Summer is here! For most of us that means time spent outdoors in the sun and heat. Whether at the park, the pool or beach, or just working in your yard, it is so important to always protect your skin from the sun with sunscreen.
It is possible to find some good deals on sunscreen this time of year, but many of us are trying for a more natural approach to as many things as possible. And if that in turn saves you money, it’s a win win.
Here are a few recipes for you to make Homemade DIY Sunscreen:
The main ingredient in homemade sunscreen, that blocks both UVA and UBS is zinc oxide. It is also considered safe for babies. It is actually the active ingredient in diaper rash cream. But it can be very dangerous if the powder is inhaled, so be sure to wear a mask and do this DIY away from the kids.
DIY Sunscreen Recipe #1:
1 1/4 cup boiling water
1/4 cup cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup emulsifying wax
4 Tablespoons non-nano zinc oxide
Essential Oils (optional for scent)
1) Combine first three ingredients and mix will until it thickens and the consistency is one of a whipped face cream.
2) Add zinc oxide and mix until fully blended, remembering to cover nose and mouth.
DIY Sunscreen Recipe #2:
1/2 cup almond or olive oil
1/4 cup coconut oil (natural SPF 4)
1/4 cup beeswax
2 Tablespoons Zinc Oxide (natural SPF 20+)
Essential Oils (optional for scent)
1) Combine all ingredients expect zinc oxide into a mason jar or clean pickle jar (or something similar).
2) Place jar in a couple inches of water in a saucepan over medium heat until the ingredients start to melt.
3) Mix well.
4) Add zinc oxide (covering mouth and nose) and mix until well combined.
Quick and Easy Homemade Sunscreen
A quick and easy way to make your own sunscreen is to add a couple tablespoons of zinc oxide to your favorite lotion. Make sure the lotion doesn’t contain citrus oils. Mix well and use as you would sunscreen. This may work better if you have extra sensitive skin as you likely have found lotions that don’t irritate your skin.
Like anything you are applying to your skin, you should test in a small area to make sure you do not have a reaction to it. This is especially true for people with more sensitive skin.
None of these recipes create a waterproof sunscreen, so be sure to reapply after being in the water. And because non of these recipes include preservatives, the final product will only last about 3-6 months.
For more information on Young Living Essential Oils, check out my post on How to Buy a Young Living Starter Kit! We have some awesome FREEBIES available this month when you sign up!