If you need a gentle cleanser or a hydrating facial moisturizer but would like to avoid excess oiliness, a gel-based skin care product may be the answer. Unlike lotions that can rest heavily on the skin's surface, gels products are lightweight and do not become sticky. You can make your own gel products by combining water, aromatics, if you like scent, and a thickening agent. Those who like making their own skin care products may choose to use a base formula or can create a recipe from scratch.

Create a cooling gel for sensitive skin issues. Steep 2 teaspoons of lavender and chamomile flowers in 1 1/2 ounces of hot, distilled water for 10 minutes. Strain the flowers out and pour the water in a glass, spouted measuring cup. Pour in 1/2 ounce of the strained water into a glass bowl along with 1 1/2 ounces of aloe vera gel and two drops of lavender essential oil. Mix the ingredients together in a small bowl until the gel thickens. Scoop the gel into a container.

Try a cleansing basic gel base recipe. Combine 3 ounces of spring water with 1/2 teaspoon of Xanthan gum. Next add 2 teaspoons of aloe concentrate and 25 drops of preservative. Mix the ingredients together with a teaspoon. Pour the gel into a container.

Blend a base product with your favorite essential oils. These aromatic oils should only be 2 to 3 percent of your mixture. Pre-made bases temporarily turn cloudy when oils are added. It may take 12 hours for the cloudiness to dissipate.