How to Make a Natural Sunscreen with Essential Oils

In a world where natural skincare is gaining momentum, making your own sunscreen is not only empowering but also a step toward healthier living. Commercial sunscreens often contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which may disrupt hormones or irritate sensitive skin. For those who prioritize natural living and wish to avoid synthetic additives, a DIY all-natural sunscreen made with essential oils is a safe, effective alternative.

In this blog, we’ll explore how to make homemade sunscreen that’s both effective and non-toxic. You’ll discover the best oils to use, the role of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and detailed recipes suited to different skin types and SPF needs. Whether you're heading to the beach or enjoying a sunny afternoon in your garden, these DIY sunscreen recipes ensure your skin stays protected, soft, and radiant naturally.

Let’s dive into the world of homemade sunscreen and learn how to create your own personalized, skin-loving sun protection using essential oils and natural ingredients.

Why Choose Natural Sunscreen?

Choosing natural sunscreen over conventional products is not just a personal skincare decision, it’s a holistic choice for your health and the planet. Here’s why switching to DIY all-natural sunscreen with essential oils and plant-based ingredients is a smart move:

Non-Toxic Protection

Unlike commercial sunscreens that may contain parabens, synthetic fragrances, oxybenzone, and other chemical UV filters, natural sunscreens are made with non-toxic ingredients that are gentle on your body. These conventional ingredients have been linked to hormone disruption and allergic reactions. With natural sunscreen, you avoid exposing your skin to these harsh substances.

Safe for All Skin Types

Formulated with soothing plant oils like coconut, shea butter, and aloe vera, natural sunscreen is especially beneficial for people with sensitive skin, eczema, or allergies. Because they don’t contain irritating synthetics, they’re much less likely to cause breakouts, rashes, or stinging even on children’s skin.

Eco-Friendly

Many commercial sunscreens are harmful to marine life, particularly coral reefs, due to chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Natural sunscreens are reef-safe, biodegradable, and free from toxins that pollute the ocean, making them ideal for beachgoers who care about sustainability.

Nourishing for the Skin

Natural sunscreens do more than protect, they hydrate and nourish the skin. Ingredients like coconut oil, almond oil, and shea butter help restore moisture, improve texture, and support skin repair, leaving you with soft, supple skin even after sun exposure.

Customizable SPF

With natural ingredients like zinc oxide, red raspberry seed oil, and carrot seed oil, you can adjust the SPF level based on your needs. Whether you're going out for a short walk or spending the day in the sun, you can create the level of protection that's right for you, something no store-bought bottle offers.

Star Ingredients in Natural Homemade Sunscreen

Non-Nano Zinc Oxide

A physical sunblock that reflects UVA/UVB rays. Choose non-nano particles to avoid absorption into the bloodstream.

Coconut Oil

Provides SPF 4-6, moisturizes the skin, and has antifungal properties. It’s a staple in many homemade sunscreen recipes.

Shea Butter

Deeply hydrating and rich in vitamins A and E. Helps repair damaged skin and adds a smooth consistency.

Sweet Almond Oil or Avocado Oil

Lightweight oils rich in vitamin E and natural SPF, perfect for daily wear.

Red Raspberry Seed Oil

Offers natural SPF between 25-50, high in antioxidants, and essential fatty acids.

Carrot Seed Oil

Contains natural SPF around 38-40. It’s antimicrobial and deeply healing, perfect for sun-damaged or mature skin.

Essential Oils

Lavender, helichrysum, and tea tree oil provide added skin-soothing benefits and a lovely scent—but avoid citrus oils, as they increase photosensitivity.

Best Essential Oils for Sunscreen

Avoid: Citrus oils like lemon, lime, orange, or bergamot as they make skin photosensitive.

DIY Sunscreen Recipes Using Essential Oils

Basic All-Natural Sunscreen (SPF 30 Approx.)

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup coconut oil

• ¼ cup shea butter

• 2 tbsp beeswax pellets

• 2 tbsp non-nano zinc oxide

• 10 drops lavender essential oil

• 5 drops carrot seed essential oil

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler, melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax.

2. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Stir in zinc oxide carefully (avoid inhalation).

4. Add essential oils and mix well.

5. Pour into a glass jar or tin and let it solidify at room temperature.

Benefits:

• Coconut oil provides mild sun protection and hydration.

• Carrot seed oil and zinc oxide offer SPF coverage.

• Lavender oil soothes sun-exposed skin.

Aloe Vera-Based Cooling Sunscreen (Light SPF)

Ingredients:

• ½ cup aloe vera gel

• ¼ cup almond oil

• 2 tbsp zinc oxide

• 8 drops peppermint essential oil

• 5 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

1. Mix aloe vera and almond oil in a glass bowl.

2. Slowly stir in zinc oxide until smooth.

3. Add essential oils, blend well.

4. Store in a pump bottle in the fridge.

Benefits:

• Aloe vera calms inflammation and cools skin.

• Almond oil softens and protects.

• Perfect for after-sun application and mild daily protection.

Whipped Body Butter Sunscreen (SPF 25)

Ingredients:

• ½ cup cocoa butter

• ¼ cup coconut oil

• 2 tbsp jojoba oil

• 3 tbsp zinc oxide

• 10 drops frankincense essential oil

• 5 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

1. Melt cocoa butter and coconut oil using a double boiler.

2. Add jojoba oil, let it cool.

3. Stir in zinc oxide and essential oils.

4. Whip the mixture using a hand mixer until fluffy.

5. Store in a wide-mouthed jar.

Benefits:

• Deep hydration and healing for dry, mature, or sun-damaged skin.

• Frankincense helps with skin repair and inflammation.

• Light, fluffy texture makes it easy to spread.

Non-Greasy Spray Sunscreen (SPF 15)

Ingredients:

• ½ cup aloe vera juice

• ¼ cup fractionated coconut oil

• 2 tbsp zinc oxide

• 5 drops tea tree essential oil

• 5 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

1. Mix aloe vera juice and coconut oil in a spray bottle.

2. Add zinc oxide and shake well.

3. Drop in the essential oils and shake again before each use.

Benefits:

• Non-sticky and cooling formula.

• Tea tree oil helps with acne-prone skin.

• Ideal for reapplication throughout the day.

DIY Sunscreen Recipes Based on Skin Type

For Dry Skin

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup avocado oil

• ¼ cup shea butter

• 2 tbsp zinc oxide

• 8 drops geranium essential oil

• 5 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

1. Melt shea butter and mix with avocado oil.

2. Stir in zinc oxide and essential oils.

3. Pour into a tin and use daily.

Benefits:

• Shea and avocado oils hydrate and restore.

• Geranium oil helps balance moisture levels.

For Oily & Acne-Prone Skin

Ingredients:

• ½ cup aloe vera gel

• ¼ cup grapeseed oil

• 2 tbsp zinc oxide

• 5 drops tea tree oil

• 5 drops lavender oil

Instructions:

1. Mix aloe vera and grapeseed oil.

2. Blend in zinc oxide and essential oils.

3. Store in a pump bottle, keep cool.

Benefits:

• Tea tree reduces breakouts.

• Grapeseed oil is lightweight and non-comedogenic.

For Sensitive Skin

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup jojoba oil

• ¼ cup shea butter

• 2 tbsp zinc oxide

• 5 drops chamomile essential oil

• 5 drops helichrysum essential oil

Instructions:

1. Gently melt and mix all ingredients.

2. Store in a glass container away from heat.

Benefits:

• Chamomile and Helichrysum soothe irritation.

• Jojoba mimics skin’s natural oils.

For Mature Skin

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup rosehip oil

• ¼ cup cocoa butter

• 2 tbsp zinc oxide

• 5 drops frankincense oil

• 5 drops carrot seed oil

Instructions:

1. Melt cocoa butter, add rosehip oil.

2. Mix in zinc oxide and essential oils.

3. Let it set in a container.

Benefits:

• Rosehip oil boosts collagen.

• Carrot seed offers SPF, so contains sun protection factor and also rejuvenates skin.

For Kids & Babies (Patch test first!)

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup shea butter

• ¼ cup coconut oil

• 2 tbsp zinc oxide

• 3 drops lavender oil

Instructions:

1. Melt and mix all ingredients.

2. Let it set in a safe, BPA-free container.

Benefits:

• Simple and gentle.

• Lavender oil calms and is baby-safe when diluted.

Tips for Using Natural Sunscreens

• Reapply every 1.5–2 hours.

• Not fully water resistant. Reapply after swimming or sweating.

• Store in a cool, dark place.

• Always perform a patch test for essential oils.

Safety and Precautions

• Essential oils are highly concentrated. Use only 5–10 drops per 1 oz carrier base.

• Citrus oils should be avoided before sun exposure.

• Zinc oxide can be inhaled when in powder form. Wear a mask while mixing.

• Perform a patch test before applying all over the body.

• If you have sensitive skin or medical concerns, consult a healthcare professional.

• Homemade sunscreens may not have FDA-approved SPF levels or SPF rating, avoid relying on them for extended sun exposure.

Natural Sunscreen Ingredients & Their Benefits

Benefits of DIY Natural Sunscreen

Control the Ingredients

One of the biggest advantages of making your own sunscreen is knowing exactly what goes into it. You’re in complete control of every ingredient—no mystery chemicals, no synthetic fragrances, and no hidden preservatives. This is especially important for individuals with sensitive skin, allergies, or those committed to natural living. Whether you're using coconut oil, shea butter, or non-nano zinc oxide, you’re ensuring that only safe, skin-nourishing elements touch your skin.

Avoid Chemical Sunscreen Filters

Commercial sunscreens often contain controversial ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate—chemical UV filters that may disrupt hormones and harm marine ecosystems. By opting for DIY sunscreen, you avoid exposing your skin (and the environment) to these harsh compounds. Your formula remains reef-safe, non-toxic, and perfectly aligned with clean beauty principles.

Customize SPF Level

DIY sunscreens let you tailor the SPF level by adjusting the amount of non-nano zinc oxide and incorporating high-SPF natural oils like carrot seed oil and red raspberry seed oil. Whether you need light protection for everyday wear or stronger coverage for beach days, you can tweak the formula to suit your lifestyle and skin type.

Enhance with Essential Oils

Adding essential oils such as lavender, frankincense, or chamomile not only gives your sunscreen a lovely scent—it also boosts its skincare value. Many essential oils offer anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and soothing properties. Some, like tea tree oil, also help prevent breakouts and calm irritation, making your sunscreen a multifunctional skin treatment.

Chemical-Free & Eco-Friendly

Natural sunscreens are a better choice for both your body and the planet. With biodegradable, cruelty-free, and sustainable ingredients, you’re supporting a more ethical beauty routine. Plus, no harmful chemicals run off into oceans or rivers, making your DIY sunscreen an eco-conscious and reef-safe alternative to traditional products.

Conclusion

Creating your own DIY all natural sunscreen recipe is a rewarding way to protect your skin while avoiding the questionable ingredients often found in conventional sunscreen. By using non-toxic sunscreen ingredients like zinc oxide powder, coconut oil and shea butter, and carefully chosen essential oils, you can formulate a homemade version that not only offers SPF protection but also nourishes your skin. Unlike store-bought sunscreen products, your essential oil sunscreen can be tailored to suit your skin type and preferences—just remember to avoid citrus essential oils as they can cause photosensitivity under UV rays.

Whether you’re spending a day at the beach, gardening, or simply enjoying the heat of the day, using a sunscreen safe for your skin and the environment makes all the difference. With a customizable oil sunscreen, you can experiment with drops of essential oil and another oil like raspberry seed or carrot seed oil to boost high SPF protection. Not only does this act as a barrier on the skin, but it also supports your wellness when it comes to skin issues like dryness, sensitivity, and breakouts.

Try this recipe or explore other DIY recipes to see what works best for your needs. Making sunscreen at home also helps you better manage exposure and prevents getting too much sun, which can lead to vitamin D deficiency or the harmful effects of the sun. Ultimately, a natural solution gives you control, peace of mind, and healthy, protected skin.