Best Safe Sunscreens

Most of us have been taught to protect ourselves from the “dangerous” effects of the sun, and many of these concerns are valid. So we follow mainstream advice, slathering on that drugstore sunscreen as directed, all the while thinking that we’re protecting our skin in a healthy, responsible way.

But there’s a dark side to conventional sunscreen use, and it’s finally being brought to light on a legislative level.

Hawaii recently became the first state to pass a bill that would ban the sale of sunscreen products containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, two chemicals that have been linked to the bleaching of coral reefs and the destruction of other ocean wildlife. The new law will go into effect on January 1, 2021.

In particular, the bill addresses the toxic effect sunscreen chemicals have on our marine ecosystem. Multiple studies have shown just how harmful these products can be, estimating that up to 14,000 tons of sunscreen are deposited in our oceans every year, releasing chemicals that are toxic to coral reefs and other marine life (the greatest damage has been found in Hawaii and the Caribbean).

But as we know, the dangers associated with chemical sunscreens don’t stop here. Their effects on human health are also of great concern. Chemical sunscreens (like oxybenzone and octinoxate) along with other common sunscreen product ingredients, such as parabens and retinyl palmitate, have been linked to hormone disruption, allergic skin reactions, and even increased cancer risk. Unfortunately, these are the ingredients found in most of the common drugstore brands many of us are used to using.

As it turns out, the products we think are protecting us could actually be doing more harm than good. So what forms of sun protection should we be using?

As a side note, it’s important to mention that some sun exposure without sunscreen is actually healthy for us in reasonable doses. This is particularly vital for the production of vitamin D, which is critical to our health. The key is to get a responsible amount of daily sun exposure without burning, so the recommended amount of time to spend in the sun will vary from person to person (fair-skinned folk will typically need to get out of the sun much sooner than those with darker complexions).

But what about prolonged sun exposure? Covering up with clothing and hats is always ideal. Wearing sun protective clothing will reduce the need for sunscreen, and in turn, can help reduce our exposure to potentially harmful toxins, benefitting our health and the environment.

But when sun exposure does require sunscreen application, what should we look for in a safe sunscreen?

 

What to Look for in a Safe Sunscreen

 

Some of the ingredients I look for in a safe sunscreen product are:

• mineral sunscreens (i.e. non-nano zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide) as the active ingredients and no chemical sunscreens (such as oxybenzone or octinoxate)
• no parabens (i.e. chemical preservatives linked to cancer and other health hazards)
• no retinyl palmitate or any variations of vitamin A (which can actually accelerate the development of skin cancer)
• no synthetic fragrance
• no aerosol

 

So what’s the difference between a mineral sunscreen and a chemical sunscreen? In a simplified nutshell: chemical sunscreens greatly absorb into the skin and can cause harm to our health, while mineral (or physical) sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) provide effective protection and are less likely to penetrate the skin or reach far enough to do damage. Of course, you always want to look for non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (non-nano particles will not penetrate the skin).

(For more detailed information on choosing a safe sunscreen, EWG’s Sunscreen Guide is a great place to start.)

 

Mineral Sunscreens and Ease of Application (No White Cast, Please!)

 

Still, as I’ve come to learn, just because a product is a healthy alternative to chemical versions, it doesn’t always mean it’s easy to use or apply. There are many mineral sunscreen brands out there, but finding a sunscreen that is both healthy and easy to use can be difficult. I’ve experimented with a lot of mineral sunscreens, and unfortunately a lot of them are quite thick and can leave a pasty white film on your skin. And like most sunscreens, they can be rather greasy too. Additionally, they can be sticky and difficult to wash off even in the shower (so frustrating!). None of this works for me, so it’s important for me to find products that meet my health criteria and also are easy to apply, don’t leave a pasty look, and leave a nice (non-greasy) finish.

After a lot of experimenting, I’m happy to share some of the best safe sunscreens for the body, face, and lips. All of the following mineral sunscreen products are:

• free of chemical sunscreens, parabens, synthetic fragrance, and retinyl palmitate
• made with active ingredients non-nano zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide
• made with safe ingredients (mostly natural, but also some provenly-safe synthetics, providing good balance of healthy and practical)
• easy to apply, not greasy, and they don’t leave that thick pasty white film on my skin
• environmentally-friendly and reef-safe
• safe for acne-prone skin: they do not contribute to breakouts (at least for me and my very acne-prone skin!)
• free of aerosol

 

So based on my experiences, here are some of the best safe sunscreens on the market right now:

 

(Note: this post contains affiliate links, which means if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission, at no additional cost to you. To learn more, click here.)

 

 

Best Safe Sunscreens for Body and Face (Lotions and Creams):

 

Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Mist SPF 30 (TOP PICK!)

• active ingredient: non-nano zinc oxide
• broad spectrum protection
• goes on white but rubs in sheer!
• unique blend of non-nano zinc oxide plus carotenoids/antioxidants (like California Poppy) helps protect against aging, cancer, and burning
• blocks blue light* in addition to UVA and UVB rays
• non-aerosol! This “mist” is powered by air compression and therefore, safer for our lungs and the environment. Also, although it’s called a mist, it actually comes out in a thin lotion form. I like to spray it into my hands first, then rub it onto my skin.
• uses a blend of natural ingredients and safe synthetics
• reef safe
• water resistant
• pleasant, light scent
• smaller/travel sizes available

(*Why is blue light blocking important? Blue light exposure can cause oxidative damage and hyper pigmentation to the skin, slower cellular regeneration, and disruption to circadian rhythm. Many of us spend more time exposed to indoor blue light than the sun, making blue light exposure a growing concern.)

Verdict: Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Mist is my top pick because of its ease of application, quality ingredients, and overall value. It also uniquely blocks blue light, in addition to UVA and UVB rays. And unlike many other mineral sunscreens, this mist (which comes out as a thin lotion) rubs in sheer and is easy to wash off after use! (Beautycounter also offers a regular lotion version of Countersun Mineral Sunscreen, if you’d prefer this instead of the mist.)  

 

Raw Elements Certified Natural Sunscreen SPF 30

• active ingredient: non-nano zinc oxide
• broad spectrum
• mostly organic ingredients
• reef safe and biodegradable
• takes some extra time to rub in (has some white cast at first), but easily accessible (via Amazon)
• water resistant

Verdict: Raw Elements contains ideal ingredients and is easily accessible for purchase. However, it does require some extra effort in order to rub it in and avoid that typical zinc oxide white cast.

 

Primal Life Organics Sun-Up Ultra Before Sun Protection

• no official SPF, but provides an estimated natural SPF 25-50; provides mild sun protection ideal for light sun exposure
• all-natural, mostly organic sun protection
• ingredients include red raspberry seed oil, non-nano zinc oxide, and carrot seed
• paleo-friendly

Verdict: Primal Life Organics Sun-Up Ultra Before Sun Protection has no official SPF, so technically we’re not supposed to call this a sunscreen. However, this product does have an ideal combination of all-natural, mostly organic ingredients, and is great for light or short sun exposure.

 

 

Best Safe Sunscreens for Body and Face (Sticks):

 

Truthfully, I have trouble with sunscreen sticks (I just find lotions and creams are easier to apply). However, sunscreen sticks do provide an advantage: while sunscreen lotion ingredients tend to separate (meaning you may not get enough of the active ingredient if you don’t shake the product well), sunscreen sticks stay intact, so ingredient separation isn’t a concern. This ensures more proper coverage when applying. Sunscreen sticks are also convenient for traveling and on-the-go activities, and some argue that, once applied, they’re more likely to stay intact on the skin, making them ideal for active lifestyles. Here are my favorite sunscreen sticks:

 

Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 30

• active ingredient: non-nano zinc oxide
• broad spectrum protection
• goes on white but rubs on sheer
• unique blend of non-nano zinc oxide plus carotenoids/antioxidants (like California Poppy) helps protect against aging, cancer, and burning
• blocks blue light in addition to UVA and UVB rays
• uses a blend of natural ingredients and safe synthetics
• stick format means ingredients will not separate
• reef safe
• water resistant
• small size, ideal for travel

Verdict: The Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Stick has all the broad spectrum and blue light protection as Beautycounter’s sunscreen mist, but in a stick form. This stick is small and convenient for traveling or on-the-go activities.

 

Laguna Herbals Face and Body Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

• active ingredient: non-nano zinc oxide
• broad spectrum protection
• stick format means ingredients will not separate
• organic ingredients
• reef safe and biodegradable
• gluten-free
• paraben-free
• water resistant
• contains organic beeswax (not vegan)

Verdict: Laguna Herbals Face and Body Sunscreen Stick contains excellent ingredients in a convenient stick form, but does take a little extra effort in order to rub into skin and avoid the dreaded “white cast.”

 

Primal Life Organics Sun-Up Ultra Before Sun Protection Stick

• no official SPF, but provides an estimated natural SPF 25-50; provides mild sun protection ideal for light sun exposure
• all-natural, mostly organic sun protection
• ingredients include red raspberry seed oil, non-nano zinc oxide, and carrot seed
• paleo-friendlystick format means ingredients will not separate

Verdict: Primal Life Organics Sun-Up Ultra Before Sun Protection Stick has no official SPF, so technically we’re not supposed to call this a sunscreen. However, this product does have an ideal combination of all-natural, mostly organic ingredients, and is great for light or short sun exposure.

 

 

Best Safe Sunscreens for Face (Sheer):

 

Most of the body sunscreens previously listed are perfectly acceptable to use on the face. But I like to have options that are specifically formulated for the face. Here are my favorites:

 

Hynt Beauty Sun Prep Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 25

• active ingredient: non-nano titanium dioxide
• broad spectrum protection
• goes on sheer (no white cast whatsoever)
• can also act as a moisturizer and primer
• vegan and cruelty-free
• natural ingredients like pine bark extract, organic sesame seed oil, organic aloe vera leaf, organic rhatany root extract, and organic green tea leaf, which nourish the complexion
• pleasant (natural) fragrance (but may be a little strong for those sensitive to fragrance)
• non-tinted: a great face sunscreen for both women and men
  ideal for face, neck, and décolletage application
• non-greasy, but does leave you with a “glow”
• The Detox Market offers samples of this sunscreen so you can test it out before fully committing

Verdict: Hynt Beauty Sun Prep Broad Spectrum Sunscreen is very light and goes on clear, so no need for extra rubbing into the skin. It’s filled with nourishing ingredients, has a pleasant scent, and is a great clear option for the face, neck, and décolletage.

 

 

Best Safe Sunscreens for Face (Tinted):

 

Beautycounter Dew Skin Moisturizing Coverage SPF 20

• active ingredient: non-nano zinc oxide
• broad spectrum protection
• provides a light hint of coverage but mostly just blends into the complexion
• not greasy but provides a dewy glow
• uses a blend of natural ingredients and safe synthetics
• ingredients include black currant, peony flower root extract, and vitamin C to “enhance skin brightness and sodium hyaluronate to promote firmer, smoother-looking skin”
• several shades are available so you can find your perfect match

Verdict: Beautycounter Dew Skin Moisturizing Coverage is my daily go-to for face and neck sun protection. It provides very light coverage so it can be worn with or without foundation on top. It leaves me with a dewy and healthy looking complexion. I also like that it’s part of Beautycounter’s mission to increase awareness about healthy beauty and to improve laws for ingredient safety and transparency.

 

Suntegrity 5-In-1 Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30

• active ingredient: non-nano zinc oxide
• broad spectrum protection
• provides light coverage
• all-in-one BB (beauty benefit) cream that uses antioxidants and nourishing ingredients to treat, hydrate, protect, prime, and provide coverage for the skin
• blends easily, not too greasy
• The Detox Market offers samples of this sunscreen so you can test it out and find your color match!

Verdict: Suntegrity 5-In-1 Tinted Sunscreen provides light coverage, is easy to blend, isn’t too greasy, all in a nourishing all-in-one BB cream.

 

W3LL PEOPLE Bio Tint Multi-Action Face Moisturizer SPF 30

• active ingredient: non-nano zinc oxide
• broad spectrum protection
• provides medium coverage with a matte finish (could even be used in the place of foundation)
• botanical ingredients moisturize, while firming, protecting, brightening and hydrating skin
• The Detox Market offers samples of this sunscreen so you can test it out and find your color match!

Verdict: W3LL PEOPLE Bio Tint Multi-Action Face Moisturizer provides matte, medium coverage, while moisturizing and providing SPF 30 sun protection.

 

100% Pure BB Cream SPF 15

• active ingredients: non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide
• creamy foundation that provides medium to full coverage and a dewy, luminescent finish (coverage is buildable)
• fruit pigmented
• vegan and cruelty-free
• gluten-free
• available in 3 different shades

Verdict: 100% Pure BB Cream is great if you want a good amount of coverage along with your sun protection. It’s a convenient two-in-one foundation and sunscreen made with safe ingredients.

 

 

Best Safe Sunscreens for Lips:

 

Laguna Herbals Lip Balm SPF 15

• active ingredient: non-nano zinc oxide
• broad spectrum protection
• goes on clear
• several scents available, including coconut, tangerine, and spearmint
• reef safe and biodegradable
• organic ingredients
• contains organic beeswax (not vegan)

Verdict: Laguna Herbals Lip Balms are my favorite lip balm with SPF. They go on clear and have nourishing ingredients and lovely scents.

 

Hurraw Sun Protection Lip Balm SPF 15

• active ingredient: non-nano zinc oxide
• goes on mostly clear
• packed full of organic ingredients and cold pressed oils to moisturize, protect and heal
• raw, vegan and gluten-free

Verdict: Hurraw Sun Protection Lip Balm is a solid choice for lip protection. Goes on mostly clear (just blend it well) and is moisturizing.

 

So now it’s your turn. What’s your favorite safe sunscreen? Please comment and share!