Your guide to staying safe, nourished, and non-toxic in the great outdoors.
Whether you’re hiking mountain trails, digging in the garden, or hosting a backyard cookout, spending time outside is one of life’s simple joys. But nature also brings sun, bugs, and dry air—and if you’re trying to live a cleaner, more conscious lifestyle, you might be wondering:
How do I protect myself outdoors without slathering on harsh chemicals?
The good news? It’s not hard. With a few intentional swaps and a little knowledge, you can create a natural outdoor routine that keeps your skin healthy, your lips hydrated, and the bugs at bay—without compromising your values or your comfort.
Let’s dig into your outdoor protection plan—Pantry style.
1. Natural Sun Protection Without the Toxins
Conventional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, known to irritate skin, disrupt hormones, and harm coral reefs. That’s why we always recommend mineral sunscreens that use zinc oxide to block harmful rays physically.
Pantry’s Pick:
Our all-natural SPF 30 sunscreen stick and aluminum tube uses non-nano zinc oxide to shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays. They glide on smoothly, leave no white cast, and are safe for both sensitive skin and ocean life.
DIY Alternative:
If you’re feeling crafty, you can blend your sunscreen using a combo of shea butter, coconut oil, and non-nano zinc oxide. But if formulating your own SPF sounds overwhelming, we’ve got you covered.
2. Keep the Bugs Off Naturally
Bug sprays often rely on DEET, a strong chemical repellent that can cause skin irritation and has raised health concerns with frequent use. Luckily, nature provides its powerful deterrents: citronella, eucalyptus, lemongrass, and cedarwood.
Pantry’s Pick:
This best-selling blend uses essential oils to keep mosquitoes and other pests away without toxic ingredients. It’s safe to spray on your skin, clothes, and even your dog!
DIY Alternative:
Make a simple spray with witch hazel, distilled water, and your favorite bug-repelling essential oils (like citronella, lavender, or geranium). Store in a glass spray bottle and reapply often.
3. Soothe Sun-Kissed Skin Naturally
Even with the best SPF, sun exposure can dry out and irritate your skin. Avoid alcohol-laden after-sun sprays that can make things worse, and reach for calming, moisture-rich ingredients instead.
Pantry’s Pick:
Aloe vera, witch hazel, and soothing essential oils come together in this refreshing mist that instantly cools and hydrates sun-exposed skin. Pop it in the fridge for an extra chill effect. No dyes here.
DIY Alternative:
Mix pure aloe vera gel with cucumber juice and a splash of lavender hydrosol for a gentle homemade version. (Don’t want to DIY? That’s why we’re here.)
4. Don’t Forget Your Lips!
Sun and wind can be brutal on your lips, and traditional lip balms often sneak in petroleum-based ingredients that clog and dry out delicate skin.
Pantry’s Pick:
Made with simple ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter, our lip balm hydrates and protects without fillers or artificial flavors. It’s pocket-friendly and perfect for everyday carry. Try the Grapefruit and mint! It’s a favorite!
Living a more natural life doesn’t mean making everything from scratch (unless you want to). Pantry was built to help you do both: Learn what’s in your products, and if you don’t want to make them yourself, trust us to make them clean, safe, and effective for you.
So pack your bag, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy everything the season has to offer—naturally.
Ready to head out?
Explore our full Essentials Collection for clean, handcrafted protection from sun, bugs, and burnout.
