The weather has been exceptionally hot lately and if you’re spending lots of time outside in the sun then taking care of your skin with a moisturising after sun should be a major priority. Instead of buying something laden with chemicals and other nasties, try your hand at this quick and simple after sun soother and rest assured knowing that you’re exposing your skin to only the best ingredients.

What You’ll Need

2 Tbsp (30 ml) organic coconut oil
lavender flowers, de-stemmed (about a handful)
3 Tbsp (45 ml) natural body butter*
3 Tbsp (45 ml) aqueous cream
3 Tbsp (45 ml) organic shea butter
2 Tbsp (30 ml) Bulbinella plant, finely chopped (or Aloe Vera gel)
4 tsp (20 ml) olive oil

250 ml glass jar (alternatively an old lotion container, tin or pump bottle)

*Note: any of your favourite body creams can be used, but since the goal is to soothe the skin, a natural, un-fragranced option is a better choice.

How to Make

Place the coconut oil in a glass bowl and melt it, either over water or in the microwave. It melts very quickly, so don’t overdo it. Toss in the whole lavender flower heads and set aside to steep for at least an hour and a half.

Mix all of the remaining creams and the olive oil together. Depending on the consistency it may help to heat the mixture in the microwave for about 20 seconds.

Whisk the mixture to combine, alternatively transfer to a sealable tub or jar and shake vigorously.

Chop the bulbinella leaves as finely as possible (it will infuse into the cream over time).

Once the lavender has infused for some time, remove it from the oil and crumble the flowers so that they separate from the stalks. The stalks can be discarded. Add the oil and lavender blossoms to the rest of the mixture; give it a good shake/mix and transfer to a clean jar or container for storage.

Store the lotion in the fridge, the coolness will help soothe the skin after sun exposure.

To use apply generously after a cool bath or shower.

TIP: If you prefer not to have pieces of flowers in the lotion, use aloe vera gel instead of Bulbinella and simply remove the lavender flowers from the oil before mixing. A good quality essential oil can also be used in place of the real flowers.