How to Make an Apricot Argan Facial Moisturizer for Men

We talk a lot about women’s beauty and skincare over here. But you know what? Men can benefit from a good skincare routine, too—especially if they’re tired of battling itchy, tight, dry skin. Infused with argan, apricot, and jojoba oil, this men’s facial moisturizer keeps skin hydrated all day long and protects sensitive skin against the elements.

As my mom always used to say, skin is skin, which means that all skin can benefit from a natural moisture boost. And this men's face lotion is a must for a daily grooming routine! The light consistency soaks into the skin (no greasy feeling!) to battle dryness and post-shave irritation.

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• How to Make Face Moisturizer for Men
• Tips for Using Face Moisturizer for Men

Ingredients

While we do use a few different oils, water is the main ingredient in this recipe, which helps keep that dreaded greasy feeling at bay. The essential oils were chosen for their earthy scents, but you're free to substitute other oils if you have particular skin needs you'd like to address.

• NOW Solutions Organic Argan Oil: Rich in fatty acids, argan oil helps moisturize and nourish the skin. This multi-functional product helps keep skin looking fresh and smooth. 
• NOW Solutions Apricot Oil: Apricot oil is lightweight and easily absorbed, making it perfect for a men's facial moisturizer (no greasy residue here!) Plus, it contains vitamins A and E, which support skin health and keep skin looking plump and hydrated.
• NOW Solutions Jojoba Oil: We're huge fans of jojoba oil because it closely resembles the skin's natural sebum. It helps balance oil production, making it suitable for various skin types.
• NOW Solutions Organic Vegetable Glycerin: Glycerin is a humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. It helps keep the skin hydrated, soft, and supple without making it feel greasy. It also contributes to the overall smoothness of the lotion.
• NOW Solutions Vitamin E-Oil: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. It supports skin repair and may contribute to a more youthful appearance by minimizing the effects of UV damage.
• NOW Essential Oils: Now Foods has an amazing selection of quality essential oils. For this recipe, we chose male-friendly scents like cedarwood and pine to give this face lotion a woodsy scent.

How to Make Face Moisturizer for Men

Step 1: The Oil Phase

In the top of a double boiler, combine the argan, apricot, and jojoba oils with the emulsifying wax, and melt them on the stove over low heat—this mixture is referred to as the "oil phase."

Gently melting the emulsifying wax completely helps ensure that the oils blend properly with the water phase later on. Emulsifying wax is a crucial ingredient that helps blend the oil and water phases of a lotion, giving the mixture a lotion-like consistency.

While you can technically use a microwave for this step, I find that heating the oils in a double boiler on the stove ensures that they don't get too hot. 

Step 2: The Water Phase

While the oil phase is heating, prepare the "water phase" by combining water and glycerin in a separate container. In addition to oils, water and glycerin hydrate the skin, making it more resilient and less prone to dryness and irritation.

Heat the water mixture for 30 - 60 seconds in the microwave to help it blend more easily with the oil phase without causing the wax or oils to seize up.

Step 3: Mix the Oil and Water Mixtures

Once both the oil and water phases are ready, slowly pour the warm water phase into the warm oil phase while stirring continuously. By gradually mixing the two, it creates a stable emulsion, which gives your lotion a creamy texture.

Step 4: Blend the Mixture

Using an immersion blender, whip the mixture as it cools. Within about 60 - 90 seconds, it should start to thicken into a lotion-like consistency.

I initially tried doing this with a hand mixer instead of an immersion blender and it never came together, so an immersion blender is a must for this. If you don't have one, you can try using a blender or food processor instead, but I can't guarantee they'll work. 

Step 5: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Heat can cause certain ingredients to degrade, so you'll want to add the vitamin E, essential oils, and preservative after mixing. Preservatives are crucial for preventing the growth of bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms in skincare products, especially ones that contain water. 

Stir well to distribute these ingredients evenly throughout the lotion.

Step 6: Transfer the Lotion to a Pump Bottle

Once cooled to room temperature, transfer the lotion to a sterilized pump bottle or other container. This can get messy, so I put the lotion in a plastic bag and cut the corner off, which allowed me to essentially "pipe" the lotion into the container. A small funnel may also help keep things mess-free. 

Finally, make sure to label your container with the ingredients and date. It should last 6 months to a year, but if you notice any changes in scent or texture, toss it out and make a fresh batch. 

Tips for Using Face Moisturizer for Men

Wash your face: Before applying any moisturizer, it's essential to cleanse your face thoroughly to remove dirt, oil, and grime. Use a gentle facial cleanser suited to your skin type and rinse with lukewarm water. Then pat your face dry with a clean towel.

Apply the moisturizer: Take a small amount of the moisturizer onto your fingertips. The amount you need will depend on your skin type and the consistency of the moisturizer. Start with a pea-sized amount and adjust as needed. Gently dab or spread the moisturizer onto your face, start from the center of your face and working outward, ensuring even coverage. Pay attention to areas that tend to be drier, such as the cheeks and forehead, but don't forget the neck and jawline.

Massage into the skin: Using gentle, upward motions, massage the moisturizer into your skin. This helps the product absorb more effectively and stimulates blood flow, promoting a healthy complexion. Take your time and be gentle, especially around the delicate eye area.

Allow it to absorb: Give the moisturizer a few minutes to absorb fully into your skin. This allows the active ingredients to penetrate the skin and provide hydration and nourishment.

This post is sponsored by NOW Foods. All opinions are my own.

5