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Why This DIY Skincare Recipe is Perfect for Autumn
The "Thirst Quencher": With 85% Aloe Vera, it delivers instant hydration to skin feeling dry from seasonal changes.
Invisible Moisture Shield: Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerine draw moisture deep into the skin and help keep it there all day.
Brightens Summer Spots: Niacinamide helps fade uneven pigmentation left behind by strong summer sun exposure.
Skin Barrier Support: Vitamin E strengthens and protects against the drying autumn wind.
Ingredients & Method
Ingredients (makes 100ml)
85g Aloe Vera Gel
5g Glycerine
4g Niacinamide
3g Hyaluronic Acid 1% Solution
1ml Saliplus Liquid (Preservative)
0.5g Essential Oil (optional, skin-safe)
1.5g Vitamin E
Method / Steps
1. Begin by adding Aloe Vera Gel into a clean, sanitised beaker.
2. Add Glycerine and Hyaluronic Acid 1% Solution. Stir gently until evenly combined.
3. Add Niacinamide and mix thoroughly until fully dissolved and uniform.
4. Add Vitamin E, Saliplus Liquid, and Essential Oil if using. Stir gently to avoid introducing air bubbles.
5. Transfer into a clean serum bottle, preferably with a pump or dropper.
Benefits of Each Ingredient
Aloe Vera Gel: Soothes, hydrates, and cools irritated or tight skin.
Glycerine: A powerful humectant that attracts moisture into the skin.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Helps brighten uneven skin tone and supports the skin barrier.
Hyaluronic Acid 1% Solution: Boosts hydration by holding water within the skin.
Vitamin E: Provides antioxidant protection and supports skin repair.
Preservative: Ensures product safety and extends shelf life.
Essential Oil: Adds a subtle scent (optional and must be used within safe limits).
Tips, Storage & Shelf Life
Tips & Tricks
Always check that Niacinamide is fully dissolved before bottling.
Keep pH between 5–6 for optimal Niacinamide stability.
Avoid strong essential oils in facial products.
Perform a patch test before use.
Storage & Shelf Life
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Shelf life: approximately 3 months, depending on preservative system and storage conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does this DIY face serum last?
A: Stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, the Autumn Glow Recovery Serum keeps for approximately 3 months. Its shelf life depends on your preservative system and storage conditions, so always bottle it in a clean, sanitised container.
Q: Do I need a preservative in a homemade face serum?
A: Yes. Because this serum is water-based (aloe vera gel), a preservative like Saliplus Liquid is essential to prevent mould and bacterial growth and keep the product safe to use. Never skip it or substitute it with vitamin E, which is an antioxidant rather than a preservative.
Q: Is this serum safe for sensitive skin?
A: The formula is lightweight and soothing, but everyone's skin is different. Always perform a patch test on your inner arm 24 hours before applying it to your face, and leave out the essential oil if your skin is easily irritated.
Q: Can I use this hydrating serum every day?
A: Yes. This DIY face serum is gentle enough for daily use, morning and night. Apply it to clean skin before your moisturiser to lock in hydration.
Q: Why isn't my niacinamide dissolving?
A: Niacinamide dissolves best in the water phase with gentle, thorough mixing. Make sure it's fully dissolved and the serum looks uniform before bottling, and keep the pH between 5 and 6 for the best stability.
Refined Naturals Has Everything You Need to Make Your Serum
With just a handful of simple, effective ingredients, this DIY face serum recipe gives your skin the moisture, brightness, and barrier support it needs to glow through autumn—no complicated equipment required. Once you've mixed your first batch of the Autumn Glow Recovery Serum, you'll see how easy and rewarding homemade skincare can be. Source everything you need in one place and have your serum ingredients delivered straight to your door. Gather your supplies, sanitise your beaker, and mix your own Autumn Glow Recovery Serum today.
