Save Money: Compounding Sunscreen

Hi all,

I am separating this from the sunscreen thread as I want to give you all an idea on how to really save some dollars on sunscreen. My partner is a pharmacist and knows how to compound.

We ordered Zinc Oxide Ointment, a 1 lb jar from Walmart. This is 20% concentration. It was only $17. You can also get Desitin (yes for baby diaper rash!) which is a 40% concentration. We decided on the zinc to start with as we did not want any other additives, just pure zinc. This is the total physical block that has been discussed.

She compounded it in our Trader Joes Sunscreen last night. I applied and went for a ride in very intense sun and 100 degree temps. I tan very easily, and not one tan line after a three hour bike ride. I did sweat a bit more with it on, but no problem for me.

If you look at Badger it is 22% zinc oxide and also has titanium dioxide (not as effective as zinc). Big dollars for a small tube. No reason to pay for this.

So, I hope this helps. Good luck and be safe.

So how much do you add? How to you mix it up? Sounds like a great idea.

Ok, one tablespoon of each would give you 10% concentration of zinc. If you want it stronger, at two tablespoons of zinc to one tablespoon of sunscreen. That would get you up to 20% concentration of zinc. Not sure if you really have to go that strong so play with it. I rode with the 10% last night and did not get burned or tan.

By the way, for pure convenience and reapplying to the lips, I LOVE the Badger stick for lips, face and ears. The stick is real easy to stick in the pocket!

Thank you, Lisa! I will definitely give this a shot! I haven't looked at the TJ's sunscreen, but I suppose you could use any lotion type base (so long as it doesn't contain objectionable ingredients)?

Any tricks for mixing it? I can just imagine the kitchen whisks not working very well...