Author: Whip up your own rich, creamy body butter with just five simple ingredients. This DIY recipe melts into your skin, leaving it smooth and deeply moisturized without feeling greasy. It's the kind of everyday luxury that feels indulgent but takes only minutes to make.
FEATURED COMMENT:
I made this yesterday! It feels lovely on my skin -- very hydrating. My skin feels so soft! - Cindy
I have extremely sensitive, dry skin, and most store-bought lotions and creams just don't work for me. Instead of guessing which ingredient was causing the irritation, I decided to make my own body butter so I could control exactly what goes into it. The difference was immediate. This whipped body butter is rich, smooth, and deeply moisturizing. Plus, it smells incredible.
What I love most is how customizable it is. You can choose the oils, butters, and scents that work best for your skin, without any fillers or mystery additives. Once you see how simple it is to make, you may never go back to store-bought again.
Ingredients for Homemade Body Butter
- Shea butter: A natural moisturizer and emollient that hydrates and softens skin.
- Cocoa butter: This hydrates and soothes the skin. It also has slight chocolate aroma!
- Oil: Jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, coconut oil, almond oil, olive oil, or sunflower seed oil, (see notes below for info about each oil).
- Starch: Cornstarch, arrowroot starch, or tapioca starch help keep the body butter from separating.
- Essential oil: I used this vanilla essential oil, but you can use any oil you like or a combination.
How to Make Body Butter
You can either use a double boiler, or the microwave to melt the oils. Below, you'll find an overview for both methods, but the full instructions are in the recipe card below.
- Double boiler method: Set up a double boiler and add the shea butter, cocoa butter, and oil of choice.
- Melt all the ingredients together, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave method: Add the shea butter, cocoa butter, and oil to a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup. Melt the ingredients together in the microwave in 20-second increments, or until the mixture is smooth when stirred.
- Chill: Pour the melted oils into the bowl of your stand mixer or another heat-proof bowl (or leave them in the bowl from the double boiler if you used the stove method), then refrigerate for 45 - 60 minutes.
- Whip: Add the starch and essential oil. Use a stand mixer, hand mixer, or whisk to whip the body butter until fluffy.
- Store: Scoop the body butter into a jar. Store at room temperature, or in the refrigerator in the summer if your home is hot.
Choosing the Right Oil
Here's how to select the right oil for your skin's needs.
- Jojoba Oil: Known for its similarity to the skin's natural sebum, jojoba oil moisturizes, soothes, and balances the skin, making it suitable for various skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
- Grapeseed Oil: Lightweight and non-comedogenic, grapeseed oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamin E, helping to moisturize, tighten, and tone the skin while supporting its natural collagen production.
- Coconut Oil: With its moisturizing properties, coconut oil can nourish and hydrate the skin, leaving it soft and supple. It also has antimicrobial properties that may be beneficial for certain skin conditions, although it can be comedogenic for some individuals, meaning it may clog pores and lead to breakouts. Unrefined coconut oil has a strong coconut smell whereas refined coconut oil is scentless, so if you do not want a coconut smell use refined coconut oil. This oil will also make your body butter quite firm in cooler temperatures.
- Almond Oil: Almond oil is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, making it a great emollient and moisturizer for the skin. It can help improve complexion, reduce inflammation, and soothe dry and irritated skin.
- Olive Oil: A versatile oil with antioxidants and fatty acids, olive oil provides moisturizing benefits, helps protect against free radicals, and can aid in improving skin elasticity. It is commonly used for dry or mature skin. It is a heavier oil that may not suit all skin types. For individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, using olive oil may potentially clog pores and cause breakouts.
- Sunflower Seed Oil: Rich in vitamins A, D, and E, sunflower seed oil helps retain moisture, soothes and calms the skin, and can assist in enhancing the skin's natural barrier function, making it suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
Will this body butter feel greasy?
This body butter is rich and deeply moisturizing, so it will feel more nourishing than a typical lotion, which contains water. For best results, apply it to slightly damp skin, such as right after a shower, and allow a few minutes for it to absorb. If you prefer a lighter feel, try using a lightweight oil like grapeseed or jojoba oil.
Can I use this on my face?
This body butter is quite rich, so it may be too heavy for some facial skin types, especially oily or acne-prone skin. If you choose to use it on your face, use a very small amount and consider using lighter oils such as jojoba or grapeseed oil.
Can I customize the texture?
Yes, this recipe is very flexible. For a softer body butter, add a bit more liquid oil. For a firmer body butter, increase the cocoa butter or use coconut oil.
Tips for Perfect DIY Body Butter
Why did my body butter melt?
Body butter is made from natural oils and butters, so it can melt in warm temperatures, typically around 32°C (90°F) or higher. If your body butter melts, simply place it in the fridge to firm it back up. You can re-whip it if needed to restore a fluffy texture. In warmer months or climates, storing it in the fridge can help maintain its consistency.
Why is my body butter hard?
If your body butter feels too firm, it's usually due to a cooler room temperature or the use of firmer oils like coconut oil. To soften it, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using, or warm a small amount between your hands. For a softer texture next time, try increasing the amount of liquid oil or using a softer oil like jojoba.
Why is my body butter grainy?
Natural butters like shea butter can sometimes develop a grainy texture if they cool too slowly. To fix this, gently melt the mixture again, chill it more quickly in the fridge, and then re-whip. This helps create a smoother, creamier texture.
Essential Oil Scent Blends for Body Butter
Here are some of my favorite scent combinations (with exact ratios so you can recreate them easily)! You can use one blend per batch of body butter.
Start with 10-20 total drops, then adjust to your preference.
Relaxing & Spa-Like
- 🛁 Bedtime Bliss: Lavender (6 drops) + Vanilla (4 drops), Calming, cozy, and perfect before bed
- 🌙 Spa Day: Lavender (5 drops) + Eucalyptus (3 drops) + Peppermint (2 drops). Fresh, soothing, and totally spa-like
Warm & Cozy
- 🍰 Vanilla Almond Dream: Vanilla (6 drops) + Almond (4 drops). Soft, sweet, and comforting
- 🥥 Coconut Cream: Vanilla (5 drops) + Coconut (5 drops). Warm, creamy, and tropical
- 🔥 Spiced Sugar: Vanilla (5 drops) + Cinnamon (2 drops) + Clove (1 drop). Warm and cozy (use cinnamon/clove sparingly, they're strong!)
Fresh & Bright
- 🍊 Orange Creamsicle: Orange (6 drops) + Vanilla (4 drops). Sweet, citrusy, and nostalgic
- 🍋 Fresh & Zesty: Lemon (6 drops) + Lime (4 drops). Light and fresh
- 🌞 Citrus Burst: Grapefruit (5 drops) + Lime (3 drops) + Orange (2 drops). Bright, zesty, and energizing
Dessert-Inspired
- 🍫 Chocolate Vanilla Swirl: Cocoa absolute or chocolate fragrance (5 drops) + Vanilla (5 drops). Rich and indulgent
- 🌿 Mint Chocolate: Peppermint (3 drops) + Vanilla (5 drops) + Chocolate (2 drops). Cool, sweet, and refreshing (like a peppermint patty!)
- ☕ Coffee House: Coffee (5 drops) + Chocolate (4 drops). Warm, cozy, and slightly energizing
Floral & Soft
- 🌹 Rose Garden: Rose (5 drops) + Geranium (4). Soft and romantic
- 🌼 Floral Sunshine: Ylang Ylang (4 drops) + Orange (4 drops) + Vanilla (2 drops). Floral with a bright citrus twist
If you try this homemade body butter recipe let us know by leaving a comment, rating it, and don't forget to tag @itdoesnttastelikechicken on Instagram. Let me know in the comments if you want more homemade skin care recipes!
(click stars to vote)
Homemade Body Butter
Servings: large tub of body butter (about 1 ¼ cups)
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Equipment
- 1 double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
- 1 spatula
- 1 standing mixer, hand mixer, or whisk
Ingredients
- ½ cup (3.4 oz) shea butter
- ½ cup (2.1 oz) cocoa butter
- ½ cup jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, coconut oil, almond oil, olive oil, or sunflower seed oil, (see notes for info about each oil)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, arrowroot starch, or tapioca starch
- 10 - 30 drops essential oil of choice, (optional, see notes for scent ideas)
Instructions
Step 1: You can either use a double boiler, or the microwave to melt the oils.
Double boiler method:
- Use a double boiler or place a heatproof bowl on top of a pot filled with a couple of inches of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn't touch the water. To the bowl, add the shea butter, cocoa butter, and oil of choice.
- Gently melt all the ingredients together using a spatula to stir them every now and then. Once melted, remove the bowl from the heat and place it in the fridge to cool for about 45 - 60 minutes.
Microwave method:
- If you prefer you can use the microwave instead of the double boiler. To a large microwave-safe measuring cup or bowl, add the shea butter, cocoa butter, and oil of choice. Melt the ingredients together in the microwave in 20-second increments, stopping to stir, and being very careful not to burn or overheat the oil. Pour the melted oils into the bowl of your stand mixer or another large heat-proof bowl, then place the bowl in the fridge to cool for about 45 - 60 minutes.
Step 2: Whip the body butter:
- You will know the oils have chilled long enough and are ready for whipping when the oils around the edges of the bowl are solid but it is still a bit melty in the middle.
- Now to the bowl add the starch, and essential oil. I like to start with 10 drops of essential oil and then add more as needed if I want the scent to be stronger. Use a stand mixer, hand mixer, or whisk to whip the body butter until it is fluffy and lightens in color.
- Transfer the body butter to a sealable jar. I like to store my body butter at room temperature, but if it is a hot summer day you may want to store it in the fridge as it can melt at about 90℉ (32℃). It should keep for up to 1 year.For optimal results, I recommended applying this body butter immediately after showering. Allow it to absorb into your skin for a few minutes before getting dressed. I prefer to use it before bedtime and wear cotton pyjamas so that I wake up with soft and moisturized skin.
Mia J Tosetti says
do you NEED the cocoa butter? can I just use coconut oil and shea butter?
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
Hi Mia! You can make this body butter using just shea butter and coconut oil if you prefer! Cocoa butter does help make the texture a bit firmer and gives it a lovely rich feel, but it’s not essential. If you’re skipping the cocoa butter, just know that your final body butter may be a bit softer, especially in warmer temperatures—coconut oil melts at around 76°F (24°C). For a firmer consistency, you can either use refined coconut oil (which is more solid at room temp) or pop your finished body butter in the fridge to keep it set. Hope that helps! 😊
Mindy Bauder says
My batch is a little greasy, any tips?
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
Hi Mindy, you could increase the cornstarch slightly. Note that this body butter is a little greasier than some store-bought versions (it's much richer). Let it absorb into your skin for a few minutes. Enjoy!
harp says
Hi, how do I incorporate beeswax into this mixture, would it do anything? also how long does this last and does it grow bacteria like a lotion?
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
Hi harp, this is a vegan blog so I don’t use or test beeswax in my recipes. As for shelf life, since this body butter doesn’t contain any water (unlike lotion), it’s less prone to bacterial growth and can typically last up to a year if stored in a clean, sealed container away from heat and moisture. Just make sure to avoid introducing any water into the jar when using it. Hope this helps! 🙂
Kathy says
Can I leave out the cornstarch? Will it be too greasy?
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
Hi Kathy, you can leave out the starch if you prefer! The body butter will feel a bit greasier but will still be great. Enjoy!
Nala says
Can I make this without shea butter? Will it be just as good?
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
Hi Nala! Yes, you can make this without shea butter, but the texture and feel will be slightly different. Shea butter is what gives this body butter its rich, creamy consistency and deep moisturizing properties. If you leave it out, you’ll want to replace it with another solid butter like mango butter or more cocoa butter to maintain the right texture. Mango butter is a great alternative because it's lightweight and deeply hydrating, while cocoa butter will make it a bit firmer. Let me know if you give it a try! 😊
Kelly says
Absolutely love this recipe and receive great reviews when I give as a gift!! I am making gifts for Christmas using P&J Forest Pine and Mistletoe essential oils!
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
Oh that sounds lovely! I'm so thrilled you love this recipe so much, Kelly! Thank you for the review 🙂
Danielle says
i have a question about the scent. I added the recommended amount of essential oils, but all I can smell is the shea butter, which isn't terrible, but I want a particular fragrance. How much oil should I add to a double batch to overcome the shea butter smell?
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
Hi Danielle, The intensity of essential oils can vary depending on the brand, type of oil, and personal scent preferences. The recipe suggests 10–30 drops of essential oil, allowing you to adjust based on your preferred scent level. If the shea butter aroma is still dominant, feel free to add a few more drops of your chosen essential oil to achieve the fragrance you’re aiming for. Just add them gradually, stirring well between additions, until you’re satisfied with the scent. I hope that helps!
Amy says
how much does it make I'm also doing as Christmas present and need to make 14 8 oz mason jars
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
Hi Amy, an 8 oz jar holds 1 cup. So to fill 14 jars you would need 14 cups of body butter. The recipe makes 1 1/4 cups. So you would need to make 11 - 12 batches to get enough to fill each jar all they way to the top. You could also select a smaller jar such as a 4 oz mason jar which would require only about 6 batches to fill the jars. I hope that helps!
Jude says
Mine became hard and hard to use. Anyone else experience this? How to keep it body butter consistency??
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
Hi Jude, this can happen if the room is a bit cool or if you used an oil like coconut oil, which hardens at lower temperatures. To keep it softer, try adding a bit more liquid oil (like jojoba or grapeseed oil) to the mix next time. You can also warm it in your hands before applying to soften it up!
Lynn says
What an amazing body butter! Easey-peasey! I am going to use it for face, too, and add some copper peptides to it. I added many different essential oils and I used castor and coconut oil as the oil ingredient. Also used xanthan gum instead of cornstarch. Only use a pinch though because it makes it super thick!
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
So happy you enjoyed it Lynn!! 🙂
Jax says
Can you use mango butter instead of cocoa butter?
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
Hi Jax, sorry for the delay in response! Absolutely! Mango butter can be a great substitute for cocoa butter. It’s lightweight, absorbs well, and still provides that rich, moisturizing feel. Just keep in mind it has a slightly different texture and scent, so it may make the body butter a bit softer and change the final fragrance.
Grace says
I made this yesterday with a few changes. I did not have cocoa butter so used the whole cup of Shea Butter instead and added a third of Coconut oil to the oil mix. I did not have Yarrow Flour and used Tapioca Starch instead. I used Lavender and Geranium Oil Essential oils for fragrance. It's lovely! So rich and soft for smoothing my very dry skin. Thanks for the recipe. Grace from Australia.
Jess @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
That sounds like a beautiful scent combination!
Sylvia says
I’ve made this recipe a few times and I love it. I’ve even swapped out the jojoba oil for Blackseed oil in my last batch. I’m wondering what I can use as preservative.
Victoria Cowell says
Hi there! Just made this. Any tips on how to make it less great! Great recipe over all and nice and easy to follow along
Elle says
Is Arrowroot starch the same as Arrowroot Powder??
Jess @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
Yes, it's the same!
Carol says
Love this
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
Yay! Thank you 🙂
Nella says
What is the use of this body butter, can you use it on your lip, hair, skin, cuticles and other places also, or is it specifically for your skin?
Jess @ IDTLC Support says
This recipe is best for skin!
Catherine says
Thanks, Sam. Love this. Old person, and shrivelling! So it's great!
Sam Turnbull says
Haha! So happy you like it 🙂
Emily says
Hi Sam!
What jar do you use to store this in?
I can only find small ones.
Thanks!
Emily
Sam Turnbull says
I used these jars: https://amzn.to/3YevtRY Hope that helps!
Cindy says
I made this yesterday! It feels lovely on my skin -- very hydrating. My skin feels so soft! One question, though, on how long to whip the butter. Should it form "peaks?" How do you know when it's whipped long enough?
Sam Turnbull says
So happy you love it Cindy! It will form peaks. You can tell it's ready when it lightens in color. take 2 - 3 minutes 🙂
Snežana Žilić-Mijić says
SUPER LAKO ZA NAPRAVITI
Kay says
🙂 Low Oleic sunflower oil is the least likely to clog pores. High Oleic is of course the easiest one to find. Fractionated coconut oil won't get hard (that's the one that stays liquid), however, it might be missing the antimicrobial action (depending on which articles you read). If allergic to any type of nut, try a little almond oil on your skin (small area) for a couple days to see if you react, before making a nice big batch. Actually, if you have any allergies at all that might be a good idea. I have no nut allergies at all but cannot use almond oil, on my skin or just breathing near it, react to both. But I can eat almonds and all other nuts, no problem! Just an fyi. Happy moisturizing! (Hmm, that sounds a little weird... lol.) For a similar recipe for sunburn, add some raw honey, peppermint essential oil - optional, and some prepared (not fresh!) aloe. I keep it in the fridge and just stir it back together if it separates. (Prepared aloe: the kind from the store with preservatives. Dye free if possible. If you use fresh you will have to keep it in the fridge, and replace every 3-5 days. Cause it will mold.)
Kay says
To clarify, for the sunburn butter, you add those ingredients to the above recipe. Or you can stir them into a store bought cocoa lotion for a shortcut, if there is one you can use. I think for my initial batch after a nasty burn, using what I had on hand, I just mixed the aloe, honey, vitamin E oil, liquid coconut oil, and some of Palmer's fragrance free cocoa lotion (which is no longer fragrance free, grrr), all together. Then whisked till it was all light and fluffy. I'll have to try the cornstarch idea, it was definitely a bit too greasy. 🙂
Leanne says
wow, cool recipe! I also have super sensitive skin & it's tough to find good products. can't wait to whip up a batch! thanks so much ❤️
Sam Turnbull says
Wonderful! I hope your skin loves it as much as mine does 🙂
Megan says
I am so excited to try this recipe! I might have missed this, but how long will this keep?
Thank you!!
Sam Turnbull says
So happy you're excited!! Depending on the type of oil you use, it will last likely up to 1 year! Maybe even more. Enjoy!
Megan says
Fabulous! Thank you so much, Sam!