DIY Natural Sunscreen: Protect Your Skin with Nature’s Best

Natural DIY Sunscreen

In today’s world, where we are increasingly conscious of what we put on our bodies, the idea of creating a natural, DIY sunscreen is both appealing and practical. Conventional sunscreens often contain chemicals that can be harsh on the skin or harmful to the environment. Crafting your own sunscreen using natural ingredients not only ensures you know exactly what you’re applying to your skin, but it also allows you to avoid synthetic ingredients and embrace a more holistic approach to sun protection.

The Basics of Sun Protection

Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to understand the basics of how sunscreens work. Sunscreen protects your skin by either absorbing or reflecting the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. The two types of UV rays that can cause harm are UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature aging, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburns and can contribute to skin cancer.

Natural sunscreens work by using ingredients that have a natural SPF (Sun Protection Factor) and by creating a barrier on the skin to reflect the sun’s rays. While these sunscreens may not offer as high an SPF as commercial products, they can still provide effective protection when used correctly.

Key Ingredients for a DIY Natural Sunscreen

1. Zinc Oxide

   - Zinc oxide is the primary active ingredient in natural sunscreens. It is a mineral that sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays. Look for non-nano zinc oxide, which won’t be absorbed into the skin and offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

2. Coconut Oil

   - Coconut oil is a popular ingredient in DIY skincare because it’s moisturising and has a natural SPF of about 4-5. While it’s not enough on its own, it’s a great base for your sunscreen.

1. Shea Butter

   - Shea butter is another moisturising ingredient that provides a bit of natural sun protection (around SPF 4-6) and helps create a smooth, spreadable texture for your sunscreen.

4. Beeswax

   - Beeswax helps to thicken the sunscreen and makes it water-resistant, which is essential for maintaining protection while swimming or sweating.

1. Carrot Seed Oil

   - Carrot seed oil is known for its high antioxidant content and natural SPF of 35-40. It also has anti-aging benefits, making it a fantastic addition to your sunscreen.

6. Raspberry Seed Oil

   - Raspberry seed oil is another oil with a high SPF (28-50) and excellent antioxidant properties. It’s also lightweight and absorbs well into the skin.

7. Essential Oils (optional)

   - Essential oils like lavender or peppermint can be added for fragrance, but be cautious with citrus oils, as they can increase photosensitivity.

DIY Natural Sunscreen Recipe

Ingredients

- ½ cup coconut oil

- ¼ cup shea butter

- ¼ cup beeswax

- 2 tablespoons non-nano zinc oxide

- 1 tablespoon carrot seed oil

- 1 tablespoon raspberry seed oil

- Optional: a few drops of essential oil for scent

Instructions

1. Melt the Base Ingredients

   - In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax together. Stir occasionally until fully melted and combined.

2. Add the Oils

   - Remove the mixture from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Stir in the carrot seed oil and raspberry seed oil. If you’re using essential oils, add a few drops now.

3. Incorporate the Zinc Oxide

   - Carefully stir in the zinc oxide powder. Be cautious not to inhale the powder, as it can be irritating to the lungs. Stir thoroughly to ensure the zinc oxide is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

4. Cool and Store

   - Pour the mixture into a glass jar or tin and let it cool to room temperature. As it cools, it will thicken into a creamy consistency.

5. Application

   - Apply your natural sunscreen generously to all exposed skin about 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Tips for Success

*Patch Test

Before using your DIY sunscreen, do a patch test on a small area of skin to ensure you don’t have any allergic reactions to the ingredients.

*Reapplication

Because natural sunscreens may not be as water-resistant as commercial ones, reapplication is crucial, especially after swimming or sweating.

*Storage

Store your sunscreen in a cool, dark place. If you live in a hot climate, you might want to keep it in the refrigerator to prevent it from melting.

Creating your own natural sunscreen is a rewarding process that allows you to take control of what you put on your skin. While it’s important to remember that DIY sunscreens may not provide as high an SPF as their commercial counterparts, they are a great option for those looking to minimise exposure to synthetic chemicals. As with any skincare product, listen to your body, monitor your skin’s reaction, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with using natural ingredients.

Here’s to the power of nature!