DIY Botanical Body Oils: Custom Blends for Each Season

Seasonal changes bring shifts not only in weather but also in our skin’s needs. Humidity, temperature, and sun exposure all influence how skin behaves, so adjusting your body oil through the year can help maintain hydration, elasticity, and overall comfort. Creating your own botanical body oil blend allows you to choose season specific carrier oils and essential oils, tailored to the different demands of summer, winter, autumn, and spring.

Summer
Hot, humid weather calls for light, non comedogenic oils that absorb quickly and do not feel heavy on the skin. Camellia seed oil and hemp seed oil are ideal bases, as both are rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids while remaining fast absorbing and gentle. Add a few drops of lavender, peppermint, or neroli essential oil for a refreshing, soothing post sun blend. These oils may help calm heat related inflammation and support skin clarity, though they are not a substitute for SPF.

Autumn
As temperatures cool and winds pick up, skin often needs extra nourishment and barrier support. Apricot kernel oil is a reliable autumn staple, offering a nourishing feel without being overly greasy. Pair it with rosehip oil for its regenerative properties, which support skin renewal after summer sun exposure. Warming essential oils such as frankincense or sweet orange can help support skin tone and provide a sense of grounding during seasonal transition, a gentle nod to slowing down as the days shorten.

Winter
Cold air and indoor heating can increase transepidermal water loss, leading to dryness and tightness. Heavier, more protective oils like tamanu and hazelnut help deeply nourish the skin and support the barrier. Add a few drops of myrrh, patchouli, or Roman chamomile essential oil to soothe irritation and calm seasonal dryness. For eczema prone skin, blue tansy may help reduce inflammation and support skin comfort, though sensitivity varies from person to person.

Spring
In spring, skin is often adjusting from winter dryness while also responding to allergens or hormonal shifts. Rosehip oil and camellia oil make excellent bases for balancing hydration and supporting elasticity. Essential oils such as geranium, manuka, or chamomile can help reduce redness and balance sebum as skin begins to awaken again with the season, very much in tune with te taiao.

Blending guidance
To create your blend, use 50 ml of carrier oil and add a total of 10 to 15 drops of essential oils, which equals a 1 to 2 percent dilution. Shake well before use and patch test on a small area when working with any new oil. Apply body oil to slightly damp skin after showering to help seal in moisture and improve absorption.

By aligning your botanical body oils with the seasons, you support not only your skin’s physical health but also the natural rhythms that connect you to the whenua. Simple, thoughtful adjustments can make a real difference, and your skin will thank you for it.