Try This Homemade Sunscreen Recipe!

Last Updated on July 16, 2024 by Veronica Sparks

In today’s world, where people are becoming increasingly conscious about what they put on their skin, a homemade sunscreen recipe is a fantastic way to embrace natural living while ensuring effective sun protection.

That’s why we’re going to guide you through the benefits of homemade sunscreen, introduce you to the natural ingredients you can use, and provide a step-by-step recipe to create your own sunblock at home.

Benefits of Homemade Sunscreen

Homemade sunscreen offers numerous benefits that make it an appealing choice for many. Here are some of the key advantages:

Natural Ingredients

By making your own sunscreen, you have full control over the ingredients used. This means you can avoid potentially harmful chemicals found in many commercial sunscreens, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been linked to various health concerns.

Cost Savings

Purchasing high-quality commercial sunscreen can be expensive. Making your own sunscreen allows you to save money, especially if you buy ingredients in bulk. Plus, you can make large batches that last throughout the sunny months.

Eco-Friendly

Many commercial sunscreens contain ingredients that can harm marine life and coral reefs. By using natural ingredients in your homemade sunscreen, you reduce your environmental footprint and contribute to the health of our oceans.

Natural Ingredients for Homemade Sunscreen Recipe

Creating a homemade sunscreen involves using a combination of natural ingredients that provide sun protection and skin nourishment. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in ensuring your sunscreen is effective and safe. Let’s explore the key components you’ll need for your homemade sunscreen recipe.

Zinc Oxide

Zinc oxide is a popular ingredient in natural sunscreens due to its ability to provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It works by sitting on top of the skin and reflecting harmful rays away. Zinc oxide is also known for its soothing properties, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

Titanium Dioxide

Similar to zinc oxide, titanium dioxide offers broad-spectrum protection by reflecting UV radiation. It’s a highly stable ingredient that doesn’t degrade in the sun, ensuring long-lasting protection. Titanium dioxide is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.

Carrot Seed Oil

Carrot seed oil is rich in antioxidants and has natural SPF properties. It contains high levels of beta-carotene and vitamin E, which help protect the skin from sun damage and promote skin regeneration. This oil is also known for its anti-aging benefits.

Raspberry Seed Oil

Raspberry seed oil provides excellent UV protection due to its high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps soothe and moisturize the skin. Raspberry seed oil also has a natural SPF range of 28-50, making it a powerful addition to your sunscreen.

Shea Butter

Shea butter is a fantastic base for homemade sunscreen due to its moisturizing and nourishing properties. It contains vitamins A and E, which help protect the skin from environmental damage. Shea butter also provides a natural barrier against UV radiation.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is well-known for its hydrating properties. While it offers minimal UV protection on its own, it serves as a great carrier oil for other active ingredients. Coconut oil also helps to soothe and repair the skin, making it a valuable component of your sunscreen.

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil has natural sun-blocking properties and is rich in antioxidants. It helps to prevent sunburn and protects the skin from damage caused by UV rays. Sesame oil also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for sensitive skin.

Almond Oil

Almond oil is a light, non-greasy oil that absorbs easily into the skin. It provides some level of UV protection and is packed with vitamins E and D, which nourish and protect the skin. Almond oil also helps to improve skin tone and texture.

Homemade Sunscreen Recipe

Now that you understand the benefits and ingredients of homemade sunscreen, here is a simple and effective recipe you can try at home:

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup shea butter
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup beeswax
• 2 tablespoons zinc oxide
• 1 tablespoon titanium dioxide
• 1 tablespoon carrot seed oil
• 1 tablespoon raspberry seed oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon almond oil
• Optional: a few drops of essential oil for fragrance

Instructions

1. Melt the Base Ingredients: In a double boiler, melt the shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax together until fully combined.
2. Add the Oils: Once melted, remove the mixture from heat and stir in the carrot seed oil, raspberry seed oil, sesame oil, and almond oil.
3. Mix in the Minerals: Carefully add the zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, stirring continuously to ensure they are evenly distributed. Be cautious not to inhale the powders.
4. Optional Fragrance: If desired, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a pleasant scent.
5. Cool and Store: Pour the mixture into a glass jar or container and let it cool completely. Store your homemade sunscreen in a cool, dark place.

Block UV Rays the Natural Way!

Making your own sunscreen at home is a rewarding and empowering experience that aligns with the principles of natural living. With this homemade sunscreen recipe, you can protect your skin from harmful UV rays using natural ingredients that are safe, effective, and eco-friendly.

Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly what you’re putting on your skin, and take pride in contributing to a healthier planet.

FAQs

What Does SPF Mean?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It measures the level of protection a sunscreen provides against UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburn. An SPF of 30 means you can stay in the sun 30 times longer than you could without protection before burning.

How Effective is Homemade Sunscreen?

The effectiveness of homemade sunscreen depends on the ingredients and their proper formulation. While natural ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide good protection, it’s essential to ensure they are used in the correct proportions to achieve the desired SPF. Always test a small amount on your skin before full use.

How Long Does Homemade Sunscreen Last?

Homemade sunscreen typically lasts up to six months if stored in a cool, dark place. The natural oils and butters can go rancid over time, so it’s important to check for any changes in smell or texture before use. If in doubt, make a fresh batch to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Are Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide Really Natural?

While zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are minerals, they undergo a purification process to be used in sunscreens. Despite this, they are considered natural ingredients because they are derived from natural mineral sources and are not chemically altered in a way that affects their natural state. These ingredients are favored in natural sunscreens due to their effectiveness and safety profile.