There are plenty of less-than-pleasant side effects that go hand-in-hand with getting older. Over the past few years, one that I’ve been battling constantly is dry skin. My skin craves moisture these days, so I’ve had to make certain changes to my normal routines in order to keep my skin happy.
But I recently made a change to my shower routine that has made a big difference in terms of keeping my skin hydrated! And it couldn’t have been easier either—I simply ditched my store-bought body wash for a moisturizing body wash of my own making!
Featuring simple ingredients like castile soap, coconut oil, and honey, this body wash is packed with moisturizers and humectants that help skin absorb and retain moisture. It’s also ridiculously easy to make, and totally customizable based on your personal needs and preferences!
Why Natural Body Wash Is Better For Aging Skin
For instance, I used geranium essential oil in this recipe because it’s so good for aging skin. But you could easily substitute another skin-friendly essential oil (lavender oil is a great option) if you feel so inclined!
So if you’ve been thinking about switching up your shower routine for whatever reason, I urge you to give this homemade body wash a try. This natural formula works beautifully for all skin types, including oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, and everything in between. I know you’ll love it just as much as I do! :-)
Related: This Genius Hack Will Save You 75% On Body Wash
How To Make A Moisturizing DIY Natural Body Wash
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup castile soap
- 3/4 cup fractionated coconut oil*
- 1/2 cup raw honey
- 15 drops geranium essential oil
*Note: I like using FCO here because it’s really moisturizing without being too heavy, but feel free to use whatever carrier oil you like! Learn more about carrier oils here.
Directions:
Combine the castile soap, coconut oil, honey, and essential oils in a bowl or container and mix well. Transfer to an airtight container for storage.
I normally prefer to store anything with essential oils in a glass container, but since glass and showers don’t mix, I opted for this plastic pump bottle instead.
To use your homemade body wash, give the bottle a good shake before dispensing to account for any separation that may occur over time. Use liberally and often for softer, more hydrated skin!
Looking For More Solutions For Dry Skin?
- If you’re battling dry skin, here are some other ideas and solutions you may want to consider:
- The One DIY I Want People With Easily Irritated Skin To Know About
- The One Ingredient You Need To Avoid If You Have Dry Skin
- Dry Skin? How To Fix It And 5 Remedies For Relief
What’s your best tip for preventing or healing dry skin?

Moisturizing DIY Natural Body Wash
Equipment
- Squeeze bottle or pump bottle
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup castile soap
- 3/4 cup fractionated coconut oil or carrier oil of choice
- 1/2 cup raw honey
- 15 drops geranium essential oil or lavender oil
Instructions
- Combine the ingredients and store in an airtight container.
- Shake before using.





























I have a little different recipe that I absolutely love. 5 oz castile, 2 oz honey, 2 tbsp carrier oil – I use almond or jojoba., top it off with a teaspoon of vitamin e oil, and add your personal touch of essential oils. I love castile and honey based body wash. May switch up when I run out and try these proportions. Jillee, thank you for your wonderful skin care posts!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Hi I just used this after making it using Donna’s proportions only because I didn’t have big enough container. I repurposed a pump bottle for hand soap by a company that uses EOs. I used Dr Bonner’s hemp Castile soap and should have probably diluted it first…but although my skin feels dry on the inside, it’s soft on the outside…probably dehydrated & need more water! Anyway thank you Jillie for the inspiration! I have quite a few of your pages bookmarked to try later!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I love this idea. With all the hype about body washes I’m really glad to find one that’s fairly cheap to make. Ive also had sensitive skin for years and have been limited to using Dove, and lately its been unscented. I agree some of the scented ones are too harsh for my skin.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I definitely want to try this using the Lavender esssential oil. I do have an old Geranium oil. It’s also kind of a hard one to find in stores.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.My daughter has sensitive skin. I plan on making this for her and trying it out myself too. I love the glass jar in the picture. Where can I purchase it?
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Hi Jillee!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Your blog inspired me to start making my own natural room sprays, air fresheners and now, possibly body wash and shampoos. I live in the Philippines but have found local sources for Castile Soap and essential oils. Thank you for pointing me in the right direction towards a chemical-free and much healthier household. Am looking forward to more tips and recipes from you. :)
Pinky, I also live in the Philippines….where have you found the Castile soap? Also,what essential oil company are you using. I have a few that I brought from the states, but will need more soon. :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Ooh, I like this one! I’ve had sensitive skin since I was a child. For years, I’ve been restricted to one brand of bath wash and one scent. Now, I can make my own, without unfriendly chemicals, perhaps vary the scent, and have clean, healthy, soft skin!
Thank you, tons, Jillee!
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