Lotions & Potions: DIY Workshop

Planet Botanix • 301 Bank St • 613.567.4444

Learn how to make your own lotions, creams, and salves/balms from scratch in this hands-on Planet Botanix workshop. We’ll break down what makes each product different—so you leave understanding both the why and the how.

What You’ll Learn

• The key differences between:
  • Balms/Salves/Ointments (oil + wax, no water): protective and slower absorbing
  • Creams/Lotions (oil + water + emulsifier): lighter, more absorbable blends
• How to choose high-quality carrier oils for different skin needs (olive, almond, grapeseed, jojoba, and more)
• How herbal infusions can enhance your finished products, and why some methods can shorten shelf life
• How to use beeswax and plant-based emulsifiers to thicken and bind your blends
• An introduction to skin-supportive herbs (like calendula, chamomile, lavender, comfrey, and yarrow)
• How to select and use essential oils safely, including key cautions and dilution guidance

Hands-On Recipes

During the workshop, we’ll demonstrate simple, reliable recipes for:

• A light lotion that absorbs quickly
• A rich cream for dry or weather-stressed skin
• A customizable salve/balm you can adapt for everyday use (winter skin, lips, first-aid style applications, and more)

Perfect For

• Anyone who wants to learn clean, practical DIY skincare
• People curious about herbalism, aromatherapy, and natural ingredients
• Those who love making gifts or personal care staples at home

Please note: Ingredient information is provided as a general guide. Essential oils must always be used diluted and with care. Some oils may not be suitable during pregnancy, and some can be phototoxic or cause skin sensitivity. Consult a healthcare professional if in doubt.