Making your own baby cream is easy and allows you to control the ingredients. Several recipes utilize common, natural oils and butters.
Simple Homemade Baby Cream Recipes
Several recipes use a combination of shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E oil. The ratios vary slightly depending on the desired consistency. Here are a few examples based on the provided references:
Recipe 1 (from YouTube and Raising Nobles):
- ⅓ cup organic shea butter
- ⅓ cup organic coconut oil
- ⅓ teaspoon vitamin E oil
- Optional: A few drops of your choice of essential oil (ensure it's safe for babies)
Recipe 2 (from At Home On The Prairie):
- ¼ cup shea butter
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons sweet almond oil
- 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
Recipe 3 (Wellness Mama’s Baby Balm):
This recipe includes cocoa butter, olive oil, and castor oil in addition to shea butter, offering a slightly different texture and benefit profile. Check the original source for exact quantities and instructions.
Instructions: A General Guide
- Gather your ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are high-quality and safe for babies. Organic options are often preferred.
- Melt the butters and oils: Gently melt the shea butter, coconut oil (and other oils/butters in your chosen recipe) in a double boiler or a heat-safe bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Avoid direct heat to prevent burning.
- Combine ingredients: Once melted and smooth, remove from heat and stir in vitamin E oil (and any essential oils).
- Pour into containers: Transfer the mixture into clean, sterilized jars or containers.
- Cool and solidify: Allow the cream to cool and solidify completely before using. This may take several hours in the refrigerator.
Important Considerations
- Essential oils: If using essential oils, always dilute them properly and ensure they are safe for babies. Lavender and chamomile are sometimes used, but always research before applying to sensitive baby skin. A patch test on a small area of skin is recommended before widespread use.
- Storage: Store homemade baby cream in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality and extend its shelf life. Refrigeration may help extend shelf life further.
- Allergic Reactions: Always test a small amount of the cream on your baby's skin before applying it liberally. Monitor for any allergic reactions.
