DIY Sunscreen

Dec 19 2017, 6:27 pm

All the sunshine we’ve been getting this week has gotten me super excited about the gorgeous summer months ahead. When I think about summer 3 things come to mind: beaches, tanning and how I wish I didn’t procrastinate working out all year – eeek! Everyone wants that bronze glow and let’s be honest, we should really try to protect our skin while we’re out roasting in the sun.

Personally, I never really understood what these UVA/UVB rays were that I was supposed to be protecting myself against and therefore didn’t actually start using any sun protection until last summer.  I found sunscreens to have a heavy, greasy texture and an extremely off-putting smell.  After searching hundreds of at home skin recipes I found a super simple one that is budget friendly and fairly simple to make. Here’s to finally putting one of those Pinterest boards to use – enjoy!

What are UVA/UVB rays?

UVA rays are known to play a major part in the skins aging and wrinkling. Recent studies show that UVA rays contribute to and may even initiate the development of skin cancer due to the damage they cause to skin cells in the basal layer (deepest layer) of the epidermis. UVA rays are the dominant tanning ray and cause direct damage to your skins DNA; this damage is what results in a tan.

Unlike UVA rays, which penetrate the skins dermis, UVB rays tend to damage the skins superficial epidermal layer.  UVB rays are the chief cause of redness and burning.

Ingredients:

½ cup – Extra virgin or cold pressed olive oil

¼ cup – Organic coconut oil

¼ cup – Beeswax (optional – available at Main Street Honey Shoppe – 4125 Main Street)

Instructions:

1)    Combine all ingredients into a glass jar.

2)    Fill a medium sized sauce pan with a few inches of water and place over medium heat.

3)    Place the lid on your glass jar and place the jar in the pot.

4)     As the ingredients slowly start to melt be sure to mix them together by moving the jar in circular motions.

5)    Once ingredients are melted together, remove from heat and let cool for about 1-2 hours before use.

Additional Information:

  • Adding essential oils such as vitamin E, tea tree or lavender will allow you to personalize benefits and add fragrance!
  • Adding beeswax to your sunscreen will make it mildly waterproof.
  • Re-apply every 2-3 hours to ensure protection.
  • Store in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator.
  • This sunscreen has an SPF of 7 – may vary dependent on any additional ingredients used.

*Everyone has a different skin type and will react accordingly. I strongly suggest doing a patch test on your skin to ensure no reactions and to use your own discretion and ask a medical professional.

Be sure to let us know of any other ingredients you would find beneficial to this recipe by commenting below or tweeting me @NavanArtistry!

Until next time, your friendly, neighbourhood beauty addict!

Xo

Image: Girl with Sunscreen via Shutterstock

DH Vancouver StaffDH Vancouver Staff

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