Clean Sunscreen Options for Everyday
Plus, the problem with traditional sunscreen brands
Plus, the problem with traditional sunscreen brands
As Johns Hopkins Medicine puts it, wearing sunscreen is one of the best and easiest ways to protect your skin’s appearance and health at any age. Used regularly, sunscreen helps prevent sunburn, skin cancer and premature aging. For day-to-day use, you’ll want to choose a sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.
There is, unfortunately, a bit of trouble with SPF ratings and ingredients in traditional sunscreens, like the potential to cause cancer, disrupt the hormone system and cause harm during reproduction and development.
In 2019, the FDA proposed updates to sunscreen regulations: it found that only two ingredients, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, could be classified as safe and effective. Numerous new studies have raised new concerns about endocrine-disrupting effects from three other ingredients: homosalate, avobenzone and oxybenzone.
The ingredients oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate and avobenzone are all systemically absorbed into the body after one use (Matta 2019, Matta 2020), according to studies published by the FDA, which also found that they could be detected on the skin and in the blood weeks after no longer being used (Matta 2020). You can read more on toxicity specifics here.
The good news is that there are a number of brands offering natural and non-toxic sunscreens that are effective at protecting your skin without causing additional harm. The majority of the below options are effective for all skin types. Here are some of our favorites:
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen | $44 | Rating
This antioxidant-rich multitasker has a unique oil-free formula that glides onto skin while providing broad spectrum SPF 40 protection. Use it under foundation when you want a little more coverage, or on its own if you want a more natural look. Check out other options from Supergoop here.
ALBA BOTANICALS EVEN & BRIGHT SPF 15 | $6 | RATING
This SPF features antioxidant-rich Swiss Alpine complex, and all ingredients are hypoallergenic. Over 94% of users agreed this lightweight formula both hydrated and protected their skin, as shown in testing. This moisturizer does not include parabens, phthalates, sulfates or synthetic fragrances, and uses 100% vegetarian ingredients. Leaping Bunny cruelty-free certified.
Acure Seriously Soothing Day Cream | $17 | Rating
This ultra-hydrating daily moisturizer with broad spectrum sun protection is reef-safe, and ingredients like blue tansy offer antioxidants and soothe sensitive skin types. It’s free of parabens, sulfates, petroleum, mineral oil and silicones, and is vegan and certified cruelty-free.
Beautycounter Daily Sheer Defense | $42 | Rating
Guard against the sun’s rays with this daily SPF 25 facial sunscreen, formulated with non-nano zinc oxide. This lightweight lotion provides protection from UVA, UVB, and HEV blue light rays while leaving no chalky white cast. Antioxidants help protect skin from pollution, while chicory root extract supports skin’s moisture barrier to lock in hydration. Reef-friendly.
Biossance Sheer Mineral Sunscreen | $30 | Rating
This powerful, invisible, broad-spectrum, mineral SPF 30 protects all skin tones. The lightweight, deeply hydrating formula blends in quickly and leaves a soft, dewy finish. It is vegan, cruelty-free, reef-safe, and gluten-free, and comes in recyclable packaging.
Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Lotion | $16 | Rating
Made for melanated skin, Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing SPF 30 protects against harmful UVA and UVB rays using a signature, sheer formula. Benefits include protection from the damaging effects of UV including premature aging, fine lines, hyperpigmentation and dark spots. This SPF is infused with natural moisturizing ingredients, is vegan and reef-friendly and is free from parabens, fragrance, oxybenzone and octinoxate.
COOLA Full Spectrum 360° Sun Silk Drops Organic Face Sunscreen SPF 30 | $37 | Rating
COOLA’s organic sun silk drops are formulated with plant-derived ingredients, provide broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and help mitigate the effects of HEV light (blue light), IR and pollution. This nourishing formula can be used solo or blended with your favorite moisturizer or foundation. It’s reef compliant and cruelty free.
Drunk Elephant Physical Daily Defense | $34 | Rating
This SPF helps defend against free radicals and environmental aggressors for skin that looks healthy and preserved. Ideal for daily use (without white residue or greasiness) and developed without chemical screens or silicones, it is suitable for all skin, including the most sensitive. Free of fragrance and essential oils.
Ursa Major Force Field Daily Defense | $56 | Rating
This lotion is reef-safe with SPF 18 and is good for all skin types including dry, mature, sensitive, blemish-prone, combination and normal. Lightweight and unscented, this product nourishes your skin with essential vitamins and minerals while combating the visible signs of aging and providing year-round, broad-spectrum sun protection.
Here’s a full list of clean options, as verified by the Environmental Working Group. You can support safer sunscreen regulations here.
Disclosure: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you decide to buy any of the products we refer to and promote. All opinions are our own.