This is actually my husband’s favorite face cream! He’s not always one to comment on skincare, but he kept reaching for this one, telling me how well it absorbs and how it keeps his skin from getting dry.

That simple feedback meant a lot. It reminded me how gentle, effective ingredients can meet real everyday needs, even for those who don’t usually think twice about what’s in a jar.

This DIY aloe vera moisturizer is one we ALWAYS keep on hand. It’s easy to whip up and deeply soothing, especially for sensitive or sun-kissed skin. So I knew I had to share this recipe with you too!

Benefits of Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is one of those plants every knows about! I started keeping fresh aloe in my house after too many sunburns and scrapes, but it didn’t take long before it became a staple in my skincare routine too.

At the heart of aloe’s power is its naturally cooling, hydrating gel. It’s packed with polysaccharides, which help lock in moisture and support the skin’s natural healing process.

Whether your skin is dry, inflamed, or just needs a little extra love, aloe offers gentle support without clogging pores or overwhelming sensitive skin.

It’s also naturally rich in vitamins A, C, and E, all known for their skin-nourishing and antioxidant properties. These nutrients help calm irritation, reduce redness, and even support skin cell regeneration, making aloe a wonderful base for a homemade cream.

Aloe vera is generally safe for most skin types, but it’s always a good idea to do a small patch test if you’re using it fresh or for the first time. Especially if you have sensitive skin, listen to your body and adjust the blend as needed.

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DIY Aloe Vera Moisturizer Recipe

This aloe vera cream recipe makes around 3 ounces:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons carrier oil (I used jojoba oil)
2 tablespoons shea butter
2 tablespoons aloe vera gel
12 drops essential oils (I used tea tree for our face cream version)
Geogard ECT preservative (I used 12 drops)

Instructions

Combine the carrier oil and shea butter in a glass container.

Heat gently using a double boiler until fully melted.

Let it cool and solidify, then whip until light and fluffy.

Add in your aloe vera gel and whip again until well incorporated.

Finally, stir in your essential oils and give it one last mix.

Notes:

You can use any carrier oil you would like.
12 drops essential oil will make a .5% dilution. Any essential oils work.
If you don’t use a preservative, it will last around a month if you keep it in the fridge. I prefer using a preservative and it lasting months!

Ways to Use This Aloe Cream

I originally made my aloe vera cream to soothe dry patches during the winter, but now it lives on my bathroom shelf year-round.

Here are some of my favorite ways to use it:

Daily Face Moisturizer: Aloe-based creams are lightweight, which makes them perfect for sensitive or acne-prone skin. I love using it in the morning after cleansing. It hydrates without feeling greasy, and the natural anti-inflammatory properties help keep my skin calm and balanced. This is how my husband uses it every night!

After-Sun Soother: If you’ve had a little too much sun, aloe vera can work wonders. Keep your cream in the fridge and apply a thin layer to sun-kissed skin for a cooling, healing touch. It’s especially comforting on shoulders and the back of the neck. I love this option for summer!

Gentle Aftershave Balm: 1If razor burn is something you deal with, a homemade aloe cream can be a game-changer. It’s calming and antibacterial, making it a smart, natural alternative to conventional aftershaves.

Soothing Balm for Kids: My little ones love this cream when they get itchy bug bites or scrapes. It’s gentle enough for their skin, and because I made it myself, I feel confident knowing exactly what’s in it.

If you’re a mom too, this is one of those multi-use creams that quickly earns a spot in the diaper bag or first aid kit.

Light Body Lotion: For those who don’t like heavy body butters, this is a great in-between. You can apply it after a shower to lock in moisture or use it during the day to refresh dry areas. I sometimes add a few drops of lavender essential oil to make it feel extra soothing.

Aloe Vera Moisturizer

Yield: about 3 ounces

No Ratings

Materials

2 tablespoons carrier oil (I used jojoba oil)
2 tablespoons shea butter
2 tablespoons aloe vera gel
12 drops essential oils (I used tea tree for our face cream version)
Geogard ECT preservative (I used 12 drops)

Instructions

Combine the carrier oil and shea butter in a glass container.
Heat gently using a double boiler until fully melted.
Let it cool and solidify, then whip until light and fluffy.
Add in your aloe vera gel and whip again until well incorporated.
Finally, stir in your essential oils and give it one last mix.

Notes

You can use any carrier oil you would like.
12 drops essential oil will make a .5% dilution. Any essential oils work.
If you don't use a preservative, it will last around a month if you keep it in the fridge. I prefer using a preservative and it lasting months!