DIY Natural Beef Tallow Sunscreen Recipe

Looking for a sunscreen that’s as nourishing as it is protective? You’re in for a treat! This DIY beef tallow sunscreen recipe is a creamy, wholesome blend of nature’s finest ingredients that keeps your skin soft, moisturized, and shielded from the sun all without the chemicals found in commercial options.

It smells faintly of earthy goodness with a hint of whatever essential oils you choose (we love lavender or peppermint!). The texture is rich and balmy, gliding onto skin like a moisturizing dream. Plus, thanks to zinc oxide, it forms a gentle yet effective barrier against UV rays.

The best part? It’s super simple to make. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a luxurious, skin-loving sunscreen ready to take on sunny days at the beach, the park, or even your backyard garden.

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What You’ll Need for This Beef Tallow sunscreen Recipe

Cook and Prep Times

Servings: Approx. 10 applications
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

1/2 cup beef tallow – Rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K to deeply nourish and moisturize skin.
1/4 cup coconut oil – Hydrating and helps offer mild sun protection.
1/4 cup beeswax pellets – Adds thickness and water resistance.
2 tbsp non-nano zinc oxide – The superstar for broad-spectrum sun protection.
10–15 drops essential oils (optional) – Lavender, peppermint, or frankincense for a custom scent.
1 tsp vitamin E oil (optional) – Extra antioxidant boost for skin health and shelf life.

Tools

Double boiler or heatproof bowl + saucepan
Measuring cups and spoons
Heat-safe spoon or spatula
Small glass jar with lid (4–8 oz)
Gloves or mask (optional, when handling zinc oxide)

How to Make Beef Tallow Sunscreen

Melt the good stuff: In a double boiler, combine the beef tallow, coconut oil, and beeswax pellets. Gently heat and stir until everything is fully melted.
Whisk in the protection: Slowly add the zinc oxide powder, whisking constantly to prevent clumps. (Use gloves or a mask if preferred for safety.)
Add scent + skin goodies: Remove from heat. Stir in the essential oils and vitamin E, if using. Mix well until smooth.
Jar it up: Carefully pour the mixture into a clean glass jar. Let it cool completely your sunscreen will thicken as it sets.

How to Use This Sunscreen

Apply a small amount to clean skin before sun exposure.
Gently massage until absorbed, especially on high-exposure areas like the nose, cheeks, and shoulders.
Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating.

Pro Tip: For even more hydration, apply this sunscreen after a light layer of aloe vera gel or hydrosol mist.

Benefits of the Ingredients

Beef Tallow: Deeply nourishing with fat-soluble vitamins that promote healthy, moisturized skin.
Coconut Oil: Provides light SPF and antimicrobial benefits while keeping skin soft.
Beeswax: Helps seal in moisture and creates a protective barrier on the skin.
Zinc Oxide: Offers natural broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
Essential Oils: Add natural scent and may provide skin-soothing properties.
Vitamin E Oil: Acts as a skin-loving antioxidant and natural preservative.

Tips for the Best Sunscreen Experience

Always stir zinc oxide in well to avoid clumping.
Store in a cool, dark place to keep it fresh.
If it melts in hot weather, just stir and chill it’s still good!
Use clean hands or a small spoon to scoop the product.
Test a small patch first, especially if you’re new to natural sunscreens.

Gift Idea: Beef Tallow Sunscreen in a Jar

This homemade sunscreen makes a thoughtful, health-conscious gift! Here’s how to pretty it up:

Use a 4 oz mason jar or a small frosted glass container.
Tie with jute twine or a beachy ribbon.
Add a handwritten label or printable tag with “Sun Kissed Natural Sunscreen”.
Include a mini wooden scoop or a tiny shell as a cute touch.

Storage and Shelf Life

Shelf Life: Up to 6 months if stored properly.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Avoid: Dipping wet fingers use dry hands or a clean spoon to keep it fresh and free from bacteria.

Why You’ll Love It

It’s all-natural and packed with skin-nourishing ingredients.
You’re in control no mystery chemicals or preservatives.
It’s quick, easy, and so satisfying to make at home!

If you loved this natural skincare DIY…

Check out my list of ideas and recipes using beef tallow for a load more easy, feel-good ways to pamper your skin!

DIY Natural Beef Tallow Sunscreen Recipe