I have been using a version of this homemade tanning oil for years. When a friend recently asked about a natural, homemade tanning oil, I thought it was time to share the recipe.
I use mine occasionally homemade sunscreen when I sit in the sun for a long time. However, I generally prefer to get the free vitamin D from the source through moderate sun exposure. I prefer eat my sunscreen instead of putting it on my skin…
Sometimes I’m at the beach (which is a lot now that we live close to it!) or somewhere where I can alternate between exposure to the sun or the shade of an umbrella and a good book. Here I prefer to just use natural oils that nourish and lightly protect my skin without blocking vitamin D (unlike many sunscreens).
DIY tanning oil
Although many of my recipes are solid lotion bars or body butters, this is a liquid oil. It makes it easier to use on the go. If you prefer a sturdier recipe, you can absolutely make this with virgin coconut oil that hardens at 76 degrees and store it in a small jar.
Sun protective natural ingredients
This is where things get a bit controversial and murky. More than a decade ago, researchers tested raspberry seed oil and other natural oils to determine their SPF levels. The test results showed amazing SPF values of 25 SPF or even up to 50 SPF against UV rays.
However, recently scientists have pointed out the shortcomings in these studies. They were performed in vitro (not on real skin) and did not follow generally accepted SPF testing guidelines.
A 2021 study found that raspberry seed oil is more like SPF 2.6 (not 25-50). Other oils tested include carrot seed, coconut, and wheat germ oils, ranging from 0 to 2.8 SPF. The researchers noted that anything below 1 SPF provided no sun protection at all.
Another 2010 study looked at the SPF of both carrier oils and essential oils. The carrier oils ranged from 2 to 8 SPF, and essential oils from 1 to 7 SPF. Olive oil and peppermint essential oils scored the highest. But not so fast! This study was not conducted on human skin and even the authors claim that their results when used on skin did not establish definitive SPF values.
Tests with carrot seed oil skin products showed an SPF value of almost 7. However, the carrot seed oil was combined with other ingredients for testing.
Is there such a thing as natural SPF oils that can help with a safe tanning process?
A safer tanning lotion
While some of the oils used here may or may not have mild SPF protection, they do have other benefits for the skin. When combined in a homemade tanning oil, they help protect and nourish the skin and aid in the production of vitamin D. It is important to note that these are not a substitute for regular sunscreen.
- Olive oil – Has oleic acid to support clearer skin and phytosterols to attract moisture. It helps repair sun damage and soothes dry skin. It also contains a high level of squalene which protects our skin cells and has anti-aging properties. Olive oil is traditionally used in Mediterranean countries as a natural skin protectant for a dark tan.
- Avocado oil – Rich in vitamins A, B and E, proteins and amino acids. It increases the collagen of the skin. Avocado oil is also high in UV-protective carotenoids to help protect against sun damage.
- Carrot seed oil – Rich in vitamin A, beta-carotene and vitamin E, to protect against UV radiation. This is NOT the same as macerated carrot oil (which is orange) or carrot seed essential oil. Cold-pressed carrot seed oil is naturally dark green in color and looks more like olive oil.
- Raspberry seed oil – Rich in antioxidant vitamins E and A. Raspberry is also a lighter oil that does not feel greasy when you apply it.
I also added bronze mica powder for a subtle bronze glow, but you can leave this out if you don’t have it or don’t want to use it.
Add essential oils
I used some lavender and sandalwood essential oils for their skin benefits and scent. Indian sandalwood smells sweeter, but Australian sandalwood is more affordable. Because sandalwood is at risk of becoming endangered, it is important to buy from an ethically harvested source!
You can use different essential oils here or leave them out completely if desired. If you replace them with another essential oil, it is very important not to use phototoxic oils! Certain essential oils such as bergamot and cold-pressed lime and lemon can cause serious skin burns if used before sun exposure.
Important: Safety when exposed to the sun
This is not a sunscreen, but a mild sun protection recipe. It’s important to test with a small amount of time in the sun to find out what works best for your body and skin type. I’ll share what worked best for me, but tailor it to suit your skin type and desired results.
Of course, all the usual disclaimers apply: sunburn is never healthy and should definitely be avoided. You should not spend long periods in the sun, especially if you have very sensitive skin.
If you can’t tan, this recipe won’t magically help you tan. I do NOT advocate regular tanning in an electric bed, and only use it with moderate and natural sun exposure. If you are unsure about any of these ingredients or would like to know if this recipe is specifically good for your skin, please consult a dermatologist.
Recipe for homemade tanning oil
This nourishing and natural tanning oil is easy to make and smells wonderful! Get a sun-kissed glow and a darker tan when used with moderate (and safe) sun exposure.
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Mix all the oils and mica powder (if using) and store in a dark-colored glass container. If you decide to replace coconut oil with olive oil, store it in a jar as it won’t work with a pump.
I use this as needed for mild sun exposure and it has helped me get a golden tan without burning.
Do you use tanning oil? Ready to try a natural version?