If you’ve spent any time on TikTok or Instagram lately, you might have stumbled upon the latest trend: homemade sunscreen. From coconut oil concoctions mixed in a glass bowl to beeswax blends cooked up in a double boiler, these DIY recipes are gaining popularity faster than a summer tan.
But while we all love a good DIY project, when it comes to skincare, some trends can be more harmful than helpful. The one for homemade sunscreens falls squarely into this danger zone.
Experts from the American Academy of Dermatology have warned that most homemade sunscreens lack the necessary ingredients to effectively shield our skin from harmful rays. This can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Research has also established that many of the popular recipes found online do not offer a fraction of the protection they claim! So, before you reach for your kitchen pantry, let’s understand why DIY sunscreen is one trend you definitely want to sit out!
The Dangers of Using Homemade Sunscreen
While the idea of whipping up your own sunscreen in the kitchen might sound appealing and natural, it’s a trend that’s better left on the cutting board. Let’s dive into where DIY sunscreen falls short and why it’s risky for your skin health.
No Testing and Regulation
Sunscreens are classified as over-the-counter drugs, which means they undergo strict testing and approval processes. Before hitting the market, all sunscreen products must meet the FDA’s (Food and Drug Administration) rigorous guidelines for SPF (Sun Protection Factor), water resistance, and safety profile.
DIY sunscreens, however, bypass all these critical steps.
This is why, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, most homemade versions do not provide adequate protection. They leave users vulnerable to sunburn and increased risks of skin cancer.
Moreover, the ingredients used in homemade recipes are not regulated or standardized, leading to inconsistencies in protection.
Inaccurate SPF Measurement
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays. Commercial sunscreens undergo rigorous testing to ensure their SPF claims are accurate and effective.
However, determining the SPF in DIY sunscreens is nearly impossible. While you might use ingredients with known SPF properties (like coconut oil, which offers an SPF of between 4 and 8), differences in consistency and particle size leave much up to chance!
Consumer Reports highlights the risk of these inaccuracies, underscoring that even a tiny miscalculation can result in significantly less protection than anticipated.
Precision Formulation: Getting the Balance Right
Sunscreens are carefully formulated and tested in registered labs, where precise measurements of active ingredients like zinc powder and chemical filters are ensured.
For example, in physical sunscreens, the particle size of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is crucial. Particles that are too large can leave a white cast on the skin, while particles that are too small might not provide adequate coverage.
No matter how well-intentioned, your kitchen concoction lacks this scientific validation and can’t match the level of precision and testing found in commercially produced sunscreens.
Stability
Lab formulated sunscreens undergo stability testing to ensure they don’t degrade and lose effectiveness over time or when exposed to heat, light, and moisture.
Homemade versions may degrade more quickly, losing their protective abilities. Plus, who wants to carry around a melting jar of cocoa butter or almond oil on a hot day?
Lack of Consistency
Proper sunscreen application is essential to ensure all exposed skin is protected — that’s why commercial sunscreens are formulated to absorb quickly into the skin.
DIY mixtures often lack the consistency of commercial sunscreens — and can be thick, greasy, or uneven, making them difficult to apply smoothly and uniformly.
They are more difficult to absorb, thereby sitting on the surface, resulting in an uncomfortable, greasy feel and reduced effectiveness.
So, while whipping up a smooth, buttery concoction in a pretty mason jar may seem charming, it doesn’t offer even a fraction of the SPF protection you need to guard against sun damage.
Microbial Contamination
Store-bought sunscreens contain preservatives to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast. A DIY sunscreen typically lacks these preservatives, increasing the risk of contamination, which can lead to skin infections and other health issues.
Also, without the sterile conditions of a manufacturing facility, homemade sunscreens are more prone to spoilage during preparation and packaging.
Alternatives to Homemade Sunscreen Products
So, what’s one to do in the quest for a sunscreen that’s safe for both the environment and our health while providing optimal sun protection? Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.
Organic (Mineral) Sunscreens: Opt for mineral sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients provide broad-spectrum protection by physically blocking UV rays. Mineral sunscreens are generally safer for sensitive skin and the environment, as they don’t contain harmful chemicals.
Natural Ingredients: Look for sunscreens that include natural and organic ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, and green tea extract. These components not only nourish the skin but also enhance the protective properties of the sunscreen without adding synthetic chemicals.
Ingredients to Avoid: Avoid sunscreens with chemical filters like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone, which can be harmful to both your health and marine life. Parabens, synthetic fragrances, and other harsh chemicals should also be avoided, as they can cause skin irritation and other health issues.
Certified Organic and Cruelty-Free: Certifications like USDA Organic, EcoCert, Environmental Working Group, and Leaping Bunny indicate a commitment to sustainable and ethical practices.
Ever tried your hand at a homemade sunscreen? Would you want to go down that route?
Anubha Charan is a powerhouse in the luxury beauty industry, with over 15 years of expertise shaping the global beauty narrative. As the former Beauty Director at Marie Claire, she worked with the magazine's French headquarters to craft cutting-edge beauty content for international audiences.
Anubha's bylines have appeared in some of the world’s most prestigious publications, including Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Travel + Leisure, WebMD, and Architectural Digest. She is also the co-author of Paris Bath & Beauty, a Simon & Schuster book on French beauty rituals.
tunnel rush says
Be careful with homemade sunscreen if you don’t know how to make it. I think you should use sunscreen from reputable brands.