Homemade Sunscreen: Is it Effective?

Our skin undergoes a lot of changes during summer and it’s crucial to protect your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Applying sunscreen can help prevent the damaging effects of sun overexposure. Nowadays, recipes for homemade sunscreen are gaining popularity among people. They are easy to make with various ingredients like sandalwood, sesame oil, coconut oil, aloe vera, etc. But, more importantly, are homemade sunscreens effective? Read on to know more.

What are Homemade Sunscreens?

Homemade sunscreens are skincare products made using natural ingredients that some people create at home as an alternative to commercial sunscreens. These DIY formulations typically involve combining following ingredients to create a sunscreen-like product:

• Oils (such as coconut oil, almond oil)

• Shea butter

• Beeswax

• Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide for sun protection

However, homemade sunscreen recipes lack the standardized testing and formulation processes of commercial sunscreen, which may result in varying levels of sun protection and effectiveness.

DIY Sunscreen Recipes

DIY sunscreen recipes typically involve combining natural ingredients with some level of sun protection properties. While there are plenty of homemade sunscreen recipes available, there are few of them that actually protect your skin from cancer causing UV rays. This includes:

A. Homemade Sunscreen with Aloe Vera and Coconut Oil

Aloe vera is a good active ingredient to reach for is loaded with antioxidants and it leaves a moist and cooling effect on the face. It’s been proven to both treat and prevent burns on your skin.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup coconut oil (has an SPF of 7)

• 2 (or more) tbsp. powdered zinc oxide

• 1/4 cup pure aloe vera gel

• 25 drops walnut extract oil for scent and an added SPF boostTrusted Source

• 1 cup (or less) shea butter for a spreadable consistency

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients, except the zinc oxide and aloe vera gel, in a medium saucepan. Let the shea butter and oils melt together at medium heat.

2. Let cool for several minutes before stirring in aloe vera gel.

3. Cool completely before adding zinc oxide. Mix well to make sure the zinc oxide is distributed throughout. You may want to add some beeswax or another waxy substance for a stickier consistency.

4. Store in a glass jar, and keep in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to use.

B. Coconut and Sesame Oil Sunscreen

Coconut oil is the best sunscreen that contains natural SPF. It is loaded with antioxidants which guards the skin form sun damage. Pure sesame oil has antibacterial effects that protects the skin form harmful pathogens.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp coconut oil

• 2 tbsp sesame oil

• 2 tbsp sunflower oil

Method

1. Add all three oils in a bowl and double boil in a pan filled with water to blend these oils well.

2. Allow it to cool and apply this natural sunscreen over the face.

Homemade Sunscreen for Oily Skin

If you have an oily complexion, you may be hesitant to slather on a DIY sunscreen that’s heavy on oil ingredients and you'll want to use a mattifying, non-pore-clogging sunscreen that not only protects your skin from damaging UVA and UVB radiation, but also prevents an oil slick. But some essential oils can actually correct overproduction of sebum (oil) on your skin.

If you’re concerned about oil buildup on your skin, follow the recipe above, but swap out coconut oil — which is known to be comedogenic — for another carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or sweet almond oil.

Is it Effective?

Homemade sunscreens can vary in effectiveness. While some DIY recipes may offer limited sun protection, their efficacy can be inconsistent and they may not provide sufficient protection against harmful UV rays.

Are Homemade Sunscreens Risky?

Homemade sunscreen products are risky because they are not regulated or tested for efficacy like commercial sunscreens. When you make it yourself, you don’t know if it’s safe or effective.