9 Easy DIY Makeup Recipes For A Clean Homemade Cosmetics Routine

But if you could create makeup that’s personalized, eco-friendly, free of harmful chemicals, AND super affordable, there’s no better way than to do it yourself.

DIY makeup is not only fun to make and safer for your skin, but it’s also surprisingly simple and customizable so you have complete (creative) control over the tone, shade and pop of color choice.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into our clean, effective, and affordable homemade makeup recipes you can make today!

Let’s start with the foundation of your makeup routine—by which we mean actual foundation! This organic foundation is made from our very own DIY liquid foundation recipe that is easy to blend and custom to tailor to your skin tone, but if you prefer spot-concealing paste or powder version, we have more recipes for those you can find here.

Ingredients:

• Arrowroot Powder (1 tbsp): Provides a smooth, silky texture and absorbs excess oil, preventing a heavy feel.
• Cocoa Powder (1/2–1 tsp, adjust for color): Adds a natural tint to darken or deepen the foundation. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
• Liquid Oil (1 tbsp): Choose a carrier oil suitable for your skin type. Use jojoba or argan oil for dry skin, and grapeseed oil for oily skin.
• Aloe Vera Gel (1-2 tbsp): Hydrates and soothes, creating a smooth base for application.
• Zinc Oxide (1/2 tsp, optional): Offers sun protection and soothes the skin. It also thickens the foundation.
• Filtered or Distilled Water (2-3 tbsp): Adjust to your preferred consistency. This liquid base thins the foundation.

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the arrowroot powder, cocoa powder, and zinc oxide (if using).
2. Gradually add the liquid oil and aloe vera gel while stirring. Begin with 1 tablespoon of oil and add more for a thinner consistency.
3. Add the distilled water 1 tablespoon at a time, stirring until the foundation reaches your desired thickness. Add more water for a lighter foundation, or more arrowroot powder for thicker coverage.
4. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully combined.
5. Test the foundation on your jawline to check the shade match. Adjust the color by adding more cocoa powder (to darken) or arrowroot powder (to lighten).
6. Store in a small glass container or pump bottle for easy application.

Cost Savings:

• Arrowroot Powder: $6 for an 8 oz bag (~$0.75 for 2 tbsp)
• Cocoa Powder: $6 for an 8 oz container (~$0.24 for 2 tsp)
• Jojoba Oil: $7 for a 4 fl oz bottle (~$0.87 for 1 tbsp)
• Aloe Vera Gel: $12 for a 12 fl oz bottle (~$1.00 for 2 tbsp)
• Zinc Oxide: $10 for an 8 oz bag (~$0.10 for ½ tsp)

Cost per batch: ~$2.96 (recipe makes about 3 fl oz, so equivalent to $0.99 per fl oz)

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$6 for 1 fl oz bottle (e.g., Revlon, Clinique, L’Oréal Paris, or similar brands)

Savings per Batch: $5.01

Let’s be real—eyeliner is the unsung hero of the makeup world. One tiny flick can turn “I just rolled out of bed” into “I am a mysterious, alluring enigma.” But store-bought liners? They smudge at the worst times, cost way too much for something that literally just sits on your eyelid, and sometimes contain ingredients you should really avoid in skincare.

Whether you’re aiming for a subtle definition or full-on cat-eye drama, this homemade eyeliner will have you serving bold looks without questionable additives.

Bonus: No more digging through your makeup bag, only to find your expensive liner has mysteriously dried up RIP to all those we’ve lost along the way).

Ingredients:

• Activated Charcoal or Cocoa Powder (½ tsp): Charcoal provides black pigmentation and cocoa powder brown, both in a non-toxic and skin-safe way
• Aloe Vera Gel (1 tsp): Creates a smooth, spreadable base that soothes and moisturizes
• Coconut Oil (½ tsp): Aids in application glide and long-lasting staying powder.

Instructions:

1. Mix all three ingredients (or four, if you’re blending charcoal and cocoa powder for a darker brown or softer black look) until you achieve a smooth, paste-like consistency.
2. Test the consistency on the back of your hand. If it’s too thick, add a touch more aloe vera gel and adjust the color as needed depending on your desired effect.
3. Transfer into a small, clean jar or tin pot with a lid for storage. The smaller the better, as this will prevent it from drying out.
4. Use a fine eyeliner brush to apply, allowing time to dry.

Cost Savings:

• Activated Charcoal: $10 for a 1 lb bag (~$0.05 for 1/2 tsp)
• Aloe Vera Gel: $12 for a 12 fl oz bottle (~$0.16 for 1 tsp)
• Coconut Oil: $12 for a 30 fl oz tub (~$0.06 for 1/2 tsp)

Cost per batch: ~$0.27

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$7+ for 1 liquid liner rube (e.g., e.l.f., Maybelline, wet n wild, and similar brands)

Savings per Batch: $6.73

Non-toxic eyeshadow for us is beautifully pigmented, easy-to-blend and without synthetic additives. Which is why we personally use (and love) our own DIY eyeshadow in order to achieve these attributes.

While some recipes suggest adding essential oils for fragrance, we don’t recommend it—fragrance ingredients, including essential oils, can be harsh on the delicate eye area and may lead to irritation. For a gentle, skin-safe formula, it’s best to keep eye makeup unscented.

Ingredients:

• Arrowroot Powder (1 tsp): Arrowroot powder helps to give the eyeshadow a smooth, silky texture while also absorbing oil to keep the eyeshadow smudge and crease-free for longer.
• Mica Powder (1 tsp, optional): Mica adds a shimmer and tiny. Use colored mica powders in making a colored eyeshadow and neutral white or gold if you just want a metallic effect.
• Cocoa Powder (1/4 tsp, optional): If you’re looking to make neutral colors, use cocoa powder in place of mica powder.
• Activated Charcoal (1/2 tsp, optional): If you want a darker, smoky look, activated charcoal can be combined with either mica powder or cocoa powder to darken the shade.

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine your base color, whether this be with mica, cocoa powder, activated charcoal, or all three depending on your desired color effect. You can test the color on a patch of skin on the back of your hand to see what effect it will have on the skin.
2. Add arrowroot powder to the mix to create a smoother consistency and help the powder adhere better to your eyelids. Adding more arrowroot and less mica will yield a more matte effect.
3. Stir the mixture until the pigments are fully blended.
4. Test again on your hand and perform any final tint tweaks.
5. Store the mixture in a small container with a tight lid, and apply with an eyeshadow brush for even coverage.

Cost Savings:

• Mica Powder: $13 for a 30 oz bag (~$0.08 for 1 tsp)
• Arrowroot Powder: $6 for an 8 oz bag (~$0.12 for 1 tsp)
• Activated Charcoal: $10 for a 1 lb bag (~$0.05 for 1/2 tsp)
• Cocoa Powder: $6 for an 8 oz container (~$0.03 for ¼ tsp)

Cost per batch: ~$0.28

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$6+ for 0.1 oz loose powder (e.g., L.A. Colors or similar options)

Savings per Batch: $5.72

Want to enhance your lashes without the harsh chemicals found in many commercial mascaras?

This all-natural homemade mascara not only lengthens and volumizes, but nourishes your lashes with gentle, plant-based ingredients. While beeswax adds some water resistance, keep in mind that this isn’t a fully waterproof formula.

Ingredients:

• Activated Charcoal or Cocoa Powder (1 tsp): For a dramatic black or rich brown pigment.
• Bentonite Clay (½ tsp): Adds texture and volume while helping the mascara adhere to your lashes.
• Beeswax or Candelilla Wax (½ tsp): Thickens the formula for smooth, long-lasting application (candelilla wax is a great vegan option).
• Castor Oil (½ tsp): Conditions and strengthens lashes, preventing breakage and promoting growth.
• Aloe Vera Gel (2 tsp): Hydrates, lengthens, and helps the mascara glide on effortlessly.
• Vitamin E Oil (2-3 drops): Strengthens and nourishes lashes while acting as a natural preservative.

Instructions:

1. Melt the beeswax (or candelilla wax) in a double boiler (or pot over another of boiling water) until fully liquefied.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in the aloe vera gel and vitamin E oil until the mixture is smooth.
3. Slowly stir in the activated charcoal (or cacao powder) and bentonite clay, ensuring an even consistency. Adjust the shade by adding more charcoal for a darker black or more cacao for a softer brown.
4. Carefully transfer the mixture into a clean, empty mascara tube using a small funnel or piping bag.
5. Allow the mascara to cool and set completely before use. Apply with a mascara wand as you normally would, layering for volume. Let each coat dry slightly before adding another for a fuller effect.
6. This formula is shelf-stable for ~3 months when stored in a cool, dry place. If it begins to dry out, add a drop of aloe vera gel and stir to refresh.

Cost Savings:

• Activated Charcoal: $10 for a 1 lb bag (~$0.10 for 1 tsp)
• Bentonite Clay: $6 for a 4 oz bag (~$0.12 for ½ tsp)
• Beeswax: $8 for a 15 oz bag (~$0.04 for ½ tsp)
• Castor Oil: $10 for a 16 oz bottle (~$0.05 for ½ tsp)
• Aloe Vera Gel: $12 for a 12 fl oz bottle (~$0.38 for 2 tsp)
• Vitamin E Oil: $6 for a 2 fl oz bottle (~$0.10 per drop)

Total for Batch: ~$0.79

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$9 for one tube (e.g., eRevlon, Maybelline, L’Oreal, and similar brands)

Savings per Batch: $8.21

Create a luminous look with this versatile DIY highlighter. Perfect for all-over radiance or targeted highlighting, this recipe features mica powder in champagne, pearl, silver, or rose gold to give your skin a natural, light-reflecting shimmer.

Ingredients:

• Mica powder (1 tsp): Reflects light to create a brightening effect and reduce the appearance of dark circles. Opt for neutrals like pearl, champagne, or rose gold, not brightly colored mira powder.
• Arrowroot Powder (1 tbsp): Helps absorb excess oil and gives a smooth, soft-focus finish
• Bentonite Or Kaolin Clay (½ tsp): Adds a silky texture while gently detoxifying and mattifying. Bentonite clay absorbs extra oil so it is better for oily skin.
• Finely Ground Oats or Oat Flour (½ tsp, optional): Gives extra skin soothing and hydrating power to the formula. Also blurs fine lines and provides a subtle brightening effect.

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl (or tin that you plan to store it in, as this formula can easily be mixed in the final container), whisk together arrowroot powder, clay of choice, and oat flour until well combined.
2. Gradually mix in the mica powder, stirring thoroughly to ensure even distribution. We recommend not adding the full teaspoon to start, but adding half, mixing, then testing on the back of your hand. If greater shimmer is desired, add the rest. You can also adjust the shade by adding more pearl mica for brightness or rose gold for warmth.
3. Transfer to a small sifter jar or compact (unless already mixing in your final container) for easy application.
4. Use a fluffy brush to lightly dust under the eyes or over high points of the face.

Cost Savings:

• Mica Powder: $13 for a 30 oz bag (~$0.08 for 1 tsp)
• Arrowroot Powder: $6 for an 8 oz bag (~$0.38 for 1 tbsp)
• Bentonite Clay: $6 for a 4 oz bag (~$0.12 for ½ tsp)
• Oat Flour/Ground Oats: $7 for a 20 oz bag (~$0.05 for ½ tsp)

Total for Batch: ~$0.63

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$6 for a 0.2 oz compact (e.g., wet n wild and similar brands)

Savings per Batch: $5.37

Achieve a flawless, fresh-faced look with this DIY blush powder. Perfect for oily or combination skin, this lightweight formula offers buildable coverage and helps control excess oil. Plus, by adding real floral botanicals, you can enjoy a truly unique and naturally-scented blush.

Ingredients:

• Beetroot Powder (1–2 tbsp): This gives the blush a natural, rosy color. It’s also rich in antioxidants. Adjust the amount to control the color’s intensity.
• Arrowroot Powder (1 tbsp): Provides a light base and a smooth texture, helping the blush go on evenly. It also absorbs excess oil.
• Cocoa Powder (1/2–1 tsp, optional): Adds depth and a neutral, brownish tone. Use it to customize the shade to match your skin.
• Cornstarch (1/2 tsp, optional): Smooths the blush’s texture and lightens the color if needed.
• Cinnamon Powder (½ tsp, optional): Adds a subtle warm undertone and can boost circulation.
• Essential Oils (optional): For fragrance or skincare benefits. Lavender or rose oil are good choices. Always test essential oils on a small area of the skin before applying to the face.
• Mica Powder (1/2 tsp, optional): For a glowy finish, add pink or white mica powder for shimmer.

Instructions:

1. Combine beetroot powder and arrowroot powder in a small bowl. Adjust beetroot powder for your desired color.
2. For a deeper shade, add cocoa powder. For a lighter shade, add cornstarch. For shimmer, add mica powder.
3. Mix the powders thoroughly until they’re evenly combined.
4. If using, add a drop or two of essential oil for fragrance. Perform a patch test first.
5. Store in a small container with a lid. Apply with a brush, layering for more intense color.

Cost Savings:

• Beetroot Powder: $10 for an 8 oz bag (~$0.50 for 2 tbsp)
• Arrowroot Powder: $6 for an 8 oz bag (~$0.19 for 1 tbsp)
• Cocoa Powder: $6 for an 8 oz container (~$0.06 for ½ tsp)
• Cinnamon Powder: $6 for a 2 oz jar (~$0.02 for 1/2 tsp)
• Cornstarch: $5 for a 12 oz bag (~$0.03 for 1/2 tsp)
• Mica Powder: $13 for a 30 oz bag (~$0.04 for 1/2 tsp)
• Essential Oils: $7 for 1 fl oz bottle (~$0.01 for 1-2 drops)

Cost per batch: ~$0.85

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$10+ for 0.3 oz loose powder sifter (e.g., KYDA, or similar mineral blush options)

Savings per Batch: $11.15

This recipe creates a creamy, semi-matte DIY lipstick entirely free of synthetic chemicals. It prioritizes natural, skin-loving ingredients, which is especially important for lip products. Unlike other areas of the body where skin acts as more of a barrier, the lips can readily absorb what’s applied to them. This means that not only is your lip product on your skin, but it’s also very easily in your body, as we often lick our lips or ingest small amounts of lipstick throughout the day.

Ingredients:

• Beeswax or Candelilla Wax (1 tsp): Provides structure and helps the lipstick stay solid. (Slight increase for better lipstick consistency)
• Shea Butter (1 tbsp): Moisturizes and adds creaminess.
• Beetroot Powder (1-2 tsp): Provides natural color. Start with 1 tsp and add more for deeper color.
• Jojoba or Sweet Almond Oil (1 tbsp, optional): Adds slip and shine.
• Cornstarch (1 tsp): Helps with texture and reduces shine if a matte finish is preferred. (Slight increase for better lipstick texture)

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler (or a heat-safe bowl over simmering water), gently melt the beeswax and shea butter until fully liquid.
2. Remove from heat and add the beetroot powder and cornstarch, stirring continuously to ensure even distribution. Beetroot powder provides a lovely natural color, but it may not be as intense as synthetic dyes. Start with a smaller amount and add more until you achieve your desired color.
3. Stir in the jojoba or sweet almond oil, if adding. Note that this will make the formula more smooth and nourishing, but it will dilute the color and make it more of a tinted lip balm. For bolder, thicker color, omit this oil.
4. Pour the mixture into lipstick tubes or small containers.
5. Let it cool and solidify completely at room temperature (or in the fridge for faster setting).
6. Store your DIY lipstick in a cool, dry place. It may melt in very hot weather.

Cost Savings:

• Beeswax: $8 for a 15 oz bag (~$0.08 for 1 tsp)
• Shea Butter: $8 for an 8 oz tub (~$0.50 for 1 tbsp)
• Jojoba Oil: $7 for a 4 fl oz bottle (~$0.87 for 1 tbsp)
• Beetroot Powder: $10 for an 8 oz bag (~$0.40 for 2 tsp)
• Cornstarch: $5 for a 12 oz bag (~$0.06 for 1 tsp)

Cost per batch: ~$1.91

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$7+ for 1 tube (e.g., L’Oréal Paris, Revlon, and similar cosmetic brands)

Savings per Batch: $5.09

Once your makeup is applied, you want to ensure all your hard work doesn’t go to waste with a little sweat from the day. A homemade setting spray can help ensure your makeup stays put all day long—which is especially useful since natural recipes often lack the long-lasting qualities achieved through synthetic chemicals in conventional beauty products.

Ingredients:

• Aloe Vera Gel (1 tbsp): Provides a burst of hydration while calming redness and irritation.
• Witch Hazel (2 tbsp): A natural toner that helps tighten pores, control excess oil, and reduce breakouts.
• Rose Water (¼ cup): Soothes and refreshes skin while maintaining a balanced pH.
• Glycerin (1 tsp, optional): A moisture-locking ingredient that helps makeup stay put longer.
• Distilled Water (¼ cup): Helps blend the ingredients and ensures a lightweight mist.

Instructions:

1. Pour the aloe vera gel, witch hazel, rose water, and glycerin (if using) into a small spray bottle.
2. Fill the remaining space in the bottle with distilled water.
3. Secure the lid and shake gently to mix everything thoroughly.
4. Hold the bottle about 8–10 inches from your face and mist lightly over your makeup. Let it air dry for a flawless, dewy finish.

Cost Savings:

• Aloe Vera Gel: $12 for a 12 fl oz bottle (~$0.50 for 1 tbsp)
• Witch Hazel: $8 for a 16 oz bottle (~$0.25 for 2 tbsp)
• Rose Water: $7 for a 5 fl oz bottle (~$2.80 for 1/4 cup)
• Distilled/Filtered Water: $1 per gallon (~$0.01 per cup)
• Glycerin: $10 for a 16 fl oz bottle (~$0.10 for 1 tsp)

Cost per batch: ~$3.66

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$10+ for a 2 fl oz bottle (e.g., Nix, Milani, e.l.f., or similar mid-tier skincare brands)

Savings per Batch: $6.34

Last but certainly not least, natural makeup remover—because what good is a clean beauty routine without a safe and nourishing way to remove those beauty products once the day is done and dusted?

This super simple DIY makeup remover recipe can be made either with or without oil (depending on your skin type), but we generally recommend using oil as it’s much more effective against stubborn cosmetics like eyeliner. And anything that helps us not have to scrub that sensitive eye skin as hard is a win in our beauty book.

Ingredients:

• Aloe Vera Gel (¼ cup): Hydrates and soothes while helping to dissolve makeup for easy removal.
• Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel (2 tbsp): A natural toner that lifts away dirt and oil without drying out your skin.
• Jojoba Oil (2 tbsp, optional): A lightweight oil that mimics skin’s natural sebum, making it great for dissolving stubborn eye makeup without clogging pores.
• Vitamin E Oil (½ tsp, optional): Acts as a preservative while providing extra nourishment for your skin.
• Distilled Water (½ cup): Keeps the mixture pure and free from contaminants for a longer shelf life.

Instructions:

1. Combine aloe vera gel, witch hazel, and distilled water and stir until fairly well blended.
2. If using, slowly add jojoba and vitamin E oils, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
3. Pour the mixture into a clean glass bottle or pump dispenser.
4. To use, shake well then apply a small amount to a sustainable cotton round to washcloth and wipe away. Rinse with warm water if desired.

Cost Savings:

• Aloe Vera Gel: $12 for a 12 fl oz bottle (~$2.00 for 1/4 cup)
• Witch Hazel: $8 for a 16 oz bottle (~$0.25 for 2 tbsp)
• Distilled/Filtered Water: $1 per gallon (~$0.01 per ½ cup)
• Jojoba Oil: $7 for a 4 fl oz bottle (~$1.75 for 2 tbsp)
• Vitamin E Oil: $6 for a 2 fl oz bottle (~$0.25 per ½ tsp)

Total for Batch: ~$4.26

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$7 for a 4 oz bottle (e.g., e.l.f. Cetaphil, or similar makeup remover brands).

Savings per Batch: $2.74