Sunburn is harmful and should be avoided. So being sun smart is necessary. Sunscreen is not the only way to avoid sunburn, there are many other ways that need to be used in conjunction. In saying that, commercial sunscreens contain a lot of chemicals and other ingredients that can enter the bloodstream and hurt the human body. This homemade natural sunscreen is made with safer ingredients, has a wonderful moisturising base and is overall a lot healthier for you.
Homemade Natural Sunscreen
Homemade sunscreen is a natural way to protect the skin without the unnecessary chemicals from commercial products penetrating the skin when put on.
If you are one for doing your own research, you can find studies that show how sunscreen can affect marine life when it is washed off in the oceans while swimming.
Before Using this Sunscreen
Before using this sunscreen, you will need to understand a few things.
- Don’t use on skin with open wounds or cuts.
- Test on small area of skin before using. If there’s any irritation, discontinue use immediately.
- Wash hands well after using.
- DO NOT use homemade sun protection recipes if you are not comfortable with them. Sun safety is your choice and your responsibility!
Zinc Oxide
When purchasing zinc oxide, make sure to buy one with non-nano particles. Zinc oxide particles can be small enough to fit into your pores, absorbing into your body and has been linked with organ damage if inhaled, ingested or absorbed.
Though, if you use non-nano zinc oxide, you will end up with a white sheen on the areas that it these sticks are applied to. This can be dealt with by adding a tint to the zinc sticks.
So, wearing a mask while using any type of zinc oxide is a good idea.
SPF
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and refers to the ability of a sunscreen or zinc to block UVB or ultraviolet B rays. It is these rays that burn the skin.
Due to the process of working out an SPF of zinc or sunscreen, as well as the cost, I am unable to inform you of the SPF in this recipe.
It also does depend on the ingredients that you use as well.
In saying this, we have had good results when using these sticks.
It does need to be reapplied every few hours and after swimming.
Carrier Oils
When making a salve, choosing the correct carrier oil can improve the impact of the salve as each carrier oil has its own set of distinct properties. Blending a couple of carrier oils can also help maximise their benefits.
With this salve recipe, there are multiple carrier oils that could be used including:
- Avocado Oil
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Sweet Almond Oil
- Argan Oil
- Rosehip Oil
- Hemp Oil
- Safflower Oil
You can learn more about carrier oils here.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are potent, and need to be diluted. As this sunscreen is being used on your skin, you will need to use essential oils that are gentle enough to be applied to your skin – and used in the correct quantities.
Just be careful using some essential oils such as tea tree and peppermint, around children and pregnant women, making sure to do your research before using.
Be careful when using some essential oils such as citrus ones. Some essential oils are photosensitive, which means that you can have a reaction if you go out in the sun within a few hours of using it, so it is recommended not to use them in this sunscreen. DO YOUR RESEARCH!
Using Natural Homemade Sunscreen
Apply, as needed, to skin that needs extra protection from the sun.
- Nose
- Cheeks
- Arms
- Legs
Storing Homemade Sunscreen
You may want to store in the fridge for 6 to 12 months if you live in a hot climate to prevent it from melting. Otherwise, keep in a cool, dry and dark place.
When taking it with you make sure that you store it in a plastic bag in a cooler so that it doesn’t soften in the warm weather.
Ingredients for Natural Sunscreen
To make around 7 ounces of this sunscreen, you will need:
- ¼ Cup Coconut Oil
- ½ Cup Carrier Oil such as Avocado Oil or Sweet Almond Oil
- ¼ Cup Beeswax
- 2 TBSP Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter or Mango Butter
- 4 TBSP Non Nano Zinc Oxide
- Containers such as these 4oz containers or these amber containers
- Essential Oils are optional
Making Natural Sunscreen
Combine the beeswax, shea butter, carrier oil and coconut oil in a microwaveable container and heat for 30 seconds at a time in the microwave until the beeswax is completely melted. Stir in between each heat burst. This process could also be done in a double boiler.
Mix in your non nano zinc oxide.
Make sure to mix it thoroughly.
Add essential oils if using.
Carefully pour into the containers.
As it cools down, continue to stir to help mix all the zinc oxide through.
Let sit until completely cool and firm, about 6 – 12 hours.
More Resources
- After Sun Salve
- Homemade Zinc Sticks
- DIY Bug Repellent Balm
- Lemon Balm Lip Balm For Cold Sores
- Garlic Mullein Ear Oil
- Lavender Bath Bombs
- Homemade Calendula Lip Balm
- Lavender and Chamomile Cream
- Lavender Body Butter
- Natural Deodorant
- How to Make Calendula Oil
- How to Make Healing Calendula Salve
- Calendula and Chamomile Bath Bombs
- Homemade Calendula Soap
- Calendula Bath Bombs
- Lavender Bubble Bath
- Lavender and Sweet Orange Bath Salts
- Lavender Soap
- Hibiscus Hair Detangling Spray
Homemade Natural Sunscreen
Ingredients
- ¼ Cup Coconut Oil
- ½ Cup Carrier Oil Such as Avocado Oil, or Sweet Almond Oil or even an infused oil
- ¼ Cup Beeswax
- 2 TBSP Shea Butter Or Cocoa butter, or Mango Butter
- 4 TBSP Non Nano Zinc Oxide
- Essential Oils are Optional No more than 10 drops total in this recipe
Instructions
- Combine the beeswax, shea butter, carrier oil and coconut oil in a microwaveable container and heat for 30 seconds at a time in the microwave until the beeswax is completely melted. Stir in between each heat burst. This process could also be done in a double boiler.
- Mix in your non nano zinc oxide.
- Make sure to mix it thoroughly.
- Add essential oils if using.
- Carefully pour into the containers.
- As it cools down, continue to stir to help mix all the zinc oxide through.
- Let sit until completely cool and firm, about 6 – 12 hours.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website. Check dilution levels for kids. Pregnant, nursing women and those under the care of a physician for a chronic condition should consult a physician before using. For external use only. Individual results may vary.
Homemade Alfredo Pesto Sauce