Discovering the best natural sunscreens

Sunscreen is an essential part of your daily skincare routine, not just for beach days but every day. As awareness grows regarding the harmful effects of certain chemicals found in traditional sunscreens, many are turning to natural alternatives that are not only effective but also gentler on our bodies and the environment. In this guide, we will explore the benefits and features of natural sunscreens and provide recommendations to help you protect your skin healthily and sustainably.

Why natural sunscreen?

Natural sunscreens, also known as mineral or physical sunscreens, use active natural minerals such as zinc oxide as the primary sun protective component. These minerals act as a shield, sitting on the skin's surface to physically block and scatter harmful UVA and UVB rays. This barrier like action helps prevent the skin from absorbing harmful rays, unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb into the skin before absorbing the sun's rays. They not only shield your skin from UV rays but also nourish and moisturise, making them ideal for sensitive skin types and eco conscious individuals.

Advantages of using natural sunscreens

1. Safer for sensitive skin

Natural sunscreens are generally gentler than chemical alternatives, making them a suitable option for people with sensitive skin. They are less likely to cause skin irritations or allergic reactions and can also be soothing to the skin, thanks to the absence of harsh chemicals.

2. Environmental impact

Many natural sunscreens avoid oxybenzone and octinoxate, ingredients believed to contribute to coral reef degradation. By choosing natural sunscreens, you are not only protecting your skin but also minimising your environmental footprint, particularly in marine ecosystems.

3. Immediate effectiveness

Unlike chemical sunscreens that often require about 30 minutes to become effective, natural sunscreens work immediately upon application. This makes them ideal for those who do not want to wait before heading outdoors.

4. Longer shelf life

The stability of mineral ingredients in natural sunscreens often means they have a longer shelf life, ensuring that you can use the product safely for longer periods without worrying about the efficiency deteriorating.

Choosing the right natural sunscreen

When selecting a natural sunscreen, consider the following factors:

• Broad spectrum protection: Look for products that offer broad spectrum protection to shield against both UVA and UVB rays.
• SPF rating: Choose a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 for adequate protection.
• Water resistance: For swimming or sweating, opt for a water resistant formula to ensure the sunscreen remains effective when wet.
• Skin type compatibility: Consider your skin type – oily, dry, or combination. Some natural sunscreens include hydrating ingredients beneficial for dry skin, while others have matte finishes suitable for oily skin.
• Reef safe certification: If you're eco conscious, look for sunscreens labelled as "reef safe" to ensure they are free from chemicals known to harm coral reefs and marine life.

Top natural sunscreens to try

In today’s eco conscious world, more and more people are turning to natural sunscreens as a healthier, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional sun protection. With concerns over coral reef damage and the potential adverse effects of chemical UV filters, natural sunscreens offer a compelling option. Here are our top picks for natural sunscreens that are not only kind to your skin but also to the planet.

1. Simple As That Sunscreen

Simple As That Sunscreen is a minimalist's dream when it comes to sun protection. Crafted with a commitment to sustainability and skin health, this sunscreen uses a blend of zinc oxide and botanical ingredients to protect your skin from the sun’s harsh rays. It's lightweight, non greasy, and perfect for everyday use, ensuring your skin stays safe without feeling heavy or clogged. The sunscreen’s gentle, minimalist formula makes it ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It's designed to be non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) and is free from common irritants, offering safe sun protection for everyone in the family.

2. Ocean Australia Sunscreen

Ocean Australia's formula is as friendly to the sea as it is to your skin. This broad spectrum sunscreen champions non nano zinc oxide as its active barrier against UVA and UVB rays, guaranteeing maximum protection with minimal environmental footprint. It’s water resistant, making it a perfect companion for days at the beach, and packed with nourishing ingredients to keep your skin moisturised and happy. The formulas are created with the health of coral reefs in mind, avoiding oxybenzone and octinoxate—two sunscreen ingredients known to contribute to coral bleaching.

3. People4Ocean Sunscreen

Developed in partnership with marine biologists, People4Ocean Sunscreen offers high performance sun protection that truly cares for the ocean. This sunscreen stands out for its luxurious formula that blends in effortlessly without leaving a white cast, making it a favourite among ocean lovers and beachgoers. A portion of every purchase goes towards coral reef conservation, making it the perfect pick for the eco conscious. Try their sunscreen stick for face for targeted protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Zinc sticks are ideal for precise application on areas like the nose, cheeks, ears, and the delicate skin around your eyes—places where sun damage often shows up first.

4. Sunbutter Sunscreen

Sunbutter Sunscreen thrives on simplicity and effectiveness. This Australian made sunscreen is crafted with natural, sustainably sourced ingredients and is completely free from chemicals, parabens, and fragrances. It’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and offers water resistant protection that’s as good for outdoor adventures as it is for a casual day out in the sun. The brand takes pride in its eco conscious packaging, often choosing tins and other plastic free options to reduce the environmental impact. By eliminating plastics, Sunbutter aims to combat pollution and contribute to cleaner oceans.

5. Eco by Sonya Sunscreen

Eco by Sonya is taking natural sun protection to the next level with a range of sunscreens that are not only effective but also infused with nurturing organic ingredients. Their products provide broad spectrum protection while doubling as a skin care treatment, enriching your skin with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to protect their skin from the sun while keeping it soft, hydrated, and radiant. It actually doubles as a sunscreen moisturiser.

When choosing a natural sunscreen, it’s essential to consider your skin type, the activities you’ll be doing, and the level of sun exposure you expect. These top picks offer something for everyone, from the environmentally conscious adventurer to the daily commuter looking to incorporate more natural products into their routine. Not only do these sunscreens protect your skin, but they also do their part in protecting our oceans and wildlife. Give them a try and make a positive impact with your sun protection choice!

Tips for using natural sunscreen effectively

• Apply generously: Don't skimp on sunscreen. Apply a sufficient amount (about a shot glass for the body) to ensure adequate coverage.
• Reapply regularly: Especially after swimming or sweating, reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or as directed on the product label.
• Pair with sun smart habits: Wear protective clothing, seek shade during peak sun hours, and complement sunscreen use with sunglasses and hats.

Frequently asked questions about natural sunscreen

What is the highest natural SPF?

The highest SPF typically found in natural sunscreens is SPF50. Natural sunscreens use minerals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are effective at blocking both UVA and UVB rays. The actual level of protection doesn't increase significantly with SPFs higher than 50, so sunscreen SPF50 is generally adequate and recommended for effective sun protection.

Are natural sunscreens effective?

Yes, natural sunscreens are effective when used properly. They contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which provide broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which absorb into the skin to eventually absorb UV rays, natural sunscreens block the sun's rays from penetrating the skin at all. They are effective immediately upon application and are considered safe and gentle, especially for sensitive skin.

Is there such thing as organic sunscreen?

Yes, organic sunscreens do exist. These are formulated with organic ingredients, including the inactive components such as carrier oils, essential oils, and herbal extracts. However, the active sun blocking ingredients (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) cannot be certified organic because they are minerals. When shopping for an organic sunscreen, look for certifications like ACO, USDA Organic or Ecocert, which ensure that a significant percentage of the ingredients meets organic standards.

How do I choose a non toxic sunscreen?

To choose a non toxic sunscreen, look for products free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, retinyl palmitate, and other potentially harmful chemicals. Opt for sunscreens with active ingredients like zinc oxide. Additionally, seek out products labelled as non nano, which indicates that the particles are not small enough to penetrate the skin, reducing the risk of absorption into the body.

Is there a natural alternative to sunscreen?

Natural alternatives to conventional sunscreen can include protective clothing, hats, and seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). While some plant oils have minimal natural SPF properties, they do not offer sufficient protection to be used as a substitute for sunscreen. For effective skin protection, using a broad spectrum natural sunscreen is recommended.

Is olive oil a natural sunscreen?

Olive oil is not recommended as an effective natural sunscreen. While it has antioxidant properties and can provide minimal SPF (between 2 and 8), it is not sufficient to protect the skin from sun damage when used alone. It’s better used as a moisturising component within a broader sun protection regimen.

Does aloe vera work as a sunscreen?

Aloe vera does not work as a sunscreen. It does not contain SPF and cannot protect the skin from UV rays. However, it is excellent for soothing and hydrating the skin after sun exposure, helping to treat sunburns and provide relief due to its cooling and anti inflammatory properties.

What is the least toxic sunscreen?

The least toxic sunscreens are those that use zinc oxide as its active ingredient and do not contain harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, or parabens. Look for sunscreens that are labelled as non nano, broad spectrum, and water resistant for the safest and most effective protection. Brands that commit to clean, all natural formulations, and transparent ingredient sourcing are your best bet for the least toxic options. Not sure where to start? A sunscreen zinc stick is a solid form of sunblock that comes in a small, portable stick - much like a deodorant stick or a large lip balm tube. Zinc sticks are often formulated to be water resistant, making them ideal for swimmers, surfers, and those engaged in intense physical activity.

Final thoughts

Switching to natural sunscreen is a smart choice for protecting your skin and the environment. With the growing availability of natural options, finding a sunscreen that meets your needs and matches your values has never been easier.

Remember, the best sunscreen is the one you use correctly and consistently. So, choose a product you enjoy using, apply it generously, and reapply as recommended, especially after swimming or excessive sweating. Protect your skin, respect the planet, and enjoy the sun safely with natural sunscreen!