BY RNC Team

Outdoor Sun Balm

A nourishing outdoor balm made with simple, traditional ingredients. Sunshine is an important part of a healthy, active life, supporting everything from mood, circadian rhythm to vitamin D production. This nourishing sun balm is designed to complement a balanced approach to time outdoors - not replace it. Enjoy regular sunshine while paying attention to your skin, and remember that factors like your skin type, UV levels, and time spent outside all influence when extra protection is helpful. Because this balm is made with natural ingredients, it should be reapplied more often, especially after swimming, sweating, or towel drying, and is best used alongside simple sun-smart habits like seeking shade and wearing protective clothing during longer periods in strong sun.
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PREP TIME
YIELDS
INGREDIENTS
  • 45 g rendered tallow
  • 15 g beeswax pellets
  • 15 g jojoba oil
  • 5 g carrot seed carrier oil
  • 20 g non-nano zinc oxide powder
  • Optional: 2-3 drops vitamin E oil
INSTRUCTIONS
  1. Add the tallow, beeswax, jojoba oil and carrot seed carrier oil to a heat-safe glass measuring cup.
  2. Place the cup in a saucepan with a few centimetres of gently simmering water.  Do not allow water to enter the mixture.
  3. Heat gently and stir until the tallow and beeswax are completely melted.
  4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly while keeping the mixture liquid.
  5. Wear a well-fitting mask.  Add zinc oxide gradually and whisk thoroughly, scraping the bottom and sides.
  6. Add vitamin E oil, if using, and mix again.
  7. Pour into a clean, dry glass jar.  Cool uncovered until fully set, then label with the name and date.
TIPS & VARIATIONS

How to Use

Apple a generous, even layer to exposed skin before going outdoors.  Reapply after swimming, sweating, towelling off or whenever the balm has rubbed away.

Helpful Notes

Carrot seed oil means carrot seed carrier oil, not undiluted essential oil.  Zinc oxide naturally leaves a visible white later.  Store in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and sunlight.

Important Sun-Safety Disclaimer

This homemade balm has not been laboratory tested for SPF, broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection water resistance stability or uniform zinc distribution.  Do not assign it an SPF number or rely on it as your only sun protection.  Use shade, protective clothing and a Health Canada-authorized broad-spectrum sunscreen when dependable protection is required.  Patch-test before use.  Avoid inhaling zinc oxide powder.

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