DIY After Sun Spray

This skin-soothing DIY after-sun spray is cooling to the skin and aids in hydrating and repairing sun-kissed skin!

After spending hours at the river, my skin can feel dry and warm. Even when I use sunscreen, I often forget to reapply it and sometimes end up with a sunburn. 

This after-sun spray is made with natural and soothing ingredients to help alleviate mildly burned skin.

DIY After Sun Spray

For this DIY, you will need lavender hydrosol, witch hazel, dried peppermint leaves (or peppermint essential oil), and aloe vera gel. 

Step 1: Peppermint-Infused Witch Hazel

Start by making peppermint-infused witch hazel. To do this, you can infuse the witch hazel with dried peppermint leaves. The infusion process takes 2-4 weeks, but it’ll make an excellent and cooling skin tonic. If you’d like to speed up the process, you can add 2-4 drops of essential oils to the witch hazel instead.

Pour two tablespoons of dried peppermint leaves into a glass mason jar. Cover the herbs with at least one cup of witch hazel. Shake the bottle and let the herbs absorb the liquid. Add more witch hazel as needed to ensure the herbs are entirely covered. 

Cover the jar with a non-metal lid and place in a cool, dry place. Shake the jar daily to mix the herbs with the witch hazel. If you only have metal lids, place wax pepper, parchment paper, or a coffee filter between the metal lid and jar. 

Once the herbs have been infused for about 2-4 weeks, strain them through a fine mesh strainer and continue with the recipe.

Essential Oil Method: Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to the witch hazel and shake to mix. 

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Mix the herbal-infused witch hazel with the lavender hydrosol and aloe vera. Mix vigorously. Pour the mixture into an 8-ounce glass spray bottle. 

Store the spray in the refrigerator for up to 8 months. Shake before each use.

How to Use After Sun Spray

Shake the bottle of spray before applying it to the skin. Spray over the skin, face, and scalp or affected areas. 

After Sun Spray FAQ

What is a hydrosol?

Hydrosols are the floral waters left over when essential oils are extracted from plants. These waters are distilled and contain the benefits of their plant oil, but in a lower dose form, making them safe to use directly on the skin. 

Can I use peppermint essential oil instead of dried peppermint leaves?

Yes, you can use peppermint essential oil if you prefer. Instead of infusing it with dried peppermint leaves, add 1-3 drops of peppermint essential oil to the witch hazel.

How long does it take to make the peppermint-infused witch hazel?

The infusion process takes about 2-4 weeks. However, if you use peppermint essential oil, the process is much quicker and can be done immediately.

How should I store the after-sun spray?

Store the spray in an 8-ounce glass spray bottle in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 8 months.

How do I use the after-sun spray?

Shake the bottle before each use. Spray the mixture over the skin, face, and scalp or on any affected areas to soothe and hydrate sun-kissed skin.

Is it safe to use the after-sun spray on my face?

If you don’t use peppermint essential oil, this spray is safe to use on the face. If you do use the essential oil, I’d advise against using it on the face. Always avoid spraying the after-sun spray in or around your eyes. 

Can I customize the scent of the after-sun spray?

Yes, you can customize the scent by using different hydrosols or essential oils as long as they are safe for topical use.

What if I don’t have a non-metal lid for the jar?

If you only have metal lids, place wax paper, parchment paper, or a coffee filter between the metal lid and the jar to prevent any reactions between the metal and the witch hazel.

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