Aprile's Kitchen

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh aloe vera gel (extracted from aloe leaves and blended)
• 1/2 cup carrier oil (such as coconut oil, sweet almond oil, or olive oil)
• 1/4 cup beeswax (or plant-based wax for a vegan option)
• 10-15 drops of essential oil (optional, such as lavender or tea tree oil for added benefits)
• 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil (optional, for added nourishment)
• 1-2 teaspoons of preservative (like Optiphen or Geogard ECT, optional but recommended for longer shelf life)

Equipment:

• Blender or hand mixer
• Double boiler or a heatproof bowl over simmering water
• Glass jar or lotion pump for storage
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for smoother consistency)

Instructions:

1. Extract Aloe Vera Gel: Cut a few fresh aloe vera leaves from the plant. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt. Use a sharp knife to slice open the leaves and scoop out the clear gel inside. Blend until smooth. Measure out 1 cup of the gel and set aside.
2. Melt the Beeswax: In a double boiler, combine the carrier oil and beeswax. Heat gently over low to medium heat until the beeswax is fully melted, stirring occasionally to combine the two ingredients.
3. Combine Ingredients: Once the beeswax is melted and combined with the carrier oil, remove the mixture from heat. Allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes, then gradually add the blended aloe vera gel to the oil mixture. Use a blender, hand mixer, or whisk to blend everything together until well combined and emulsified.
4. Add Essential Oils and Vitamin E: If desired, add your chosen essential oils and vitamin E oil. Blend again to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
5. Incorporate Preservative (Optional): If you want to extend the shelf life of your lotion, add a preservative according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Blend again to fully incorporate.
6. Cool and Store: Pour the lotion into clean glass jars or lotion pumps while it’s still warm and liquid. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature, where it will thicken as it cools.
7. Use and Enjoy: Your homemade aloe vera lotion is now ready to use! Apply it as needed to hydrate and soothe your skin. Store in a cool, dry place, and use within 1-3 months if preservative is not used, or longer if a preservative is added.