Seasonal Wellness Series: Summer Living – Bali-Inspired Non-Tox Sunscreen

Im sharing a tropical recipe from my time working in Balinese spas!

This handmade, chemical-free sunscreen is a Balinese recipe I learnt while working in luxury spas in Bali. It uses coconut oil, tamanu, beeswax, and non-nano zinc — simple ingredients.

Ready to make your own? I’ve shared the full step-by-step recipe below.

Tropical Bali Non-Tox Sunscreen (SPF ~25-30)

Ingredients:
1/4 cup non-nano zinc oxide (acts as the SPF)
1/4 cup virgin coconut oil (natural SPF ~5 and antibacterial)
2 tbsp shea butter (moisturizing + mild SPF)
2 tbsp tamanu oil (tamanu is traditional in Bali & supports healing) or use jojoba
1/4 cup beeswax (adds water resistance)
1 tsp vitamin E oil (preservative and skin nourishing)
Optional: 5-10 drops essential oils (use safe ones: carrot seed, raspberry seed, lavender, or vanilla. Avoid citrus EO in sun)

Instructions:
In a double boiler, melt coconut oil, shea butter, tamanu oil (or jojoba) and beeswax.
Once fully melted, remove from heat and let cool slightly (but not solidify).
Stir in vitamin E and any optional oils or aloe.
Slowly whisk in the non-nano zinc oxide powder — avoid breathing it in! Use a mask and spoon carefully.
Pour into a glass jar or tin and let cool completely.
Label & store in a cool spot. Shelf life:  approx. 6 months.

Usage & Notes:
Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming. Keep it in your cooler at the beach!
Not waterproof—though beeswax helps, reapply after water exposure.
Natural SPF ranges between 20–30 depending on zinc oxide % and base oils.
Always patch test before full use and do your due diligence – research the ingredients you are using to be aware of any allergies!