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homemade sunscreen for face
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #14760
46 days ago
64

homemade sunscreen for face - #14760

Nikhil

I am really stressed out about my skin lately. I started using this store-bought sunscreen, but my face has been breaking out like crazy!!! First, it was just a couple of little bumps, and then it turned into this weird rash. I’ve never really had skin issues before, so this is all pretty new to me. A friend mentioned trying a homemade sunscreen for face instead, saying it’s way gentler and I could control what goes into it. It's just I have no idea where to start with making a homemade sunscreen for face. What ingredients should I use? She said coconut oil is a must, but is that even enough? I’ve been reading about things like zinc oxide and shea butter, and I’m soooo confused. Does anyone have a good recipe or tips? How do I make sure it actually protects me from the sun? Like, do I need to reapply it often? I wanna make sure I’m safe while not buying products that irritate my skin. Also, is homemade sunscreen for face effective? Should I still wear something else over it? I feel lost here!

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Doctors’ responses

Homemade sunscreen might sound appealing when you’re dealing with skin irritation, but it’s important to know that these products may not provide adequate UV protection. While awareness of ingredients is beneficial, homemade formulas lack the rigorous testing needed to ensure a reliable SPF (Sun Protection Factor). Ingredients like coconut oil, zinc oxide, and shea butter are frequently mentioned, but they differ significantly in terms of UV protection and safety. Coconut oil, for instance, provides minimal SPF and primarily serves as a moisturizer. Zinc oxide, on the other hand, can be a key active ingredient due to its broad-spectrum UV protection if formulated correctly. Yet, its effectiveness depends heavily on the concentration and the method of application, and it can be difficult for a layperson to create an even and sufficient application. Shea butter mainly serves as a moisturizing agent and adds little UV protection. For someone dealing with potential sunscreen-induced irritation, I recommend testing out hypoallergenic, mineral-based sunscreens you can get commercially, as these typically include non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are less likely to cause breakouts and often designed for sensitive skin. Ensure you apply a generous amount—as a general rule, about a teaspoon for the face—and reapply every two hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming. Always patch test a small amount on a different part of your skin before full application. And should the rash or bumps persist, or if you notice any new symptoms like a burning sensation, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist to establish if it’s a genuine allergic reaction or another dermatological issue. While DIY products seem cost-effective, professional formulations provide established safety and protection, keeping your skin healthy under the sun.

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