Simple To Make Homemade Natural Sunscreen Recipe.
Sunscreen can be an essential part of your skincare routine, protecting against the possible harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays.
Regular use of sunscreen helps prevent sunburn, and premature ageing and reduces the risk of skin cancer. However, many commercial sunscreens contain chemicals and preservatives that can be harsh on the skin and potentially harmful to your health.
Using natural ingredients in your sunscreen offers several benefits.
Natural sunscreens are often gentler on the skin, reducing the risk of irritation and allergic reactions. They also avoid the synthetic chemicals found in many store-bought products, providing a more eco-friendly option for sun protection.
In this post, I’ll share some history of sunscreen taking a closer look at the correlation between our ultra-processed lifestyle and the increase in certain cancers such as skin cancer. I will also explain how sunscreen works and give you a simple and effective homemade sunscreen recipe that you can easily make at home.
By using natural ingredients, you can create a sunscreen that’s tailored to your skin’s needs while ensuring that you’re protected from the sun safely and healthily.
The Birth of Sunscreen
What did people do before sunscreen?
Were our ancestors too busy with daily labour to lounge in the sun, or did they instinctively know to avoid the sun during its peak intensity? Certainly, people worked under the sun’s rays—so did they develop skin cancer, or was life expectancy simply too short for such conditions to manifest widely?
As we explore the evolution of sunscreen, we see a familiar pattern: what often begins as a genuine effort to protect and help others eventually becomes an opportunity for commercialisation.
- 1920s – The Tanning Craze: The 1920s saw the rise of tanning as a symbol of health and leisure, popularised by fashion icons like Coco Chanel. However, as more people sought the sun, the need for sun protection was created.
- 1930s – First Commercial Sunscreen: The first commercial sunscreen was developed in 1936 by chemist Eugène Schueller, the founder of L’Oréal. This early product was a blend of chemical compounds that offered minimal UV protection but marked the beginning of modern sunscreen development.
- 1940s – Red Vet Pet: During World War II, pharmacist Benjamin Green developed a sunscreen called “Red Vet Pet” (Red Veterinary Petroleum), which was used by soldiers in the Pacific to protect their skin from the harsh sun. This product later evolved into Coppertone, one of the most famous sunscreen brands.
Advances in Sunscreen Formulation
- 1950s – Broadening Use: Sunscreens became more popular among the general public, especially with the introduction of Coppertone’s “tan, don’t burn” marketing campaign. Products of this era were typically protecting against UVB rays, which cause sunburn.
- 1970s – SPF System Introduced: The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) system was introduced in the early 1970s. SPF measures a sunscreen’s ability to protect against UVB rays, allowing consumers to compare the effectiveness of different products. The 1970s also saw the development of water-resistant sunscreens.
- 1980s – UVA Awareness: Scientists began to recognise the dangers of UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to ageing and skin cancer. This led to the development of broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
Present: Focus on Safety and Environmental Impact
- 1990s – Increased Regulation and Awareness: Governments and health organisations began to regulate sunscreen ingredients more strictly, focusing on both safety and efficacy. The FDA and other regulatory bodies introduced guidelines for labelling and testing sunscreens.
- 2000s – Mineral Sunscreens and Nanotechnology: Concerns about chemical sunscreen ingredients’ safety and environmental impact led to increased interest in mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Nanotechnology was also introduced to reduce the white cast traditionally associated with these ingredients.
- 2010s – Environmental Concerns: Growing awareness of the environmental impact of sunscreen chemicals, particularly oxybenzone and octinoxate, led to bans on these ingredients in certain regions, such as Hawaii and Palau, to protect coral reefs. Consumers also began seeking “reef-safe” sunscreens that do not harm marine life.
- 2020s – Continued Innovation and Natural Alternatives: The sunscreen industry continues to innovate with formulations that balance efficacy, safety, and environmental responsibility. Natural and organic sunscreens have gained popularity, and there is ongoing research into new UV filters such as non-nano zinc oxide and technologies that offer better protection with fewer health and environmental risks.
Understanding Sunscreen Basics
Sunscreen is a tool used to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Two main types of UV rays affect your skin: UVA and UVB.
UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply and are primarily responsible for premature ageing, such as wrinkles and age spots. UVB rays, on the other hand, affect the outer layers of the skin and are the main cause of sunburn. Both types of rays can contribute to the development of skin cancer.
Sunscreens work by either absorbing, scattering, or reflecting these UV rays to prevent them from penetrating the skin. There are two main types of sunscreen: chemical and mineral (also known as physical).
Chemical sunscreens contain active ingredients like oxybenzone or avobenzone that absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin.
Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, use natural minerals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to physically block and reflect UV rays away from the skin’s surface.
Both types aim to protect your skin, but mineral sunscreens are often preferred for their broad-spectrum protection and lower risk of irritation or environmental harm. To learn more about the worst ingredients in sunscreen read this post.
SPF Explained
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is a measure of how well a sunscreen can protect your skin from UVB rays, the kind that causes sunburn.
The SPF number indicates how long it would take for UVB rays to redden your skin compared to how long it would take without sunscreen. For example, if you use an SPF 30 sunscreen, it theoretically allows you to stay in the sun 30 times longer without getting sunburned than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen.
However, it’s important to note that SPF is not a measure of protection against UVA rays, which also contribute to skin damage.
A higher SPF offers more protection, but the difference becomes less significant at higher levels. SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks about 97%, and SPF 50 blocks about 98%. No sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays.
For effective sun protection, dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
It’s also important to apply enough sunscreen (about a shot glass full for your entire body) and to reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
Understanding SPF and how sunscreen works can help you make informed decisions to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Sun Protection & Diet
Eating habits can significantly influence your skin’s ability to protect itself against the sun’s harmful UV rays.
While sunscreen and other topical measures can provide sun protection, your diet plays a complementary role in enhancing your skin’s natural defences.
Here’s how eating habits can affect your skin’s protection against the sun:
1. Antioxidants and Skin Protection
Antioxidants are compounds that help neutralise free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage skin cells when the skin is exposed to UV radiation.
A diet rich in antioxidants can bolster your skin’s defences against sun damage. Key antioxidants include:
- Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli, Vitamin C supports collagen production and helps repair skin damage caused by UV exposure.
- Vitamin E: Present in nuts, seeds, and leafy greens, Vitamin E works in synergy with Vitamin C to protect the skin from oxidative stress.
- Beta-carotene: This is a precursor to Vitamin A and is abundant in carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach. Beta-carotene can increase the skin’s resistance to UV-induced erythema (redness).
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish (like salmon), flaxseeds, and walnuts, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce skin inflammation caused by UV exposure.
These healthy fats are also believed to enhance the skin’s barrier function, helping to retain moisture and protect against environmental damage, including sunburn.
3. Polyphenols and Flavonoids
Polyphenols and flavonoids are plant-based compounds with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Foods rich in these compounds, such as green tea, dark chocolate, berries, and grapes, can help protect the skin from UV damage.
Studies have shown that polyphenols can reduce the incidence of sunburn and improve the skin’s resilience to UV exposure.
4. Lycopene and Other Carotenoids
Lycopene, found in tomatoes, watermelon, and pink grapefruit, is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to provide some protection against sunburn when consumed regularly.
Other carotenoids, such as lutein and zeaxanthin (found in leafy greens like kale and spinach), also contribute to skin protection by absorbing UV light and neutralising free radicals.
5. Hydration
Staying well-hydrated is crucial for maintaining healthy skin.
Water supports skin’s elasticity and can help prevent dryness and irritation, which can be exacerbated by sun exposure.
Consuming water-rich fruits and vegetables, like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges, can help keep your skin hydrated and resilient against the sun.
6. Reducing Ultra-Processed Foods
On the flip side, a diet high in ultra-processed foods, such as refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and additives, can weaken your skin’s defences. These foods can lead to inflammation, oxidative stress, and a breakdown of collagen, making your skin more vulnerable to sun damage and ageing.
As a nutrition therapist, I’ve observed a concerning rise in the consumption of ultra-processed foods, and its impact extends far beyond general health, it also plays a significant role in the skin-sun problem.
Ultra-processed foods are often loaded with seed and vegetable oils, excessive sugars, and artificial additives, which can disrupt the body’s natural balance and increase inflammation.
This chronic inflammation can make the skin more susceptible to damage from UV rays, exacerbating the risk of sunburn and, over time, skin cancer. Additionally, these foods lack the essential nutrients, antioxidants, and healthy fats that support skin health and natural protection against sun damage.
By reducing reliance on ultra-processed foods and focusing on a diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods, we can help our skin become more resilient and better equipped to handle sun exposure.
Homemade Sunscreen Recipe
Creating your own sunscreen involves selecting ingredients that not only protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays but also nourish and moisturize your skin. Here are some of the key ingredients to include in a homemade natural sunscreen, each offering unique benefits:
Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is the cornerstone of most natural sunscreens and serves as a highly effective, mineral-based UV blocker. It works by sitting on top of the skin and physically scattering and reflecting UVA and UVB rays, preventing them from penetrating the skin. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, zinc oxide provides broad-spectrum protection without the risk of chemical absorption. It’s also non-comedogenic, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. This ingredient is often preferred in natural sunscreens because it’s safe, effective, and environmentally friendly, particularly when formulated without nanoparticles.
Red Raspberry Seed Oil
Red raspberry seed oil is a valuable addition to natural sunscreen formulations due to its multiple protective benefits. It provides a natural SPF ranging from 28 to 50 for UVB rays and 6 to 8 for UVA rays, offering broad-spectrum protection. Rich in antioxidants like Vitamin E and polyphenols, it helps neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress caused by UV exposure. The oil’s anti-inflammatory properties, derived from its omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, soothe and calm the skin, making it ideal for sensitive skin and sunburn relief. Additionally, its moisturizing and nourishing qualities help keep the skin hydrated and healthy without clogging pores, making it suitable for all skin types. Red Raspberry Seed oil also supports the repair of UV damage, promoting skin healing and reducing signs of sun-induced ageing.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is well-known for its deeply moisturizing properties, making it an excellent base ingredient for natural sunscreens. It helps keep the skin hydrated and smooth, which is particularly important when spending time in the sun. Additionally, coconut oil offers a natural SPF of around 4-5, providing a mild level of sun protection on its own. While it shouldn’t be relied upon as the sole sun-blocking ingredient, its natural SPF, combined with its ability to support the skin’s barrier function, makes it a valuable component in a sunscreen formula.
Shea Butter
Shea butter is a rich, nourishing butter derived from the nuts of the shea tree. It’s packed with vitamins A and E, which are beneficial for maintaining skin health and repairing sun-damaged skin. Shea butter also has a natural SPF of around 3-4, contributing a mild level of sun protection. It helps to soothe and moisturize the skin, making it an ideal ingredient for a sunscreen that not only protects but also nourishes your skin, keeping it soft and supple under the sun.
Beeswax
Beeswax plays a crucial role in natural sunscreen formulations by creating a waterproof barrier on the skin. This barrier helps to keep the sunscreen in place, even when swimming or sweating, thereby enhancing the longevity and effectiveness of the sun protection. Beeswax also has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help soothe the skin and protect against environmental irritants. In addition, it helps to bind the other ingredients together, giving the sunscreen a more stable, balm-like consistency.
Essential Oils
For those who prefer a pleasant scent and additional skin benefits, essential oils can be a wonderful addition to natural sunscreen. Carrot seed oil is an excellent option, as it has a high natural SPF (ranging from 30 to 40) and is rich in antioxidants that protect and rejuvenate the skin. Essential oils like tea tree oil can also offer antibacterial benefits, however, you need to be careful with your choice of essential oils as citrus oils are unstable in sunlight and others such as lavender can affect hormones. Essential oils should be used sparingly and with caution, especially on sensitive skin, as they are highly concentrated.
By combining these ingredients, you can create a natural sunscreen that not only protects your skin from the sun’s harmful rays but also nourishes, hydrates, and soothes, all while avoiding the potentially harmful chemicals found in many conventional sunscreens.
DIY Sunscreen Recipe
This is a basic DIY sunscreen recipe, adjust the recipe according to your preferences.
1/4 cup shea butter SPF5
1/4 cup coconut oil SPF5
1/8 cup avocado oil SPF7
2 tbsp. beeswax granules
1 tsp. carrot seed oil SPF 25-40
1 tsp. red raspberry seed oil SPF 25-50
Alternative ingredients include; Aloe Vera SPF4, Olive oil, SPF 7.6 or Almond oil SPF 4.7. Try cocoa butter instead of shea butter, carrot oil has a unique smell, don’t use it if you don’t like it, you can even add a little cocoa powder for a tiny. If you want to use zinc oxide powder I suggest using non-nano zinc oxide from my research. Full disclosure, I don’t like the white cast so I don’t use it.
Add the butters and carrier oils to a jar, ideally wide enough to fit a stick blender, and pop the jar into a saucepan of water, this creates a double boiler.
Boil the water until the butter and oils have melted, remove from the heat, add the other ingredients and blend. Pour your natural homemade sunscreen into a storage container for it to set, then it is ready to use.
Tips and Precautions
When using natural sunscreen products, it’s important to follow certain tips and precautions to ensure effective sun protection and avoid any potential issues. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Patch Test
Before using any homemade or natural sunscreen, it’s advisable to conduct a patch test to check for any allergic reactions or skin sensitivities. Apply a small amount of the sunscreen to a discreet area of skin, such as the inside of your wrist or behind your ear. Wait 24 hours to see if any redness, itching, or irritation occurs. If your skin reacts negatively, it’s best to avoid using that particular formulation and consider adjusting the ingredients or opting for a different product.
Reapplication
Reapplying sunscreen regularly is crucial for maintaining effective sun protection throughout the day. Even the best natural sunscreens need to be reapplied every two hours, especially if you’re swimming, sweating, or towel-drying, as these activities can remove the sunscreen from your skin. To ensure continued protection, keep your natural sunscreen handy and make it a habit to reapply it as needed. Remember, consistent reapplication is key to preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage.
Limitations
While natural sunscreens offer many benefits, including the use of gentle and eco-friendly ingredients, it’s important to recognise their limitations. Natural sunscreens may not provide as high an SPF as some commercial products, which could result in lower protection levels, especially during intense sun exposure. To compensate, consider combining your natural sunscreen with other sun protection measures, such as wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding peak sun hours. Additionally, be sure to apply natural sunscreen generously and evenly to all exposed skin areas to maximize its effectiveness.
Conclusion
Making and using homemade sunscreen offers several advantages.
Natural ingredients like zinc oxide, coconut oil, and shea butter, avoid the harmful chemicals often found in commercial products. Discover the top 10 worst ingredients in sunscreen in this post.
You can tailor the recipe to suit your skin type, adding ingredients that nourish, hydrate, and protect your skin. Homemade sunscreens are typically free of harmful substances that can damage marine life and coral reefs, making them a more environmentally friendly choice. Making your sunscreen can be more affordable than purchasing high-quality natural products. You have control over the ingredients, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or irritations by avoiding known allergens. By avoiding endocrine disrupting chemicals you can support menopause hormone harmony.
If you would like to chat with me about your unique menopause transition, book a Wild Well-Being call and come away inspired and motivated to begin your journey to optimal health.