Do-it-Yourself, All-Natural SPF

The only way to be absolutely sure of what’s in your sunscreen is by making it yourself. Reduce your toxic load of chemicals with this safe sunscreen recipe.

DIY Safe Sunscreen Recipe

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fractionated coconut oil
• 1/4 cup beeswax
• 2 tablespoons zinc oxide
• 1 teaspoon vitamin E
• 2 tablespoons shea butter
• 12 drops Helichrysum essential oil

Directions:

1. Add everything except zinc oxide and Helichrysum essential oil in a medium-sized glass mixing bowl.
2. Fill a medium saucepan with a couple of 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.
3. Once all ingredients are melted, remove from heat and let the mixture cool for three minutes before adding the essential oil and zinc. Test out the consistency by letting it cool completely, if it’s too hard you can add more coconut oil by re-melting, then adding the zinc and essential oil. Just depends on the consistency you desire.
   Tip: Adding additional zinc oxide will increase the SPF factor. Other great essential oils for sunscreen Lavender and Sandalwood, but it’s important not to substitute the Helichrysum. There is a chart at the end that lists oils and their SPF factor.
4. Pour into a pint-sized tin or mason jar and store in a cool place (like a refrigerator). Use within six months.

*You can purchase most all these ingredients online or at your health food store