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How to Make Whipped Body Butter

A Complete Guide

Whipped body butter is a luxurious, anhydrous moisturizer made by whipping solid butters and liquid oils into a light, fluffy consistency. The whipping process incorporates air, creating a mousse-like texture that spreads easily and absorbs beautifully into the skin. Unlike regular balms, whipped body butter has a higher butter content and minimal to no wax, allowing for the characteristic fluffy texture.

How to make whipped body butter with natural ingredients

Typical Formulation Ratios

  • Butters: 50-85% (main component)
  • Liquid Oils: 15-50% (for spreadability)
  • Waxes: 0-3% (optional, for stability)

Best Butters for Whipping

  • Shea Butter: Most popular choice. Whips beautifully, very moisturizing, creamy texture.
  • Mango Butter: Lighter, less greasy feel. Great for combination skin.
  • Cocoa Butter: Adds firmness and chocolate scent. Use at 10-25% to prevent graininess.
  • Kokum Butter: Very dry finish, excellent for oily skin types.

Whipping Process

  1. 1. Melt the Butters: Gently melt solid butters in a double boiler. Don't overheat - just until liquid.
  2. 2. Add Liquid Oils: Stir in your liquid oils while the mixture is still warm.
  3. 3. Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate 30-60 minutes until solidifying around edges but soft in center.
  4. 4. Whip: Use a hand or stand mixer on medium-high for 5-10 minutes until light, fluffy, and doubled in volume.
  5. 5. Add Fragrance: Fold in essential oils or fragrance at the end to preserve the scent.
  6. 6. Package: Spoon or pipe into jars. Store in a cool location.

Pro Tips

  • Chill your mixing bowl and beaters for fluffier results
  • Add arrowroot powder (1-2%) for a less greasy feel
  • Include vitamin E to extend shelf life
  • Cool quickly to prevent graininess in shea butter

Troubleshooting

Having texture issues? Check out our detailed guide: Why Is My Body Butter Grainy? - Learn what causes graininess and how to prevent and fix it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tip: Use the Help Me Pick Ingredients Wizard

Not sure which waxes, butters, and oils to use? The Help Me Pick Ingredients wizard in the Balm Calculator recommends ingredients and percentages tailored to your product type and texture preference. It includes natural and vegan filters.

Ready to formulate your body butter?