Now we’re heading into the sunny skies of summer which feels so good after the winter months. It’s time to blow off the dust from last year’s sunscreen. I remember my earlier years right up until my mid 30’s were spent rebelling against sunscreen and having tanning contests with my sister. I still adore the feel of sunshine on my skin and believe moderate amounts are important to our health, but I’m no longer a fan of endangering my health by overdoing it.

Have you ever considered making your own sunscreen? It’s easier to make than you think. But why make your own?

Commercial sunscreens have been a hot topic lately, guilty of containing harsh chemicals and being counterproductive in maintaining healthy skin. These chemicals are not only harmful but downright toxic to the body. Most sunscreens – especially those marketed for children – are some of the worst out there in terms of chemicals and additives. For instance, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Consumer Reports warn not to use aerosol spray sunscreens on babies and children because the particles from the spray that can be inhaled or swallowed can be harmful to kids. 

But that’s not all, most sunscreens have other ingredients that can be harmful too. Check out the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) list of worst scoring sunscreens for kids – which includes a list of very popular sunscreens marketed for children and families.

Why Make Your Own Sunscreen

You know exactly what’s going on in your skin and can be sure to use ingredients that are high-quality and without toxic chemicals.

This is why I’m going to be making my own DIY sunscreen. I actually came across the base recipe from WellnessMama and then added my own essential oils that I use in my Vedaceuticals Skincare Line for summer. 

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Natural Sunscreen

Now we’re heading into the sunny skies of summer which feels so good after the winter months. It’s time to blow off the dust from last year’s sunscreen. I remember my earlier years right up until my mid 30’s were spent rebelling against sunscreen and having tanning contests with my sister. I still adore the feel of sunshine on my skin and believe moderate amounts are important to our health, but I’m no longer a fan of endangering my health by overdoing it. Let's make our own sunscreen! That way, you know exactly what’s going on in your skin and can be sure to use ingredients that are high-quality and without toxic chemicals.

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Equipment

• Mask
• Double Boiler (To make your own double boiler, place a Pyrex measuring cup containing ingredients inside a small pot filled with a few inches of water)

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup almond oil
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (which already has a natural SPF of 4-6)
• 1/4 cup beeswax (which helps solidify the sunscreen and helps lock moisture into the skin)
• 2 tablespoons zinc oxide (which is the Environmental Working Group’s first choice for sun protection as it protects from both UVA and UVB rays)
• 1 teaspoon carrot seed oil (which has anti-inflammatory properties and is soothing to the skin and scalp. It also has antioxidant properties meaning it is beneficial in cosmetics as a rejuvenator for aging skin)
• 1 teaspoon lavender essential oil (which is soothing to the skin – and who doesn’t love the smell of lavender)
• 2 tablespoons shea butter (which also serves as a carrier oil along with the almond oil and helps to moisturize the skin)

Instructions

 

• Add coconut oil, almond oil, beeswax, and shea butter, to a makeshift double boiler. (To make your own double boiler, place a Pyrex measuring cup containing ingredients inside a small pot filled with a few inches of water).
• Heat until melted.
• Remove from the double boiler and allow it to cool a little.
• Put on a mask that covers your nose and mouth (to avoid breathing in the fine particles of zinc oxide powder), and measure out your zinc oxide.
• Add zinc oxide, lavender essential oil, and carrot seed oil to the other ingredients.
• Stir well to combine and make sure the zinc oxide is mixed well. 
• Store in a dark jar in the refrigerator.

Keyword Sunscreen

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

HOW TO USE THIS SUNSCREEN

Once it’s cooled down, it’ll have a thick consistency. Just put a dollop in your hands and rub it together and then spread it on the skin. Repeat until skin is evenly coated. Be sure to reapply at least every 45-60 minutes, especially if you’re doing outdoor activities or swimming in the pool or ocean.

Keep it out of direct sunlight. It has the beeswax to keep it from completely melting but direct sunlight and a hot environment may make it lose its solid-like consistency.

NOTES: 

• This sunscreen is not waterproof and will need to be reapplied after sweating or swimming. 
• Make sure not to inhale the zinc oxide. Use a mask if necessary!
• Add more beeswax to make thicker sunscreen, less to make smooth sunscreen.
  Store in a cool, dry place or in the fridge.
• I prefer to store it in a small canning jar and apply it like body butter.

So go ahead and enjoy getting out this summer!

In health,

If you would like more natural remedies that suit you, take a look at the Seasonal Dosha kit that includes a natural skin shield for the summer. Just click the button to see how a dosha kit can give you everything you need for the summer.

Buy Your Seasonal Dosha Kit