Skincare - homemade sunscreen
If you have struggled with skin issues, especially sun damage, then you're aware that taking care to prevent more damage is very important. I'm now in my 60's & have had several skin cancers removed leaving larger scars than I like, so I wanted a sunscreen that is natural but will also be good for my skin. After all, our skin is the largest organ of our bodies. What we put on it is absorbed into blood stream and more. So, after trying many over the counter, even specialty expensive sunscreens, I decided to dig & make my own following a lot of research. My family loves being outside - at the beach, in the pool, working in the yard or just hanging out in backyard, so I know I needed a good product we could all use.
I've been going down the road to an all natural lifestyle by cooking from scratch, making my own pantry items, using natural cleaners in my house & in skincare too. Not really homesteading, but similar in that I feel the more natural ingredients in my products & food is way better for our health & future health. So have been taking the time to learn & create skincare & household items.
Hence the reason behind this sunscreen. My husband & one of our kids, along with her significant other went to Galveston a couple of weekends ago, & I was only one to use my homemade sunscreen & only one who did not get sunburned. The others only wanted to use the spray on type but didn't reapply. Future sil, burned really badly on his back.
My only issue with the sunscreen was the white of the zinc oxide. So after thinking about it, I decided to try adding cocoa powder to it. I dug it out of container and melted it down again to liquid, added the organic pure cocoa powder, then decided to also add Geogarde a natural Preservative, because of the hands coming into contact over time when using it. No more white when used! Actually, there's not any color at a when rubbed on skin. So excited to share this now!
Using natural ingredients in your homemade sunscreen not only protects your skin but also contributes to a healthier lifestyle. Common ingredients in DIY natural sunscreens include non-nano zinc oxide, which acts as a physical blocker, preventing harmful UV rays from penetrating the skin. Incorporating oils such as coconut, jojoba, and carrot seed oil can enhance the sunscreen's moisturizing properties while providing additional protection. Furthermore, the addition of Geogarde, a natural preservative, helps ensure product longevity, making it suitable for multiple uses. For those concerned about the white residue often left by traditional zinc oxide sunscreens, experimenting with organic cocoa powder can help achieve a more appealing appearance without sacrificing efficacy. It’s crucial to remember that while DIY solutions can be highly effective, they should be paired with regular reapplication, especially after swimming or sweating, to maintain protection. Try introducing a routine that includes homemade sunscreen with your outdoor activities to ensure your skin remains healthy and shielded from sun damage all year round.
