By Jasmina Halimic
The sun is the source of life and health. The sun is necessary to synthesize Vitamin D essential for a hormone function which directs calcium to form our bones and teeth.
Contrary to popular belief, not all UVs are harmful. Sun rays improve our mood and get us ready for the winter.
Here are some of my tips on how to enjoy and allow the sun to heal us in a safe and healthy way.
UV radiation, in healthy dosages, it’s very necessary for the production of Vitamin D.
SPF over 20 is an overkill as you are blocking precious and necessary sun radiation.
Best natural mineral sunscreen is NON NANO Zinc Oxide.
Zinc Oxide provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. It is gentle enough for everyday use, especially for individuals with sensitive skin and for children, because they rarely cause skin irritation.
Common ingredients found in commercial sunscreen like oxybenzone and octinoxate can harm us, coral reefs and sea creatures.
Metals and chemicals (parabens and phthalates in fragrance) found in commercial sunscreen surely aren’t friends of our organism.
Grandma always told me to ditch my scented synthetic lotions too and to sun bathe only in the morning and late afternoon to build natural immunity through incremental exposure and to prevent sunburns.
For pool days and prolonged sun exposure, it is best to wear sun protective clothing especially for children and babies and wear zinc oxide based sunscreen.
RECIPE FOR MY SIMPLE DIY SUNSCREEN RECIPE:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon Beeswax (provides structure and acts as an emulsifier)
- 3 tablespoons Almond Oil (feel free to substitute with Avocado oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon Vitamin E oil (antioxidant to prevent rancidity)
- 2 tablespoons Zinc Oxide (here is a link where to purchase on amazon)
Instructions:
1. Melt the Beeswax: In a double boiler or a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water, melt the beeswax. Stir occasionally to prevent it from overheating.
2. Add Almond Oil: Once the beeswax is fully melted, add the almond oil and stir to combine. Allow this mixture to heat for a minute or two until it’s fully blended.
3. Add Vitamin E Oil: Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in the Vitamin E oil. This will help nourish and protect the skin.
4. Incorporate Zinc Oxide: Slowly add the zinc oxide to the oil and beeswax mixture. Stir gently and carefully to avoid creating airborne particles. Make sure the zinc oxide is fully blended in.
5. Cool the Mixture and keep stirring as it cools: Let the mixture cool slightly. It will start to thicken as it cools, keep mixing and turning into a creamy texture.
6. Transfer to a Container: Once the mixture has cooled and thickened to your desired consistency, transfer it to a clean jar or container for storage.
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Notes:
- Consistency: If you find the cream too thick, you can melt it again and add a little more oil to adjust the texture. If it's too thin, add a small amount of melted beeswax.
- SPF: The zinc oxide provides sun protection. The typical SPF range with this formulation should be around SPF 20-30, depending on how much zinc oxide you include. You can increase the zinc oxide for higher protection, but it may result in a more visible, chalky finish.
- Storage: Store the cream in a cool, dry place. Without water or preservatives, this sunscreen should last for a few months.
Enjoy the fun in the sun.
Suncare tip from my Grandma: (this one is a bit controversial so take it with a grain of salt)
“Take off your sunglasses.”, my grandmother always advised her friends on the beach. She found them to be harmful. She said that the sunglasses prevent signals to our body to secrete melanocytes which she called “sun immunity” responsible for absorption of UV rays and prevention of DNA damage.