Suntan Oil ~ It's That Time Again! (Almost)

Spring is here for lots of us, and although where I am winter is still trying to stick around, I know it won't last much longer. After being in doors all winter I have gotten pretty pale and I'm ready to get a good tan again. =)
 I know some people are afraid of tanning in the sun because we've been told that it's bad for our skin and we'll end up riddled with skin cancer, but these reports are greatly exaggerated. The actual risks of damage from the sun are very small compared to the benefits, like Vitamin D ( more important than you realize!!), and cancer prevention! Check out this great article by Dr. Mercola on the benefits of sun exposure.   You can also read his free report on sun exposure here.

The Invention Of Light fine art photograph by Irenesuchocki on Etsy

 Since most readily available sunscreens are full of skin-cancer causing chemicals, I won't use them. There are some really great natural alternatives that you can make for yourself though! My grandma never used sunscreens. She always used a good tanning oil, and her skin was always beautifully tan and soft. She only lived to her 60's because of lung cancer due to smoking for 50 years, but she never had any trouble with skin cancer or any other skin problems.
 To start with when you're trying to get a tan, you'll probably need an actual sunblock, which is easily made using these readily available ingredients:

Sunblock
1 tablespoon zinc oxide
1 1/2 teaspoons sesame seed oil (sesame oil has a high rate of UV ray absorption, although it is not a suncreen)
1 tablespoon rosewater (found at health-food stores, liquor stores, and some drug stores)

 Mix the zinc and sesame seed oil together and heat them gently either in the microwave or over a double boiler, and stir to mix. Remove from heat and slowly add rosewater, stirring thoroughly. Allow to cool completely, and store in a clean container with a tight-fitting lid.
 This is lighter to use than straight zinc oxide, and won't feel as heavy. It's completely safe to use on all areas of your skin.

Once you have an established tan, you can use this great suntan oil to keep your skin protected and moisturized.

Cocoa Butter Suntan Oil
1/2 cup light sesame seed oil (jojoba oil is another great nourishing, healing and protecting oil that could be used)
2 tablespoons coconut oil
2 tablespoons cocoa butter

Cocoa butter is a good natural sunscreen as well as being moisturizing and healing. The Sesame or Jojoba oil are also great for your skin and make the oil lighter in texture and less heavy on your skin. Coconut oil is excellent for your skin, helping to provide a protective layer over your skin, and lock in moisture.
To make the oil, mix all three components and heat gently to melt the solid oils. Stir thoroughly and cool completely. Use generously! =)

Happy tanning!

Sol- Fine Art Photograph by Alicia Bock on Etsy