Summer is finally here, and lots of us are jetting off far and wide in search of slightly more sunnier climates we’re getting here in the UK. And who can blame them? We didn’t endure such a cold winter to be greeted with such a wet summer! But even if you’re not going away this year, and even if it is currently raining, there can be no denying that the sun is putting in a bit of an appearance now and then. And that can only mean one thing. We need a good sunscreen. And as you know us only too well here at Little Soap HQ, you know that we’re more than a little fussy when it comes to what we put on our skin, with sunscreen being no exception. So without further ado, here is all you need to know to make your own sunscreen this summer. Don’t leave home 
without it!
Why use sunscreen?
Before we start, you all know why sunscreen is so important, right? This post will explain a little about how important it is, along with some ideas on how to protect your skin in the summer too. The last thing you want is sunburn, premature ageing and an increased risk ofĀ skin cancer, isn’t it? So that’s why we use sunscreen.
Why makeĀ your own?
As ever, we’re keen to help you realise that not everything you put on your skin needs to be mass produced and full of chemicals. Sunscreen can be eco friendly and skin friendly too, and we want to show you how to make it.
You will need
A carrier oil. We love jojoba, grape seed or almond because they’re fantastic for moisturising and protecting.
Emulsifying wax.Ā This is essential because it’s essentially the glue that will hold your sunscreen lotion together.
Sunblocking agent.Ā No explanations needed! You can use micronised zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Essential oils.Ā We love Lavender and Rose Geranium for sunscreen.
Never use citrus oils such asĀ bergamot or lemon, because these can irritate the skin and reduceĀ the effectiveness ofĀ theĀ sunscreen.
How to make your sunscreen
This is just one recipe. Do a little research and find one you like. For this one you need:
- Half a cup of almond
- Quarter of a cup coconut oil
- Quarter of a cup of beeswax
- 2 Tablespoons Zinc Oxide
- Your choice of essential oil; we used vanilla extract for this one
To make the sunscreen, mix all of the ingredients apart from the zinc oxide in a large glass jar. Then fill a medium saucepan with a couple of inches of water and set on a medium heat. Place a lid on the glass jar and carefully place it into the pan of water. Then as the mixture inside the jar starts to melt, you need to occasionally shake or stir it up to combine the ingredients well. When everything is melted, add the zinc oxide and stir well. Then pour the whole thing into the jar you intend to store the sunscreen in. Stir a few times as the mixture cools, then use as and when required. This will last around six months in an air tight container.
