I'm on a mission to detox my beauty products and replace them with natural DIY alternatives. Whipping up a homemade body scrub is an addicting starting point because pretty soon you start thinking, what about the stuff I use every day?
The first two I tackled were biggies—deodorant and toothpaste—and now I'm on a roll! Next up: a homemade body wash with 2 of my favorite ingredients, honey and coconut oil.
Coconut and Honey Body Wash
I made this originally as a potential homemade shampoo, and it might have worked if I hadn't (accidentally) used coconut oil instead of coconut milk. It lathered up great (I love suds), but my hair ended up a tad greasy.
Instead of letting it go to waste, I tried it as a body wash. Lather-y moisturizing perfection!
Thinking about starting your own beauty detox? You can pretty much replace everything in your personal care arsenal with just 4 ingredients.
What are those 4 ingredients?
Coconut oil
My coco-nuttiness is well established now (see our 101 favorite coconut oil uses). It is easy to find in stores and smells like you spent the day at the beach.
Studies have shown that coconut has superior moisturizing powers to nourish and replenish the skin barrier [source]. Not to mention, the fatty acids in coconut oil can help encourage wound healing and skin regeneration [source].
Raw honey
I was reading not long ago about the incredible healing powers of honey. Studies show it works better than traditional medicine for healing some burn wounds [source]!
And as if that weren't enough, raw honey has antioxidant, anti-aging, and photoprotective properties as well. Use raw honey for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin [source].
Liquid Castile soap
I'm already cleaning everything from dishes to toilets with Castile soap. I resisted using this in personal care products for a long time because soap usually leaves my skin feeling dry and filmy. So wrong!
This gentle soap is made from nourishing oils, so it won't strip your skin or make you feel tight and itchy when you're done. Plus, it's great if you like a bit of suds.
Essential oils
My essential oil collection is getting out of control. For bath wash, citrus and eucalyptus are sure-fire ways to start the day.
Homemade Body Wash Recipe
You'll notice the body wash separates as it sits, so just shake it up before each use. I haven't had any problems with the coconut oil solidifying, but if you're worried about that, you can use almond oil or even coconut milk instead.
Otherwise, just hop in the shower and use a pump or two of this nourishing body wash to soothe skin and gently cleanse dirt and grime.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup coconut oil
- ¼ cup raw honey
- ½ cup liquid castile soap
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
- 15 drops eucalyptus essential oil
- 10 drops sweet orange essential oil
- 10 drops lemon or grapefruit essential oil
Instructions
- Scoop the coconut oil into a microwave-safe bowl and heat on a medium setting for 30 seconds until melted.
- Add essential oils, honey, and vitamin E oil and whisk together.
- Add Castile soap slowly, stirring gently to avoid creating suds.
- Transfer to a glass or plastic bottle. Shake before each use.
Use within 2–3 months.
Homemade Bodywash FAQ
Is it possible to make my own body wash without soap?
Since oils can leave your skin feeling greasy, skipping the castile soap in this recipe might make you feel grimier than when you started. I recommend making a soap-free cleanser that contains oats or milk, like one of these 5 DIY facial cleansers. Although they're technically meant for your face, they'll work just as well on your body!
Can I use this body wash on babies?
Since honey isn't recommended for babies, I would leave out the honey altogether. And since some essential oils aren't safe for babies, you'll need to do your research before choosing your oils.
If you'd still like to use this on baby, it's best to consult your pediatrician just to make 100% sure it's safe for baby's skin.
Can I replace the coconut oil with another oil?
Of course! Jojoba, argan, sweet almond, and carrot seed oils are great for skin, but you can use any oil you like.
You can also use fractionated coconut oil if you're having problems with regular coconut oil solidifying.
Does this soap require a foaming dispenser, or will a regular one work?
A regular soap dispenser should work just fine, although the soap may be a bit more liquid-y than you're used to. If that's the case, then a foaming soap dispenser will create a nice, thick lather.
Can I thicken this with beeswax?
Since beeswax is an oil, you'll have a hard time getting it to mix with the other ingredients. If the texture of this body wash bothers you, I would suggest using a foaming soap dispenser to create a thicker consistency.
Can I use this body wash as a shampoo?
I don't think it would hurt! Give it a try and see how your hair responds.
Can I dilute my body wash mixture with water, so it's not as strong?
Water causes homemade body products to grow mold, so it's best not to add water ahead of time. If needed, when you are ready to use it, pump some soap into the palm of your hands, and then add a splash of water. Mix it together before applying.
Why does my body wash smell funny?
Some people in the comments have mentioned their body wash having a strange smell. While I didn't notice a smell, it could have something to do with your particular brand of ingredients and how they respond when mixed together.
Will this clog my drain?
Not in the small amounts that we're using. An 8-ounce bottle of this body wash should last you at least a month, so you'll only be using 1–2 teaspoons at a time.
After slathering it on your body and letting it sink in, only a fraction of that will actually make it down the drain. You should be fine!
Where can I find that cute pump bottle?
We get most of our pump bottles from Rail19.
Do I need to worry about the citrus essential oils causing photosensitivity issues?
This is a somewhat passionate topic discussed frequently on internet sites. Citrus oils like bergamot and lemon can cause your skin to be more sensitive to the sun [source]. But honestly, I have never noticed any issues despite my sensitive skin. I think it's because the oils are heavily diluted, and they get rinsed off in the shower.
That being said, I'm not a scientist or a dermatologist, so I don't know for sure. If you're concerned about citrus oils, use fewer drops or leave them out altogether. The beauty of making your own bath products is that you can make them however you like!
DIY Honey & Coconut Body Wash
Equipment
- Medium microwave-safe bowl
- 8 ounce pump bottle
Materials
- ¼ cup coconut oil
- ¼ cup raw honey
- ½ cup liquid Castile soap
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
- 15 drops eucalyptus essential oil
- 10 drops sweet orange essential oil
- 10 drops grapefruit essential oil (or lemon essential oil)
Instructions
- Scoop coconut oil into a microwave-safe bowl, and heat on a medium setting for 30 seconds until melted.
- Add essential oils, honey, and vitamin E and whisk together.
- Add Castile soap slowly, stirring gently to avoid creating suds.
- Transfer to a glass or plastic bottle. Shake before each use.
Notes
This post was medically reviewed by Dr. Rina Mary Allawh, M.D., a dermatologist who practices adult and pediatric medical dermatology, skin cancer treatment, and cosmetic dermatology. Learn more about Hello Glow's medical reviewers here. As always, this is not personal medical advice, and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
Photos by Ana Stanciu
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Aruntej says
very good blog thanks for posting.
Michel says
I need a body wash without any soap - I was thinking about honey and and coconut oil but maybe if I try a different oil and add some coconut milk I could get away without the soap ingredient... have you tried to make a non soap one?
Thought appreciated.
Cheers,
M
Megan Gunnell says
I have an 8 month old baby and I know babies under 1 can’t have honey but is it ok to BATHE them with this wash that has honey in it? I know he won’t be eating it but I’m worried if he’s chews on a bath toy or something and ingests it that way? Or can just absorbing the wash with honey in it through his skin hurt him? I love this and it would be so great to just use one soap for my family!
Stephanie says
Can i replace the coconut oil with avocado oil? And would it be the same measurement?
Stephanie Gerber says
You can use any oil, although avocado oil is expensive so you might do half avocado and half something else.
Rachel says
I have made a few batches of this and been loving it, but recently have been noticing that it leaves a sort of residue/film on my skin. It’s especially noticeable when I shave, and the residue build up clogs the razor causing me to have to change the blade super frequently as the residue is stubborn enough to not just rinse out. I can also feel it on my skin when I’m in the shower and drying off and can drag my nails across my skin and catch allll that residue, pretty gross. Any idea what ingredient is causing this or how to get rid of it? Anyone else noticing this problem?
Bash says
When I mix the Honey with Castile, it lets off a terrible smell. It doesn't translate well with the fragrance/essential oils. Is there a way to mitigate that?
I use Dr. Bonners unscented baby castile and raw clover honey. Thanks.
Nicole Marie Hernandez says
Hi I used raw organic honey and the same Castile soap as you and I did not get a bad scent. Possibly the honey you're using contains other ingredients.
Lindsay Wright-Murray says
Mine smells awful too. I’m using good honey?? Any other tips?
Jaspni says
I would imagine this wash could be used as a natural baby wash? Maybe without the essential oils?
PS I use this recipe for myself and switch up every single time with different oils and smells. I LOVE IT
Maggie Fox says
My granddaughter has eczema and is allergic to most ingredients in soap, shampoo, lotions, laundry detergents, etc. I came across your recipe while researching organic versions of all the above. I bought a foaming dispenser, made it up and crossed my fingers. We've been using it in her for about 3 months now, and it's amazing! She loves that it foams so much and I love the clean smell of soap. Reminds me of my childhood before all the scented soaps began coming out. I didn't use essential oils in the first batch but, since I have a large supply, I may use some in the batch I am about to make.
I want to thank you for taking the time to post this recipe. We were at wits end trying to figure out what to use on her. She even gets to enjoy playing in the tub because without all the chemicals, she no longer gets infections and I don't even have to use lotion for her eczema!
Anne says
I love your story! I was wondering while reading, does the soap require a foaming dispenser or would a regular one be alright?
Sarah says
I have made this a few times now for myself and for friends!
I added a small amount of jojoba oil and olive oil aswell because I read another recipe and kind of combined the two and it works great still! I also used abit of tea tree oil whsuch can burn cuts abit but I didn’t mind.
Since using my skin has never been softer, I use it on my face and I don’t get as bad pimples and I find old red spots clearing up! I also used to get bad pimples on my shoulders and upper back but I haven’t had them recently! I noticed these changes around 3 months of using. Doubling this batch lasted me about 3 months.
I made this for my sister who has eczema and she noticed her red patches go away but came back when she ran out!
Great recipe!
Sarah says
I also added some coconut milk & really thought it would go gross but it didn’t. Or maybe I just didn’t notice hahah
Marie says
How much coconut milk did you add?
Ashley says
Can you thicken with beeswax?
Seana says
Beeswax probably wouldn't be a good idea in the shower as it may clog your drains over time. I thicken mine with a teaspoon to a teaspoon and a half of xanthum gum and it keeps all the ingredients mixed too. Its great.
Amber says
Can you also use fractionated coconut oil? And do you think this would double as a face wash?
Tracy Wright says
where do you get these ingredients from??
Kelsey says
Fractionated coconut oil should be fine since it stays liquid at room temperature (it won't clog drains like regular coconut oil can). I usually just shop through Amazon or eBay, but I've heard great things about Thrive Market for getting quality ingredients at a discount.
Nia Bellamy says
Hi can I use regular hand soap? And how much does it amount to?
Christina J Renfer says
I just made this using a castille soap concentrate and using a foam dispenser. I can't wait to use it. The lather comes out so creamy.
PREMA says
Hi,
I followed your recipe but it smells like eggs. I added essential oils but the smell doesn’t go away.
Did anybody had this issue?
Thanks
Lindsay Wright-Murray says
Me! Not sure why but it smells awful ?
Pete says
I know that citrus oils smell great, but I would caution you about using them in a body wash, and then going out and being exposed to sunlight or a tanning bed. Certain essential oils, including citrus oils, can cause photosensitivity when applied topically and then having them exposed to the sun's UV rays. You can do your own research, but basically you're risking being burned, and even possibly being permanently scarred.
Sísí says
Thanks for the warning :) Will use this on a rainy day ;)
Caitlyn says
How long does this last before it goes bad? I want to make this for my mom but she lives several states away and things take almost a week to get to her.
Caitlyn says
Also would u recommend a certain
kind of EO... i have the weak stuff from grocery store/vitamin cottage but i also have Doterra oils
Stephanie Gerber says
It should be good for at least 3 months - if not longer! There are no ingredients that will 'spoil,' per se.
Julie Bjurling says
What I have found to be most effective in thickening castile soap is this: First, mix the castile soap with about 2 Tbs of salt. I use mineral salts, but table salt or baking soda will also work. Let sit overnight. Then, proceed with the recipe as recommended, using your choice of oils. I personally have become fond of combining Lavender, Vanilla and Arnica oils, for the antidepressant, sedative and pain relief qualities.
Joan Smith says
I thought this was a great idea and mixed the 2 tbs of salt into the 1/2 cup of soap. Way too much salt (I used pink Himalayan salt), I now have a solid clump of soap. I'll try to find a way to use it, but meanwhile I'll try again with maybe 2 tsp of salt.
Ashley says
I've already made the mixture now and would like to thicken it with table salt. Is it too late to add it now?
E says
Just made this without Essential oils and used in baby bath (1 1/2 tsp in a large basin), also a pinch for her shampoo. Her skin was so soft and moisturized, I didn’t even need body lotion! Can’t wait to use on my own skin. Love it! Thank you!
E says
Also, love the idea of putting in foam dispenser, totally doing that!
Christina says
I made this recipe using dr bronners baby mild Castile soap and safflower oil ( to make it not pore clogging). I also added a tsp glycerine to make it foam more. I also did not add any fragrance oils to keep it fragrance free. The day I made this recipe it work great with excellent lather, however, the next day this soap smelled terrible, like throw up. Any idea why this happened?
Stephanie Gerber says
That's weird! Nothing that you used would go bad that quickly and I can't imagine why they would react to each other negatively. Did you add honey as well?
trisha jane says
it might be the glycerin.... I just made mine with hemp oil and it feels great. Was not greasy.
Julie Bjurling says
The glycerin probably reacted with the moisture from the shower.
Meredith says
I made this and my batch smelled terrible after a couple of days. :(
motunrayo says
Thank for this... not really easy to that soap here in Nigeria. Can I used Africa black?
Honebelle says
I think you can use African blacksoap. I also make Castille liquid soaps n I'm in Nigeria. 09025020307
Honeybelle says
I think you can use African blacksoap. I also make Castille liquid soaps n I'm in Nigeria. 09025020307
Giselle Stewart says
Heya, I’ve used your DIY method and found it's very interesting but the mixture is Lil Thin, how can I make it thicker Lil bit? Thank you for the beautiful & natural Homemade body wash recipe. Regards.
Adele Gill says
Good day... I always use xanthan gum to thicken my products
Erin Stokes says
Can i use zinc oxide to thicken this a little? Usually I'd use a foaming dispenser bottle but I'm reusing my Wen shampoo bottle.
Erin Stokes says
I just finished my body wash. It turned out great! I added a little argan oil and I used tea tree and lavender instead of the citrus EOs. I also added a little bit of zinc oxide to thicken it a bit. I didn't add very much but it seemed to help. And i used fractionated coconut oil. It's very smooth and actually lathers nicely. I do a bunch of DIY stuff but this is my first body wash. Great recipe!
Marian says
I also add a bit of xanthan gum but mixed it with a bit of oil first and added that solution to the mix. The mixture emulsifies and is nice & creamy.
Natalie says
Can you double the use of this soap for shampoo?
sheeja paulos says
I've used your method and found it interesting but the mixture is little thin. How should i make it thick?
Adele Gill says
Good day… I always use xanthan gum to thicken my products
Thomas Pitzer says
How much xanthan gum would you recommend for this recipe?
Kelly says
Coconut oil totally solidified on me....almond oil next time. Other than that...great!
Karen says
Use Fractionated Coconut Oil. Won't solidify.
Jenn says
Is there a way to thicken this up?
KAMIL says
Arrowroot or Cornstarch, suggested Arrowroot or any other plant root extract.
Thomas Pitzer says
How much arrowroot and/or cornstarch do you use? Is there a formula? Thanks.
Adele Gill says
Good day… I always use xanthan gum to thicken my products
Cheryl says
Also, Xantham gum is all natural and it works as an emulsifier as well. I would recommend less than a teaspoon to start with. It needs to be stirred, or whipped so probably add it before stirring in the liquid soap.
Neada says
Does the xantham gum also keep it from separating?
Tanya says
I love this. Thank you for helping me add natural beauty solutions to my life!
kayla says
No matter how much EOs I use in this recipe it still has this weird smell of honey and castile soap. Help!
Lisa says
I have the same problem. Not sure how to fix this.
Shanon says
I used the Dr Bonners baby unscented and then just added the EO's and it worked great.
Rebecca says
How long does this product last for? does it go off?
Keanna says
My castile soap says to dilute with water when using it as bodywash but none of the honey coconut recipes I've seen mention diluting the soap. Is there a reason why it shouldn't be? Would I need a preservative if I added water? Thanks!
Emily says
I would suggest using distilled water. It will keep much better. This is true for any recipe using water. It's very inexpensive.
Akilah says
I'm pretty certain it simply means to mix the concentrated shower gel with water on the cloth or bath mitt as you shower.
Jodi says
I just made my own body wash for the first time using this recipe with Lemon and Eucalyptus oils. It's making my skin very dry. Any thoughts or suggestion on what I need to add or take out? Please and thank you!
Alysse Sailor says
Eucalyptus and anything citrus essential oil dries my skin. I can't use any essential oils just about in my homemade things. The only ones to use especially for sensitive/dry skin would probably be lavender. If your skin is ok with lavender you can slowly try blends of it with other oils. You can also get lavender and tea tree mixed together that works wonders.
Priscilla says
Good to know @ sensitive skin and essential oils
Kittykat says
Its because most of these "essential oils" are man-made watch Dr.sebi, he will directs you to the real oils.
Keriki says
Maybe try adding some jojoba oil too. I have eczema and it helps.
Mony says
Lemon essential oil is what will make this smell amazing.. unfortunately, it will also be dying and can irritated sensitive skin. Lemon essential oil should be use with respect. Try experimenting with other essential oils, like lavender.
Hope this helps.
Emily says
I second the lavender suggestion. Also try geranium.
Denice says
Hello, I'm new to making my own products, I have been using coconut oil for just about everything!! I do have a concern tho, I have used coconut oil for oil pulling and the directions are very specific about spitting the used oil in the waste basket in order to prevent pipes from clogging. I live in the east and we're entering winter season.... would this wash clog the pipes when the coconut oil gets cold?
Thank you!
Emily says
I would suggest using fractionated coconut oil or a different oil like Jojoba or almond for this reason. Fractionated coconut oil is liquid at room temperature, unlike regular coconut oil. Can buy on Amazon or GNC.
Ruth says
I made this wash, however it smells strongly like castile soap, as if I didn't put any oils. Btw I used regular castile soap. Please help.
Naomi says
Just add more essential oils.
Aisha says
I used the cirtrus scented castile soap and its heavenly.
Emily says
It might be your oils. Some are already pretty diluted so when they get diluted further there's not much left. You could try adding more, or start over with 100% pure oils if what you're using isn't pure.
I haven't tried this body wash yet, but I've made a face wash that contains Castille soap and it definitely smells like the oils I added!
N says
How can I double this recipe?
Danielle Woodard says
Multiply the measurements by 2
Kit says
It's always interesting to see who can tolerate what kind of oils. Coconut oil makes me break out like crazy, horribly painful, deep, cystic-type break outs, the likes of which I have rarely ever had in my life, except when I put coconut oil anywhere near my face. While I love coconut oil for my hair, it is the absolute *worst* thing I could ever put on my face.
Alana says
Extra virgin coconut oil usually doesn't clog pores if you want to try that instead.
Bert says
I usually use a small pea size or smaller amount of virgin coconut oil in the palms of my hands and rub them together real fast to warm it and the pat in in all over my face including oily areas and not rubbing it in. This will prevent clogging pores. My skin will absorb what it needs in 5-10 min and then I pat the excess off with a face tissue or use more and adjust how much I use next time as it changes depending on humidity. I also like to use in a face oil blending equal parts of lightly warmed virgin coconut oil, (coconut oil in small bowl set in hot tap water in another bowl) rose hip, Argon and a few drops of carrot oil. I use in the same manor on my face as described for the coconut oil.
Kimbra says
That is so weird because I use oil cleansing method every night even to remove makeup. Maybe because my skin was dry the coconut oil is perfect. I was also prone to break outs and blackheads and now with the coconut oil cleansing my skin is much better. Soft and blackhead free.
Leslie says
Sounds great, and i am collecting ingredients now to make this. But why vitamin E? What does the vitamin E do????
Tony says
It's good for your skin but mostly it us a natural preservative to increase shelf life.
Mony says
Technically, it's incorrect to call vit e oil a preservative. A preservative would protect a product from bacteria and other nasties in a product containing water (where a preservative is a must!). Vitamin E oil is used to help prevent pills from going rancid, thereby "extending its shelf life". In this recipe, because it's soap based and doesn't contain any water, and is likely to be used up quickly, it's not essential.
Kerstintx says
Awesome recepie!
I made a lavender version.
Jana says
How much lace at did you use?
Kerstintx says
Awesome recepie!
I made a lavender version
Paula says
My honey and coconut oil doesn't mix when I whisk it?
Isis Eskander says
Is it ok to use fractionated coconut oil?
Jeremy says
I made this and used olive oil and non-raw honey. Eucalyptus and lemongrass essential oils and burts bees bath lil w/ vitamin e. It seems to work alright but doesn't lather a ton. smells great though. I'll have to get used to the lack of lather but I think this is a nice recipe.
Jennifer says
Jeremy - Why did you use cooked honey?
Danielle says
It's not cooked honey, non Rae is the pasteurized honey you get in the store. Raw is unpasteurized and better for you found at health food stores or labeled as raw in supermarkets
Naomi says
I get a great lather when I use a bath sponge.
Dina says
If coconut milk is used, won't the coconut milk turn rancid overtime?
Jeremy says
What brand vitamin E oil do you recommend? It seems like it's hard to come by *pure* vitamin E oil, and if you do it looks to cost $30-$40 (at least on Amazon)!
Alice says
They sell it for $5 at Trader Joe's. I bought a NOW Foods variety on Amazon for $15 which is too concentrated.
Stephanie says
Where can I get the bottles to make this wash?
temmy says
The vitamin e, is it pharmaceutical or cosmetics?
adjei says
vitamin E is it phamaceatical one or cosmetic
D-Neshia says
Hi. I've tried this recipe but forgot to include the Castile soap. What effects does it have without the Castile soap in it? Is it still considered and utilized as body wash/soap?
Stephanie Gerber says
You won't have the soap component without the Castile so it won't lather. But you can try it and see how you like it :)
Nate says
What is the shelf life of this recipe? Do we need to worry about bacteria growth inside? Is there a natural preservative you recommend to add if so?
Tony says
The Vitamin E is a preservative
Emily says
It will probably last longer if you use distilled water instead of tap water.
Patti says
Can you use fractionated coconut oil?