If you’re struggling to fall asleep at night, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans suffer from insomnia, and the consequences can be both physically and mentally devastating. Fortunately, there are a number of ways that you can improve your bedroom’s ambiance to make it conducive for sleep, so you can get the rest you need. One way is essential oils.
Nothing is worse than lying in bed, trying to fall asleep, only to find yourself still wide awake after what feels like hours. If you’re struggling to relax, you might want to try using a sleep lotion. This all-natural sleep lotion is made with Sweet Dreams Blend, a calming, kid-safe essential oil blend that will help you feel rested, so you can drift to sleep easily. Sweet dreams!
What’s in This Sleep Lotion Recipe
Distilled Water
As anyone who has ever made their own lotion knows, one of the most important ingredients is water. Distilled water is often used in lotion recipes because it helps the product last longer than if tap water were used. The reason for this is that distilled water is free of minerals and other impurities that can speed up the degrading process.
Vegetable Glycerin
A natural lotion recipe with vegetable glycerin as one of the main ingredients can help improve the appearance of the skin by drawing water to it. The main function of glycerin is to attract and retain moisture, which is essential for keeping the skin looking plump, hydrated, and smooth.
Coconut Oil (Solid)
Coconut oil is a natural ingredient that can be used to nourish the skin. It is packed with nutrients and antioxidants that help protect the skin from damage. When used in a lotion, coconut oil can help soothe and hydrate the skin.
Simply Earth’s Emulsifying Wax
Simply Earth’s Emulsifying Wax is a natural ingredient derived from plant sources that help mix water and oil. When used in lotions and creams, it helps create a smooth, evenly textured product. It helps prevent separation and clumping, keeping the product looking fresh and new for longer.
Beeswax
This natural substance not only helps thicken the lotion, but also has numerous benefits for the skin. Beeswax is a natural emollient, meaning it helps moisturize and protect the skin. In addition, beeswax creates a barrier on the skin that helps to lock in moisture and keep environmental pollutants out.
Almond Oil
Almond oil has been used for centuries as a natural treatment for the skin. Rich in vitamins and minerals, almond oil is a highly effective way to nourish and moisturize the skin.
Sweet Dreams Blend
Sweet Dreams Essential Oil Blend is a calming and relaxing blend that is soothing to the skin, and its light, floral scent is perfect for promoting relaxation. Add it to a natural sleep lotion recipe and you’ll be on your way to deep, restful sleep in no time.
Geoguard ECT Preservative
This preservative is derived from natural sources and helps prolong the shelf life of the lotion.
Sweet Dreams Natural Lotion Recipe
Sweet Dreams Natural Sleep Lotion Recipe
Time: 20 minutes
Est. Shelf Life: ~6 weeks or ~9 months with preservative
Yield: 4fl oz
Dilution Rate: 3%
Ingredients
- From Your Box
1/4 cup distilled water
1/2 tsp vegetable glycerin
2 tsp coconut oil (solid)
2 tsp emulsifying wax
1/4 tsp beeswax
1 Tbsp almond oil
60 drops Sweet Dreams Blend
- From Your Home
4 oz jar
Food thermometer
Hand mixer (or similar device)
~10 drops Gegoard ECT Preservative (optional)
Directions
- In a double boiler (or microwavable in short intervals), stir distilled water and vegetable glycerin together.
- In a separate double boiler (or microwavable using short intervals), melt together almond oil, coconut oil, and emulsifying wax.
- On the stove, using medium heat (or short intervals in a microwave), melt the wax mixture until it’s just melted. Remove from heat. Take the temperature of your oil mixture (it should be around 150°F).
- Heat the water mixture until it reaches the same temperature as your oil mixture (both should be close to 150°F, reheat the oil mixture if necessary so it stays close to that temperature).
- Once both mixtures are at the same temperature, place the hand mixer in the water mixture and stir on a low setting. While stirring, pour in the wax mixture. Slowly add the wax mixture and blend for 2-5 minutes until it is thoroughly blended.
- As the mixture cools, it will thicken to a lotion consistency. Once it is cool, add essential oil and stir thoroughly. If using a preservative, blend this into the mixture once it is cooled.
- To use, apply to dry skin. This lotion also makes a great massage lotion before bed.
Things to Remember When Using This Sleep Lotion
Always dilute an essential oil when using it on the skin. This essential oil recipe is unlikely to cause skin irritation when diluted properly. If the oil has been oxidized (left with the cap off for long periods of time) it is more likely to cause skin irritation. Check out this dilution chart for diluting this essential oil properly.
If you are pregnant, consult your doctor prior to use.
This recipe is safe to use with kids aged 2+.
For more information on using essential oils with cats, check out this blog post.
This essential oil recipe is generally safe to use around dogs. For more information on using essential oils with dogs, check out this blog post.
We don’t recommend ingesting essential oils unless under the direction of a doctor certified in aromatherapy. For more information on why we don’t ingest essential oils check out this blog post.
*Please note: This post is a compilation of suggestions made by those that have extensively used essential oils and has not been verified sci
Other All-Natural Lotion Recipes For You
One of the joys of homemade lotions is being able to customize them to your own liking. You can control the scent, the consistency, and the ingredients. Plus, they make fabulous gifts! If you’re not sure where to start, here are some all-natural recipes to get you going.
Whichever recipe you choose, you’ll be sure to end up with a luxurious and nourishing lotion that’s good for both your skin and your soul. So go ahead and indulge! Your skin will thank you.
Free Downloadable Cheat Sheet
Making your own lotion at home is a great way to save money and get exactly the product you want. However, it can be tricky to get a perfect consistency and ingredients list. That’s why we’ve put together this free downloadable lotion cheat sheet. Just print it out and keep it handy when you’re crafting your own concoctions. The cheat sheet includes tips on how to choose the right oils, what ingredients to avoid, and how to troubleshoot common problems. With this guide, you’ll be able to make lotions that are perfect for your skin type and needs. So don’t wait – download our free lotion cheat sheet today!
Ready to master essential oils? We can help with that too! Check out our beginner’s guide to creating DIY recipes with essential oils.