We have been experiencing a record-breaking heat wave in the Twin Cities Metro Area of Minnesota and Hudson, Wisconsin area this year. High temperatures, high humidity and little to no rain have led to me being outside in the sun and spending time cooling off in the lake. Having had several bouts of skin cancer, I have to be really careful about my skin in the sun, and also with what I put on my skin.
Sunscreen
I don’t like to wear too much sunscreen, and then only use reef-safe sunscreens (I feel if it won’t harm coral reefs, it won’t harm me). I purchase a lot of clothing that has sunscreen built in; however, sunscreen is a must for boat/lake days. I make my own healthy sunscreen with essential oils and a few simple ingredients.
My Sunscreen recipe: In a double boiler combine 1/2 Cup Avocado Oil, 1/4 Cup Shea Butter, 1/4 Cup Beeswax, and 1/4 Cup Coconut Oil and stir frequently until boiling. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly (until lukewarm, but don’t allow it to harden). Add in 15-20 drops Helichrysum Essential Oil and 1/4 Cup Zinc Oxide and whisk until smooth. Pour into glass mason jars. This homemade, healthy sunscreen has an SPF of 15-20. It is not waterproof, so you will want to reapply after swimming or sweating.
After Sun Spray
I also make an “After-Sun” Spray that I love to apply to my skin after being in the sun. In a 4 oz. glass bottle I combine 10 drops Lavender, 10 drops Peppermint, 1/4 Cup Witch Hazel and 2 Tablespoons Aloe Vera Gel and then fill with water. Shake before use and spray liberally. You will instantly feel cool and refreshed. This spray is also delightful to keep with you on hot days, and spray whenever you are feeling overheated.
Hair No Frizz Spray
Anti-Frizz Hair Spray
My hair has a tendency to get frizzy when the weather is humid. I make a “No-Frizz” spray that works well to calm my hair down. In a 4 oz glass spray bottle combine 1 Tablespoon Witch Hazel, 1 Teaspoon Epsom Salts, and 10 drops each of Cedarwood, Lavender and Rosemary Essential oils and fill with water. Shake before each use. You can spray to wet, damp and dry hair. I use this after my shower on humid days, and also throughout the day as needed.
If you would like to try some of my DIY Summer Essential recipes, I have created a bundle to help you get started. You will find that essential oils are an investment initially; however, after you get these pure oils and a few simple ingredients in your home they will soon save you money. I love that I never run out, because I always have the ingredients to make more. And, the sky is the limit to the number of healthy products you can make for your home with these liquid gems. Ready to get started? Here is a great “Summer Essentials” starter link: https://doterra.me/Gqk8Yxf4
Reach out with questions or suggestions. I’m always happy to help and ready to learn more.
Hugs & Health – Michelle