I\u2019ve used a variation of this homemade tanning oil for years. When a friend recently asked about a natural homemade tanning oil, I figured it was time to share the recipe.<\/p>\n
I do\u00a0occasionally use my\u00a0homemade sunscreen<\/u><\/a> if I\u2019m going to be out in the sun for a long time. In general though, I prefer to get the free vitamin D from its source via\u00a0moderate sun exposure. I prefer to eat my sunscreen<\/u><\/a> rather than slather it on my skin\u2026<\/p>\n Sometimes I\u2019m at the beach (which is a lot now we live near one!) or somewhere where I can alternate between sun exposure or the shade of an umbrella and a good book. Here I prefer to just use natural oils that nourish and slightly protect my skin without blocking vitamin D. Unlike many sunscreens do).<\/p>\n Though many of my recipes are solid like lotion bars<\/u><\/a>\u00a0or body butters<\/u><\/a>, this one is a liquid oil. It makes it easier to use when on the go. If you prefer a more solid recipe, you can absolutely make this with virgin coconut oil that hardens at 76 degrees and store it in a small jar.<\/p>\n This is where things get a little controversial and murky. Over a decade ago researchers tested raspberry seed oil and other natural oils to determine their SPF values. The test results showed amazing SPF values of 25 SPF or even up to 50 SPF against UV rays.<\/p>\n However, more recently scientists have pointed out the flaws in these studies. They were done in vitro (not on actual skin) and didn\u2019t follow commonly accepted SPF test guidelines.<\/p>\n A 2021 study found raspberry seed oil is more like 2.6 SPF (not 25-50). Other tested oils included carrot seed, coconut, and wheat germ oils ranged from 0 to 2.8 SPF. The researchers commented that anything below 1 SPF wasn\u2019t providing any sun protection at all.<\/p>\n Another 2010 study looked at the SPF of both carrier oils and essential oils. The carrier oils ranged from 2 to 8 SPF, and essential oils from 1 to 7 SPF. Olive oil and peppermint essential oil scored the highest. But not so fast! This study wasn\u2019t done on human skin and even the authors state their results didn\u2019t nail down final SPF values when used on skin.<\/p>\n Carrot seed oil skin product tests showed an SPF value of almost 7. However, the carrot seed oil was combined with other ingredients for testing.<\/p>\n So is there such a thing as natural SPF oils to help with a safe tanning process?<\/p>\n While some of the oils used here may or may not have slight measurable SPF protection, they do have other skin benefits. When combined in a homemade tanning oil oil they help to protect and nourish the skin and assist in vitamin D production. It\u2019s important to note that these are not a substitute for regular sunscreen.<\/p>\n I also added bronze mica powder<\/u><\/a> for a subtle bronze glow, but you can omit this if you don\u2019t have it or don\u2019t want to use it.<\/p>\n I used some lavender and sandalwood essential oils for their skin benefits and scent. Indian sandalwood smells sweeter, but Australian sandalwood is more affordable. Because sandalwood is at risk of becoming endangered though it\u2019s important to buy from an ethically harvested source!<\/p>\nDIY Tanning Oil<\/h2>\n
Sun Protective Natural Ingredients<\/h3>\n
A Safer Tanning Lotion<\/h2>\n
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Adding Essential Oils<\/h3>\n
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