Whether you care about your own health or the well-being of the planet at large, the best natural sunscreens are safe for your skin and the planet. Free of certain chemicals and safe for sensitive skin, these mineral SPFs are worth carrying on your next beach or hike.
But that doesn't mean chemical sunscreens are necessarily bad: Both the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and the Skin Cancer Foundation agree that the benefits of chemical sunscreens "far outweigh the potential harms," says Joel Shirley, M.D. Joel Schlessinger, member of the board of directors. Board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon.
"However, many natural sunscreens work without chemicals and provide excellent sun protection and coverage," he continues. Those with a history of sunscreen allergies or conditions like rosacea and eczema should stick to natural sunscreens, which may be less damaging to the skin than chemical sunscreens.
Natural SPFs are also often referred to as reef-safe sunscreens because they don't contain potentially toxic ingredients like oxybenzone, a chemical that blocks UV rays that can wreak havoc on marine life.
Still, the term "natural" is a bit tricky to define, since it's not regulated by the FDA -- so you'll need to read labels to make sure you're avoiding chemical filters or potential skin irritants.
Still, shopping for the right sunscreen can be overwhelming. That's why we've done the work for you, including researching Environmental Working Group (EWG) ratings for sunscreens. Sunscreens are rated on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the safest and highest rating approved by the EWG.
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen. Voted one of the best sunscreens of 2023, Blue Lizard's formula is perfect for sensitive skin. "My patients with the most sensitive skin can tolerate it," says Lauren Ploch, MD, board-certified dermatologist and AAD member.
"Plus, the bottle turns blue when exposed to UV rays, so it's a great reminder to reapply." This sunscreen contains no chemicals, parabens, or fragrances. Aveeno Positive Mineral Sunscreen. "This sunscreen is free of chemical blockers and uses mineral technology to protect the skin," says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in the Department of Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Apply to face and body. It also contains oat extract, an ingredient that's especially soothing for irritated skin.
EltaMD Physical UV Sunscreen. Combining Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, this oil-free SPF is fragrance- and paraben-free (suitable for sensitive skin). It's also water resistant for 40 minutes, so you can swim in it. "This provides great pigmented and matte coverage for the face," says Julia Tzu, MD, founder and medical director of Wall Street Dermatology in New York. "You can mix it with a clear sunscreen to match your skin tone."
Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Face Lotion
This fragrance-free, hypoallergenic face sunscreen has the highest ratings from the Good Housekeeping Beauty Lab. Testers raved about its "silky" texture, and some compared it to a makeup primer, making this zinc-based formula a great choice for an everyday face sunscreen. "The untinted product left no visible marks," said one Amazon reviewer. "It spreads easily and dries almost powdery.
Regular sunscreen does feel greasy after a while on the face, but it's not."
Thinksport Mineral Sunscreen
This organic, chemical-free sunscreen with Aloe Vera, Jojoba Oil and Hyaluronic Acid leaves skin feeling hydrated, smooth and soft. It also contains Vitamin C, a powerful age-defying antioxidant for extra protection against sun damage. The water-resistant formula lasts up to 80 minutes and absorbs quickly, so you won't have to worry about a greasy feel while lounging by the water.
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