I’ve been using this after-sun spray a lot this summer. My daughter and I both have fair skin — she’s strawberry blonde and I’m a redhead — so we spend extra time protecting and soothing our skin after outdoor days at the beach or pool.
We apply sunscreen diligently year-round, but on hot summer days sun exposure can still leave skin feeling tight, warm, or irritated. That’s when this simple, natural after-sun spray is especially helpful.
Made from gentle, natural ingredients, this spray soothes occasional skin irritation, cools and refreshes, and helps moisturize to reduce peeling and flaking.
Tip: Store the spray in the refrigerator for an indulgent, cooling sensation after a long day in the sun.
This homemade after-sun spray is easy to make and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand. If you enjoy DIY skin-care recipes, you may also like some of my other summer essential oil ideas.
What’s in After-Sun Spray?
This spray combines a few simple, natural components:
- witch hazel
- aloe vera gel
- vitamin E oil
- fractionated coconut oil (or another carrier oil)
- essential oils (lavender and peppermint or spearmint)
Why these ingredients?
Witch hazel refreshes and soothes skin, helps reduce itching, and can minimize peeling and flaking.
Aloe vera gel provides lightweight moisture, soothes irritation, and reduces inflammation.
Vitamin E oil is an antioxidant that supports skin repair and helps restore dehydrated skin.
Fractionated coconut oil or another light carrier oil adds extra moisturizing properties without feeling greasy.
Lavender essential oil is calming and supports occasional skin discomfort.
Peppermint essential oil offers a cooling sensation that feels great on warm skin. Note: peppermint can be irritating for some people, so use it sparingly and avoid applying to already badly irritated or broken skin. For young children (under 6) substitute spearmint instead of peppermint.
How to make it (recipe and step-by-step)
Step 1: Add 2 tablespoons witch hazel to a glass measuring cup
Step 2: Add 1/4 cup aloe vera gel
Step 3: Add 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil
Step 4: Add 2 tablespoons fractionated coconut oil
Step 5: Add essential oils
10 drops lavender essential oil
2 drops peppermint essential oil (or substitute spearmint for use on or around children under 6)
Step 6: Mix well and pour into a 4 ounce spray bottle
Stir the mixture thoroughly so ingredients are combined, then transfer into a clean glass or essential-oil-safe plastic spray bottle.
Recipe summary
2 tablespoons witch hazel
1/4 cup aloe vera gel
1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil
2 tablespoons fractionated coconut oil
10 drops lavender essential oil
2 drops peppermint essential oil (use spearmint around children under 6)
How to use the after-sun spray
The spray works at room temperature, but it’s especially refreshing when chilled. Keep a bottle in the refrigerator, or pour the mixture into a silicone ice cube tray and freeze for cooled applications.
After sun exposure, spray the cooled mixture onto skin, avoiding eyes and broken skin. Gently rub it in. Reapply a couple of times a day as needed to keep skin soothed and hydrated.
Notes on supplies
Use a high-quality, alcohol-free witch hazel if possible, and look for an aloe vera gel with a high percentage of pure aloe. Choose non-reactive containers like glass when possible, or essential-oil-safe plastic if you plan to take the spray to the pool or beach.
Please note: The information provided here is not medical advice and has not been evaluated by the FDA. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your medical professional for personalized medical advice. Never ignore professional medical guidance or delay seeking care due to information on this page.