Summer sun is awesome, wonderful, essential. But too much of a good thing turns into a bad thing really quickly. Scorched, burned skin is not only painful and uncomfortable, but it’s not good for your health.

There are lots of sunscreen alternatives found out in the marketplace, but they most often have added chemicals that shouldn’t really be slathered on your body. Be especially careful of the spray on type as they could put children at risk for asthma or allergy attacks.The good news is, though, there are alternatives!

Once again, essential oils to the rescue.

It’s easy to make your own sun protection and sunburn treatments with just a few simple ingredients and a couple minutes.

Homemade Sunscreen

You will need:

4 oz chemical free, scent free Hand and Body Lotion

8 drops Pure Helichrysum essential oil

4 drops Pure Lavender essential oil

1 tablespoon zinc oxide

Mix all ingredients together. Store in a glass jar with tight fitting lid.

To use: Apply before going into the sun. Reapply every 2 hours or so.

The SPF factor is around 20.
**NOTE: This mixture is NOT water  proof.**

 

Homemade After Sun Treatment

You will need:

15 drops Pure Lavender essential oil*

2 oz fractionated coconut oil

Small GLASS spray bottle

Shake before applying. Spray over affected areas for relief.

*Although Lavender oil is my favorite for minor burns, Melaleuca or Roman Chamomile are also good substitutions if you’d like to try something other than lavender.