Recipe by Simona (@si.nature): Regenerating after-sun cream with Centella asiatica

Back 03. 06. 2026

After a day spent in the sun, the skin deserves an extra dose of care. That is exactly why today we bring you a recipe from the talented formulator Simona, whom you may know from Instagram as si.nature.

Simona focuses on creating natural cosmetics, shares her own formulations, formulation tips and shows how high-quality cosmetic products can be created even at home. You can find her work on Instagram: @si.nature

This time she has prepared for us a gentle regenerating after-sun cream that helps to soothe stressed skin, supports its renewal and at the same time provides pleasant hydration without a greasy feel. In the formulation you will find a combination of fermented extract from Centella Asiatica, panthenol, sodium PCA and nourishing plant oils, which together create ideal care after summer days in the sun.

If you enjoy formulating your own cosmetics or are looking for inspiration for summer skin care, this recipe is definitely worth trying.

After a day in the sun, the skin asks for more than just hydration — it needs soothing, renewal and gentle care that will not weigh it down.

After a day spent in the sun, the skin needs more than just hydration. Heat, UV radiation and wind disrupt the skin barrier, the skin is sensitive, reddened and tight. This gentle regenerating cream soothes the skin, supports its renewal and at the same time leaves it soft without a greasy film.

The main star of the recipe is Centella asiatica — a plant known for its regenerating and soothing effects. In combination with panthenol, sodium PCA and nourishing oils, it creates ideal care after sun exposure.

Article contents

What makes this cream special?

The formulation combines soothing active ingredients with nourishing plant oils. Each component has its place in the cream — some soothe and regenerate the skin, others provide moisture and restore the lipid barrier.

Centella Asiatica, fermented extract

The fermented centella extract supports skin regeneration and helps to relieve irritation.

Panthenol

Panthenol soothes and hydrates.

Sodium PCA

Sodium PCA helps to retain water in the skin.

Cupuaçu butter

Cupuaçu butter leaves the skin soft and protected.

Macadamia oil, jojoba and squalane

The combination of macadamia oil, jojoba and squalane restores the lipid barrier without a feeling of heaviness.

Scent of lavender and geranium

The delicate scent of lavender and geranium has a relaxing, summery effect.

Centella Asiatica, fermented aqueous extract

Regeneration · Soothing · After sun
Centella Asiatica, fermented aqueous extract

Recipe for 100 g

The formulation is divided into three phases — oil phase A, water phase B and active ingredients in phase C, which are added only to the cooled emulsion. The values in percent correspond to grams when preparing 100 g of cream.

Phase A – oil phase

Raw material % Amount
Olivem 1000 5 % 5 g
Cetearyl alcohol 1.5 % 1.5 g
Coco caprylate 5 % 5 g
Macadamia oil 6 % 6 g
Squalane 5 % 5 g
Jojoba oil 5 % 5 g
Cupuaçu butter 4 % 4 g

Phase B – water phase

Raw material % Amount
Demineralised water 56.75 % 56.75 g
Xanthan gum 0.2 % 0.2 g
Glycerin 1.3 % 1.3 g

Phase C – active ingredients

Raw material % Amount
Fermented extract from Centella Asiatica 5 % 5 g
Sodium PCA 2 % 2 g
Panthenol 1 % 1 g
Bisabolol 0.5 % 0.5 g
Vitamin E 0.3 % 0.3 g
Sea buckthorn CO₂ extract 0.05 % approx. 1 drop
Geranium essential oil 0.4 % 0.4 g
Lavender essential oil 0.4 % 0.4 g
Cosgard 0.6 % 0.6 g

Manufacturing procedure

1. Disinfection is essential

Before starting, thoroughly disinfect all tools, containers and packaging. When manufacturing emulsions, cleanliness is absolutely essential.

2. Preparation of phases

Weigh phase A and phase B into two separate containers.

3. Heating

Heat both phases in a water bath to approximately 70 °C, until all the ingredients are completely dissolved.

4. Emulsification

While stirring continuously, very slowly pour the water phase (B) into the oil phase (A). Stir for long enough until a smooth and homogeneous emulsion forms.

5. Cooling

Allow the emulsion to cool under occasional stirring below 40 °C.

6. Addition of active ingredients

Prepare the ingredients of phase C separately in a small container and gradually incorporate them into the emulsion. After each addition, mix the cream well.

7. pH check

The final pH of the cream should be approximately 5 – 5.5.

Tip from Simona: My cream needed to have the pH slightly increased — L-arginine worked great for this.

8. Packaging

Fill the finished cream into a disinfected, ideally sterile container. For summer emulsions, airless dispensers are very practical, as they help to keep the product hygienic and stable.

Tips for adjusting the recipe

Sensitive skin: For sensitive skin you can omit the essential oils completely.
Lighter texture: If you want a lighter texture, reduce the amount of butter and add more coco caprylate.
More pronounced after-sun effect: For an even more pronounced “after sun" effect you can add aloe vera extract or cucumber extract, or replace demineralised water with cucumber hydrolate.

Frequently asked questions

Practical questions regarding this recipe — pH, production phases, preservation and options for adjusting the formulation for sensitive skin.

What pH should the finished regenerating after-sun cream have?

The final pH should be approximately 5 – 5.5, which corresponds to the physiological pH of the skin. If the value is lower, it can be slightly increased with a small amount of L-arginine. Always measure the pH only in the cooled emulsion.

Why are the active ingredients added only in phase C?

Phase C is added only to the emulsion cooled to below 40 °C. More sensitive active ingredients, the fermented extract and essential oils can lose effectiveness at higher temperatures, which is why they are not included in the hot oil or water phase.

How long will the homemade regenerating cream last?

The formulation contains the preservative Cosgard, which protects the water-based emulsion. When stored in a cool place and in hygienic packaging, it usually lasts several months. An airless dispenser will extend the shelf life, and monitor any changes in colour, scent or texture.

Why use an airless dispenser in particular?

Airless packaging does not allow air and fingers to get into the product. For summer emulsions with a higher proportion of water phase it reduces the risk of contamination and helps to keep the cream stable for longer.

What can replace essential oils for sensitive skin?

For sensitive skin you can omit both geranium and lavender completely. The cream will remain functional — just without fragrance. Simply replace the percentages of essential oils with demineralised water or a hydrolate.

How can I achieve a more pronounced soothing “after sun" effect?

You can add aloe vera extract to the formulation or replace demineralised water with cucumber hydrolate. Both components give the skin a pleasant cooling and soothing sensation after sun exposure.

Create your own summer skin care at home

The fermented centella extract, panthenol, sodium PCA and nourishing plant oils for this cream can be found directly in our range. You just need to choose and start creating.

See the active ingredients