lotion preservatives.....

[dirtyprettythings]

I like the idea of making my own lotion and I've read enough to know that anything with water in it will eventually need a preservative. Can you get away with using no preservative, storing it in the fridge, and using it up in say x amount of weeks?  I'm trying to use what I have at hand and don't really want to have to order stuff off the internet

[mullerslanefarm]

yes you can, but I wouldn't keep it for longer than 2 weeks in the fridge.

Also, do not allow your hands to dip into the jar - that will introduce bacteria.

Remember, just because you don't see it, doesn't mean the little beasties aren't there.

Jennie at Lotioncrafter.com is a wonderful place for your lotion supply needs (no affiliation - just a long time ~ 6 yrs~  satisfied customer) 

[dirtyprettythings]

thanks for the info! I think I'm going to break down and buy some preservatives anyway hehe

[Ladybug Soapworks]

You should be able to get things like vitamin E at your local natural food store and I would not be surprised if you also found grapefruit seed extract.  Other preservatives you would probably have to order online though.  And Vit E is not really a preservative it is an antioxidant which will slow down the process of oils going rancid, but will not prevent bacteria from growing in the lotion.  You can also try to choose your oils so that they are ones with a long shelf life and then keep the lotion in the fridge in a squeeze type bottle.