Homemade Beauty Products: Our 7 Favorite DIY Beauty Recipes

Not only are homemade beauty products better for your skin and hair, but they also help you avoid harsh chemicals and unnecessary packaging—making them a win for both you and the planet!

In this roundup of our favorite tried-and-tested DIY body care treatments, you’ll find easy, effective, and all-natural recipes for everything from hydrating face creams and exfoliating scrubs to nourishing hair masks and toners to revitalize dry skin, strengthen your hair, and simply indulge in a little self-care.

This DIY coffee sugar scrub blends the exfoliating power of ground coffee with nourishing oils and moisture locking honey to buff away dead skin, deeply hydrate, and promote circulation for a smoother, more radiant complexion.

Ingredients:

• Ground Coffee (1/4 cup): A great way to use up the leftovers from your cuppa joe. It’s a natural exfoliator that invigorates the skin, boosts circulation, and may help reduce the appearance of cellulite.
• Coconut Oil (2 tbsp): Provides intense moisture, leaving skin soft, smooth, and replenished.
• Sugar (1 tbsp): Gently polishes the skin, enhancing the scrub’s exfoliating benefits.
• Honey (1/2 tbsp): A soothing humectant that locks in hydration while brightening and calming the skin.

Instructions:

1. Combine the ground coffee and sugar in a small bowl.
2. Add the coconut oil and honey, and stir into a thick paste.
3. Apply the scrub to damp skin, gently massaging it in circular motions to exfoliate. This process can be messy so we recommend doing so in the shower or over the sink.
4. Rinse with warm water.

Cost Savings:

• Ground Coffee: Free! (if recycling old coffee grounds)
• Coconut Oil: $12 for a 30 fl oz tub (~$0.40 for 2 tbsp)
• Sugar: $4 for a 4 lbs bag (~$0.03 for 1 tbsp)
• Honey: $11 for a 32 oz bottle (if not organic) (~$0.09 for 1/2 tbsp)

Cost per batch: ~$0.52 (recipe makes about 4 fl oz)

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$10+ for a 4 oz tube (e.g., Aveeno, Sun Bum, Burt’s Bees, or similar mid-tier skincare brands)

Savings per Batch: $9.48

This detoxifying DIY face mask harnesses the power of bentonite clay to draw out impurities, unclog pores, and leave your skin feeling refreshed and balanced. Perfect for oily or acne-prone skin, this mask helps absorb excess oil while soothing inflammation.

Ingredients:

• Bentonite Clay (1 tbsp): A powerful detoxifier that removes impurities and helps control excess oil.
• Apple Cider Vinegar or Water for Sensitive Skin (1 tbsp): Balances skin pH, tightens pores, and provides mild exfoliation.
• Honey (½ tsp, optional) – A natural humectant that locks in moisture while soothing irritation.
• Tea Tree Oil (1-2 drops, optional) – Helps fight acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.

Instructions:

1. In a non-metal bowl (metal can reduce the clay’s effectiveness), mix the bentonite clay with apple cider vinegar (or water) to form a smooth paste. Warning: I you aren’t certain how your skin reacts to ACV, consider trying therecipe with half water, half ACV to start, as it can be quite potent and uncomfortable if you find your skin it not suited to it mid-mask. Even if your skin is not sensitive to ACV but you hate the smell of it, it’s recommended to use water, as you will definitely smell it until it dries.
2. Stir in honey and tea tree oil if using.
3. Apply an even layer to clean, dry skin, avoiding the eye area, especially if using ACV. Even still, the ACV fumes may make your eyes water during the mask period.
4. Let the mask sit for 10–15 minutes (or until it starts to dry but isn’t fully cracked).
5. Rinse off with warm water and follow with a light moisturizer.
6. This recipe makes enough for several masks so store the remainder in an airtight jar and use within 2 weeks. If you do not plan to use it in that time, consider cutting the recipe amount in half or even in quarters.

Cost Savings:

• Bentonite Clay: $6 for a 4 oz bag (~$0.75 for 1 tbsp)
• Apple Cider Vinegar: $13 for a 16 fl oz bottle (~$0.40 for 1 tbsp)
• Honey: $11 for a 32 oz bottle (if not organic) (~$0.03 for 1/2 tsp)
• Tea Tree Oil: $7 for 1 fl oz bottle (~$0.01 for 1-2 drops)

Cost per batch: ~$1.19 per ~4 uses

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$6 for a 3 mask pack (e.g., L’Oréal Paris and similair clay mask brands)

Savings per Batch: $1.70 per single mask use

Your hair deserves a little TLC every now and then. Forget the pricey salon treatments—this easy, protein-rich DIY hair mask uses something as simple as kitchen staples to nourish and strengthen strands, helping to reduce breakage and promote shine. It’s perfect for dry or damaged hair, as it deeply conditions while improving hair elasticity.

Ingredients:

• Egg (1, or 2 for longer hair): Packed with protein and essential nutrients that strengthen hair, reduce breakage, and promote healthy growth.
• Olive Oil Or Castor Oil (2 tbsp): Provides deep moisture and helps smooth frizz, leaving hair soft and shiny. Castor oil has additional benefits of promoting hair growth.
• Honey (1 tbsp): A natural humectant that locks in hydration and adds shine.
• Yogurt (1 tbsp, optional): We prefer an organic greek yoghurt which is less refined. It contains probiotics and lactic acid to nourish the scalp and improve hair texture.

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk the egg(s) until smooth.
2. Add your oil of choice, honey, and yogurt (if using), and mix until well combined.
3. Apply the mixture evenly to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends.
4. Leave it on for 15–20 minutes, covering with a shower cap for better absorption.
5. Rinse thoroughly with cool or lukewarm water (hot water can cook the egg!), and follow with your regular shampoo and conditioner to remove any residue.

Cost Savings:

• Egg: $6 for a dozen (~$0.50 for one egg)
• Castor Oil: $10 for a 16 oz bottle (~$0.62 for 2 tbsp)
• Honey: $11 for a 32 oz bottle (if not organic) (~$0.18 for 1 tbsp)
• Yogurt: $7 for a 32 oz tub (~$0.11 for 1 tbsp)

Cost per batch: ~$1.41 per single use

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$3 for a single use packet (e.g., A TRESemme, Clairol, and similar haircare brands)

Savings per Batch: $1.59

A natural toner is a lightweight, liquid skincare step used after cleansing to remove leftover impurities, tighten pores, and balance the skin’s pH. It preps your skin for better absorption of serums and moisturizers while offering a refreshing boost of hydration. This simple recipe harnesses the astringent properties of witch hazel to cleanse, soothe, and control excess oil in and easy and affordable homemade toner recipe.

Ingredients:

• Witch Hazel (1/4 cup): A natural astringent that helps minimize pores, reduce inflammation, and balance oil production.
• Rose Water (1 tbsp): Adds hydration and a soothing effect, especially for sensitive skin.
• Aloe Vera Gel (1/2 tbsp): Helps to calm irritation and add a light layer of moisture.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tsp, optional): Helps restore the skin’s natural pH and fights breakouts. May be too harsh is you have very sensitive skin.

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a clean glass bottle or jar.
2. Shake well before each use.
3. Apply with a cotton pad or spritz onto the skin after cleansing, avoiding the eye area.
4. Follow with your favorite moisturizer or facial oil.

Cost Savings:

• Witch Hazel: $8 for a 16 oz bottle (~$0.5o for ¼ cup)
• Rose Water: $7 for an 5 fl oz bottle (~$0.70 for 1 tbsp)
• Aloe Vera Gel: $12 for a 12 fl oz bottle (~$0.24 for 1/2 tbsp)
• Apple Cider Vinegar: $13 for a 16 fl oz bottle (~$0.16 for 1 tsp)

Cost per batch: ~$1.60

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$10 for a 6 fl oz bottle (e.g., Thayers, CeraVe, Heritage Store)

Savings per Batch: $8.40

This DIY facial oil is packed with botanical goodness to lock in hydration, restore balance, and leave your skin feeling soft and radiant. Lightweight yet deeply nourishing, it absorbs quickly without clogging pores.

Ingredients:

• Jojoba Oil (1 tbsp): Mimics the skin’s natural oils, helping to balance sebum production and absorb effortlessly.
• Rosehip Oil (½ tbsp): A powerhouse of antioxidants and vitamin A that brightens the skin and smooths fine lines.
• Argan Oil (½ tbsp): Deeply hydrates and softens without clogging pores. Check below for alternatives based on your skin type.
• Vitamin E Oil (¼ tsp, optional): A natural preservative that also promotes skin repair and protection.

Customization Options:

• For Dry Skin: Marula Oil: Deeply hydrating and rich in antioxidants.
• For Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Grapeseed Oil: Lightweight, fast-absorbing, and helps control sebum.
• For Sensitive Skin: Squalane Oil: Non-irritating, mimics skin’s natural lipids, and calms redness.

Instructions:

1. In a small glass dropper bottle, combine all oils together at once.
2. Cap and hake gently.
3. Apply 2–3 drops to freshly-washed skin and gently massage in. It can be applied before makeup, but ensure to allow a few minutes of absorption time before applying other beauty products.

Cost Savings:

• Jojoba Oil: $7 for a 4 fl oz bottle (~$0.87 for 1 tbsp)
• Rosehip Oil: $6 for a 1 fl oz bottle (~$1.50 for 1/2 tbsp)
• Argan Oil: $10 for a 4 fl oz bottle (~$0.63 for 1/2 tbsp)
• Vitamin E Oil: $6 for a 2 fl oz bottle (~$0.25 for ½ tsp)

Cost per batch: ~$3.25 (recipe makes about 1 fl oz)

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$10 for an 1 fl oz jar (e.g., Palmer’s, The Ordinary, and similar mid-tier natural skincare brands)

Savings per Batch: $6.75

This nourishing homemade body butter is packed with skin-loving ingredients that deeply moisturize, restore elasticity, and protect against dryness. Perfect for keeping skin soft, hydrated, and healthy, it absorbs beautifully without feeling greasy.

Ingredients:

• Shea Butter (¼ cup): Provides intense hydration, enhances skin elasticity, and soothes dryness with anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Coconut Oil (2 tbsp): Locks in moisture while offering natural antibacterial properties to keep skin balanced and smooth.
• Almond Oil (1 tbsp): Rich in vitamins A and E, it helps improve elasticity and prevent dryness.
• Jojoba Oil (1 tbsp): Mimics the skin’s natural oils, allowing for quick absorption while maintaining hydration.
• Raw Honey (½ tbsp): A natural humectant that draws moisture into the skin, leaving it soft and nourished, with added antibacterial and calming properties.
• Essential Oils (5–10 drops, optional): Add a natural scent and extra skin benefits with oils like lavender, chamomile, or frankincense.

Instructions:

1. Melt the shea butter and coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl until fully liquefied.
2. Remove from heat and stir in almond oil, jojoba oil, and honey.
3. Let the mixture cool slightly before adding essential oils (if using).
4. Place in the refrigerator for about 1 hour, or until it starts to solidify around the edges.
5. Once semi-solid, whip the mixture using a hand mixer for 5–10 minutes until light and fluffy.
6. Transfer to a glass jar or airtight container and store at room temperature.

Cost Savings:

• Shea Butter: $8 for an 8 oz tub (~$2.00 for ¼ cup)
• Coconut Oil: $9 for an 16 fl oz tub (~$0.56 for 2 tbsp)
• Sweet Almond Oil: $7 for an 8 fl oz bottle (~$0.57 for 1 tbsp)
• Jojoba Oil: $7 for a 4 fl oz bottle (~$0.87 for 1 tbsp)
• Honey: $11 for a 32 oz bottle (if not organic) (~$0.09 for 1/2 tbsp)
• Essential Oils: $7 for 1 fl oz bottle (~$0.05 for 5-10 drops)

Cost per batch: ~$4.59 (recipe makes about 4 fl oz, equivalent to $1.14 per fl oz)

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$20 for an 8 fl oz jar (e.g., Glimmer Goddess and similar mid-tier natural skincare brands)

Savings per Batch: $5.41

This simple DIY dry shampoo recipe uses natural powders to absorb oil and freshen up your hair without the need for washing.

Note that it may require some initial experimentation to get your hair color just right. Start small when it comes to adding colors, as you can always add more later. We recommend keeping careful track of your ratios in your initial attempts so that after you’ve found the perfect tint for you, you know exactly how much coloration powder to add for future batches.

Ingredients:

• Arrowroot Powder (2 tbsp): Serves as a lightweight base that effectively absorbs excess oil and moisture from the scalp without making hair feel heavy.
• Cocoa and/or Cinnamon Powder (1–2 tbsp, for darker hair): Cocoa powder helps blend dry shampoo seamlessly into dark hair, while cinnamon can enhance warm, red undertones. If you have light hair, you may not need these additions.
• Cornstarch (2 tbsp): A natural oil-absorbing ingredient that helps refresh hair and reduce greasiness.
• Baking Soda (1 tsp, optional): Provides additional oil absorption and freshness, but should be used sparingly to avoid a chalky residue.
• Essential Oils (3–5 drops, optional): Adds a pleasant scent while supporting scalp health. Lavender, rosemary, or peppermint are excellent choices for a fresh and invigorating feel.

Instructions:

1. Mix the arrowroot powder, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and baking soda (if using).
2. Add any essential oils, stirring until well combined and not too chunky. There may still be some small chunks (especially if adding oils) and that’s fine as these will typically work out once applied.
3. Move into a clean shaker or a small container with a lid, such as old spice jars, which make for easy, mess-free application.
4. To use, shake either directly onto the scalp and let it sit for a minute (if your hair is very oily) or shake into your hands and comb through with your fingers (if touching up through the day). Flipping your head upside down as your massage it through gives extra volume and lift to your roots as well.

Cost Savings

• Arrowroot Powder: $6 for an 8 oz bag (~$0.38 for 2 tbsp)
• Cocoa Powder: $6 for an 8 oz container (~$0.75 for 2 tbsp, less for lighter hair)
• Cinnamon Powder: $6 for a 2 oz jar (~$0.05 for 1 tsp, depending on how much you use)
• Cornstarch: $5 for a 12 oz bag (~$0.03 for 1/2 tsp)
• Baking Soda: $9 for a 16 oz bag (~$0.05 for 1/2 tsp)
• Essential Oils: $7 for 1 fl oz bottle (~$0.01 for 3-5 drops)

Cost per batch: ~$1.27

Store-Bought Equivalent: ~$10+ for 1.8 oz aerosol spray or 1 oz powder

Savings per Batch: $8.73