Sun Protection Lotion Stick
Certain plants have amazing sun protection properties: shea butter has
an SPF of around 7, coconut oil’s SPF is around 4, and red raspberry
seed oil has an SPF ranging between 28 and 50. This recipe combines
these amazing sun-blocking botanicals with zinc, a mineral that physically
blocks the sun by scattering UVA and UVB radiation, to create nourishing
and effective natural sun protection. The butter-like consistency of this
recipe adds to its effectiveness by creating natural sweat and water
resistance, and the peppermint helps keep you cool. Enjoy!
YIELDS: 4 two-ounce tubes
2 tablespoons beeswax pastilles
⁄ cup shea butter ⁄ cup coconut oil (virgin or unscented or green
tea–infused (see Chapter 7)) ⁄ cup red raspberry seed oil 20 drops
peppermint essential oil
4 vitamin E capsules
2 tablespoons zinc oxide powder
What you will need: double boiler, measuring cups, rubber spatula,
push-up tubes for 8-ounce recipe (four 2-ounce tubes)
- To Make: Start the double boiler on medium heat. Once it reaches a boil,
reduce heat to simmer. Place the beeswax, shea butter, and coconut oil in
the top of the double boiler and cover. Simmer until melted, stirring
occasionally. To preserve the beneficial botanicals, do not overheat.
Remove from heat, take the top pan off the double boiler, and let cool 5–
10 minutes. Add the raspberry seed oil and essential oil. Pierce the
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