Let’s be real for a second—sunscreen is a non-negotiable, right? I mean, unless you enjoy looking like a tomato in five minutes flat or want your skin to age faster than a TikTok trend, slathering on sun protection is key. But here’s the catch: store-bought sunscreens can get expensive, and sometimes they’re packed with chemicals that make you wonder if you’re protecting your skin or auditioning for a chemistry experiment. That’s where homemade sunscreens come to the rescue. Yup, you can whip up your very own sun shields right in your kitchen. Curious? Let’s get into it!
Why Try Homemade Sunscreens Anyway?
Before we jump into the fun recipes, let’s tackle the obvious question: why bother making your own sunscreen?
Control over ingredients – You know exactly what’s going on your skin. No mysterious chemicals or hidden “fragrances.”
Budget-friendly – Most DIY sunscreens are cheaper than the fancy store brands that promise SPF 50 while costing as much as your Netflix subscription.
Eco-conscious – Less packaging waste and fewer synthetic ingredients means you’re being kind to Mother Earth.
Customization – Want a sunscreen that doubles as moisturizer? Or smells like coconut heaven? DIY is your playground.
IMO, it’s kind of empowering to make something that’s both good for your skin and the planet. Plus, it’s fun. Who doesn’t like stirring a pot and thinking, “Yep, I’m basically a skincare wizard now”?
How to Make Your Homemade Sunscreen Safe and Effective
Okay, let’s get real. I’m not saying you should toss your SPF 50 into the trash just yet. Homemade sunscreens won’t have lab-tested SPF ratings, so you have to be smart about using them.
Use mineral blockers like zinc oxide – This is the secret sauce. Zinc oxide physically blocks UV rays. Make sure it’s non-nano to avoid skin penetration.
Mix with nourishing oils – Coconut oil, shea butter, or almond oil work beautifully to hydrate your skin while giving a little extra natural SPF.
Store it properly – Keep it in a cool, dark place. Your DIY sunscreen isn’t a forever friend—it lasts a few months tops.
Reapply often – Even store-bought sunscreen needs reapplication. DIY is no different, especially after swimming or sweating.
Ever wondered why your skin still burns despite slathering on sunscreen? It’s usually not enough or uneven coverage. DIY or not, coverage is everything.
1. Basic Coconut & Zinc Oxide Sunscreen
This is my go-to “I forgot my sunscreen but I’ve got ingredients at home” recipe. Simple, effective, and smells like a tropical vacation.
Ingredients:
½ cup coconut oil
¼ cup shea butter
¼ cup beeswax
2 tablespoons zinc oxide (non-nano, uncoated)
10–15 drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
Melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax together in a double boiler.
Remove from heat and stir in zinc oxide carefully (don’t inhale it, FYI).
Add essential oils if you’re feeling fancy.
Pour into a small jar and let it solidify.
This simple sunscreen provides mild SPF protection—perfect for a short beach stroll or backyard hangout.
2. Shea Butter & Carrot Oil Sunscreen
Carrot oil isn’t just for your grandma’s homemade face creams. It contains beta-carotene, which naturally helps protect your skin from the sun. Bonus: it gives your DIY sunscreen a golden glow.
Ingredients:
½ cup shea butter
¼ cup coconut oil
¼ cup carrot seed oil
2 tablespoons beeswax
2 tablespoons zinc oxide
Instructions:
Melt shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax in a double boiler.
Remove from heat and stir in carrot seed oil and zinc oxide.
Pour into jars and allow to set.
This one’s a bit richer and more moisturizing, so it’s perfect for dry or mature skin. Also, it smells subtly nutty and earthy—IMO, way better than chemical-heavy creams.
3. Aloe Vera Gel Sunscreen Spray
Want something light that doesn’t feel greasy? Aloe vera gel is your BFF. It soothes the skin while offering a little sun protection.
Ingredients:
½ cup aloe vera gel
¼ cup coconut oil
1 tablespoon zinc oxide
10 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
Mix aloe vera gel and coconut oil until smooth.
Stir in zinc oxide and essential oil.
Pour into a spray bottle and shake well before each use.
Pro tip: This works best for quick trips or face application, not for all-day sunbathing. But hey, it’s refreshing on a hot day, and bonus—it doubles as a cooling mist.
4. Cocoa Butter & Red Raspberry Seed Oil Sunscreen
Red raspberry seed oil is the unsung hero of natural sunscreens. It offers mild SPF, and when paired with cocoa butter, you get hydration + protection + that chocolatey aroma. Who could resist?
Ingredients:
½ cup cocoa butter
¼ cup coconut oil
¼ cup red raspberry seed oil
2 tablespoons beeswax
2 tablespoons zinc oxide
Instructions:
Melt cocoa butter, coconut oil, and beeswax together.
Remove from heat and stir in raspberry seed oil and zinc oxide.
Pour into a jar and let solidify.
This one is a luxurious, almost dessert-like sunscreen that smells so good you might try not eating it… but maybe don’t test that theory.
5. Green Tea & Almond Oil Sunscreen
If you’re a bit of a science nerd like me, you’ll love this one. Green tea contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants that help fight UV damage.
Ingredients:
½ cup almond oil
¼ cup coconut oil
¼ cup shea butter
2 tablespoons zinc oxide
1 teaspoon powdered green tea (or 2–3 green tea bags)
Instructions:
Melt almond oil, coconut oil, and shea butter.
Stir in zinc oxide and green tea powder.
Pour into a jar and let it cool.
Bonus: This sunscreen has a slight tint from the green tea, which can even out your skin tone a bit. Aesthetic + functional? Yes, please.
6. Avocado Oil & Beeswax Stick Sunscreen
Ever wanted a sunscreen you can just swipe on like a giant lip balm? This stick version is perfect for travel or keeping in your bag for quick reapplications.
Ingredients:
½ cup avocado oil
¼ cup shea butter
¼ cup beeswax
2 tablespoons zinc oxide
Instructions:
Melt avocado oil, shea butter, and beeswax together.
Stir in zinc oxide and pour into empty deodorant or chapstick tubes.
Let it harden and voila—sun protection on the go.
I personally love this one for days at the park or festivals. Minimal mess, max convenience.
7. Jojoba Oil & Coconut Oil Gel Cream
If your skin is oily or combo, you’ll want something that doesn’t feel like a grease slick. This gel-cream hits the sweet spot.
Ingredients:
¼ cup jojoba oil
¼ cup coconut oil
½ cup aloe vera gel
2 tablespoons zinc oxide
Instructions:
Mix jojoba and coconut oil, then stir in aloe vera gel.
Add zinc oxide and mix thoroughly.
Store in a pump bottle for easy application.
This one absorbs quickly, feels lightweight, and still gives your skin a natural glow. Perfect for everyday use.
Tips for Using Homemade Sunscreen
Alright, now that you’re practically a sunscreen chemist, a few quick tips:
Reapply every 2 hours – Especially if you’re sweating or swimming. DIY won’t last all day.
Patch test first – Just in case your skin has a diva moment and reacts to something.
Don’t forget lips – Slap some on a lip balm with zinc oxide. Yes, your lips need love too.
Combine with shade & hats – Even the best DIY sunscreen isn’t a magic shield. Hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas still count.
The Bottom Line
So there you have it: 7 amazing homemade sunscreen recipes that are fun, effective, and customizable. Whether you want a greasy tropical delight or a lightweight daily cream, there’s something here for everyone.
Remember: DIY sunscreen is empowering, budget-friendly, and eco-conscious—but it doesn’t replace SPF-tested products for intense sun exposure. Use these recipes for daily sun defense, short outdoor adventures, or just to feel like a skincare wizard.
Honestly, there’s something super satisfying about knowing you made your sunscreen, watched it set in a jar, and are now protecting your skin without mystery chemicals. Plus, let’s be real—there’s a special pride in telling friends, “Yeah, I made this myself.”
So go ahead—pick a recipe, whip up your homemade sunscreen, and strut outside with confidence. Your skin (and wallet) will thank you.
