How to Make Oil from Aloe Vera at Home

By Marcus Williams · January 23, 2026

To make oil from aloe vera, you typically infuse aloe vera gel or powder into a carrier oil like coconut, olive, or almond oil using heat or cold steeping methods over several days. This creates a nourishing topical oil rich in vitamins and anti-inflammatory compounds, ideal for skin and hair care.

Understanding Aloe Vera Oil: Infusion vs. Essential Oil

Aloe vera does not produce essential oil through distillation like lavender or eucalyptus. Instead, "aloe vera oil" refers to a infused oil made by combining aloe vera with a carrier oil. This process preserves the plant's healing properties while enhancing its shelf life and usability.

Why Infusion Is the Preferred Method

Aloe vera contains water-soluble compounds (like polysaccharides) that do not mix well with oil.
Direct extraction of pure aloe oil is not feasible due to low lipid content in the plant.
Infusing aloe gel or powder into carrier oils allows effective transfer of bioactive components.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Aloe Vera Infused Oil

Materials Needed

Fresh aloe vera leaves or high-quality aloe vera powder
Carrier oil (e.g., fractionated coconut oil, sweet almond oil, jojoba oil)
Double boiler or slow cooker
Glass jar with lid
Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
Dark glass bottles for storage

Method 1: Heat Infusion (Faster, 3–4 Hours)

Cut 2–3 fresh aloe vera leaves and extract the inner gel.
Puree the gel in a blender until smooth.
Mix 1 cup of aloe gel with 2 cups of carrier oil in a double boiler.
Heat on low for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally.
Strain through cheesecloth and store in dark glass bottles away from light.

Method 2: Cold Infusion (Longer, 2–4 Weeks)

Place fresh aloe gel or 2 tablespoons of aloe powder in a clean glass jar.
Pour 16 oz (500 ml) of carrier oil over the aloe.
Seal the jar and place in a warm, sunny spot or near a radiator.
Shake daily and let sit for 2–4 weeks.
Strain thoroughly before use.

Choosing the Best Carrier Oil for Aloe Infusion

The choice of carrier oil impacts the texture, absorption, and therapeutic benefits of the final product.

Carrier Oil	Shelf Life (Months)	Comedogenic Rating	Skin Type Suitability	Key Benefits
Jojoba Oil	24	2	All, especially oily/acne-prone	Mimics sebum, non-greasy, balances oil production
Sweet Almond Oil	12	2	Dry, sensitive, normal	Rich in vitamin E, deeply moisturizing
Fractionated Coconut Oil	24+	2	All, including acne-prone	Odorless, lightweight, stable
Olive Oil	12	2–3	Dry, mature	Antioxidant-rich, protective barrier
Apricot Kernel Oil	12	2	Sensitive, aging	Lightweight, high in linoleic acid

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows jojoba and fractionated coconut oils offer superior stability and broad skin compatibility, making them ideal bases for aloe vera infusion. Oils with lower comedogenic ratings (2 or below) are safer for facial applications and acne-prone skin.

Tips for Maximizing Quality and Shelf Life

Use preservatives like vitamin E oil (tocopherol) to extend shelf life by preventing oxidation.
Store infused oil in amber or cobalt glass bottles to protect against UV degradation.
Keep the oil in a cool, dark place—ideally below 77°F (25°C).
Label bottles with preparation date; most infused oils last 6–12 months.
Avoid water contamination, as it promotes microbial growth—always use dry utensils.

Common Questions About Making Aloe Vera Oil

Can you extract pure aloe vera essential oil at home?

No, aloe vera does not contain volatile oils and cannot be distilled into an essential oil. What’s commonly called “aloe oil” is an infused oil made by blending aloe with a carrier oil.

Is fresh aloe vera better than powdered aloe for oil infusion?

Fresh aloe provides higher concentrations of active compounds like acemannan, but requires careful handling to avoid spoilage. Powdered aloe is more stable and convenient, especially for cold infusion methods.

How do you prevent mold when making aloe-infused oil?

Ensure the aloe gel is thoroughly blended and fully submerged in oil. Adding a few drops of vitamin E oil acts as a natural preservative. Always use clean, dry equipment to avoid introducing moisture.

Can aloe vera oil be used on the face?

Yes, when made with non-comedogenic carrier oils like jojoba or fractionated coconut oil, aloe-infused oil is safe for facial use and helps soothe inflammation, redness, and acne.

What are the main benefits of homemade aloe vera oil?

It supports skin hydration, wound healing, and reduces inflammation. It's also free from synthetic additives, making it ideal for sensitive skin and natural skincare routines.