DIY Tallow Sunscreen

This Tallow Sunscreen is a simple, nourishing way to approach sun care with ingredients you can feel good about. With its whipped texture and skin-loving oils, it’s a great addition to your natural skincare routine.

If you’re looking for a more natural approach to sun care, this Tallow Sunscreen is a rich, skin-nourishing option made with traditional ingredients and mineral protection. Blending grass-fed tallow, plant oils, and non-nano zinc oxide, this recipe creates a soft, whipped sunscreen that spreads easily while supporting your skin.

Tallow Sunscreen Recipe

For this DIY you will need tallow, jojoba oil, red raspberry seed oil, carrot seed oil, beeswax, shea butter, zinc oxide, and optional essential oils.

In a double boiler, combine the tallow, beeswax, and shea butter.

Gently heat until everything is fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the jojoba oil, red raspberry seed oil, and carrot seed oil. Add essential oils if using and mix well.

Slowly add the non-nano zinc oxide, stirring continuously until fully incorporated and smooth. Wearing a mask during this step is recommended to avoid inhaling the powder.

Allow the mixture to cool until it begins to thicken slightly. Once partially set, use a hand mixer to whip the mixture until light and fluffy. Transfer to a clean jar and store in a cool, dry place.

About the Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a role in both skin nourishment and sun protection.

Tallow

Rich in skin-compatible fatty acids, tallow closely resembles the skin’s natural oils, making it deeply moisturizing and supportive for the skin barrier.

Jojoba Oil

A lightweight oil that absorbs easily and helps balance skin without feeling greasy.

Red Raspberry Seed Oil

Often included in natural sun care recipes, this oil is valued for its antioxidant content and skin-supporting properties.

Carrot Seed Oil

Traditionally used in skincare for its rejuvenating qualities and earthy aroma.

Beeswax

Helps thicken the sunscreen and creates a protective barrier on the skin.

Shea Butter

Adds extra moisture and contributes to the smooth, creamy texture.

Non-Nano Zinc Oxide

This is the key active ingredient that provides a physical barrier on the skin to reflect sunlight. Non-nano particles sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed.

Essential Oils (Optional)

Used for light fragrance. Choose gentle, skin-safe oils or omit for sensitive skin.

How to Use Tallow Sunscreen

• Apply a thin, even layer to exposed skin before sun exposure
• Reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating
• Use daily for outdoor activities like walking, gardening, or beach days

Storage & Shelf Life

• Store in a cool, dry place
• Keep in a sealed container
• Shelf life is typically 6–12 months, depending on the freshness of your oils

Safety Notes

• Avoid inhaling zinc oxide powder during mixing
• For sensitive skin, omit essential oils or use gentle options like lavender
• This is a homemade product and does not have a tested SPF rating

FAQ: Tallow Sunscreen

Does this sunscreen have an SPF rating?

No. Homemade sunscreens are not lab-tested, so an exact SPF cannot be determined.

Is non-nano zinc oxide safe?

Non-nano zinc oxide is widely used in mineral sunscreens because it sits on the skin’s surface rather than being absorbed.

Will this leave a white cast?

It may leave a slight white cast due to the zinc oxide, especially on deeper skin tones.

Can I skip the essential oils?

Yes, they are completely optional and can be omitted for sensitive skin.

Is this waterproof?

No, you will need to reapply after water exposure or sweating.

Related Recipes:

• Coconut Oil Sunscreen – Easy 3 Ingredient Recipe!
• Homemade Makeup Remover (Made with Tallow)
• Tallow Lip Balm Recipe
• DIY Tallow Lotion Bars
• Tallow Balm Recipe

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