DIY Sunscreen

Busy old fool, unruly Sun, 
Why dost thou thus, 
Through windows, and through curtains, call on 
us?....... -John Donne

I'll tell you why the sun calls on us...because we need it!

Exposure to the sun aids in vitamin D absorption.  Low vitamin D levels can lead to many health issues.  But, we can't just sit out and bake in it all day.  We need some level of protection.

Here's a DIY recipe to make your own healthy moisturizing sunscreen.

This recipe is roughly around SPF 20* with the help of Helichrysum essential oil and zinc oxide. Zinc oxide can absorb ultraviolet radiation of sun and protect the skin from sunburn and other damaging effects of UV radiation. Because it absorbs the broadest spectrum of ultraviolet radiation, the FDA has approved its use in sunscreen, lotions, creams, makeup, deodorant, soaps, and more.

*Note: this recipe is not suitable for SPF protection during water-related activities.

What you need:

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 cup Fractionated Coconut Oil

1/4 cup beeswax

2 tablespoons zinc oxide (you can purchase zinc oxide here as well as at some pharmacies)

1 teaspoon vitamin E

2 tablespoons shea butter

12 drops  Helichrysum essential oil (or Geranium)

Note: You can purchase beeswax and shea butter at most health food stores or Amazon.

Directions:

Add everything except zinc oxide and Helichrysum essential oil in a medium sized glass mixing bowl.

Fill a medium saucepan with a couple inches of water and place over medium heat. Place the glass bowl on top of the saucepan so that the saucepan is cradling the bowl.

As the ingredients start to melt, stir occasionally to mix.

TIP: Use a popsicle stick to help stir for an easier cleanup.

Once all ingredients are melted, remove from heat and let the mixture cool for 3 minutes.

Add the zinc oxide and Helichrysum essential oil and stir well to mix.

Note:  Adding additional zinc oxide will increase the SPF factor.

Pour into a pint-sized tin or mason jar and store in a cool place (like a refrigerator). Use within six months.

TIME-SAVER SUNSCREEN

If you are in a rush to head to the beach or pool, you can still make an effective sunscreen with fewer ingredients.

What you need:

1 tube Spa Hand and Body Lotion (email me: thenaturalcollective514@gmail.com)

12 drops of  Helichrysum essential oil

2 tablespoons of zinc oxide

Directions:  Add ingredients to a 8-10 ounce empty lotion bottle and mix well by either stirring the mixture with a straw or shaking vigorously. Apply before sun exposure and reapply every couple of hours.




Please note: Products mentioned in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products and information on this page are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This website is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a medical, psychological, or psychiatric problem, or a disability that requires medical attention, then you should consult your licensed medical doctor or appropriate health care provider. Always consult your medical doctor regarding your medical care. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.