Lavender-Eucalyptus-Aloe After-Sun Cooling Beach Spray

After Sun Cooling Spray
iStock/gilaxia

If you are super skeptical about what you put on your skin before you head out under the summer sun, there’s reason to be just as skeptical about what you put on your skin afterwards.

The following cooling after-sun spray recipe is made with pure ingredients and is free of synthetic chemicals, fragrances, and alcohol. It’s as soothing to sun-kissed (or burnt) skin as it is to your other senses.

I am not a huge fan of sunscreen, simply because for so long it was hard to find a reliable brand that protected my skin not only from the sun but also from unnecessary cancerous chemicals in the sunscreen itself. These days, there are plenty of all-around safer sunscreens out there, and that notion should extend to after sun sprays. Unlike an effective sunscreen, an effective and safe cooling after sun spray is easy to make in the comfort of your own kitchen.

This recipe has long been my go-to concoction. Based in aloe vera and witch hazel, this recipe packs in superhero anti-inflammatory, protective, and healing powers. Anti-microbial eucalyptus oil cools and lightly numbs the skin while lavender oil calms irritation.

To prepare for this recipe, assemble the ingredients. While the essential oils may be slightly costly, you will stretch your dollar by finding other ways to use them beyond the after sun spray.

Make sure to have a spray bottle ready to fill up with the mixture. For best results, store the after-sun spray in the refrigerator for even more cooling effects and a longer shelf life. The spray will stay fresh for about two months if stored in the refrigerator.

Cooling After-Sun Spray Recipe

Makes about one cup

Ingredients

  • ½ cup aloe vera gel
  • 10 drops lavender essential oil
  • 1 ounce vitamin E oil
  • 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil
  • ¼ cup witch hazel
  • ¼ cup water

Directions

Add all of the ingredients into a glass jar. Shake the jar until all of the ingredients are evenly mixed. Fill the mixture into the spray bottle and store in the refrigerator when not in use. Before use, shake the spray bottle. Enjoy the cooling sensation after a day out in the sun.

Note: Do not use the spray before going into the sun, as the UV rays and heat may react negatively with the essential oils.

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