DIY Vegan Tallow Balm Recipe: Easy, Inexpensive All-Natural Anti-Aging Body Lotion for Youthful Skin

Happy Healthy Foods
Written By lauren martin

Discover the ultimate DIY vegan tallow balm recipe that combines the nourishing power of shea butter, coconut oil, and potent anti-aging essential oils to create an all-natural, affordable body lotion. This easy-to-make balm is enriched with skin-rejuvenating plant extracts like carrot seed oiland olive leaf extract, known for their antioxidant and anti-aging benefits. Perfect for anyone seeking a gentle, effective, and budget-friendly skincare solution, this balm deeply moisturizes while promoting youthful, radiant skin. Whether you’re new to natural skincare or a seasoned DIY enthusiast, this recipe delivers a luxurious, vegan alternative to commercial lotions without harsh chemicals.

Scroll down for recipe!

Adding Sun Protection to Your DIY Lotion: Easy Mineral Sunscreen Options

If you want to boost your homemade lotion with sun protection, mineral sunscreens using non-nano zinc oxide are a safe and natural choice. You can either create a DIY mineral sunscreen from scratch or add zinc oxide to your favorite all-natural lotion for customizable SPF coverage.

How Much Zinc Oxide for SPF 10 - 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 Anti-Aging Lotion

Here are the ingredients you will need to make your all-natural DIY natural anti-aging body lotion for youthful skin. I always share links to the lowest cost per ounce products on Amazon (click below):

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

If you want to anti-aging essential oils, consider the following (add up to 6-12 drops per oz = 48-96 drops per cup):

  • Frankincense:

    • 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

  • Geranium:

    • Firms and tones skin

    • Antioxidant-rich, slows aging

    • Balances oil production

    • Supports cell regeneration

    • Calms irritation and acne

  • Lavender:

    • 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

  • Olive Leaf Extract:

    • 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

  • Jojoba oil: Balances skin and mimics natural sebum.

  • Sea buckthorn oil: Rich in carotenoids and vitamin E, excellent for skin regeneration.

  • Pomegranate seed oil: High in punicic acid and antioxidants, supports elasticity.

  • Squalane (plant-derived): Lightweight, non-greasy hydration and barrier support.

  • Grapeseed Oil: Lightweight, high in linoleic acid, and helps tighten skin by supporting collagen and elastin.

  • Argan Oil: Rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, argan oil significantly improves skin elasticity and hydration. Clinical studies show that regular application increases skin firmness and elasticity, making it one of the best choices for sagging and crepey skin.

  • Rosehip Oil: Packed with vitamins A and C, rosehip oil boosts collagen production, increases cell turnover, and helps prevent wrinkles and sagging. It is especially effective for improving skin texture and elasticity.

Additives to Avoid

Avoid adding water or aloe vera gel (which contains water) to your DIY body lotion. 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

Ingredients

Instructions

1. In a microwave safe measuring cup, melt the shea butter, oils and beeswax for 30+ seconds.

2. Carefully mix in all ingredients with 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, stirring as it cools to keep the zinc oxide evenly distributed.

  • Use within 3 - 6 months.

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.

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. Ready for more practical tips and creative inspiration?
Explore my site for:

  • 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 anti-aging lotion for inexpensive, non toxic vegan tallow alternative to beef tallow.

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