DIY Mineral Sunscreen: Easiest, Inexpensive, Safe, All-Natural Nontoxic Sunblock
Looking for a safe, natural sunscreen for kids and families? Whether you're a busy mom juggling preschool learning activities and healthy kid-friendly recipes, or a health-conscious individual avoiding harmful chemicals, making your own DIY mineral sunscreen is a smart and simple solution. This homemade sunscreen is free of toxic ingredients, gentle on sensitive skin, and packed with nourishing, natural ingredients like zinc oxide, coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax. It’s the perfect way to protect your loved ones from UV rays—while saving money and gaining peace of mind.
Why Choose DIY Mineral Sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide as a physical barrier against the sun’s rays, making them gentle for sensitive skin and free from harsh chemicals. When you make your own, you control every ingredient—just like when you bake from scratch. Zinc oxide is also non-comedogenic, making it a great addition to your favorite face serum or moisturizer for a natural, anti-aging, and acne-fighting sunscreen.
3 Easy DIY Mineral Sunscreen Options
Here are three simple recipes you can whip up at home, whether you need waterproof protection for pool days, a quick non-waterproof option, or just want to boost your favorite lotion’s SPF.
Waterproof: 4 Ingredients
Non-Waterproof: 3 Ingredients
Boost Your Favorite All-Natural Lotion: 2 Simple Ingredients
Scroll down for three recipes!
How Much Zinc Oxide for SPF 15 vs. SPF 30?
SPF Zinc Levels
10 SPF = 1.5 tbsp of zinc per 1cup of lotion/base (10%)
15 SPF = 2 tbsp of zinc per 1cup of lotion/base (15%)
30 SPF = 4 tbsp of zinc per 1cup of lotion/base (20-25%)
50+ SPF = 5-6 tbsp zinc per 1cup of lotion/base (30% read “SPF Tip” below)
Always choose non-nano, uncoated zinc oxide for safe, effective protection.
SPF Tip:
Higher zinc percentages (above 25%) will make your sunscreen thicker and whiter on the skin, which is normal for strong mineral protection!
Making a DIY mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 50, is technically possible by significantly increasing the proportion of zinc oxide in your recipe. The higher the zinc oxide content, the thicker and more paste-like your sunscreen will become, which can make it harder to apply smoothly and may leave a noticeable white cast on the skin. Many homemade high-SPF sunscreens (50+) feel heavy and may not blend in as easily as commercial options, which use specialized technology to disperse minerals more evenly.
The increase in protection between SPF 30 and SPF 50 in mineral sunscreens is less dramatic than the numbers suggest. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks approximately 98%—just a 1% difference in UVB protection. For most families, a well-applied SPF 30 mineral sunscreen, reapplied regularly, offers nearly as much protection as SPF 50, with a more comfortable texture and easier application.
The most important factors for effective sun protection are thorough, even application and frequent reapplication, especially after swimming or sweating - even if you are the waterproof sunscreen. If you make the non-waterproof option, re-apply immediately after swimming or excessive sweating. If you find higher zinc oxide concentrations too thick for everyday use, sticking with SPF 30 and focusing on proper use is a practical, family-friendly choice that balances safety and comfort
For DIY mineral sunscreens with SPF 15 or 30 it’s important to reapply every two hours to maintain effective sun protection, especially if your child is playing outdoors, sweating, or swimming. Mineral sunscreens physically block UV rays but can wear off due to rubbing, water exposure, and sweat, so reapplication ensures continuous coverage.
Even though mineral sunscreens tend to be more stable than chemical ones, frequent reapplication after swimming or toweling off is necessary because no sunscreen is completely waterproof or sweat-proof. For active kids, reapplying every 40 to 80 minutes during water play or heavy sweating is recommended to keep skin protected. Ultimately, consistent and generous application combined with regular reapplication is key to maximizing the effectiveness of your DIY mineral sunscreen, regardless of SPF level.
Simple Ingredients for DIY Mineral Sunscreen
Here are the ingredients you will need to make your all-natural DIY mineral sunscreen. I always share links to the lowest cost per ounce products on Amazon (click below):
Zinc Oxide (non-nano, uncoated) – the key mineral that blocks UV rays
Shea Butter – deeply moisturizing and rich in antioxidants
Coconut Oil – offers natural SPF and nourishes skin and makes shea butter easily spreadable
Beeswax Pellets – adds water resistance and helps the sunscreen stay on longer (optional)
Glass Jars
Sterilized, recycled glass jars, like salsa, marinara, baby food, jam, jelly, glass yogurt pots (Oui by Yoplait), olive, capers, or used toiletry jars.
Mask - While zinc oxide is safe and natural on skin, it can be harmful when inhaled. Wear a mask to avoid inhaling zinc oxide. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid stirring vigorously to minimize airborne particles.
These ingredients combine to create a creamy, spreadable sunscreen that’s safe for delicate skin and water-resistant enough for active kids.
Anti-Aging Essential Oils (Optional)
If you want to anti-aging essential oils, consider the following (add up to 6-12 drops per oz = 96 drops per cup):
Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
Firms skin and boosts elasticity
Evens skin tone and fades dark spots
Protects against free radical damage
Supports skin barrier and hydration
Soothes inflammation, swelling and redness
Tightens pores
Firms and tones skin
Antioxidant-rich, slows aging
Balances oil production
Supports cell regeneration
Calms irritation and acne
Promotes skin healing and regeneration
Reduces wrinkles with antioxidants
Soothes inflammation and redness
Evens skin tone and fades spots
Hydrates and refreshes skin
Clary Sage: Contains powerful antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, slowing the aging process and helping skin look young and radiant.
Ylang Ylang: Increases skin elasticity, softens, and balances skin tone, making it beneficial for combination to dry skin and supporting a youthful appearance.
Jasmine: Improves elasticity, adds radiance (helpful for dull or tired skin).
Sandalwood: Firms, hydrates, reduces wrinkles, soothes inflammation, evens tone, boosts collagen.
Carrot Seed: Beta-carotene, antioxidant, supports collagen
Reduces wrinkles and improves skin texture
Boosts hydration and elasticity
Provides strong antioxidant protection
Shields skin from UV and environmental damage
Soothes inflammation and supports skin repair
Additives to Avoid
Avoid adding water or aloe vera gel (which contains water) to your DIY sunscreen. Introducing water creates an environment where bacteria and mold can thrive, leading to spoilage and potential safety risks—especially since homemade products typically lack effective preservatives. Stick to oil-based ingredients to ensure your sunscreen remains stable and safe for use.
Recipe 1: DIY Waterproof Mineral Sunscreen
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup Shea Butter
• 1/4 cup Coconut Oil
• 1/4 cup Beeswax Pellets
• 2-4 tablespoons non-nano zinc oxide (see “SPF Zinc Levels” above )
• Optional: <50 drops non-citrus essential oil (see “Anti-Aging Essential Oils” above)
Instructions:
1. In a Microwave Safe Glass Measuring Cup, melt the shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax together, stirring occasionally until fully liquid.
2. Blend all ingredients with an Immersion Blender.
Avoid inhaling zinc oxide: Always wear a mask when handling zinc oxide powder, as it can be harmful if inhaled. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid stirring vigorously to minimize airborne particles.
3. Pour into one or more clean glass jars, and let cool to set, stirring once or twice as it cools to keep the zinc oxide evenly distributed.
Use sterilized, recycled jars—like clean salsa or marinara sauce jars—or opt for convenient 8 oz glass jars or TSA-approved 3.4 oz travel jars (see “Simple Ingredients for DIY Mineral Sunscreen” above”).
This recipe yields a firm, water-resistant balm that is still spreadable and comfortable on the skin.
Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating for best protection.
Dermatologists recommend using about 1 ounce of sunscreen—roughly the size of a shot glass—for full-body coverage. That means a travel-size 3.4 oz jar of homemade mineral sunscreen will give you around 3 full-body applications, making it perfect for a weekend getaway. To prevent breakage during travel, wrap your glass jar in soft clothing and tuck it inside a shoe, toiletry bag, or padded section of your luggage.
Recipe 2: DIY Mineral Sunscreen (not-waterproof)
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup Shea Butter
• 1/2 cup Coconut Oil
• 2-4 tablespoons non-nano zinc oxide (see “SPF Zinc Levels” above )
• Optional: <50 drops non-citrus essential oil (see “Anti-Aging Essential Oils” above)
Instructions:
In a Microwave Safe Glass Measuring Cup, melt the shea butter and coconut oil, stirring occasionally until fully liquid.
Blend all ingredients with an Immersion Blender.
Avoid inhaling zinc oxide: Always wear a mask when handling zinc oxide powder, as it can be harmful if inhaled. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid stirring vigorously to minimize airborne particles.
Pour into one or more clean glass jars, and let cool to set, stirring once or twice as it cools to keep the zinc oxide evenly distributed.
Use sterilized, recycled jars—like clean salsa or marinara sauce jars—or opt for convenient 8 oz glass jars or TSA-approved 3.4 oz travel jars (see “Simple Ingredients for DIY Mineral Sunscreen” above”).
Stir occasionally while cooling to prevent zinc from settling.
Recipe 3: Boost Your Favorite Lotion
Zinc oxide is non-comedogenic, making it a great addition to your favorite face serum or moisturizer for a natural, anti-aging, and acne-fighting sunscreen.
Body Lotion Ingredients:
• 1 cup your favorite all-natural body lotion
• 2-4 tablespoons non-nano zinc oxide (see “SPF Zinc Levels” above )
• Optional: <50 drops non-citrus essential oil (see “Anti-Aging Essential Oils” above)
Face Cream Ingredients
For SPF 15, use 0.75 tsp per ounce of face cream.
For SPF 30, use 1.5 tsp per ounce of face cream.
Instructions
Avoid inhaling zinc oxide: Always wear a mask when handling zinc oxide powder, as it can be harmful if inhaled. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid stirring vigorously to minimize airborne particles.
Always mix thoroughly and remember that DIY SPF is an estimate, not lab-tested. For the best protection, apply generously and reapply as needed!
Cleanliness is crucial: Make sure your blender and all utensils are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before use to minimize the risk of contamination, especially since lotions contain water and can support microbial growth if not handled properly.
Mix thoroughly: Blend for at least 30 seconds to ensure the zinc oxide is fully incorporated and there are no clumps left.
You do not need to heat if you’re simply mixing zinc oxide into a pre-made lotion, since there’s no need to melt ingredients—just blend until smooth.
Store in sterilized, recycled jars—like clean salsa or marinara sauce jars—or opt for convenient 8 oz glass jars or TSA-approved 3.4 oz travel jars (see “Simple Ingredients for DIY Mineral Sunscreen” above”).
Note: While an immersion blender is effective for home use, professional sunscreen manufacturers use high-shear mixers to ensure perfect dispersion of zinc oxide. Homemade sunscreens may not achieve the same level of uniformity, so be sure to blend as thoroughly as possible for best results.
In summary, an immersion blender is a practical tool for mixing zinc oxide into lotion at home—just focus on cleanliness, safety, and thorough blending for the most effective DIY mineral sunscreen.
Healthy Skin Starts from Within
Don’t forget to support your child’s skin health with hidden veggie recipes packed with antioxidants—like carrot muffins or spinach pancakes. And if you love baking, try experimenting with veggie purées in cakes and brownies for extra nutrition.
For more DIY skincare, preschool activities, baking tips, and kid-friendly recipes, explore the rest of the site. Here’s to happy, healthy, and sun-safe adventures with your little ones!
Want to make any comfort food, snack or dessert healthy for you or your little one? Hide veggies in your or your kid’s favorite foods with easy, healthy swaps and add-ins. Browse my Hidden Veggie Recipe Cookbook.
Make Sun Safety a Learning Moment
Turn sunscreen time into a mini preschool lesson:
Count the dots of sunscreen together.
Talk about why we protect our skin.
Sing a silly sunscreen song to make it fun.
Ready for more practical tips and creative inspiration?
Explore my site for more:
Step-by-step play-based and printable preschool curriculum guides
Guilt-free screen time: Watch read-along videos on YouTube @LaurenMartinBooks
Delicious, veggie-packed recipes even picky eaters will love
Choosing DIY mineral sunscreen is a smart, safe, and empowering way to protect your children’s delicate skin while avoiding harsh chemicals. Whether you need a waterproof formula for splashy summer days, a quick non-waterproof option for daily errands, or a simple way to boost your favorite lotion’s SPF, these easy recipes have you covered.
Copyright © 2025 by Lauren Martin. All rights reserved. None of the information on this website may be used, reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage or retrieval system, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews. For all permission requests, write to the author, addressed “Copyright Permissions,” at: Laurenmartinbooks@gmail.com. Lauren Martin’s Website is reader-supported. While I am not paid to promote specific products or brands, I do earn a small commission from Amazon when you click on affiliate links on my site and make a purchase. Therefore, every opinion and product recommendation on my site is completely unbiased, genuine and sincere, based on my personal experience and knowledge gained as a parent and educator.
Sun safety is just one part of raising happy, healthy kids. If you’re a mom searching for more ways to nurture your child’s growth, don’t miss our treasure trove of preschool learning activities, kid-friendly hidden veggie recipes, and easy baking ideas—all designed to make parenting simpler and more joyful.
Join our community of moms who care about natural living, creative learning, and healthy, happy kids.
Bookmark our blog, sign up for updates, and share your own sun-safe adventures with us!
Your journey to a more natural, fun, and fulfilling family life starts here—one sunscreen, recipe, and learning moment at a time.