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Basic Moisturizer

Hydrate naturally. Nourish consciously. Glow effortlessly

Learn how to make a simple, natural moisturizer at home. This beginner-friendly DIY moisturizer formulation uses gentle ingredients for soft, hydrated skin and can be customized for dry, oily, or combination skin types.

 

Introduction

Looking for a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer that’s easy to make at home? Whether you’re a DIY skincare enthusiast or a small-batch handmade skincare formulator, this guide shows you how to create a basic face or body moisturizer using gentle, skin-loving ingredients.

This DIY moisturizer formulation is simple, versatile, and customizable. It provides lasting hydration, softens the skin, and forms a perfect base for adding your favourite botanical extracts, vitamins, or essential oils.

 

Why Make Your Own Moisturizer?

Commercial creams often contain harsh preservatives, synthetic fragrances, or unnecessary fillers. Making your own DIY moisturizer allows you to:

  • Control ingredient quality and concentration

  • Customize for specific skin types

  • Avoid harmful additives

  • Create a natural, eco-friendly skincare product

 

Basic Moisturizer Formulation — Complete Reference Table

Phase

Ingredient

% (Usage Rate)

Function

Benefits

A (Water Phase)

Distilled / DM Water

70%

Base / Solvent

Provides a pure medium for dissolving actives


Glycerine

3%

Humectant

Attracts moisture and keeps skin hydrated


Sodium Gluconate

0.1%

Chelating Agent

Stabilizes formula and prevents oxidation

B (Oil Phase)

Light Emollient (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride / Jojoba Oil)

10%

Oil Phase

Moisturizes and softens skin without greasiness


Emulsifying Wax (Polawax / Olivem 1000)

5%

Emulsifier

Combines water and oil phases into smooth cream


Cetyl Alcohol

2%

Thickener

Adds structure and silky texture

C (Cool Down Phase)

Preservative (Phenoxyethanol / Geogard Ultra)

0.8–1%

Antimicrobial

Protects from bacteria and extends shelf life


Vitamin E

0.5%

Antioxidant

Prevents rancidity of oils and nourishes skin


Panthenol (Optional)

1%

Humectant / Soothing Agent

Enhances hydration and skin comfort


Allantoin (Optional)

0.5%

Skin Conditioning

Calms and protects skin


Essential Oils (Optional)

0.3%

Fragrance / Active

Adds aroma and skin benefits

Total: 100%

 

Step-by-Step Method

  1. Water Phase (A): Heat water, glycerine, and sodium gluconate to 75–80 °C.

  2. Oil Phase (B): Heat oils, wax, and cetyl alcohol to 75–80 °C until melted.

  3. Emulsification: Slowly add oil phase into water phase while stirring continuously. Blend for 2–3 minutes.

  4. Cool Down Phase (C): Once mixture cools below 40 °C, add preservative, Vitamin E, and optional actives. Mix gently.

  5. Check pH: Adjust to 5–6 if needed.

  6. Fill & Store: Pour into jars or airless pumps. Let cream stabilize for 24 hours before use.


Tips for Customizing Your Basic Moisturizer

  • For dry skin: Add 2–5% butter (Shea or Mango) and reduce water slightly.

  • For oily skin: Use light oils like Grapeseed or Babassu Oil.

  • For added glow: Include Niacinamide 2–5% or botanical extracts like Aloe Vera.

  • For hydration boost: Add Hyaluronic Acid 0.5–1% in cool-down phase.

 

FAQs

Q 1. Can I make this moisturizer 100% natural?

A. Yes — use natural preservatives like Geogard Ultra instead of Phenoxyethanol.


Q 2. Is this suitable for sensitive skin?

A. Absolutely. Using gentle oils, humectants, and stabilizers makes it safe for most skin types.


Q 3. How long will it last?

A. With proper preservation and storage, it lasts 6–9 months.


Q 4. Can I add essential oils?

A. Yes — up to 0.3–0.5% for fragrance or therapeutic benefits.


Q 5. Can it be used on both face and body?

A. Yes — for body use, you can slightly increase the oil phase for a richer feel.

 

Disclaimer

This DIY moisturizer formulation is for educational purposes. Always perform patch tests, pH, and stability checks before personal or commercial use. Ingredient results may vary by source and purity.

 

Final Thoughts

This basic DIY moisturizer is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to create hydrated, glowing skin naturally. It’s simple, safe, and customizable — whether for your personal skincare routine or for a small-batch handmade skincare line.


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