Sunscreen is essential for all that summer fun outdoors, but some SPF products may contain chemical additives that can be harmful not only for you, but also for the environment you enjoy on those sunny summer days.
When sunscreen washes off in oceans, lakes, and rivers, it can leave chemical residues behind that may be harmful to marine life, particularly coral reefs.
So, with a little help from the Environmental Working Group’s SkinDeep database, Earth911 rounded up eight safe, nontoxic, and eco-friendly sunscreens that are as easy on your skin as they are on the environment. Read on to find your new fave.
Editor’s note: EWG’s SkinDeep database scores products on a scale of 1 to 10 based on the known hazards associated with ingredients listed on labels. Products scored from 0 to 2 are considered “low hazard,” while products ranked 7 to 10 are classified as “high hazard.”
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Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50
This water-resistant, eco-friendly sunscreen from Thinksport boasts EWG’s lowest toxicity score — meaning it’s free of any chemical ingredients that may be harmful to you or the planet.
Offering non-greasy application and SPF 50 broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, this pick is safe for use on pregnant women, children over 6 months, and anyone with sensitive skin, making it a perfect beach formula for the whole family.
Suntegrity Natural Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
Suntegrity’s SPF 30 Natural Mineral Sunscreen for the body offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection and is free of harsh chemicals like parabens, phthalates, synthetic dyes, sulfates, and chemical UV absorbers.
This unscented formula is easy to apply and loaded with antioxidants for healthy protection all year round. It’s great for babies, kids, and adults who are sensitive to fragrances.
Juice Beauty Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
If you’re in the market for a nontoxic everyday sunscreen, look no further than this antioxidant moisturizer from Juice Beauty, which provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection that’s perfect for a day by the pool or your daily commute.
This water-resistant lotion is made especially for an active outdoor lifestyle, blending rich organic jojoba and soothing aloe with antioxidants and vitamins for the ultimate daily protection.
Sun Bum Mineral Moisturing Sunscreen SPF 50
The folks over at Sun Bum have launched a premium natural sunscreen that’s received good reviews from the EWG. It’s paraben-free, phthalate-free, petroleum-free, and approved and recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
The moisturizing zinc-based mineral formula provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. It’s hypoallergenic, PABA-free, and cruelty-free to ensure a fun, clean day in the sun.
MDSolarSciences Mineral Tinted Crème Sunscreen SPF 30
With a flattering tint and silky-smooth texture, this oil-free mineral sunscreen from MDSolarSciences provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays but is made to be gentle enough for even the most sensitive complexions.
This pick is also water-resistant up to 80 minutes and includes skin-boosting antioxidants and inflammation protection for healthy skin all day.
Feature image courtesy of Bruno Caimi. Originally published on June 17, 2016, this article was updated in May 2020.