This DIY tanning oil is a natural, skin-nourishing blend that adds a sun-kissed glow without the synthetic ingredients.

If you’re looking for a natural alternative to store-bought tanning oils, this DIY tanning oil is a great place to start.

It blends antioxidant-rich oils high in SPF with coffee essential oil and a touch of shimmer to support a healthy glow while keeping your skin hydrated in the sun.

This recipe uses a mix of red raspberry seed oil and carrot seed oil, two plant oils often praised for their potential sun-supportive properties, along with a touch of mica powder for shimmer.

It feels light, smooth, and smells just like coffee!

I prefer to wear a sunscreen spray made with these oils, but I know lots of people want a natural tanning solution, so I decided to make one.

Why Use a Natural Tanning Oil?

Unlike traditional tanning oils that often contain mineral oils, synthetic fragrance, or drying alcohols, this blend is full of plant-based ingredients that support skin health while you soak in some sunshine.

It hydrates, adds a subtle glow, and feels good going on.

Benefits of the Ingredients

Here are the benefits of each ingredient in this homemade tanning oil:

Avocado Oil – Rich in skin-loving vitamins and fatty acids, helps lock in moisture. It is my favorite carrier oil.

Carrot Seed Oil – Often used in natural sun care for its antioxidant and vitamin A content.

Red Raspberry Seed Oil – Lightweight and rich in omega-3s; provides gentle sun support and nourishment

Coffee Essential Oil – Gives a warm, earthy scent and a subtle bronzing effect. You could also infuse the coffee into the carrier oil for a great bronzing effect!

Brown Mica Powder – Adds a natural shimmer and enhances the golden tint on the skin, but it is totally optional. I mainly did it for the pretty pictures.

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DIY Tanning Oil Recipe

Here is a super easy DIY tanning oil for those who want a more natural option. This will make about 2 ounces.

Ingredients

1 tbsp avocado oil
2 ½ tbsp carrot seed oil
2 ½ tbsp red raspberry seed oil
12 drops coffee essential oil
Pinch of brown mica powder (optional)
2 oz pump bottle

Instructions

Add the avocado oil, carrot seed oil, and red raspberry seed oil to a small bowl or glass jar.

Add the coffee essential oil and stir to combine.

If using mica powder, stir in a small pinch until evenly blended.

Pour the finished oil into your container and shake well before each use.

To Use

Apply to clean skin 10–15 minutes before sun exposure. Massage evenly across exposed areas. Reapply every hour or after swimming or sweating.

Notes + Tips

The coffee essential oil deepens the color and gives a warm scent, but it is optional.
You can use cocoa powder instead of mica for a soft bronzed look without shimmer. Or nothing at all!
This oil should last several months without a preservative if stored in a cool, dry place.
For added skin support, try using an infused oil like calendula infused oil.
Fractionated coconut oil can be used in place of avocado oil if preferred.

tanning oil pump bottle laying on counter

A Quick Note on Safety

This DIY tanning oil does not contain a specific amount of SPF and has not been tested for sun protection.

While red raspberry and carrot seed oils may offer some natural UV support, they are not substitutes for tested sunscreen.

For longer sun exposure or peak sun hours, use additional protection like shade, clothing, or a tested mineral sunscreen.

DIY Tanning Oil

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Materials

1 tbsp avocado oil
2 ½ tbsp carrot seed oil
2 ½ tbsp red raspberry seed oil
12 drops coffee essential oil
Pinch of brown mica powder (optional)
2 oz pump bottle

Instructions

Add the avocado oil, carrot seed oil, and red raspberry seed oil to a small bowl or glass jar.
Add the coffee essential oil and stir to combine.
If using mica powder, stir in a small pinch until evenly blended.
Pour the finished oil into your container and shake well before each use.

Notes

The coffee essential oil deepens the color and gives a warm scent, but it is optional.
You can use cocoa powder instead of mica for a soft bronzed look without shimmer. Or nothing at all!
This oil should last several months without a preservative if stored in a cool, dry place.
For added skin support, try using an infused oil like calendula infused oil.
Fractionated coconut oil can be used in place of avocado oil if preferred.

Final Thoughts

This DIY tanning oil is a beautiful way to embrace a little sunshine while keeping your skin nourished and glowing. It’s easy to make, smells like summer, and feels amazing on the skin.

Whether you use it before a sunny walk or just want a touch of shimmer for the day, this is one natural recipe you’ll want to keep in your summer rotation.