All Natural Sunscreen DIY

As gardeners, sun protection is as important as your best trowel. Most of us only remember to wear sunscreen during the summer, especially when we are working hard in the garden. The summer’s warm sun reminds us to protect our skin. As fall rolls around, we abandon the hats and welcome the cool breeze. There’s something about cool weather that makes us forget that the sun shines down on us year round. Of course, everyone needs a little sun exposure to help the body absorb vitamin D, but it’s a good idea to have some sun protection throughout the year. 

There are many natural sources of SPF. These sources include items you may use regularly in your kitchen. The oils from these everyday ingredients like carrot, avocado and olives can supply moderate sun protection. Many seed and vegetable oils are high in antioxidants that help moisturize and heal skin as well. The best part is that it’s chemical-free sun protection. If you find that you’ve run out of sunscreen, no need to go out with your skin unprotected; take a look in your cupboards...chances are you’ll have one of these oils.

Olive Oil

SPF between 2-8. It’s a powerful source of antioxidants and monounsaturated fatty acids. It’s moisturizing and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Coconut Oil

SPF between 2-8. It’s great for moisturizing dry skin and posses anti-fungal properties. It also helps skin heal faster.

Avocado Oil

SPF between 4-15.It contains high concentrations of unsaturated fats and vitamin E. It’s also rich in sterolin, which helps reduce the incidence of age spots.

Carrot Seed Oil

SPF between 38 to 40. It is rich in antioxidants, contains high levels of vitamin A, and has antiseptic properties.

Red Raspberry Seed Oil

SPF between 28-50. It contains high levels of antioxidants, natural vitamin E, omega 3 and omega 6 essential fatty acids and has anti-inflammatory properties.

You can apply these oils directly to the skin or mix them together for added protection. Here’s a recipe for a quick homemade sunscreen you can whip up in your kitchen. 

What you will need:

Coconut oil Carrot seed oil (or any other high SPF oil) 
A handheld mixer 

Measure out ½ cup coconut oil. The oil should be in a solid form. If it’s too soft, place it in the refrigerator. The coconut oil must be in a solid form in order for it to whip. Add about 20-30 drops of one of the oils. Whip the coconut oil on a high speed until stiff peaks form. Scrape the whipped coconut oil into a tin or jar. Apply as needed. This will make a sunscreen with SPF between 40-48. 

A special note: This sunscreen is not waterproof. It’s not meant to replace your heavier duty sunscreen that you should wear if you will be in the sun for an extended amount of time. This homemade version is good for wearing under makeup or as an additional protection against sun damage.