Sun Tanning Lotion

• If you're headed to the great outdoors to capture the sun's rays, you'll need to be particularly careful. Overexposure can lead to painful sunburns and increases the odds of developing skin cancer. Homemade lotions do not protect you from UV rays. That being said, you can still make your own suntan lotion and use it safely, as long as you limit your sunbathing time. Begin by combining ¼ tsp. of borax and ¼ cup of water in a medium saucepan. Place the pan over medium heat and stir until well blended. When the water begins to boil, remove the pan from the heat and set aside. In a separate pan combine ½ cup of coconut oil and 2 tsp. of grated beeswax. Place this pan over low heat and stir until the wax is completely melted. Gradually stir in the borax mixture, whisking as you pour. When the borax has been completely transferred, stir in 10 drops of essential oils or 1 tsp. of fragrance oil. Whisk the lotion until thoroughly blended and then set the mixture aside to cool. Wait approximately 30 minutes and then add 1/3 cup of aloe vera gel to the mixture as this will help heal your skin in the event of burning. Transfer the lotion to a clean bottle and store in the refrigerator for up to three months.
  
  

Sunless Tanning Lotion

• For a safer approach to tanning, you may want to try sunless lotion. With regular use, it can give your skin a healthy glow without any danger from the sun's rays. Make your own by boiling one cup of water and adding four bags of tea to it. Be sure to use black tea, not green or white. Remove the water from the heat and allow the bags to steep for 30 minutes. Then remove them the bags, giving each a gentle squeeze as you pull it from the water. Once the bags have been removed, measure 1/3 cup of the tea into the pitcher of a blender. Add 1/3 cup of sesame oil and 1/3 cup of lanolin, cover and blend on low speed for one minute. Remove the lid, but allow the blender to keep running while you add the remaining tea, pouring in a thin but constant stream. Pause the blender and scrape the sides to fully incorporate all of the ingredients. Add 1/2 tsp. of fragrance if desired and transfer the mixture to a bottle. To use, spread thinly in an even layer across the skin.
  
  

Appication

• Apply lotion sparingly, particularly the sunless tanner. Transfer a small amount to your fingertips and rub in to the skin gently, moving your fingers in small, circular motions. Begin in a small area and gradually expand outward to achieve an even application without wasting any product. Swirling the product, rather than rubbing in an up-and-down motion, uses less lotion while covering a larger overall area.