Why You’ll Love This Shea, Coconut & Lavender Body Cream
If you’re craving a luxurious, all-natural moisturizer that actually leaves your skin feeling silky and hydrated, this shea, coconut, and lavender body cream might become your new favorite. I started making it after realizing how many commercial lotions were full of fillers and synthetic fragrances. This one feels pure, rich, and soothing — it melts right into your skin and smells like calm in a jar.
The combination of shea butter and coconut oil gives this cream its rich, creamy base that deeply nourishes and smooths dry areas, while sweet almond oil keeps it light enough to absorb quickly. Lavender essential oil adds a soft, floral scent that’s both relaxing and refreshing. I love using it after a warm shower — it glides on effortlessly and makes my skin feel soft for hours.
What You’ll Need to Create This Natural Body Cream
Here’s everything you need for your homemade moisturizing cream:
- 1/4 cup shea butter
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon sweet almond oil
- 20 drops lavender essential oil
All of these ingredients are easy to find and come together beautifully. Make sure your oils are pure and cold-pressed for the best results — it makes a noticeable difference in both scent and texture.
How to Make This Body Cream Step by Step
- Melt the base: Combine the shea butter and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl. Set it over a pot of gently simmering water to make a double boiler. Stir occasionally until both ingredients are fully melted.
- Add the oils: Once melted, remove the bowl from the heat. Stir in the sweet almond oil and lavender essential oil. The scent will immediately fill the air — floral, fresh, and slightly sweet.
- Combine and cool: Mix everything well until smooth, then pour the liquid cream into a clean glass jar. Let it sit uncovered until it cools and firms up naturally at room temperature.
The result is a soft, creamy balm-like texture that melts instantly on contact with your skin. I love the way it feels warm from the natural oils and leaves a subtle, comforting scent.
Finding the Perfect Texture for Your Skin
If you prefer a whipped texture, you can let the mixture cool slightly, then beat it with a hand mixer for a few minutes before transferring it to your jar. This gives you a fluffy, mousse-like body cream that feels light and silky. If your skin tends to be very dry, you can add an extra teaspoon of sweet almond oil for a softer finish.
When I first made this, I didn’t mix it long enough, and it set a bit too firm. Now I always stir it slowly as it cools — it keeps the texture smooth and spreadable.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Use unrefined shea butter for the richest nutrients and a natural, nutty aroma.
- Make sure all tools and containers are completely dry — even a little water can affect texture and shelf life.
- Add the essential oil after removing from heat to preserve its soothing scent and properties.
- If your home is very warm, store the cream in the fridge to prevent melting.
This body cream also makes a lovely handmade gift — I like pouring it into small glass jars and tying a ribbon around the lid.
Common DIY Body Cream Mistakes and How to Fix Them
One common mistake is overheating the oils. Too much heat can reduce their natural benefits and alter the scent. Keep your water simmering gently, not boiling. If your cream turns grainy after cooling, it likely cooled too slowly or unevenly — re-melt it and let it set at room temperature next time.
Another tip: avoid adding too much essential oil. Lavender is gentle, but too many drops can overpower the scent or irritate sensitive skin. Stick to around 20 drops per batch for the perfect balance.
Variations and Add-Ons to Try
Once you master the base recipe, you can customize it endlessly. Add a few drops of vanilla or chamomile essential oil for a calming bedtime version. For an energizing morning cream, try adding grapefruit or peppermint oil instead of lavender.
You can also mix in a teaspoon of vitamin E oil for added skin protection or a bit of arrowroot powder if you prefer a less greasy finish.
How to Store and Use Your Body Cream
Store your finished cream in a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve its texture and freshness. It will last up to six months at room temperature, or longer if refrigerated.
To use, simply scoop a small amount with clean fingers and massage into your skin. It’s perfect after a shower when your skin is slightly damp — it helps lock in moisture. I use it daily on my hands, elbows, and legs, and the softness lasts all day.
The Skin Benefits Behind Each Ingredient
- Shea Butter: Deeply moisturizes and supports skin repair.
- Coconut Oil: Provides long-lasting hydration and helps smooth texture.
- Sweet Almond Oil: Adds lightness and helps the cream absorb quickly.
- Lavender Essential Oil: Calms irritation, promotes relaxation, and leaves a delicate fragrance.
Each ingredient plays a role in creating a balanced, nourishing blend that your skin will absolutely love.
Your Body Cream Questions Answered
Can I use this cream on my face? Yes, but sparingly — it’s rich, so a tiny amount goes a long way, especially on dry areas.
Can I whip it for a lighter texture? Absolutely! Just let it cool slightly and beat it for a few minutes for a fluffy finish.
How long does it last? Up to six months when stored properly in a cool, dry place.
Can I replace sweet almond oil? Yes, jojoba or argan oil make great substitutes with similar moisturizing benefits.
Is it safe for sensitive skin? Yes, especially if you use pure, unrefined ingredients and avoid synthetic fragrances.
Making this shea, coconut, and lavender body cream feels like self-care in its purest form — a small ritual that leaves your skin soft, glowing, and naturally pampered. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought lotions again.