Choose a base oil or butter such as shea butter, cocoa butter, almond oil, or coconut oil
Add a water phase such as distilled water, aloe vera juice, or floral water
Include an emulsifier to combine oil and water
Add a thickener if needed, such as cetyl alcohol or beeswax
Warm the oil phase and water phase separately
Mix the heated phases together while blending until smooth
Stir in a preservative if the formula contains water
Add fragrance or essential oil if desired
Add vitamin E or other skin-friendly additives if desired
Pour into a clean container
Let it cool completely before closing
Store in a cool, dry place