I have struggled with dry skin for a long time. Apart from my laziness, the availability of good body creams in India has not been of any help. I’ve tried everything from store-bought creams to coconut oil, to no avail.

Dealing with Dry Skin

In the temperate climates of India, the weather is humid most of the year, but towards the end of the year, it gets dehydrated. Within an hour of slathering on lotion, my skin feels stretched and dry again. 

We were in Vegas a few years ago during the winter months and had applied coconut oil every morning. Even then, I noticed my son’s skin had become very dry. On our return, our paediatrician said water-based lotions get absorbed by the skin, and the oil-based ones only protect the outer layer. So with our skin that’s predisposed to dryness, we need a combination of both. That’s a lot of effort for someone who hardly uses any cosmetics.

Shea Butter Body Cream

Last year during the lockdown, when our supply of body lotion from the US (Alba Botanica) was exhausted, I researched local options. I stumbled upon shea butter body lotion.

Commercially, the best shea butter body lotion in India is available in big brand stores like The Body Shop, which I didn’t find effective. I liked the one by Pilgrim, but I wanted to try making it cheaper at home.

Homemade Shea Butter Body Lotion

Making my own shea butter lotion was easier than I thought. All you need is some unrefined raw shea butter and some patience. Since the shea butter solidifies, you need to add it with some coconut oil and sweet almond oil. This makes it easily scoopable and easy to apply.

You can even add a few drops of your favourite essential oils for a luxurious fragrant feel.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup raw shea butter
• ¼ cup coconut oil
• ¼ cup sweet almond oil
• ½ tsp essential oil for fragrance (optional)

Method:

• Melt the shea butter using the double boiler method.

• Remove from heat and add the other oils.
• Mix well and put in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to whisk.
• Once cool, whisk it well for 2 minutes. Whipped shea butter cream looks good enough to eat.

• Scoop into a glass jar and use as desired.

This homemade shea butter lotion is a thicker cream best suited for colder climates. While applying, take small scoops and rub it between your palms to soften it. Soon you’ll get the hang of how much you need to apply without your skin feeling greasy.

Shea Butter Lotion Uses

I prefer not to use it on my face since it’s too heavy. However, it’s the best body lotion I’ve used.

I made a summer version for my son with lesser shea butter. It didn’t blend together fully and the oils separate a little, so I have to mix it before applying. It’s still much better than any other commercially available options.

These also make great gifts.

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