the ingredients into a smooth, creamy lotion.
Double Boiler – Alternatively, you can create a double boiler by placing a glass bowl on top of a saucepan with an inch or two of water in it. Heat the water over medium heat, and add your ingredients to the glass bowl to melt.
Glass Container – Use a glass jar or container to store your finished lotion. Make sure it’s airtight to preserve the freshness of your homemade product.
How To Make This Homemade Lavender Lotion Recipe:
Melt – In a double boiler or a glass bowl placed over a pot with a few inches of water, heat the almond oil, shea butter, beeswax, and vitamin E oil (if using) over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until everything has melted and there are no solid bits left.
Whip – Once the oils have melted and cooled slightly, transfer the mixture to a stand mixer or use electric beaters. Whip the mixture on high speed. Slowly and gradually add in the water, continuing to mix until the lotion becomes light and creamy.
Add the Essential Oils – Once all the water has been incorporated and the mixture turns bright white and fluffy, add 30–50 drops of lavender essential oil. Continue whipping to fully combine the scent into the lotion.
Tips For Success:
To Use: This homemade lavender lotion is safe for most parts of your body, but it’s best to avoid sensitive areas like your face or eyes. If you experience any irritation, discontinue use immediately.
To Store: Store the lotion in a cool place, like the refrigerator, in an airtight glass jar for up to 3 months.
Variations: Lavender pairs beautifully with other essential oils like orange, lemon, vanilla, and grapefruit. You can experiment with a blend of these oils, but make sure the total amount doesn’t exceed 50 drops.
Substitutions: If you don’t have almond oil, you can easily substitute it with jojoba or olive oil in this recipe.
About This Lavender Body Lotion Recipe
All-Natural Ingredients This lotion is made with completely natural ingredients, making it a great choice for even sensitive skin types. No worrisome chemicals here!
Easy to Make You can make enough lotion to last your family all winter in just 15 minutes—no complicated steps required!
Super Cheap The ingredients cost only a few dollars, which is a fraction of the price of store-bought all-natural lavender lotion. And even if it seems a bit pricey the first time, you’ll have plenty of leftover ingredients to make multiple batches.
Plus, leftover beeswax can be repurposed to make baby lotion, beeswax candles, or lip balm!
Moisturizing Each ingredient in this lotion is naturally hydrating and healing, perfect for dry skin.
Creamy This homemade lotion is light and creamy, melting into your skin without any greasy residue.
Easy to Customize Lavender essential oil blends well with many other oils. Try adding a few drops of chamomile, vanilla, lemon, grapefruit, rose, geranium, or orange essential oils to create your own signature scent!
FAQ About This Homemade Lavender Lotion Recipe
How Many Drops of Lavender Oil Should You Put in Lotion? It’s generally recommended to use 12 drops of lavender essential oil for every ounce of carrier oil, body cream, or lotion. Since this recipe uses about 4 ounces of oils, I typically add between 30 and 50 drops of lavender oil to achieve a pleasant, fragrant scent.
How Should You Store Homemade Lotion? To extend the shelf life of your homemade lotion, store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. When kept in the fridge, it can last up to 3 months. Plus, essential oils should be stored away from direct sunlight to preserve their potency, so the fridge is the perfect place to keep your lavender lotion fresh and aromatic.
Is This Lavender Lotion Safe to Apply to Your Face? This lavender lotion is made with all-natural ingredients, so it should generally be safe for use on your face, as long as you avoid your eyes and nostrils. However, to be on the safe side, it’s a good idea to do a patch test first. Apply a small amount of lotion to a spot on your cheek, and wait a few minutes to see if any redness or irritation develops before using it more liberally on your face. This will help ensure your skin reacts well to the ingredients.
CONCLUSION
Making your own lavender lotion is a simple, cost-effective, and natural way to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. With ingredients like shea butter, almond oil, and lavender essential oil, you can create a luxurious, moisturizing lotion without the worry of harmful chemicals. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also highly customizable to suit your preferences, whether you want to add other essential oils or create a thicker or lighter texture.
By making this homemade lotion, you’ll save money in the long run, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing exactly what’s in your skincare products. Plus, the soothing lavender scent is perfect for relaxation, making it a great addition to your nightly routine.
Store your lotion in a cool place, and it’ll last up to three months—so you can enjoy soft, nourished skin all season long.
20 MOST POPULAR BATH AND BODY WORKS SCENTS OF ALL TIME
Ah, Bath & Body Works! The land of a thousand (well, maybe not a thousand) enticing scents. New options appear all the time, but there are some fragrances that consistently fly off the shelves and earn rave reviews. Whether you’re a die-hard Bath & Body Works fan or a curious newcomer, this list will unveil the 20 most popular scents that have captivated shoppers for years. Get ready to discover fresh florals, warm ambers, and everything in between to tantalize your nose and find your new signature scent!
OUR TOP PICKS
JAPANESE CHERRY BLOSSOM
Japanese cherry blossoms, also known as sakura, are a beloved symbol of spring in Japan. These delicate pink flowers erupt on cherry blossom trees (sakura trees) for a brief but spectacular period, typically between late March and early April. The fleeting nature of the blooms is a powerful metaphor in Japanese culture, representing the beauty and impermanence of life. During cherry blossom season, people gather under the trees for picnics and celebrations, enjoying the ethereal beauty of the flowers and the renewal of spring.
VANILLA BEAN NOEL
Vanilla Bean Noel isn’t the actual vanilla bean you might find in baking, but rather a fragrance inspired by cozy winter treats. Primarily associated with Bath & Body Works, Vanilla Bean Noel is a sweet and comforting scent. Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of fresh vanilla beans mixed with buttery sugar cookies, rich caramel, and a touch of creamy whipped cream. The fragrance often has a hint of musky sweetness, like a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a subtle vanilla bean pod finish. This delightful combination creates a warm and inviting scent that evokes feelings of holiday cheer and nostalgic winter memories.
BUTTERFLY FINE FRAGRANCE MIST
This popular fragrance from the brand captures the essence of sweetness without overpowering the senses. Blending raspberry nectar, iris petals, and vanilla, it offers a delightful scent that’s both light and enduring. Available in various forms including candles, fine fragrance mists, and body care products, it provides versatile options for enthusiasts. While some may find the raspberry and vanilla notes subtle compared to the predominant floral scent, overall, it remains a beloved classic appreciated for its balanced sweetness and lasting allure. Whether you prefer it in a mist, lotion, or candle, this fragrance promises a delightful experience reminiscent of sweet candy, making it a standout choice for those who enjoy gentle yet enduring scents.
WINTER CANDY APPLE
Winter Candy Apple isn’t an edible treat, but a fragrance that captures the essence of a festive winter wonderland. Unlike a classic candy apple, this scent goes beyond just the sweet, tart bite of the fruit. Imagine a juicy red candy apple dipped in a sugary glaze, but with surprising twists. A touch of crisp candied orange adds a spark of citrus alongside the apple’s sweetness. Winter Candy Apple takes a turn from the expected with the addition of delicate winter rose petals, softening the sugary intensity. Finally, a hint of maple leaf and fresh cinnamon warms the fragrance, creating a comforting and slightly spicy depth. This delightful concoction is a far cry from a simple candy apple, offering a festive and multifaceted fragrance perfect for the winter season.
SWEET PEA
Unlike some florals that can be overpowering, Sweet Pea offers a light and refreshing bouquet. Imagine the delicate sweetness of fresh sweet pea blossoms mingling with the juicy notes of watery pear. A hint of sheer freesia adds a touch of sophistication, while luscious raspberry injects a burst of playful fruitiness. The fragrance finishes with a soft musk, grounding the sweetness and lending a touch of elegance. This delightful combination creates a scent that’s perfect for any season, but especially evokes the carefree joy of spring.
WARM VANILLA SUGAR
Warm Vanilla Sugar is a fragrance that conjures up images of cozy kitchens and comforting treats. The star of the show, vanilla, isn’t the single-note experience you might expect. Instead, imagine a rich, creamy vanilla bean extract warmed by a touch of brown sugar. This creates a deep, caramel-like sweetness that’s both inviting and familiar. The sugar isn’t overpowering, but adds a touch of playfulness that keeps the scent from becoming overly heavy. Some versions of Warm Vanilla Sugar might have a hint of floral or citrus notes, adding a touch of brightness and preventing the fragrance from becoming too gourmand. Overall, Warm Vanilla Sugar is a warm, sweet, and comforting scent that evokes feelings of nostalgia, happiness, and pure indulgence.
MAHOGANY TEAKWOOD
Bath & Body Works’ Mahogany Teakwood isn’t your typical floral or fruity fragrance. Instead, it’s a masculine and sophisticated scent designed to evoke the feeling of a luxurious walk in the forest. Imagine the rich, warm aroma of genuine mahogany wood mingling with the slightly sharper, smokier notes of black teakwood. Hints of dark oak add depth and complexity, creating a truly woodsy experience. The fragrance isn’t all about ruggedness though. Bath & Body Works describes it as a “love letter to woodsy fragrances,” suggesting a touch of underlying sweetness or spice that keeps it interesting. Overall, Mahogany Teakwood is a perfect fragrance for those who gravitate towards warm, masculine scents that conjure up images of nature and classic elegance.
A THOUSAND WISHES
A Thousand Wishes, a popular fragrance from Bath & Body Works, is all about sparkling hope and joyful femininity. Unlike some heavier scents, it offers a light and playful blend that’s perfect for everyday wear. Imagine a burst of bubbly champagne at the top, effervescent and inviting. This mingles with the sweetness of sparkling mimosa and delicate purple freesia, adding a touch of floral whimsy. As the fragrance settles, a heart of peony and luscious quince emerges, offering a more complex sweetness. Finally, the base warms up with comforting notes of amber, sandalwood, and musk, grounding the scent and adding a touch of intrigue. A Thousand Wishes is a delightful fragrance that’s both effervescent and comforting, perfect for those who want a touch of magic in their day.
CHAMPAGNE TOAST
Bath & Body Works’ Champagne Toast isn’t actually about the alcoholic beverage itself, but rather the celebratory spirit it evokes. Imagine a fragrance that captures the excitement and joy of a festive occasion. The scent opens with a delightful mix of sparkling fruits like juicy mandarin and bubbly prosecco, replicating the effervescence of clinking glasses. This fruity top note soon mingles with the warmth of sugared cranberries and a hint of intoxicating champagne grapes, adding a touch of sweetness and depth. The fragrance finishes with a base of creamy vanilla and a touch of musk, grounding the scent and leaving a lingering feeling of sophistication. Champagne Toast is a vibrant and playful fragrance, perfect for anyone who wants to add a touch of festivity and cheer to their day.
HELLO BEAUTIFUL
Hello Beautiful from Bath & Body Works is a fragrance that lives up to its name. It’s a light and airy floral scent designed to make you feel confident and feminine. Imagine a bouquet of freshly picked white gardenia, known for its delicate sweetness. Jasmine petals add a touch of romantic elegance, while magnolia blossom brings a hint of citrusy vibrancy. This combination creates a well-rounded floral fragrance that’s neither too cloying nor too sharp. Hello Beautiful is perfect for spring and summer, or any time you want a scent that’s both uplifting and effortlessly beautiful.
EUCALYPTUS MINT
Eucalyptus Mint is a fragrance that invigorates the senses with its clean and refreshing blend. Imagine a wave of cool eucalyptus hitting you first, its medicinal and slightly camphorous scent clearing your head. Following closely behind is the bright, minty bite of peppermint or spearmint, adding an energizing and almost tingling sensation. Some versions of Eucalyptus Mint might incorporate other herbal notes like rosemary or lavender, creating a more complex and calming effect. This fragrance is perfect for those who love a clean, invigorating scent that awakens the senses and promotes feelings of focus and clarity.
GINGHAM
This fresh and clean fragrance is a classic Bath & Body Works scent. It features notes of cotton blossom, white floral, and a hint of citrus. It’s a light and airy scent that’s perfect for everyday wear. Gingham is available in a wide variety of bath and body products, making it a versatile choice.
PURE WONDER
Bath & Body Works’ Pure Wonder captures the essence of a joyful winter wonderland. It’s not your typical heavy, spicy holiday fragrance, but rather a light and dreamy blend that evokes a sense of celebration and cozy comfort. Imagine the first impression of a sparkling glass of iced rosé, light, fruity, and bubbly, adding a touch of festive cheer. This blends seamlessly with the delicate sweetness of star jasmine, a floral note with a hint of smokiness that adds a touch of intrigue. As the fragrance dries down, warm white amber emerges, enveloping you in a soft, cozy embrace like a warm blanket on a winter night. Pure Wonder is a perfect fragrance for those who want a festive scent that’s both light and comforting, ideal for the holiday season or anytime you want to capture that feeling of joyful wonder.
MAHOGANY TEAKWOOD
Unlike many perfumes that boast floral or fruity notes, Bath & Body Works’ Mahogany Teakwood carves its own path. This fragrance leans masculine and sophisticated, designed to evoke the feeling of a luxurious stroll through a dense forest. Imagine the rich, warm aroma of genuine mahogany wood mingling with the slightly sharper, smokier notes of black teakwood. Hints of dark oak add depth and complexity, creating a truly immersive woodsy experience. But Mahogany Teakwood isn’t all about ruggedness. Bath & Body Works themselves describe it as a “love letter to woodsy fragrances,” hinting at a touch of underlying sweetness or spice that keeps the scent interesting. Overall, Mahogany Teakwood is a perfect fragrance for those who gravitate towards warm, masculine scents that conjure up images of nature and timeless elegance.
BLACK CHERRY MERLOT
Black Cherry Merlot by Bath & Body Works isn’t just a fruity fragrance, it’s a sophisticated blend that captures the essence of a luxurious dark fruit wine. Imagine the sweet and tart burst of juicy black cherries, perfectly ripe and bursting with flavor. This blends seamlessly with the rich, full-bodied aroma of Merlot wine, adding a touch of depth and unexpected complexity. Some versions of Black Cherry Merlot might incorporate hints of black raspberry or plum, creating a more well-rounded fruit basket experience. This delightful combination is both sweet and sophisticated, making it perfect for those who enjoy a touch of fruitiness without venturing into overly sugary territory. Black Cherry Merlot is a great choice for fall and winter, or any time you want a fragrance that’s both alluring and comforting.
KITCHEN LEMON
Kitchen Lemon from Bath & Body Works isn’t what you might expect. It doesn’t simply mimic the sharp, one-dimensional pucker of biting into a raw lemon. Instead, Kitchen Lemon captures the essence of using lemons in the kitchen, offering a more complex and inviting fragrance. Imagine the invigorating zest of lemon peel hitting your nose first, a clean and citrusy scent that awakens the senses. This blends with the juicy sweetness of lemon flesh, adding a touch of natural sweetness that tempers the sharpness. However, Kitchen Lemon goes beyond the raw fruit. Hints of sugar or vanilla might be present, conjuring up images of homemade lemonade or lemon meringue pie. The fragrance might even have a touch of herbal freshness like rosemary or mint, reflecting the use of lemons in savory dishes.
IN THE STARS
This blends seamlessly with the warm, musky base of sandalwood musk, creating a comforting and grounding foundation. A touch of sugared tangelo adds a burst of citrusy brightness, mimicking the sparkle of distant stars. As the fragrance dries down, hints of white agarwood, a rare and precious wood with a slightly smoky and musky aroma, emerge, adding an air of sophistication and depth. Finally, radiant amber weaves its magic, leaving a lingering trail of warmth and sensuality. In the Stars is a complex and captivating fragrance, perfect for those who want a scent that’s both inviting and intriguing. It leaves you with a sense of wonder, like gazing up at a star-filled night sky.
CALYPSO CLEMENTINE
Calypso Clementine, launched in 2024 by Bath & Body Works, is a burst of sunshine captured in a bottle. This fragrance is all about the joy of summer citrus. Imagine the first impression of a perfectly ripe clementine, bursting with juicy sweetness and a refreshing tartness. Following close behind is a touch of neroli nectar, the essence of orange blossoms, adding a delicate floral layer that complements the citrus without overpowering it. A surprising hint of coastal woods lingers in the background, grounding the fragrance and hinting at the cool, refreshing ocean breeze. Calypso Clementine is a light and invigorating scent, perfect for anyone who wants a touch of summer cheer year-round.
AT THE BEACH
At The Beach from Bath & Body Works isn’t just your typical beach fragrance. It captures the essence of a relaxing day by the ocean, offering a blend of fresh, aquatic, and sun-warmed scents. This blends seamlessly with the warm, sun-baked scent of golden sand, creating a sense of being right on the beach. Some versions of At The Beach might incorporate hints of tropical fruits like mango or coconut, adding a touch of sweetness and vacation vibes. The fragrance finishes with a touch of creamy musk, grounding the scent and leaving a lingering feeling of relaxation.
STRAWBERRY POUND CAKE
Strawberry Pound Cake, a popular fragrance from Bath & Body Works, is a delectable treat for your senses. It’s a gourmand scent that evokes the warm, inviting feeling of a freshly baked dessert. Imagine the sweet and juicy aroma of ripe strawberries taking center stage. This blends seamlessly with the comforting scent of golden pound cake, a buttery base with a hint of vanilla and almond. A touch of whipped cream adds a final layer of sweetness and indulgence, creating a truly mouthwatering fragrance. Strawberry Pound Cake is perfect for those who gravitate towards sweet and comforting scents. It’s a cheerful and nostalgic fragrance that brings back memories of cozy kitchens and homemade treats.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A BATH & BODY WORKS SCENT
When venturing into the fragrant world of Bath & Body Works, here are some key things to consider to find your perfect scent:
Fragrance Family:
Floral: Light and airy scents with notes like rose, lavender, or jasmine. Perfect for spring or those who prefer a delicate fragrance. Think Japanese Cherry Blossom or Sweet Pea.
Fresh: Clean and invigorating scents with notes like citrus, cucumber, or mint. Great for everyday wear or those who prefer a lighter fragrance. Try Gingham or Eucalyptus Mint.
Fruity: Sweet and juicy scents with notes like berries, melon, or citrus. Perfect for summer or those who love a vibrant fragrance. Sun-Ripened Raspberry (discontinued) is a past example.
Gourmand: Warm and comforting scents with notes like vanilla, caramel, or baked goods. Ideal for fall and winter or those who enjoy a cozy fragrance. Warm Vanilla Sugar or Vanilla Bean Noel are good examples.
Woodsy: Earthy and masculine scents with notes like sandalwood, cedarwood, or amber. Great for year-round wear or those who prefer a sophisticated scent. Mahogany Teakwood is a popular choice.
Lifestyle and Season:
Consider the season: Bath & Body Works offers seasonal scents like Winter Candy Apple or Vanilla Bean Noel that perfectly capture the festive spirit.
Think about your personality: Do you prefer light and airy scents for everyday wear, or something more complex and alluring for a night out? A Thousand Wishes might be a good choice for the latter.
Longevity and Sillage:
Longevity: How long does the scent last on your skin? Some scents, like Japanese Cherry Blossom, are known for their lasting power, while others may fade quicker.
Sillage: This refers to the strength of the scent trail. Do you want a scent that fills the room, or something more subtle? Consider how you want your fragrance to be experienced by others.
Customer Reviews:
Bath & Body Works’ website offers customer reviews on most fragrances. Reading these can give valuable insights into how the scent performs on different skin types and its overall popularity.
Try Before You Buy:
Most Bath & Body Works stores offer testers or hand sanitizers in various scents. Take advantage of this to try before you buy and ensure you love the fragrance before committing to a larger product.
By considering these factors, you’ll be well on your way to finding your perfect Bath & Body Works scent!
CONCLUSION
While this list features 20 great scents from Bath & Body Works, keep in mind that this is just a glimpse of their vast and ever-evolving fragrance collection. New contenders are always emerging, while classic favorites continue to dominate. The real beauty of Bath & Body Works lies in its ability to satisfy a wide variety of preferences. While Bath & Body Works offers many delightful scents, for daily use in a body wash, you might prefer a more subtle fragrance that complements your favorite perfume.
