cocoa butter face and body cream

3-INGREDIENT DIY FACE MOISTURIZERS

In this post, I’ll walk you through some of the simplest and most effective DIY face moisturizers. I’ll break down the basic ingredients you’ll need to effectively moisturize your skin, and guide you through the steps to apply them in the most beginner-friendly way.

This post won’t cover DIY oil-and-water emulsions, like creams or lotions. While making a cream is not particularly complicated, I wanted to create a beginner-level guide with recipes that anyone—regardless of experience—can easily follow (even if you can’t boil an egg).

Though creating a cream can range from simple to more advanced, it always requires some special tools, a proper emulsifier to mix the water and oil phases, and a preservative. Since creams can be more involved, and not everyone wants to deal with all of that (honestly, I don’t always either), I’ll save that for a separate post.

Here, I’ll explain the difference between hydration and moisturization (and why you need both!) along with an easy way to achieve both without making a cream. After that, I’ll share the 3 most effective hydrators, followed by a simple recipe for creating a customized nourishing oil moisturizer tailored to your skin type.

You’ll only need 3 ingredients (one of which might even be water!) for your DIY face moisturizer.

MOISTURIZING VS. HYDRATING (& WHY YOU NEED BOTH)

The terms moisturizing and hydrating are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different things.

Hydrators are ingredients that add water to the skin (known as humectants). They help to plump the skin and keep it feeling supple. On the other hand, moisturizers are ingredients that provide emollients (oils) to the skin. These oils help smooth the skin and lock in hydration.

All skin types—dry, normal, and oily—need both hydration and moisture. Skin types are defined by the amount of sebum (natural oils) they produce, but regardless of sebum production, skin can still become dehydrated if it loses too much water.

Even if your skin is hydrated, if it lacks a proper protective barrier (meaning the skin’s natural oil production is insufficient), it can feel dry because the water will evaporate.

Hydrators and moisturizers can be separate products, or they can be combined into one. For example, a cream or lotion blends both water and oil phases, providing hydration (water) and sealing it in with moisture (oil).

However, you don’t need to go through the trouble of making a cream or lotion to create effective DIY face moisturizers.

HOW TO PROPERLY MOISTURIZE YOUR SKIN

To properly moisturize your skin, you need to provide both water and oil. You can do this with a traditional moisturizer (a cream), or for a simpler approach, you can use a hydrating toner (water-based) followed by a nourishing face oil or fat to lock in that hydration, nourish the skin, and smooth it out.

Below is a list of the best and most convenient hydrators and moisturizing oils for creating easy DIY face moisturizers. To use, start by choosing a hydrator from the list to apply as a toner after cleansing your face. While your skin is still damp, apply the face oil of your choice (from the moisturizing oils section). Gently massage it in until fully absorbed.

For added benefits, you can use a quick lymph-draining face massage to help the oils absorb and boost circulation.

MOST EFFECTIVE DIY FACE MOISTURIZERS

THE METHOD

Step 1: Choose one of the hydrating ingredients from the list of hydrators below.

Step 2: Select your carrier and essential oils from the moisturizing oils list.

Step 3: Combine and mix both in your hands before applying to your skin.

Alternatively, apply the hydrator first and follow up with the oil mixture while your skin is still damp.

…and that’s it – easy DIY face moisturizers!

HYDRATORS

Hydrators are ingredients that draw water to the skin (humectants), helping to smooth out wrinkles and lines by plumping the skin. This is the first step after cleansing your face, ensuring your skin gets the hydration it needs.

Pick one of the following hydrators for your DIY moisturizer:

Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
HA is naturally produced by the body to retain collagen and boost hydration. It helps skin heal, prevents water loss, and plumps the skin. You can buy HA powder and make your own, which is often more cost-effective than store-bought products.

  • Basic HA Gel Recipe:
    • 1g of HA powder (approximately 1/4 teaspoon)
    • 100g/ml of distilled water (about 1/2 cup)
      Combine the two and let sit for several hours or overnight. Stir to create a gel, and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Glycerin
Glycerin is a powerful humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. It also helps restore the skin’s barrier function, protecting against irritation and water loss. However, it should be diluted, as pure glycerin can have a drying effect.

  • Basic Glycerin Hydrating Toner:
    • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) glycerin
    • 100 ml distilled water
      Mix in a glass spritz bottle and shake well. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is both a humectant and a powerful skin healer, making it a great addition to your DIY moisturizer. It draws moisture to the skin and can be paired with other ingredients for deeper absorption.

  • How to Use:
    Apply a dollop of aloe vera gel directly to your skin, or use the inner flesh of a fresh aloe vera leaf to rub over your face and neck.

MOISTURIZERS

After hydrating your skin, you’ll need oils or butters to lock in that moisture and protect your skin’s barrier.

Basic Nourishing Face Oil Recipe:

  • 30 ml / 1 oz dark glass bottle with a dropper
  • Choose one or more carrier oils (see list below)
  • Add 6 to 12 drops (1% to 2%) of essential oils
    Shake well and apply half a dropper onto damp skin. Massage until absorbed.

If you prefer butters, melt a small dollop between your hands and apply after the hydrator.

Which Oils to Choose According to Skin Type:

  • Oily or Combination Skin:
    Use lighter oils to avoid clogging pores. Good options include tamanu, jojoba, grapeseed, rosehip, linseed, apricot kernel.
    Essential Oils: Lemon, basil, lavender, rosemary, tea tree, thyme.
  • Normal Skin:
    Opt for oils that are balanced, like pumpkin, almond, sesame, argan, jojoba, sunflower.
    Essential Oils: Lavender, geranium, chamomile.
  • Sensitive or Irritated Skin:
    Use soothing oils like jojoba, rosehip, linseed, or apricot kernel.
    Essential Oils: Chamomile, lavender, frankincense, geranium.
  • Dry Skin:
    Go for heavier, more protective oils and butters like olive, avocado, coconut, sweet almond, or any of the thicker butters (cocoa, shea, mango).
    Essential Oils: Chamomile, myrrh, sandalwood, clary sage.
  • Mature Skin:
    Focus on nourishing oils such as rosehip, argan, jojoba, tamanu, and pomegranate.
    Essential Oils: Lavender, frankincense, myrrh, cypress, neroli.

CONCLUSION

I’ve been using this DIY face moisturizer and it’s still my favorite. It offers endless customization and ensures that my skincare is always fresh and natural. I hope you find it as effective as I do!

LIST OF 15 BEST BODY LOTIONS  WITH SPF PROTECTED US FROM THE SUN

Sun protection is essential all year round, not just when you’re lounging at the beach. But who wants to deal with greasy sunscreen every single day? The good news is, you don’t have to! There are a bunch of fantastic body lotions on the market that combine daily hydration with SPF protection. This gives you smooth, nourished skin while shielding it from harmful UV rays. Here’s a list of 15 of the best body lotions with SPF to keep your skin healthy and protected.

OUR TOP PICKS

BASK SPF 30 LOTION

Bask SPF 30 Lotion is a great option for those who prioritize a pleasant sunscreen experience. This award-winning lotion boasts a lightweight, silky smooth texture that absorbs quickly and leaves a sheer finish, so no worrying about white cast or greasy residue. Allure magazine even called it “the first sunscreen we’ve ever been excited to reapply!” This water-based formula is gentle enough for everyday use and is packed with ingredients that are kind to your skin and the environment. It’s reef safe, vegan, cruelty-free, and free of common sunscreen chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Plus, the delightful scent adds a touch of vacation vibes to your daily routine.

Size: 3.4 oz

Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene

SOL DE JANEIRO RIO RADIANCE SPF 50 MINERAL BODY LOTION SUNSCREEN WITH NIACINAMIDE 6.7 OZ / 200 ML

Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance SPF 50 Mineral Body Lotion Sunscreen with Niacinamide offers a luxurious way to protect your skin. This lightweight, 100% mineral sunscreen provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with SPF 50. But it’s not just about sun defense. The lotion also delivers a dose of hydration with cupuaçu butter, leaving your skin feeling silky smooth and nourished. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is included to help brighten and even skin tone. And let’s not forget the signature Cheirosa 68 scent – a blend of solar tuberose and leite de coco that will transport you to a sunny Brazilian beach with every application.

Size: 6.7 fl oz

Key ingredients: Cupuaçu butter, niacinamide

EVERYDAY HUMANS SPF 50 BODY SUNSCREEN

Everyday Humans SPF 50 Body Sunscreen is a solid choice for those seeking a daily-use option with high sun protection. This lightweight, broad spectrum SPF 50 lotion absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue. It’s also sweat and water resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a good pick for active individuals. Unlike some sunscreens, this one won’t sting your eyes, which is a major plus. Everyday Humans prioritizes clean ingredients, so you’ll find this lotion free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can harm coral reefs. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, making it a good choice for those with ethical concerns.

Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene 

Size: 3.4 oz

AVEENO PROTECT + HYDRATE MOISTURIZING BODY SUNSCREEN

Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen Lotion is a dermatologist-recommended option that combines daily hydration with broad spectrum sun protection. This lightweight, oil-free lotion comes in SPF 30 and SPF 60 versions, so you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs. The formula is infused with prebiotic oat, which helps to soothe and nourish the skin while supporting its natural moisture barrier. This makes it a good option for those with sensitive skin. Plus, the lotion is paraben-free, oxybenzone-free, and dye-free, minimizing the risk of irritation. With its gentle formula and effective sun protection, Aveeno Protect + Hydrate is a great choice for everyday use.

Size: 12 fl oz

Key ingredient: Prebiotic oat complex

AESOP AVAIL SPF 50 BODY LOTION

Aesop Avail Body Lotion SPF 50 is a fantastic option for those who value both high sun protection and a luxurious feel. This lightweight lotion boasts a broad spectrum SPF 50, shielding your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Despite its protective power, the formula absorbs quickly and leaves a refreshing, non-greasy finish. Aesop incorporates Vitamin E to deliver a boost of hydration and keep your skin feeling soft and smooth. This fragrance-free lotion is suitable for all skin types, making it a versatile choice. While it may be on the pricier side, Aesop Avail Body Lotion SPF 50 offers a luxurious way to protect your skin on a daily basis.

Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene

Size: 5.1 oz 

FENTY BEAUTY HYDRA VIZOR BROAD SPECTRUM MINERAL SPF 15 SUNSCREEN HAND CREAM

Fenty Beauty Hydra Vizor Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF 15 Sunscreen Hand Cream caters specifically to protecting and pampering your hands. This lightweight lotion packs a dual punch with SPF 15 mineral sunscreen that shields against UVA and UVB rays, while also delivering rich hydration. Murumuru and mango butters work together to deeply condition and soften dry, rough hands. The formula absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue behind, making it perfect for daily use throughout the day. This Fenty Skin product is another win for those seeking a multitasking hand cream that offers sun protection and intense moisture.

Size: 1.35 fl oz

Key ingredients: Murumuru and mango butters, moringa Oils

ATTITUDE SUNSCREEN LOTION SPF 30 UNSCENTED

Attitude Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 Unscented is a perfect choice for those with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies. This hypoallergenic lotion utilizes non-nano zinc oxide for broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection without the risk of irritation. Unlike some mineral sunscreens, Attitude’s formula is lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue. The unscented version is ideal for those who prefer a fragrance-free experience or who have sensitivities to perfumes. This EWG Verified and dermatologically tested lotion is vegan and reef-safe, making it a conscious choice for sun protection.

Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide

Size: 2.6 oz 

SHISEIDO ULTIMATE SUN PROTECTOR FACE AND BODY LOTION SPF 60+ SUNSCREEN

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Face and Body Lotion SPF 60+ Sunscreen offers broad spectrum sun protection with a high SPF rating, making it ideal for those who need serious sun defense. This invisible, lightweight lotion goes on clear and absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue. Shiseido’s innovative SynchroShield Technology boasts a “smart” formula that strengthens the protective veil upon contact with heat, water, and sweat, providing even more protection during outdoor activities. The lotion is also formulated with ingredients to help prevent dryness and keep skin hydrated. This fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested option is suitable for all skin types, making it a versatile choice for daily sun protection.

Size: 5.07 fl oz

Key ingredients: Algae, licorice root

BEAUTY BY EARTH SUNSCREEN BODY LOTION SPF 25

Beauty by Earth Sunscreen Body Lotion SPF 25 is a great option for those who prioritize natural ingredients and reef-safe sun protection. This mineral-based formula utilizes non-nano zinc oxide to provide broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, but skips ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate that can harm coral reefs. The lotion is packed with skin-loving ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter to keep your skin hydrated and nourished. Plus, Beauty by Earth boasts a clear, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly and leaves no white cast. This fragrance-free lotion is suitable for everyday use and is gentle enough for sensitive skin. While the SPF 25 offers protection, it’s important to note that it’s on the lower end of the spectrum, so reapplication is more crucial, especially for extended sun exposure.

Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide 

Size: 4 oz |

LA ROCHE-POSAY MELT-IN SUNSCREEN MILK SPF 60

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60 is a multi-award winning option for those seeking broad spectrum protection with a luxurious feel. This lightweight, oil-free lotion boasts a SPF 60 rating, shielding your skin from UVA and UVB rays. Despite its high sun protection, the formula absorbs quickly and leaves a velvety, non-greasy finish. La Roche-Posay prioritizes sensitive skin, so the fragrance-free formula is suitable for all skin types, including those prone to irritation. This dermatologist-backed sunscreen is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, making it a great choice for those with acne-prone skin. With its innovative formula, high sun protection, and focus on sensitive skin, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60 is a top contender for daily use.

Size: 5 fl oz

Key ingredients: Antioxidants, thermal spring water

BLACK GIRL SUNSCREEN BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 30

Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is a fantastic option specifically designed for melanin-rich skin. This lightweight, oil-free lotion offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with SPF 30, helping to shield skin from sun damage and hyperpigmentation. Unlike some sunscreens that leave a white cast on darker skin tones, Black Girl Sunscreen is formulated to be sheer and blend in seamlessly, avoiding an ashy appearance. The lotion is packed with nourishing ingredients like avocado oil and vitamin E to keep skin hydrated and healthy. Free of common irritants and fragrances, Black Girl Sunscreen is a gentle yet effective choice for daily sun protection for people of color.

Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene 

Size: 3 oz 

SUPERGOOP!® PLAY EVERYDAY LOTION SPF 50 SUNSCREEN AT NORDSTROM

Supergoop!® Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen is available at Nordstrom and is a great option for those seeking a daily-use lotion with high sun protection. This lightweight, broad spectrum SPF 50 lotion absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue, making it comfortable for everyday wear. It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a good pick for those who sweat or spend time outdoors.

According to the product description on Nordstrom’s website, the formula is ultra-moisturizing and provides high-performance protection from UVA, UVB and IRA rays. It’s also free of ingredients that can harm coral reefs and is cruelty-free. Consumers love the way it feels on the skin and that it doesn’t leave a white cast.

Size: 5.5 fl oz

Key ingredients: Sunflower, rosemary and rice bran extract

UNSUN COSMETICS MINERAL SUNSCREEN LOTION SPF 30

Unsun Cosmetics Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 is a great option for those who are looking for a mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen lotion. This unscented and untinted formula is lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving a non-greasy finish. It offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with SPF 30 to shield your skin from sun damage.

Enriched with healing extracts of prickly pear cactus, bitter orange, and cucumber, this lotion keeps your skin hydrated while providing sun protection. It is also free of common irritants and fragrance, making it a gentle choice for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide 

Size: 3 oz

VACATION INSTANT VACATION BROWNING LOTION SPF 30 AT NORDSTROM

Vacation Instant Vacation Browning Lotion SPF 30 is available at Nordstrom and is a unique product that combines sun protection with a gradual tanning effect. This lightweight, lotion boasts a SPF 30 rating, shielding your skin from UVA and UVB rays while delivering a bronzed, sun-kissed look. The formula is infused with self-tanning technology that develops gradually over time, so you can achieve a natural-looking tan without the risks of sun exposure.

According to the product description on Nordstrom’s website, the lotion features a custom gourmand scent with notes of cocoa, hazelnut, and coffee, transporting you to paradise with every application. It is also packed with skin care ingredients to help moisturize and firm skin .

Size: 5 fl oz

Key ingredients: Shea, cocoa seed oils, self-tanning technology

COOLA CLASSIC BODY ORGANIC SUNSCREEN LOTION

Coola Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Lotion is a great option for those who are looking for an organic and reef-safe sunscreen lotion. This enhanced version of their award-winning classic is designed for long days in the sun but is light enough for everyday use. It features a plant-based oleo some technology that optimizes the performance of the formula, for fortified protection that’s unbelievably light, gentle, and sheer on skin. Available in SPF 50 and fragrance-free, it offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection to shield your skin from sun damage.

Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide 

Size: 5 oz 

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A BODY LOTION WITH SPF

STRENGTH OF SPF

If you’re planning to use an SPF body lotion as your sunscreen, it’s advisable, as per board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marie Hayag, MD, to opt for a product that offers a minimum of SPF 30 protection. Equally crucial is ensuring that the lotion you choose provides broad-spectrum coverage to safeguard your skin from harmful UVA rays.

TYPE OF SPF

Sunscreens come in two forms: mineral and chemical. Mineral sunscreens, which physically repel rays from the skin, contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to establish a physical barrier between the skin and UV rays. Chemical sunscreens, conversely, absorb UV rays using chemical filters like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate. The choice depends on your preference, but mineral sunscreens are generally better for those with sensitive skin, though they can be thicker and may leave a white residue on deeper skin tones. Chemical sunscreens tend to be lighter, more transparent, and more pleasant to apply, but the key ingredients may irritate those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

SIZE

To fully benefit from this all-in-one product, you’ll need a substantial quantity to cover your entire body (approximately the amount in a shot glass). Therefore, we recommend a product that comes in a large container to ensure it lasts more than just a few uses.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it! These 15 body lotions with SPF offer a variety of options to suit your needs, whether you prioritize high sun protection, a luxurious feel, reef-safe ingredients, or a touch of self-tanning color. No matter your preference, daily sun protection is essential for healthy skin. With so many great choices available, you can find a body lotion with SPF that you’ll love to use every day. Remember to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially after swimming or sweating, to ensure optimal sun protection.