DIY Natural Sunscreen

While our family loves the chilly winter season, with it’s warm cups of coffee with peppermint creamer in a cozy mug, holiday treats, and snow cream; but by the end of February, we are ready for some fresh flowers and sunshine! As soon as the warm weather arrives, we try to be outside as much as possible. We love soaking up the sun by the water or in the park, always making sure we get enough sun exposure without getting too much. We know how valuable Vitamin D is for our health, so we don’t shy away from the sun, but we also know that protecting our skin is just as valuable to our health. That’s why we love this DIY natural sunscreen. It’s made it safe ingredients that are actually effective in protecting us from sunburn.

“Many sunscreen products contain potentially harmful ingredients, including oxybenzones and retinyl palmitate. Why not avoid the chemicals and ingredients and make your own?

Sunscreens typically block UVB rays but not UVA rays. The UVA rays are responsible for the majority of skin problems due to overexposure. For this reason a sunscreen with a mineral such as zinc oxide is recommended as it offers UVA protection.

It’s also important to note that a higher SPF (sun protection factor) does not guarantee added protection. Sunscreens with an SPF of 15 blocks up to 93 percent of incoming UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks 97 percent and SPF 50 blocks 98 percent. Keep in mind that SPF does not take into account UVA rays.

(If you prefer to purchase your sunscreen check out EWG’s 2015 Sunscreen Guide.)

The following natural sunscreen recipe uses coconut oil and olive oil. A 2010 study found them to have the highest SPF value. Castor oil and almond oil scored well also. (See In Vitro Sun Protection Factor Determination of Herbal Oils Used in Cosmetics.)

In addition, the study found peppermint essential oil and tulsi essential oil to have the highest SPF for volatile oils. Lavender essential oil came in close behind.