If you are looking for simple and effective natural sunscreens recipes, continue reading this article and find out what they are. But first.
Sunscreens or sunblocks are specifically made to absorb and reflect the harmful UV rays and thus protect the skin. However, most sunscreens out there are loaded with dangerous chemicals that can be very harmful. In time, these chemicals in sunscreen products can do more harm than good. Before we get into the natural sunscreens and the DIY natural sunscreen recipe, here are a few reasons why to ditch conventional sunscreen products.
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Conventional Sunscreen Side Effects
Conventional sunscreens have loads of side effects in the short and long term. Some of the most common (and the least harmful) side-effects are:
- skin irritation
- skin dryness
- aging the skin
Nature has better solutions for your summer skin! We want to show to you the most effective natural sunscreens. Some of the natural sunscreens here you already have in your pantry. They are amazing for both protecting and nourishing the skin during the summertime. In addition, we have a simple and effective natural sunscreen recipe to make at home. So keep reading till the end. Here are the safest natural sunscreen alternatives that you probably already have in your pantry.
8 Natural Sunscreens that Work
1. Q10 Coenzyme
While not a sunblock per se, Q10 Coenzyme is your best friend during the hot summer days. To make the most of it, take Q10 Coenzyme supplements prior to sun exposure, at least a week in advance. This sunscreen works from the inside out. It penetrates the skin layers and protects the body against solar radiation. For optimal absorption, it is best to take Q10 Coenzyme dissolved in sea buckthorn oil (about 20 mg per day).
2. Sea Buckthorn Oil
Speaking of which, sea buckthorn oil is one of the most effective natural sunscreens. The reason is that this oil has the most important active ingredients for sun protection. We’re talking about Vitamin E, one of the best natural antioxidants, Vitamin C, and Beta carotene. These powerful antioxidants help neutralize the free radicals in the skin and prevent oxidative damage to the skin.
3. Sesame Oil
Sesame oil is one of the best natural sunscreens against solar radiation. It can block up to 30% of the sun’s rays. For maximum protection, you must apply it regularly on the skin, every two hours, or even more often.
4. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is another alternative to conventional parabens-loaded sunscreens. It is very moisturizing and has the ability to block 30% of the sun’s rays, making it one of the best natural sunscreens. When combined with cocoa butter, its sun protection factor is greatly improved. Unlike sesame oil, coconut oil should be applied more often, preferably every hour. It is easy to use, healthy and all-natural!
5. Cocoa Butter
Cocoa butter is another natural ally in the fight against damaging UV rays. That is because this is one of the most stable natural fats due to its very high antioxidants (tocopherols) content. Antioxidants protect the skin against free radicals. Cocoa butter is called “the ultimate moisturizer” and that is no wonder. It has the capacity to penetrate into the deep skin tissue and nourish the cells.
Read Also: 15+ Home Remedies for Sunburn
Besides the fact that is one of the best natural sunscreens, cocoa butter is also great for sunbathing. It confers a perfect, smooth, and long-lasting tan and it protects the skin against UV rays. Unrefined cocoa butter has SPF 6. Cocoa butter can not be used by itself as a sunscreen but only in combination with other oils.
6. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera gel is one of the most effective natural sunscreens alternatives if you do not want to use commercially available sunblocks. This plant has a very moisturizing action and is successfully used against the harmful effects of the sun. Aloe Vera gel has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, nutritive, emollient, and healing properties. It offers 20% natural sunscreen protection and prevents drying skin. This is why Aloe Vera gel is frequently used for sunbathing. To enjoy maximum protection under the sun, apply it every two hours.
7. Beta-Carotene
Beta-carotene has an antioxidant effect, delaying the aging processes of sun-exposed skin. It protects against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, making it one of the best natural sunscreens out there. Beta-carotene oil is a popular sunscreens alternative if you also want a smooth, uniform, and healthy tan.
8. Herbal Teas
Green tea has a powerful protective effect against solar radiation. Moreover, it calms down inflammation if the case be. Two cups of green and mint tea with lemon are great natural prevention. Other teas that protect your skin from the harsh UV rays, from within are:
- calendula
- hawthorn flowers
- bilberry leaf
- nettle leaf
- dandelion leaf
- willow bark
These natural teas offer good hydration that protects the skin against the harmful effects of UV rays and act as natural sunscreens from the inside out. Two or three cups a day of these teas should do.
100 % Natural Sunscreen Recipe DIY
This natural sunscreen recipe is amazing for normal and dry skin complexions. It is an excellent UV rays protection lotion to use before and after sunbathing. In addition, this natural sunscreen lotion nourishes the skin, giving it a velvety feeling, when applied after a shower. Keep it in the fridge and use it within 3 weeks after preparation. Let’s get into the making of this wonderful natural sunscreen lotion.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup pure lanolin
- ¼ cup sesame oil
- 4 tsp (20 ml) liquid Vitamin E
- ¼ cup sweet almond oil
- ½ cup Aloe Vera gel
- 15 drops of sandalwood Essential oil (or bitter almond essential oil)
Preparation
- Mix all the ingredients in an amber glass bottle.
- Shake well before every use.
- Use about 2 tbsp/30 ml for one application (the quantity is for 9 applications)
Natural Tips for a Healthy Tan
You can get a natural, extremely beautiful tan, without using dangerous chemicals. Here are a few simple tips:
- Avoid sitting in the sun from 11:00 – 16:00 pm when the sun is burning.
- Use natural sunscreen before sun exposure and a moisturizing cream afterward.
- Drink as much water as possible.
- Avoid drinking alcohol before and during sunbathing.
- Avoid taking photosensitizing drugs (analgesics, antibiotics, antidepressants, diuretics, hormonal products, etc).
- Olive oil protects and hydrates the skin, and at the same time, it gives it a perfect tan.
3 Natural Skin Care after Sunbathing
- Comfort and soothe the skin immediately after sunbathing with herbs such as mint, melissa, chamomile, and lavender or chamomile essential oils. Aloe vera gel is a great helper too.
- For irritated skin, use natural Vitamin E, Vitamin C, cattle, carrot or pomegranate oils, the best aloe vera gel, or aloe vera powder.
- Hydrate the skin deeply with cocoa butter, shea butter, cranberry, coconut powder, or argan oil.
Read Also: How to Tan Naturally with Herbs – 3 Ways
We hope you’ve found some amazing natural sunscreens and how to use them here. Use the natural sunscreen recipe to make your own 100% natural sunscreen. Nature is always here to help. Stay healthy and beautiful, naturally!