Aloe vera is a skincare powerhouse, known for its soothing, hydrating, and healing properties. If you have sensitive skin or prefer a gentler alternative to traditional facial cleansers, making your own Aloe vera face wash is a great option. Unlike commercial cleansers that may contain sulfates and harsh chemicals, this homemade face wash is sulfate-free, mild, and packed with skin-loving ingredients.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the process of making a simple Aloe vera face wash that’s perfect for daily use.
Why Use an Aloe Vera Face Wash?
Many people choose to avoid soap-based cleansers on their face, especially cold-processed soaps, which tend to have a high pH. While high-pH soaps can be balanced with super-fatting, Aloe vera, or lactic acid, some prefer a non-soap alternative to minimize dryness and irritation.
This homemade Aloe vera face wash is formulated to be gentle on the skin while effectively removing dirt and excess oil. It includes humectants to keep your skin hydrated, a mild plant-based surfactant for gentle cleansing, and a preservative to ensure its longevity.
Aloe Vera Face Wash Recipe
Ingredients (200g batch):
161g fresh Aloe vera gel (blended and strained)30g Coco Glucoside (a mild, plant-derived surfactant)2g Sodium Lactate (a humectant to retain moisture)4g Glycerin (hydrates and improves texture)1g Xanthan Gum Soft (thickens the face wash, providing a smooth texture)Preservative (according to the recommended usage rate for your chosen preservative)A few drops of essential oil (optional, for added skin benefits and fragrance)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Aloe Vera Gel – Extract the Aloe vera gel from fresh leaves, blend it until smooth, and strain it to remove any pulp or fibers. This ensures a clear and smooth final product.
- Mix the Base Ingredients – In a mixing bowl, combine the Aloe vera gel with Coco Glucoside and stir gently.
- Add the Humectants – Mix in Sodium Lactate, which helps keep your skin hydrated.
- Prepare the Thickening Agent – In a separate small bowl, mix the glycerin and Xanthan Gum Soft. Stir well to disperse the gum evenly and prevent clumping.
- Incorporate the Thickener – Add the glycerin and Xanthan Gum Soft mixture to the Aloe vera and Coco Glucoside blend. Stir well and let it sit for at least an hour to allow the Xanthan Gum to fully hydrate.
- Add a Preservative – Since this is a water-based product, a preservative is necessary to prevent microbial growth. Choose a broad-spectrum preservative suitable for cosmetic formulations and add it according to the recommended dosage.
- Enhance with Essential Oils (Optional) – A few drops of lavender, tea tree, or chamomile essential oil can enhance skin benefits and add a pleasant fragrance.
- Transfer to a Bottle – Pour the finished face wash into a pump or squeeze bottle for easy dispensing.
Why These Ingredients?
Each ingredient in this face wash is carefully chosen for its skin-friendly properties:
- Aloe Vera Gel – Hydrates, soothes inflammation, and provides antioxidants to support skin health.
- Coco Glucoside – A mild, plant-based cleanser that removes dirt and oil without stripping natural moisture.
- Sodium Lactate – A powerful humectant that helps the skin retain hydration.
- Glycerin – A well-known hydrating agent that prevents moisture loss.
- Xanthan Gum Soft – Gives the face wash a smooth, gel-like consistency without making it sticky.
- Preservative – Essential for preventing bacteria and mold growth in a water-based product.
- Essential Oils (Optional) – Depending on the oil used, they can provide additional soothing, antibacterial, or aromatic benefits.
How to Use Your Homemade Aloe Vera Face Wash
- Wet your face with lukewarm water.
- Dispense a small amount of the Aloe vera face wash into your palm.
- Gently massage it onto your face in circular motions.
- Rinse thoroughly with water and pat your skin dry with a clean towel.
- Follow up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration.
Making your own Aloe vera face wash at home is a rewarding and effective way to care for your skin naturally. Not only do you get full control over the ingredients, but you also ensure that your cleanser is free from harsh chemicals that might irritate your skin.
This sulfate-free formula is especially beneficial for those with sensitive skin, but it works well for all skin types. With the added hydration from Aloe vera and humectants like glycerin and sodium lactate, your skin will feel clean, soft, and refreshed after each use.
You can also watch the instructional video below:
