Top 22 Eco-Friendly Sunscreen Brands That Are Reef-Safe
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Are you planning a beach vacation? Consider this the next time you take a swim in the ocean: There may be up to 82,000 different chemicals swimming in that seawater with you! One of the biggest contributors to the chemical pollution found in our oceans is sunscreen, with an estimated 6,000 tons washing into coral reefs around the globe each year. Studies show that coral reefs exposed to some prominent sunscreen chemicals experience distress and bleaching. In addition to coral, other marine life such as fish, sea urchins, and shrimp may be negatively affected by exposure to these chemicals.
Want to help protect oceans and coral reefs from the irreparable damage caused by some sunscreens? Shop for more eco-friendly, reef-safe sunscreens.
Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen Brands
Badger Sport | ||
All Terrain Aquasport | ||
Mama Kuleana | ||
Reef Repair | ||
Thinksport | ||
Kokua Sun Care | ||
All Good Sport | ||
Suntegrity Skincare | ||
Raw Elements | ||
Stream2Sea | ||
Manda Organics |
Babo Botanicals | ||
Raw Love | ||
Art of Sport | ||
Hello Bello | ||
Alba Botanica | ||
Ethical Zinc | ||
Goddess Garden Organics | ||
Two Peas Organics | ||
TotLogic | ||
Ocean Potion | ||
Sun Bum |
Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen Brands
Badger Sport | |
All Terrain Aquasport | |
Mama Kuleana | |
Reef Repair | |
Thinksport | |
Kokua Sun Care | |
All Good Sport | |
Suntegrity | |
Raw Elements | |
Stream2Sea | |
Manda Organics | |
Babo Botanicals | |
Raw Love | |
Art of Sport | |
Hello Bello | |
Alba Botanica | |
Ethical Zinc | |
Goddess Garden Organics | |
Two Peas Organics | |
TotLogics | |
Ocean Potion | |
Sun Bum |
1. Badger Sport Sunscreen Cream
The Badger Sport Sunscreen Cream features just 5 ingredients and no added fragrance, perfect for sensitive skin types.
Formulated with 22.5% non-nano mineral zinc oxide, this sunscreen boasts a 35 SPF and is water and sweat resistant for 80 minutes. Badger Sport Sunscreen Cream is cruelty-free and reef-safe, featuring organic sunflower oil, beeswax, and vitamin E.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Reef-safe, featuring only 5 ingredients
Cons:
- Very thick, difficult to apply
- Leave a white cast on skin
2. All Terrain Aquasport
The All Terrain Aquasport features an oxybenzone and octinoxate-free sunscreen well suited for active lifestyles.
This non-greasy, transparent sunscreen features non-nano uncoated zinc oxide 16.5% with SFP 45 and is water resistant for up to 80 minutes. All Terrain Aquasport is cruelty-free and formulated without parabens or fragrance.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Cruelty-free
- Higher SPF
Cons:
- May apply unevenly
- Unpleasant smell
- Expensive
3. Mama Kuleana Reef-Safe Sunscreen
The Mama Kuleana Reef-Safe Sunscreen features organic and natural ingredients that comes in a biodegradable container for 100% eco-friendly sun protection.
This sunscreen features SPF 30 sun protection and is formulated with organic shea butter, coconut oil, beeswax, and vitamin E to soothe and soften skin as it protects. Formulated with non-nano zinc powder, the Mama Kuleana Reef-Safe Sunscreen is reef-safe.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Biodegradable packaging
- Features non-nano zinc oxide powder
Cons:
- Expensive for the amount inside package
- Very tick, difficult to apply
4. Reef Repair Sunscreen
Reef Repair Sunscreen effectively blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays with its all natural, reef-friendly formula. This sunscreen goes on smooth with no whitening effect and is free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it safe for marine life.
Reef Repair Sunscreen features SFP 50 protection and is waterproof for up to 80 minutes. Formulated with non nano zinc oxide, this sunscreen is paraben and silicone-free.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Great for sensitive skin
- Higher SPF
Cons:
- Slightly unpleasant smell
- Greasy and difficult to apply
5. Thinksport Sunscreen
Thinksport Sunscreen offers broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection with a formula free from biologically harmful chemicals. This cruelty-free sunscreen features SPF 50 and is water resistant for up to 80 minutes.
The Thinksport Sunscreen is the first sunscreen to pass the Whole Foods Premium Body Care Requirements and is formulated without parabens, phthalates, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, gluten, or dairy.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Higher SPF
- Excellent price
Cons:
- May leave behind white residue
- May dry out skin
6. Kokua Sun Care Hawaiian Natural Zinc Sunscreen
Kokua Sun Care Hawaiian Natural Zinc Sunscreen features 7 Hawaiian-grown antioxidant ingredients for nurturing sun protection that is even safe for babies.
This sunscreen features SPF 50 with 80 minutes of water resistance and is formulated with the one of the highest percentages of non nano zinc oxide available at 25%. The Kokua Sun Care Hawaiian Natural Zinc Sunscreen is reef safe and formulated without parabens, phthalates, or artificial fragrance.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- High percentage of zinc oxide
- High SPF
Cons:
- Expensive
- May provide less reliable sun protection than stated SPF
7. All Good Sport Sunscreen
The All Good Sport Sunscreen features a lightweight, non-greasy formulation that nourishes skin as it protects from sun damage.
This vegan, non-nano zinc oxide sunscreen is SFP 30 with up to 80 minutes of water resistance. All Good Sport Sunscreen is oxybenzone-free and formulated without gluten or GMOs.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- No artificial fragrance
- Gluten-free
Cons:
- May apply sticky and unevenly to skin
- Unpleasant smell
8. Suntegrity Skincare Natural Mineral Sunscreen
Suntegrity Skincare’s Natural Mineral Sunscreen features the antioxidant properties of green tea to protect skin from free-radical damage.
This vegan, cruelty-free sunscreen also includes aloe vera and cucumber to help hydrate skin and soothe redness. The Suntegrity Skincare Natural Mineral Sunscreen is SPF 30-40 and is formulated with 20% zinc oxide.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Formulated with organic ingredients
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Unclear if zinc oxide is non-nano based
9. Raw Elements Face + Body Tube Sunscreen
Raw Elements Face + Body Tube Sunscreen offers full body sun protection featuring all natural ingredients. Featuring a broad spectrum SPF 30 protection, this water-resistant sunscreen is safe for all ages and will not irritate eyes.
With 23% non nano zinc oxide, the Raw Elements Face + Body Tube Sunscreen is reef-safe, cruelty-free, and is formulated without soy, gluten, or nuts.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Recyclable packaging
- Cruelty-free
Cons:
- Thick and difficult to apply
- Unpleasant smell
10. Stream2Sea Sunscreen
The Stream2Sea Sunscreen boasts a non-greasy formulation with SPF 30 protection from UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen features a unique antioxidant blend of green tea, tulsi, wakame and olive leaf extract to soothe and protect skin.
With 80 minutes of water resistance, the Stream2Sea Sunscreen also features 8.8% non-nano titanium dioxide and is reef-safe.
Pros:
- Features non-nano titanium dioxide
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Eco-friendly packaging
Cons:
- Thick and difficult to apply
- Leave a white cast on skin
11. Manda Organic Sun Paste
Manda Organic Sun Paste uses only the highest quality organic and natural ingredients for high performance sun protection that is non-toxic and reef safe.
This sunscreen’s unique ingredient is Thanaka, a natural sun protectant native to Myanmar with anti-inflammatory, anti-aging properties. Manda Organic Sun Paste features 20% non-nano zinc oxide and is cruelty-free.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Hydrates skin
- Good for sensitive skin
Cons:
- Expensive for very small container of product
- Can stain clothing
12. Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen
The Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen is perfect for the whole family. This lightweight, non-whitening sunscreen works for even the most sensitive skin and is formulated with skin-soothing ingredients like jojoba oil.
With SPF 30 protection and up to 80 minutes of water resistance, the Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen features 19% zinc oxide and is cruelty-free and reef-safe, formulated without oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Works for kids and adults
Cons:
- Unpleasant smell
- Product is runny and liquid
13. Raw Love All-Natural Mineral Sunscreen
The Raw Love All-Natural Mineral Sunscreen offers full spectrum sun protection with non-nano zinc oxide as the sole active ingredient. This sunscreen features 35 SPF protection from UVA and UVB rays, with a smooth formulation that goes on white and rubs in clear.
The Raw Love All-Natural Mineral Sunscreen is reef-safe and formulated without oxybenzone, parabens or alcohol.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Pleasant smell
Cons:
- Expensive
- May require frequent reapplication
- Goes on thick, difficult to apply
14. Art of Sport Skin Armor Sunscreen
The Art of Sport Skin Armor Sunscreen features performance-driven sun protection that is reef-friendly. The weightless formula features SPF 50 protection from UVA and UVB rays and provides up to 80 minutes of water resistance.
Art of Sport Skin Armor Sunscreen is formulated without oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, alcohol, or fragrance.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Non-greasy formula
Cons:
- Not reef-safe: includes ingredients believed to harm coral reefs (homosalate, octisalate)
- May irritate sensitive skin
15. Hello Bello Sunscreen Mineral Lotion
The Hello Bello Sunscreen Mineral Lotion offers reef-safe sun protection with organic botanical ingredients. This vegan, cruelty-free sunscreen boasts SPF 50 protection and 80 minutes of water resistant sun protection.
Hello Bello Sunscreen Mineral Lotion offers a comprehensive formulation free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, and additional ingredients that are believed to cause marine life damage such as avobenzone, homosalate, and octisalate.
Pros:
- Comprehensive reef-safe formulation
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- High SPF
Cons:
- Limited product reviews available
16. Alba Botanica Sunscreen Spray with Coconut Oil
The Alba Botanica Sunscreen Spray with Coconut Oil features lightweight sun protection that is reef-friendly. This spray sunscreen provides SPF 50 broad sun protection and is water resistant for up to 80 minutes.
The Alba Botanica Sunscreen Spray with Coconut Oil is formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate and is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Easy to use spray sunscreen
- High SPF
Cons:
- Not reef-safe: includes ingredients believed to harm coral reefs (homosalate, octisalate, avobenzone)
- Requires more applications for sun protection than stated directions
17. Ethical Zinc Natural Clear Zinc Sunscreen
The Ethical Zinc Natural Clear Zinc Sunscreen features broad sun protection suitable for the most sensitive skin. This sunscreen dries clear while offering SFP 50 sun protection from UVA and UVB rays.
Ethical Zinc Natural Clear Zinc Sunscreen is reef and ocean safe, featuring 22% certified natural zinc oxide, and is formulated without parabens.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Good for sensitive skin
- High SPF
Cons:
- Goes on thick, difficult to apply
- Leaves a white cast
- Requires more reapplications for sun protection than stated directions
18. Goddess Garden Organics Sport Mineral Sunscreen
The Goddess Garden Organics Sport Mineral Sunscreen features a gentle, unscented formulation that is dermatologist-tested and safe for sensitive skin. The organic plant based ingredients soothe and nourish skin while offering SPF 50 broad spectrum sun protection.
Goddess Garden Organics Sport Mineral Sunscreen is vegan and cruelty-free with a reef-safe formulation featuring 20% non-nano zinc oxide.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- High SPF
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons:
- May irritate sensitive skin
- Leaves a slight white cast
19. Two Peas Organics Mineral Sunscreen
The Two Peas Organics Mineral Sunscreen is formulated with all-natural plant derived and certified organic ingredients for wholesome sun protection that is reef-safe.
This sunscreen provides 30 SPF that is gentle enough for babies and strong enough for adults. Two Peas Organics Mineral Sunscreen features 20% zinc oxide and is formulated without oxybenzone, octinoxate, or avobenzone.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone, octinoxate, or avobenzone
- Good for sensitive skin
Cons:
- Goes on think, leaves a white cast
- Requires more reapplications for sun protection than stated directions
20. TotLogic Sunscreen
The TotLogic Sunscreen provides broad spectrum sun protection for your face and body. This sunscreen features SPF 30 and up to 80 minutes of water resistance and is infused with hyaluronic acid, jojoba, and aloe to help keep skin hydrated.
TotLogic Sunscreen features 20% natural zinc oxide and is formulated without parabens or phthalates.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Good for sensitive skin
Cons:
- Requires more reapplications for sun protection than stated directions
- Goes on thick and sticky
- Unpleasant smell
21. Ocean Potion General Protection Suncreen Lotion
The Ocean Potion General Protection Sunscreen Lotion features a nourishing, non-greasy formula offering superior sun protection.
This sunscreen is ideal for skin that’s slow to tan and easy to burn, featuring broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 50 sun protection. Ocean Potion General Protection Sunscreen Lotion is cruelty-free and formulated without oxybenzone.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Excellent price
Cons:
- Not reef-safe: includes ingredients believed to harm coral reefs (homosalate, octisalate, avobenzone, octocrylene)
- Unpleasant smell
22. Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray
The Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray goes on ultra sheer and dries quickly for easy sun protection. Formulated with vitamin E, this sunscreen shields skin from sun’s harmful rays while enriching and protecting skin from free radicals.
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray is vegan, cruelty-free, reef-friendly and formulated without parabens, gluten, or propylene glycol.
Pros:
- Formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Non-greasy formula
- High SPF
Cons:
- Not reef-safe: includes ingredients believed to harm coral reefs (homosalate, octisalate, avobenzone, octocrylene)
- Strong fragrance
My Guide to Reef-Safe Sunscreen
What is reef-safe sunscreen?
The term “reef-safe” does not have an agreed-upon definition, and the term is not regulated by the United States government. However, studies have shown that the common sunscreen ingredients of oxybenzone and octinoxate are harmful to aquatic life. In addition to these two particular chemical sunscreen ingredients, studies suggest there are additional sunscreen ingredients can cause harm to marine life, such as octocrylene, homosalate, and octisalate.
When shopping for reef-safe sunscreen, look for mineral sunscreens featuring non-nanotized zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the main form of sun protection. Non-nanotized (non-nano) means the ingredients are 100 nanometers in diameter, which is believed to be safer to coral reefs than chemical forms of these ingredients. Mineral sunscreens are also best for sensitive skin types, as chemical-based sunscreens may irritate skin.
Another alternative is to shop for oxybenzone-free chemical sunscreens. These sunscreens are not entirely reef-safe but they are formulated without oxybenzone, one of the main chemical ingredients found in sunscreen to cause marine environmental damage.
FAQs
Q. What is the best way to protect skin from sun damage without polluting the ocean?
A. The most effective way to protect skin from harmful UV radiation without impacting the environment is to invest in good sunwear and sun accessories. Choose clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) such as a rash guard, or even a simple t-shirt. UPF clothing will protect skin from the sun, and you will need to apply far less sunscreen to your exposed skin.
When applying sunscreen, choose mineral sunscreens with non-nanotized (non-nano) zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are safer for coral reefs than chemical sunscreens.
Q. What exactly is SFP? Is a higher SPF sunscreen more effective than a lower one?
A. The sun protection factor (SPF) tells you how long sunscreen protects skin from the sun’s UV rays. In theory, the higher the SPF, the better protected your skin is from the sun. However, products with a higher SPF tend to create a false sense of security, with people applying a higher SPF sunscreen staying out in the sun for longer and reapplying sunscreen less.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that is applied as directed. Be sure to apply at least 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
Find Your Next Eco-Friendly Sunscreen
Don’t worry, you can protect your skin and protect the ocean! Choose a mineral-based sunscreen with broad based sun protection and feel good about caring for your skin and for the environment.
Now It's Your Turn
Now I’d like to hear from you:
Which reef-safe suncreen brand are you going to try out?
Let me know if I missed any from this list.
Either way, leave me a quick comment below to let me know.