As summer rolled around last year, I found myself in a scenario many UK families face—trying to protect my fair skin from the relentless sun. The sunny days in January were not just an illusion but a cue to take sun protection seriously. I had always applied commercial sunscreens, but a nagging concern lingered about the toxicity of those ingredients. That’s when I decided to take matters into my own hands—literally. I embarked on the journey of creating my own DIY sunscreen with zinc oxide. Here’s how I did it!
Highlights
- 🛡️ Zinc Oxide offers effective UV protection.
- ✨ DIY sunscreen can be made with just three natural ingredients.
- 💰 Homemade options save money compared to store-bought brands.
- 🔬 Avoiding toxic ingredients found in commercial products enhances skin health.
Why Go DIY for Sunscreen?
Living in the heart of the UK, I’ve paid my dues with countless sunburns, especially during our summer escapades. The ingredients in commercial sunscreens often sent shivers down my spine. Parabens, fragrances, and even vitamin A derivatives? No thanks! The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has flagged these components as potential hormone disruptors. Who needs that when trying to enjoy a day out?
After digging deeper, I realized that creating a natural sunscreen might not be as complicated as I thought. My journey into the realm of DIY began! 🛠️ It was time to make something that not only protected my skin but also respected it.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Excellent news: you don’t need a lab coat for this! Here’s what you need to make your own homemade sunscreen:
- 4 oz of non-toxic lotion (my go-to is from Bend Soap Company) 🧴
- 1 oz of zinc oxide (aim for about 20 SPF) 🌞
- 12 drops of carrot seed oil for added nourishment 🥕
- Optional: 2 tbsp of carrier oil (jojoba or sweet almond) for a smoother application 🌰
- 1-2 tsp of cocoa powder if you want to tint it for a better skin match 🍫
Step-by-Step: Making Your Own Sunscreen
Creating your DIY sunscreen is a straightforward process. Here’s how I did it:
- Mix It Up: Measure out your lotion into a bowl. Slowly whisk in the zinc oxide, making sure not to inhale those fine particles (take a deep breath before you start). ☁️
- Add in Nourishment: Mix in your carrot seed oil and any carrier oils. If you want that chocolate tint, introduce the cocoa powder gradually. 👩🍳
- Storage: Store your concoction in glass jars or cute squeezable tubes, and voilà! You’ve got homemade sunscreen ready for application. 🏖️
Why Zinc Oxide?
Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room—why choose zinc oxide specifically? This compound isn’t just any sunblock; it provides broad-spectrum UV protection, meaning you’re shielded from both UVA and UVB rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens that can absorb into your skin and bloodstream, zinc oxide sits on the surface. It’s like a protective barrier, significantly reducing the risk of skin irritation and reactions. Chemical-free is the name of the game! 🌿
Practical Tips for Success
As I learned, a few additional tips can improve your sunscreen experience:
- ✨ Test out the consistency: If the mixture feels too thick, try adding a bit more carrier oil; it makes a world of difference.
- 🎨 Tweak the tint: Depending on your skin tone, adjust the cocoa powder until you achieve a natural hue.
- ⏰ Reapply every couple of hours when outdoors for extended periods. Protecting skin health is an ongoing commitment!
Let’s Talk about Cost
Long gone are the days where I’d grin and bear paying £30 for a bottle of sunscreen laced with shady ingredients. Not only does making your own homemade sunscreen save money, but it also empowers you to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences. I easily calculated the value of what I spent—my homemade batch cost significantly less per use than commercial brands while being free of harmful additives.
Why It Matters
With the growing awareness around sun safety, understanding what goes on your skin is crucial. After all, skin is our largest organ, absorbing anything we apply. Creating my own sunscreen using natural ingredients not only allows me to steer clear of toxins but also provides peace of mind as I enjoy sunny days with my family. 🥰
It’s just as crucial to instill this consciousness in the next generation. By educating kids about sun protection, we empower them to make informed choices that benefit their health in the long run.
Get Started with Your DIY Sunscreen
If you’re ready to embark on your sunscreen-making journey, I encourage you to give it a go! Making your own organic sunscreen is surprisingly simple and fulfilling. Plus, sharing this experience with friends and family can cultivate a community around healthier skincare choices. Who knows? You might find other DIY skincare hacks to enhance your summer skincare routine!
Let’s take back control of our skin health together. See you out there, sunbathing with confidence and a little creativity!
