How to Make Your Own Non-Toxic Sunscreen at Home

Getting sunburned sucks, and according to the Environmental Working Group's 2012 survey of over 800 sunscreen brands, 75% of them contained potentially harmful ingredients linked to hormone disruption and even cell damage that may lead you to skin cancer. Yikes.

Other than becoming a complete vampire during the summer months, you can also make your own sunscreen in a few simple steps using ingredients that you can easily obtain from the supermarket or from online.

Heat olive oil, coconut oil, and beeswax in a glass mason jar (or Pyrex measuring cup) in a pot containing a few inches of water over medium heat. Once the ingredients have melted together, mix in zinc oxide powder and allow for the ingredients to completely cool before transferring to a separate glass jar or tin.

For extra fragrance, add 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil. Store your DIY sunscreen in a cool place and apply as regular sunscreen when you're out in the sun.

Editor's note: This recipe may not actually protect your skin from the sun, as latest evidence suggests, since many oils can speed up burning. Please proceed with caution if you'll be outside for extended periods of time.

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