How to Use Zinc to Make Your Own Sunscreen

Most mass-market sunscreens contain harsh chemicals that aren't good for the skin. By buying a few products at a health food store or vitamin shop you can make sunscreen at home and avoid harsh chemicals. The best product for fighting UVB and UVA rays is zinc oxide.

Things You'll Need

• Spoon
• Mixing bowl
• Double boiler
• Stove
• 1 tbsp. zinc oxide
• 1 or 2 drops of essential oil (lavender, peppermint)
• 1 1/2 tsp. sesame oil
• 1 tbsp rose water
• Container with seal

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Place the double boiler (with water in the bottom portion) on the stove over a medium flame.

• 2

  Stir the zinc oxide and sesame oil together in a mixing bowl.

• 3

  Pour the mixture into the top of the double boiler. Stir the mixture often as it heats.

• 4

  Remove the mixture from the heat once it is warm (approximately three to four minutes).

• 5

  Slowly stir the essential oil and rose water into the mixture. Continue stirring for approximately 30 seconds as the mixture cools.

• 6

  Put the mixture into a container and refrigerate it for at least an hour.

• 7

  Store the sunscreen in a cool, dry place. It should keep for 10 days. Apply to your skin as needed.