DIY Homemade Sunscreen Spray Recipe for Natural Sun Protection

Protecting our skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun is essential for maintaining healthy skin and avoiding serious medical conditions such as skin cancer. However, many commercially available sunscreens contain chemicals that can be harmful to our bodies and the environment.

Making your own homemade sunscreen spray is a natural alternative that allows you to control the ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals.

Homemade Sunscreen Spray Recipe for Natural Sun Protection

Ingredients

To make your own homemade sunscreen spray, you will need the following natural ingredients that provide sun protection and skin nourishment. These ingredients can be found in health stores or purchased online.

Remember to choose organic and high-quality ingredients to ensure the best results and safety for your skin.

1. Non-nano zinc oxide: This is a natural mineral that provides broad-spectrum sun protection by reflecting both UVA and UVB rays. It is non-toxic and safe for the skin.
2. Coconut oil: Known for its moisturizing properties, coconut oil also has a natural SPF of around 4-6. It helps nourish the skin and acts as a base for the sunscreen spray.
3. Shea butter: Rich in vitamins A and E, shea butter is a natural moisturizer that also offers some sun protection (SPF 3-6) while keeping the skin soft and smooth.
4. Aloe vera gel: Aloe vera is known for its soothing and healing properties, making it an excellent addition to the sunscreen spray. It helps to keep the skin hydrated and soothes any sunburns or irritation caused by sun exposure.
5. Jojoba oil or sweet almond oil: Both oils have natural SPF levels of around 4-6, and they act as carriers for the zinc oxide, helping it spread evenly on the skin.
6. Vitamin E oil: This antioxidant-rich oil helps prevent skin damage from free radicals caused by sun exposure. It also helps extend the shelf life of the sunscreen spray.
7. Essential oils (optional): You can add essential oils like lavender or chamomile for their soothing properties and to provide a pleasant fragrance. However, avoid citrus essential oils, as they can increase photosensitivity.
8. Distilled water or witch hazel: This helps to thin out the mixture, making it easier to spray onto the skin.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own homemade sunscreen spray:

1. Measure the ingredients: Weigh out the appropriate amounts of non-nano zinc oxide, coconut oil, shea butter, aloe vera gel, jojoba oil or sweet almond oil, and vitamin E oil.
2. Melt the base: In a double boiler or a heat-safe bowl placed over a pot of simmering water, gently melt the coconut oil and shea butter together. Stir occasionally until fully melted and combined.
3. Remove from heat: Once the coconut oil and shea butter have melted, remove the mixture from heat and let it cool down slightly.
4. Mix in the oils: Add the aloe vera gel, jojoba oil or sweet almond oil, and vitamin E oil to the melted mixture. Stir well to combine.
5. Slowly add zinc oxide: Gradually add the non-nano zinc oxide to the mixture, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth consistency without clumps. Be careful not to inhale the zinc oxide powder, as it can be harmful when inhaled.
6. Add essential oils (optional): If desired, add a few drops of your chosen essential oils to the mixture for fragrance and additional skin benefits.
7. Thin the mixture: Slowly add distilled water or witch hazel to the mixture until you reach the desired consistency for a sprayable sunscreen.
8. Transfer to a spray bottle: Pour the sunscreen mixture into a dark-colored glass spray bottle to protect it from light degradation.
9. Shake well before use: Make sure to shake the bottle thoroughly before each use to ensure even distribution of the zinc oxide throughout the spray.

Your homemade sunscreen spray is now ready for use! Apply generously and evenly to exposed skin, and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or excessive sweating.

Usage and Storage

To get the most out of your homemade sunscreen spray, follow these usage and storage guidelines:

• Apply generously: Shake the bottle well before each use and spray the sunscreen onto exposed skin. Make sure to apply a generous amount to ensure adequate sun protection. You can also spray it onto your hands and then apply it to your face, avoiding the eye area.
• Reapply frequently: Like any sunscreen, it’s essential to reapply the homemade spray every 2 hours or after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying. This will help maintain consistent sun protection throughout the day.
• Store properly: Keep your sunscreen spray in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. The dark-colored glass bottle will help protect the ingredients from light degradation, but it’s still essential to store it properly.
• Shelf life: Homemade sunscreen spray has a shorter shelf life than commercial sunscreens due to the natural ingredients. It’s recommended to use the sunscreen within 6 months to ensure its effectiveness. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or consistency, it’s best to discard the product and make a fresh batch.
• Patch test: Before using the sunscreen spray for the first time, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any adverse reactions or sensitivities. If irritation occurs, discontinue use.

By following these usage and storage guidelines, you can enjoy safe and effective sun protection with your homemade sunscreen spray while keeping your skin nourished and healthy.

Benefits of Homemade Sunscreen

Creating your own homemade sunscreen spray offers several advantages over using commercial sunscreens. Here are some key benefits of DIY sunscreen:

Safer for the skin

Homemade sunscreens made with natural ingredients are free from harmful chemicals and synthetic preservatives found in some commercial sunscreens. This makes them a safer option for those with sensitive skin or allergies to certain ingredients.

Environmentally friendly

Many commercial sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm aquatic life and contribute to coral reef bleaching. Using a homemade sunscreen with natural, biodegradable ingredients is a more eco-friendly choice.

Cost-effective

Making your own sunscreen can be more cost-effective than buying commercial brands, especially if you use natural ingredients that you already have at home or can purchase in bulk.

Customizable

When creating your own sunscreen, you have the flexibility to customize the recipe to suit your skin type and preferences. You can adjust the SPF level, add essential oils for fragrance, or include additional nourishing ingredients for specific skin concerns.

Avoids unnecessary additives

Commercial sunscreens may contain added fragrances, colors, or other unnecessary ingredients that can cause irritation or sensitivity. With homemade sunscreen, you know exactly what’s in it and can avoid these potential irritants.

By making your own homemade sunscreen spray, you gain control over the ingredients and can tailor the product to your specific needs while enjoying the benefits of natural sun protection for your skin and the environment.

Conclusion

Homemade sunscreen spray offers a natural and safe alternative to commercial sunscreens that can be tailored to your specific needs. By using natural ingredients, you can protect your skin from harmful UV rays while avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals found in some commercial sunscreens.

Creating your own sunscreen also allows you to control the ingredients and avoid unnecessary additives, making it a more eco-friendly and cost-effective choice. Additionally, by customizing the recipe to suit your skin type and preferences, you can enjoy the benefits of a nourishing and protective sunscreen that is safe for you and the environment!