Are you Ready for the Sun? My Safest Sunscreen Recommendations

Did you know your skin is the largest organ in your body?  It needs to be taken care of and protected daily. It’s a lot to protect and I am going to give you my top picks when it comes to sunscreen. Before delving into my environmental picks for safe sunscreen, I want to give you an overview of what sunscreen actually does and what all the numbers mean.  

Wait?  Isn’t all sunscreen safe???  I’ll get to that in a minute.

1.      What’s the point of daily sunscreen and who needs to use it?  Sunscreen decreases your risk of skin cancer and precancerous spots. Daily use of 15 SPF or higher, lowers your risk of melanoma by 40%.  It also prevents early signs of aging- Wrinkles! Saggy skin! Age Spots!

2.      Who needs to use it?  Only fair-skinned people??  Nope… everyone.  Even if you don’t burn easily, the sun still damages your skin over time.  It is, however, recommended that babies under the age of 6 months not use sunscreen.  Try shade and protective clothing and a bucket hat instead.  Every outdoor picture from when I was a baby had me in a bucket hat! 

3.     What are the different types of sunscreen?  

Physical/Mineral:  These sunscreens contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.  These minerals physically block the sun from absorbing into your skin.  Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide rest on your skin and act as UV filters rather than chemicals.

Chemical:  These sunscreens absorb the sun’s rays before they can cause skin damage.

4.    What is sunscreen protecting me from?  UVB & UVA rays, so it’s important to use a sunscreen with broad spectrum protection from both types of rays.

UVB:  These are the rays that cause a sunburn and lead to skin cancer.

UVA:  These rays lead to premature aging and tanning, however, they can also cause a sunburn.

5.     What does SPF mean and what number do I need to use?  The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) tells you how long it will protect your skin from burning versus wearing no sunscreen at all.  For example, an SPF of 15 will protect your skin 15 times longer than wearing no sunscreen.  Studies have been done over the years to analyze the SPF.  An SPF of 15 is determined to be good for daily use meaning, just going in and out of your car, to the grocery store etc.  If you’re going to be in the sun for a longer period of time, you will want to look at a higher SPF and should obviously consider how easily you burn. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using at least SPF 30 if you plan to spend prolonged time in the sun.

BUT…even if you use a higher SPF, you still need to reapply every 2 hours and every time you get out of the pool or ocean.  You should also apply sunscreen 30 minutes before actually going outside.

6.     What does water resistant mean?  Is there waterproof sunscreen?

There is no waterproof sunscreen.  Many are water resistant.  Water resistant lasts about 40 minutes in the water whereas “very water resistant” lasts about 80 minutes.  Either way, when you exit the water, dry off and reapply. 

7.      How much sunscreen should I apply?  One ounce is recommended for your entire body. (Size of a shot glass.)

8.     Is all sunscreen safe??  That’s getting to the heart of my research.  In the past few years, sunscreen has had increased coverage on the news regarding the safety of sunscreen. There are ingredients in many sunscreens that can cause hormone disruptions in your body, allergic reactions and even can lead to cancer. As referenced in my “toxic ingredients” article, oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3) is the greatest offender.  To avoid using oxybenzone, some companies use avobenzone, but this less popular chemical is also linked to cancer.  Zinc IS a good sunblock that is commonly used. However, even with zinc you should look into the brand, because some forms of zinc can harm coral reefs and marine life if it is nanotized (this is important later ).  Companies “nanotize” zinc or other chemicals  to make it clear rather than white, so that it rubs in more nicely.

So, you do not want a sunscreen that contains the following: Oxybenzone (also known as benzophenone-3) Oxtinoxate (also known as octyl methoxycinnate) Avobenzone (also known as benzophenone) Octoclyrene, Octisalate or Homosalate.  I also look for non-nano sunscreens because as a rule it is safer for the ocean reefs, animals, and humans.

9. What makes a sunscreen reef-safe? Oxybenzone and Octinoxate have been linked to coral bleaching.   These chemicals are harmful to the sea and to humans, so they are definitely NOT ‘reef-safe”.  The actual mineral particles in a sunscreen must also be considered for reef-safety.  Some sunscreens “nanotize” minerals, which means they reduce the size of the mineral particles.  This allows the particles to dissolve in the ocean, which is harmful to the reefs and fish.  It is not yet clear the effect on the human body, however, it is known that nanotized minerals or chemicals can be absorbed easily into the human body.  Non-nano sunscreens don’t reduce the mineral size to below 100 nanometers.  This means that when mixed in the ocean water, these mineral particles sink to the bottom and become part of the ocean sediment.  This still could pose a minor threat to the ocean, but it is still unmeasurably better than nanotized particles – it’s a win for us and a win for the ocean! There are no specific government regulations or standards for the term “reef-safe”, so it’s important to delve a little deeper into the ingredients.

For more info on harmful chemicals with much more detail, please refer to my toxins page.

8 Brands with my Seal of Approval

Besides just finding sunscreen with nontoxic ingredients, it is challenging to find companies whose sustainable, eco-friendly packaging aligns with my mission. However, I have managed to find 8 sunscreen brands so far that are nontoxic, and are also shipping sustainably, packaged somewhat sustainably, and are working to protect the ocean reefs and marine life.  Unfortunately, until these types of brands become the norm and more mainstream, they tend to be more expensive than drugstore brands. But I would not recommend these brands unless I firmly believed that the benefits of switching to these brands far outweigh the costs.  It is also essential to understand that you generally need to use a much smaller amount at a time compared to other brands, because sunscreens are made with natural ingredients. 

So without further ado, here are my top picks:  

This page contains affiliate links.

1. Stream2Sea: “The chemist, the environmentalist, and the explorer came together to create an eco-conscious skin care line that is healthy for our bodies AND for the waters of our planet.”  The founder of this company was concerned about the health of her body as well as sea life and reefs, so she created this amazing brand;  Stream2Sea is reef safe and safe for your health.

Sustainability:  Eco-conscious, reef-safe, biodegradable packaging and ingredients, plastic-free, and sugarcane resin tubes.

Health Benefits:  Nontoxic ingredients, Broad Spectrum protection, water resistant for 80 minutes of swimming, non-greasy, and non-nano.

Review: This is a great physical sunscreen. Like a lot of nontoxic, natural products, a little bit goes a very long way.  The website has a demonstration video of how to apply.  You should start with a pea size amount on your hands, run them together a bit and then dab it on. If you use too much, your skin will be VERY white from the zinc.  You do not need to put this on the way you’re used to applying mainstream sunscreen.  I like the tinted option because it blends in a little better.  I am super fair-skinned and am very careful with how I apply and how often.  I have not gotten a sunburn using this sunscreen because it is very protective.  I also like that it’s non-nano, so it truly is reef-safe.

Bottles: travel size, 8 oz. or 32 oz.  

SPF: 20 or 30 – as someone who is very pale, this seems a little low, but I have found that my skin doesn’t burn using the 30 – I used SPF 50 before trying this brand. 

Cost: $6.99-$129.  It costs more for tinted. I know there is a bit of “sticker shock” here. The 32 oz. bottle is pricey, however, it will last very a long time.   The shelf life for mineral sunscreens is 1-3 years especially if typically stored in a cool, dry place.

This is my top choice. Use my promo code, ECOEMMA for 10% off.  Click here to be directed to the Stream2Sea site.  

Click below for Amazon links:

Stream2Sea SPF 30, Clear 3 oz.,

Stream2Sea SPF 30, Tinted 3 oz.

Stream2Sea SPF 30, Tinted 32 oz.

2. COOLA: This quality sunscreen company uses 70% organic ingredients and they are reef-friendly. A reef-friendly brand is usually one that is oxybenzone free and non-nano. They also acquire the majority of their ingredients from organic, sustainable farms and provide and in-depth list of their ingredients.  

Sustainability:  Coola leaders work to be eco-conscious, but they still produce some waste and don’t solely use organic ingredients.  However, they ARE reef-safe, which is very important to protect our oceans. They also use sugarcane resin tubes which can be recycled as well as post-consumer recyclable material. This is a great, recyclable alternative to plastic. 

Health Benefits:  Coola sunscreen is anti-oxidant enriched which makes your skin feel soft and smooth and also protects against aging!   Coola is also transparent about their plant derived fragrances, so you can feel confident that the ingredients label truly lists ALL the ingredients. 

Review:  They have a lot of choices: lotion, fragrance free to sprays, and after sun treatments.  They even have tinted SPF lip balm!  Check out their Mineral Liplux Summer Crush. I like the scents and the sunscreen goes on very nicely.  I am big fan of the mineral, tinted face sunscreen.  I also really like their SPF 50 Organic Mineral Sunscreen.  It’s moisturizing, smooth, and worked well on my pale skin, which is the true test!   Coola’s “classic” sunscreens are chemical sunscreens, but I only recommend mineral ones.  You can refer to my oxybenzone article when trying to decide between mineral and chemical sunscreen.

Bottles:  3.4 oz.tube, 5 oz tube., 8 oz. spray –  I like the 5 oz. tube. It will last a reasonable amount of time.

SPF: 30 and 50

Price: $25-$52

Click below to Amazon links:

COOLA body SPF 30, 5 oz., COOLA body SPF 50, 5 oz., COOLA Face, SPF 30, 1.7 fl.oz.

3. Babo Botanicals:  When the founder had her first baby, she had been working for mainstream skincare lines, but quickly realized that she wanted products that were all natural, and nontoxic for her child.  What started as a product line for babies and children has grown into a great product for adults as well.  The focus of these products is to be allergen-free without dairy, gluten, high-allergy nut oils & soy as well as my typical list of nontoxic ingredients.

Review:  They have a clear zinc sunscreen that is non-nano, which means it rubs in well and doesn’t harm the reefs.  They also have sport sticks and spray.  I like that it goes on clear and is safe on babies.  I do not usually recommend sprays unless you’re very careful.  They can be inhaled, which is unsafe with just about any sunscreen product, even if it is a mineral-based sunscreen. I also don’t think they protect as well based on my personal experience with my very pale skin. This is usually because of the application.  If anything, I start with lotion and then reapply with spray.  You need to rub in the spray.  These are not cheap!  The tubes are small but a little bit goes a long way especially if you’re mainly using these on babies or children who have less surface area than an adult.  * I also recommend their other skincare and hair products which are EWG (Environmental Working Group) certified- nontoxic, transparent information, and good manufacturing practices.

Bottles: 1.7 oz., 3 oz., 6 oz. spray 2- pack

SPF: 30 and 50

Cost: $12.99- $40

Click HERE for direct links to Babo Botanicals- for 15%-30% off- explore their mineral sunscreen and more!

Click below for Amazon links

Babo spray SPF 30

Babo Face SPF 40, 1.7 oz.

Babo Clear Zinc SPF 30, 3 oz. 

Babo Baby SPF 50, 3 oz.

Babo Clear Zinc Stick SPF 30

Babo Clear Zinc SPF 30, 3 oz. Summer Scent

4. Raw Elements:  This sunscreen was developed by a lifeguard who didn’t want to keep using chemical sunscreen.  He needed strong protection, but was also focused on his health and the health of the environment.  His mission is to provide a nontoxic sunscreen in sustainable packaging.

Review: I love the mission of this company as one of  their goals is to eliminate plastic waste!  Many of their sunscreens come in an aluminum tin which can be reused or recycled. Additionally, their pumps are also in aluminum and are 75% plastic free.  Their non-nano zinc oxide formula is reef-safe.  The sunscreen is water resistant and provides great protection. It is creamy and moisturizing.  Like many others in its class, a little bit goes a long way and it does take extra effort to rub in. I prefer the tinted options because they don’t leave a white look on your skin. 

Packaging: 3 0z. tins, 2.75 oz. pump, face stick

SPF: 30

Price: $16-$19

This is my top choice for sustainable practices!

Click below for Amazon links:

Raw Elements Face & Body Tin SPF 30

Raw Elements Baby/Kid Tin SPF 30

Raw Elements Tinted Face Tin SPF 30

Raw Elements Pump SPF 30

Raw Elements Pump Face Tinted SPF 30 

Raw Elements Face Stick SPF 30

Raw Elements Tinted Face Stick SPF 30

5. Bare Republic:  This company is based out of California, USA.  Their mission in starting their company was to make non-toxic, environmentally safe products that were more affordable and they’ve done just that.  They also want to make their product very accessible.  I was able to pick up a tube in Wal-Mart.

Review:  I have tried the lotion and the spray- even though I’m not a fan of sprays.  This one, however, sprays on white and you are then forced to rub it in.  The good part here is that you can see where it is applied and you don’t miss spots, which is often my complaint with sprays. Always spray in a well ventilated area, preferably outside.  I think it works very well.  They also make an effort to use sustainable packaging and their products are non-nano, reef-friendly. *They have options that shimmer!  If you want to be fancy, and sparkly, give them a try.  Their shimmer options have the ingredient mica, a natural mineral, mixed in.

Bottles: 1.7 oz., 3.4 oz., 12.oz.

SPF: 30 & 50

Cost: $9.99-$18.99

Click below for Amazon links:

Bare Republic Sport SPF 50, 5 oz.

Bare Republic Face SPF 30

Bare Republic Face Stick SPF 50

Bare Republic Body SPF 30

6.  Suntegrity: The founder of this company lost her mother to melanoma.  She went on a mission to promote the use of sunscreen and found way too many with toxic chemicals.  Her thought was, why are we using sunscreen that might give us another form of cancer just to prevent skin cancer?  Her sunscreen, therefore, doesn’t contain toxins and is reef-safe. (Non-nano, zinc oxide is the main ingredient.)

Review: I like this sunscreen because it’s not just for sun protection, but for skin repair.  It’s full of anti-oxidants and amino acids to promote the restoration of your skin. It’s moisturizing as well with shea butter and jojoba oil.  It’s water resistant and biodegradable.  It has non-tinted and tinted options.  The Sport option is super thick and takes some work to rub in to eliminate a white tint!  The Body sunscreen rubs in much more easily.  I much prefer the Body sunscreen to the Sport.  I’m a fan of this one for the protective coverage.  The tinted is a safer choice if you want it to disappear when you apply it.  

Bottles: Tubes and sticks 3 oz. or 5 oz.

SPF: 30 

Cost: $24- $36

Click below for links to Amazon

Suntegrity Body SPF 30 3 oz.

Suntegrity Face Tinted SPF 30

Suntegrity Face light SPF 30

Suntegrity Sport SPF 30

Suntegrity Sports Stick SPF 30

7. Badger: Badger is a family run business out of New Hampshire (USA).  Their natural, organic sunscreens have gained national recognition.  Zinc Oxide is their main ingredient and their non-nano formula is reef-safe.  Their goal was to create a safe, non-chemical sunscreen. 

Review:  These sunscreens provide fabulous protection.  The water-resistant ones go on a bit thick.  It takes a little time to determine how much you need to put on.  I try dabbing pea size amounts along my skin and then rubbing in.  Because this is a popular brand, they are selling for a bit less than some of my other sunscreen recommendations.  They have a lot of options to choose from.  Scented, unscented, sport, active, clear zinc, etc.  The Baby/Kids line have fun scents for little ones.  The main issue with this sunscreen brand is that it’s very thick and harder to apply than some of my other suggested brands.  I love the company and the product options, but don’t love the way this goes on.  Most people like the unscented, clear zinc option the best.

Bottles:  Tubes and sticks 2.9 oz. 4 oz. 

SPF: 30, 35, 40

Cost: Lots of options- all under $20 ($9-$20)

Click below for links:

Badger Body SPF 30 2.9 fl.oz.

Badger Baby SPF 30 2.9 fl.oz.

Badger Kids SPF 30 2.9 fl. oz.

Badger Sport SPF 35 2.9 fl. oz.

Badger Face & Body  SPF 30, 4 fl. oz.

Badger Clear Zinc SPF 30 Lavender scent

Badger Stick SPF 35

8. Kiss My Face: This company was started in the USA 35 years ago with the goal of using natural ingredients.  Their goal is to “use sustainable, plant-based ingredients that are gentle to people and the planet.”  They strive to use sustainable packaging as well. 

Review: The price is right for this sunscreen and it meets all of the standards of being non-toxic and reef-safe.  It rubs in well, when not over-dousing, and doesn’t leave me white and pasty- always a nice bonus!  It does leave more of a greasy feel than some of my other recommendations and the scent, while not very potent, is not overly appealing.  It’s not a deal breaker for me as I think it works well and the price is right.  I had a few kids at my pool take a sniff and they think it has a faint scent of play dough. I don’t completely agree but there is a faint scent of something. Because they’ve been around for a while, these products can be found online but also in some stores, such as Wal-Mart.

Bottles: tubes and spray 2 oz., 3.4 oz. & 4 oz., 8 oz. spray

SPF: 15, 30, 50

Cost: $10 – $22

Click below for links:

Kiss my Face Baby SPF 50, 4. oz

Kiss My Face, Face & Neck SPF 50, 2 fl. oz.

Kiss My Face Kids, SPF 30, 3.4 fl. oz.

Kiss My Face Spray SPF 50

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

After Sun Care:. After a day in the sun, it’s always a good idea to moisturize your skin.  I highly recommend body lotion from Plaine Products.  The main ingredient is aloe, which helps heal your skin.  Other than the soothing, all natural ingredients, their sustainable packaging and care for the environment is helping eliminate plastic from the world of skincare.  Check out my detailed review of this amazing, sustainable company here.  Or click here to go directly to their site and get 20% off with coupon code: ECOEMMA.

I’m always researching and searching for more products, so I will update this list as I try more sunscreens.  This is a great list to get you started with safe, non-toxic choices for the summer!