Sunscreen is an essential part of our daily skincare routine, offering protection from the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. But not all sunscreens are created equal. While they help protect our skin, many traditional, chemical-based sunscreens can harm the environment, especially marine ecosystems.
Growing environmental awareness and the critical challenge of climate change and rising global temperatures has increased demand for eco-friendly sunscreens that protect both our skin and the planet. We especially like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) guide to sunscreens as a resource for eco-friendly sunscreen.
The Problem with Chemical Sunscreens
Many typical sunscreens contain active chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been linked to coral bleaching and the destruction of marine life. When these sunscreens wash off our skin in the ocean, they contribute to the deterioration of coral reefs, which are vital to marine biodiversity. The plastics and non-biodegradable nature of sunscreen packaging also adds to pollution in landfills.
What Makes Sunscreen Eco-Friendly?
Eco-friendly sunscreens are designed to benefit humans and the environment. They’re free from harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, making them safe for coral reefs and other marine life. Look for active ingredients such as non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are known to be safer for the ocean and bodies of water.
These environmentally-minded sunscreens often use biodegradable or refillable packaging, reducing plastic waste and environmental impact. They’re also produced using sustainable practices such as printing with eco-friendly (VOC-free) inks on recycled paper, which reduces pollution and improves air quality for those creating the products.
Benefits of Using Eco-Friendly Sunscreens
Switching to eco-friendly sunscreens offers more benefits than you can imagine. They help protect marine ecosystems by preventing the release of harmful chemicals into the ocean. Sustainable production practices also help reduce the amount of carbon compounds (VOCs) released into the air that can contribute to global warming.
Eco-friendly sunscreens are also often gentler on the skin, using active ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in physical sunscreen formulas to reduce the risk of irritation and allergic reactions. Plus, by choosing products with biodegradable packaging, you help reduce plastic waste, one of the leading causes of environmental degradation. Supporting eco-friendly sunscreen brands also means supporting companies committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Key Ingredients in Eco-Friendly Sunscreens
Eco-friendly sunscreens typically contain non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as active ingredients. These minerals provide broad-spectrum UV protection by creating a physical shield on top of your skin instead of being absorbed, making them safer for both humans and the environment. Many eco-friendly sunscreens also include natural oils and plant extracts, such as aloe vera and coconut oil, which nourish and protect the skin. Look for sunscreens free from parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances, which can be harmful to both your skin and the environment.
Top Eco-Friendly Sunscreen Brands
Several brands have made significant strides in creating eco-friendly sunscreens. Some of the most popular include:
- Raw Elements: Known for its non-nano zinc oxide formula, Raw Elements offers sunscreens that are reef-safe and come in biodegradable packaging. Their products are also water-resistant, making them ideal for beachgoers. They’re Leaping Bunny certified (meaning they don’t test on animals), EWG #1 rated, and use 23% non-nano zinc oxide as their only active ingredient.
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Badger: This brand uses organic and natural ingredients plus as many Fair Trade certified ingredients as possible, focusing on regenerative and biodynamic agriculture to source their raw materials. Badger's sunscreens are cruelty-free and come in recyclable packaging.
- All Good: With a focus on sustainability, All Good produces reef-safe sunscreens that are also vegan and cruelty-free. Their products are packed with natural ingredients like green tea and rosehip oils for added skin benefits.
Each brand offers a range of products that are safe and effective for the whole family, from babies and toddlers all the way to grandparents.
How to Choose the Right Eco-Friendly Sunscreen
When selecting an eco-friendly sunscreen, consider factors like SPF level and broad-spectrum protection to ensure you are adequately protected from both UVA and UVB rays. You should opt for an SPF 30 minimum, but SPF 50 is definitely great for longer days in the sun.
Consider your skin type and needs—those with dry, sensitive skin should opt for gentle, mineral-based sunscreens with soothing ingredients like aloe vera. It’s also crucial to look for certifications such as water resistance and non-GMO and organic, to ensure the product meets environmental standards. There’s no set standard for “reef-safe,” but you can ensure that you look for non-nano zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as the main active ingredients when choosing an environmentally friendly mineral sunscreen.
As awareness of environmental issues grows, so does the importance of choosing eco-friendly products. By opting for eco-friendly sunscreens, you are not only protecting your skin but also contributing to the health of our planet. Switching to these sustainable alternatives is a small change that can collectively have a significant impact on the environment. The next time you need a new sunscreen or want to switch your current one, choose one that’s kind to your skin as well as our planet—it’s the only one we’ve got.
