Homemade Sunscreen
A clean, low-tox mineral sunscreen made with real ingredients you can actually pronounce.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup carrier oil (almond, olive, or avocado oil)
- 1/4 cup shea butter or cocoa butter
- 1/4 cup beeswax pellets
- 2 tablespoons non-nano zinc oxide powder
- 10-15 drops skin-safe essential oils, optional (lavender is lovely)
Instructions
- Set Up a Double Boiler: Fill a small saucepan with 1–2 inches of water and bring to a gentle simmer. Place a heat-safe glass bowl or smaller pot on top.
- Melt the Base: Add the beeswax pellets to the double boiler first and allow them to melt fully. Then add the shea (or cocoa) butter and your carrier oil, stirring until everything is combined and smooth.
- Remove from Heat: Carefully remove the bowl from the heat and allow the mixture to cool for 3–5 minutes. It should still be liquid but no longer steaming hot.
- Add the Zinc Oxide: Wearing a dust mask, slowly add the non-nano zinc oxide powder. Whisk vigorously—or use a small immersion blender—until the powder is completely and evenly incorporated with no white streaks or clumps.
- Add Essential Oils: If using, add 10–15 drops of your chosen essential oil and stir to combine.
- Pour and Set: Pour the mixture into clean glass jars or metal tins. Allow to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or speed up the process by placing in the refrigerator. Do not stir while setting.
- Label and Store: Label with the date made. Store in a cool, dry place. Use within 6–12 months.
Make this recipe?Mention @itsnicolejaques or tag #nicolejaques!
