What is the recommended pH target for DIY Lotion: Easy 5-Ingredient Moisturizer for Summer?

For stable cosmetic performance, the ideal pH is between 5.0 and 5.5 for barrier and brightening serums, or 5.5 to 6.5 for hair vitality and rinse-off washes. Always test and adjust using a calibrated digital pH meter or high-accuracy test strips.

Which broad-spectrum preservative is recommended for this water-containing recipe?

Any aqueous cosmetic formulation requires broad-spectrum preservation against bacteria, yeast, and mold. We recommend 0.5%–1.0% Phenoxyethanol + Ethylhexylglycerin (Ases Preserve PHEHG) or Liquid Germall Plus, incorporated during the cool-down phase below 45°C.

What is the expected shelf life of this finished formulation?

When prepared under sanitized studio conditions with distilled water and an approved broad-spectrum preservative at proper pH, the typical shelf life is 12 to 18 months stored in airtight pump bottles below 25°C.

Can this formulation recipe be scaled up for commercial batch manufacturing?

Yes. All formulation percentages are calibrated to 100% batch weight. To scale from a 100g test sample to a 10kg or 50kg production run, multiply each ingredient weight proportionally while maintaining temperature controls and high-shear blending.

DIY Lotion: Easy 5-Ingredient Moisturizer for Summer | Formulations

Looking for a simple, lightweight, and moisturizing lotion perfect for summer? With just 5 ingredients, you can make your own DIY lotion at home - no complicated ratios or chemicals required. Follow our step-by-step guide to create your perfect everyday moisturizer.

Why Make Your Own Lotion?

Creating your own lotion has several benefits:

Control Ingredients: Avoid parabens, formaldehyde, and harsh chemicals.
Customize Benefits: Add oils and extracts to suit your skin type.
Lightweight Formula: Perfect for summer or everyday use.

Ingredients and Benefits

1. Oil Phase

Grapeseed Oil (6%) – Light, non-greasy, and moisturizing. Substitutes: Jojoba Oil or Sweet Almond Oil.
LotionPro (5%) – Beginner-friendly emulsifier that creates stable, smooth oil-in-water emulsions. Includes glyceryl stearate and PEG-100 stearate.
Cetyl Alcohol (2%) – Thickener that improves lotion texture and stability.

2. Water Phase

Distilled Water (86%) – Hydrating base for the lotion.
Optional moisturizing additives:
- Glycerin (2–5%) – Locks in moisture.
- Allantoin (0.2%) – Soothes and protects the skin.
- DL-Panthenol (0.5%) – Supports skin hydration and repair.

3. Cool Down Phase

Preservative Eco (1%) – Natural, paraben-free preservative that protects against bacteria, yeast, and mold. Ensure final pH <5.5. Substitution: Ases Preserve 9010 (1%).

Optional Moisturizing Extracts (0.1–1%)

Enhance benefits with:

Cucumber Extract
Aloe Vera Extract
Green Tea Extract
Calendula Extract
Honey Extract

Equipment Needed

Serum pump bottles
100ml glass beakers
Steel or glass stirring rods and spatulas
Heating mantle or double boiler
Precision weighing scale (0.01g)
Measuring cups
Gloves, head cap, eye goggles

How to Make Your DIY Lotion

Step 1: Prepare the Water Phase

Heat distilled water below 40°C until dissolved.
Add optional ingredients like glycerin, allantoin, or DL-Panthenol.

Step 2: Prepare the Oil Phase

Heat grapeseed oil, LotionPro, and cetyl alcohol to 60°C until melted.

Step 3: Combine Phases

Pour oil phase into water phase.
Blend using a stick blender in short intervals until smooth.

Step 4: Cool Down and Preserve

Allow lotion to cool to room temperature.
Add Preservative Eco and optional extracts.
Adjust pH to 5.5.
Let sit for 24 hours.
Transfer to serum or pump bottles.

Usage Instructions

Apply as a daily moisturizer.
Safe for children over 3 years old.
Store in a cool, dry place for longer shelf life.

We'd love to see your DIY lotions! Tag us on Instagram: @ekora_bazaar

DIY Lotion: Easy 5-Ingredient Moisturizer for Summer