How to Start Making Your Own Natural Skincare Products at Home
Ever dreamt of creating your own nourishing face cream, luxurious body butter, or healing balm — using nothing but natural ingredients?
Making your own skincare is easier than you think. At Elementary & Co Apothecary, we stock everything you need to get started — from raw butters and carrier oils to essential oils, glass jars, and easy DIY recipes.
Here’s how to begin your journey into handmade, natural skincare:
Step 1: Understand the Basics
Before diving into DIY skincare, it helps to learn a little about how skincare products are built. Most natural recipes include:
- A base (butter or oil) – like shea butter, coconut oil, or jojoba oil
- An active or enhancement – like essential oils or herbal infusions
- An emulsifier or wax (optional) – to blend water and oil (e.g., beeswax)
- A preservative (if water-based) – or store in the fridge for short-term use
The simpler the recipe, the better when you’re starting out.
Step 2: Gather Your Ingredients & Tools
We recommend beginning with:
Essentials:
- Shea Butter – deeply moisturising
- Coconut Oil – antibacterial and hydrating
- Sweet Almond Oil – lightweight and suitable for most skin types
- Lavender Essential Oil – calming and versatile
- Beeswax Pellets – perfect for salves and balms
Tools:
- Glass mixing bowl
- Stainless steel spoon
- Double boiler or small pot
- Measuring spoons
- Clean glass jars or tins
🛒 Shop all these ingredients at www.elementaryshop.co.za
Step 3: Try a Simple Recipe – Nourishing Body Butter
Ingredients:
- ½ cup shea butter
- ¼ cup coconut oil
- ¼ cup sweet almond oil
- 10 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Melt shea butter and coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Remove from heat and stir in almond oil.
- Let cool slightly, then add essential oil.
- Whip with a hand mixer until fluffy (optional).
- Store in a glass jar and use within 3 months.
🌟 This butter is rich, creamy, and perfect after a shower.
Step 4: Customise for Your Skin Type
Once you’re comfortable, start experimenting!
- Dry Skin? Add avocado oil or cocoa butter
- Oily Skin? Use grapeseed or jojoba oil
- Sensitive Skin? Stick to fragrance-free or soothing ingredients like calendula or chamomile
- Acne-Prone? Try tea tree or rosemary essential oil (sparingly)
Browse our range of botanical oils, herbal powders, and infusions to make your creations truly yours.
Step 5: Learn About Safety & Shelf Life
Natural doesn’t always mean harmless — always:
- Patch test on your wrist first
- Use clean tools and containers
- Store in cool, dry places
- Avoid water in your products (unless you use a preservative)
- Use up within 2–3 months
We offer natural preservatives, storage tips, and even free recipe cards in store!
Step 6: Keep It Fun and Creative
DIY skincare is about self-care, connection, and creativity. Whether you’re making gifts, hosting a DIY spa day, or launching your own natural brand — it all starts with one simple recipe.
We’re here to help at every step.
Shop DIY Ingredients & Starter Kits
Get everything you need in one place:
- Raw butters & carrier oils
- Essential oils (organic and pure)
- Wax, preservatives, & emulsifiers
- Jars, bottles, and eco packaging
- Kits for beginners and workshops
👉 Shop now at www.elementaryshop.co.za
📍 Or visit us in-store in Pietermaritzburg, Randburg , Howick, or Salt Rock
Need Help Getting Started?
Chat with us online, DM us on Instagram, or pop into one of our stores. We’ll help you choose the right ingredients, explain what each product does, and guide you with beginner-friendly recipes.
Nature Has Everything You Need
Start your DIY skincare journey today — it’s simpler, more rewarding, and better for your skin and the planet.