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Growing up, I slathered on body oil and tanning oil and would lay in the sun, trying to get a deep tan. Then, in high school I started working at a tanning salon, mostly because it was a job that allowed for lots of time to do my homework. I was eventually required to go to a safety course of some sort about tanning salons, and what I learned there horrified me so much that I stopped tanning as often. (But, you know, of course I still did some because it was free and TAN WAS IN.) My manager told me I needed to tan more often to represent the salon well, and when I said I didn’t want to, because of what I learned, I got fired. True story.
That’s not to say that I’ve been perfect about wearing sunscreen ever since high school. I definitely still prefer a tan and am guilty of wanting a tan at the pool or beach or getting lazy in my everyday wear. Mostly because I hate the heavy feeling and smell of sunscreen. Thankfully, there are great options now, both for my body and face, that I have no excuses to not wear sunscreen daily. And I do, 99% of the time. (I’ve also discovered that I really like self-tanning! I found a great tanning foam for my body and bronzing drops for my face, and that helps scratch the tan itch too.)
Sun is the #1 cause of aging and causes 90% of visible changes to your skin.
And considering I’m nearly 40, aging is starting to show more on my skin these days – spots, fine lines, a bit of sagging. While I have a solid skincare routine to help keep my skin looking healthy, wearing sunscreen is the #1 must-have in my routine. (And a good retinol, moisturizer, and eye cream. Okay, fine I’m a skincare snob and am loyal to my full skincare routine.)
When choosing a sunscreen, I look for options that absorb easily and don’t leave me feeling or looking greasy, so my makeup applies smoothly. I also prefer ones that don’t leave much of a white cast. Thankfully, many zinc-based sunscreens have improved over the years so that’s not much of an issue as it was in the past. I do find that sweatproof and/or water-resistant sunscreens are more prone to leaving a white cast but I don’t care about those features for my face for daily wear. However, that is important (obviously) for sunscreens that are used at the beach or the pool.
I typically go for SPF 30 because I spend a lot of time outside in my day-to-day life between running and chasing a toddler, but if you’re mostly inside, an SPF 15 should be enough sun protection. I also opt for mineral sunscreens instead of the potentially harmful synthetic formulas in many chemical sunscreens. Non-toxic, mineral sunscreens have become more popular over the years, and there are many great options to choose from now.
If you’re reading this post in the winter season, be sure to read this post with my favorite non-toxic lotions for dry skin here. And if you’re looking for swimsuits to go along with your sunscreen, read this post on my favorite mom-approved swimsuits.
18 Best Non-Toxic Sunscreens
So today, what type of sunscreen is nontoxic? In short, most mineral sunscreens and some chemical sunscreens, but it can be hard to know without doing lots of research. I researched for you and am sharing the ones I like best for my face, body, daily wear, and for days when I’m spending lots of time outside, like hiking or at the pool. I also shared my top sunscreen picks to use during pregnancy and for kids.
First, let’s break down the difference between a mineral and chemical sunscreen.
Chemical sunscreen is what you likely grew up using. It goes on clear, sometimes has that distinct “sunscreen” smell, and dries quickly. However, it’s also typically made with potentially harmful ingredients that can negatively impact your health and the environment. These sunblocks protect you by absorbing into your skin so that the chemicals are able to block UV rays.
Chemical sunscreens usually contain oxybenzone, octocrylene, ecamsule, avobenzone, and other toxic ingredients that can potentially disrupt your hormones, cause skin reactions, and worsen skin discoloration. They can also damage marine life and coral reefs.
Mineral sunscreen, on the other hand, works by reflecting the UV rays away from your body by sitting on top of your skin. The most common ingredient in a mineral sunscreen is zinc, which is safer than the chemicals typically found in synthetic sunscreens. Mineral sunscreen is a great option for most people with sensitive skin, so I almost always look for chemical-free sunscreens just to be safe since I always want to use the least harmful sunscreen.
How to look for clean skincare and beauty products:
When you’re looking for clean skincare and beauty products, the Environmental Working Group has a great tool that can check how toxic your products are for you. EWG rates that are lower on a scale of 1 to 10 are safer. It’s not perfect, and it flags some products that can be safe for some people, but it’s a good place to start if you don’t know where to begin researching safe products. Some chemical sunscreens (like Supergoop) still score low on the EWG scale because they use clean chemicals and pass the test as safe, non-toxic sunscreens.
I shy away from the words “natural” when referring to skincare and personal care products since not all naturally-occurring ingredients are safe (e.g. lead is natural and it’s in many color cosmetics), but people often equate non-toxic sunscreens with natural sunscreens, and I think it’s important to distinguish between those two terms, since “natural” can be misleading if you’re not informed.
Okay, let’s get into some sunscreen picks so you can find the ones that will work best for you and get on with protecting your skin and enjoying your life!
Best non-toxic face sunscreens for your face, body & family
Best Non-Toxic Face Sunscreens
OS-01 FACE SPF 30+
My #1 favorite non-toxic face sunscreen is the OS-01 FACE SPF 30+ by OneSkin. It meets all of my high standards: clean ingredients, not greasy, no white-cast, etc. The consistency is amazing, and it feels great on my skin all day. It’s made with 100% Non-Nano Mineral Broad Spectrum UV filters and potent antioxidants. This is the best safe sunblock for face that I’ve tried. Use code TERILYN15 for 15% off.
Dime Beauty Wonderscreen™ SPF 30
Dime Beauty’s mineral-based sunscreen provides SPF 30 protection without any toxic additives. Its key ingredients are zinc oxide, beetroot, and squalane, which help to soothe, protect, fight wrinkles, and hydrate the skin. It’s safe for all skin types, free from harmful chemicals, vegan, and cruelty-free. This is a little thicker than some sunscreens so it takes a little more time to rub in, but it’s great once it’s fully absorbed and it’s not greasy. It also won’t leave you with a white cast. This is slightly more work to rub into skin, but I do like its packaging better.
You can read my review of other Dime Beauty products here
Barefaced SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen (Non-Tinted)
If you want a high-performing mineral sunscreen without any tint, the original Barefaced SPF is a solid go-to. It’s made with non-nano zinc oxide for broad-spectrum protection, plus a blend of niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and squalane to hydrate, soothe, and support your skin barrier throughout the day.
The formula feels more like a lightweight moisturizer than a typical sunscreen—no chalky finish, no greasy residue, and zero white cast (seriously). It absorbs quickly and layers beautifully under makeup or on its own, which is a big deal for a non-tinted zinc-based sunscreen.
It’s also fragrance-free and designed with sensitive skin in mind, so if you’ve struggled to find a clean SPF that doesn’t clog your pores or cause irritation, this sunscreen is the one to try. I reach for it on days when I don’t want any coverage but still want hydration and protection in one step. It’s similar to OneSkin’s SPF but more affordable and Barefaced sells a great tinted SPF as well (which I reviewed in detail in my tinted SPF blog post).
ECLIPSE Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
This is on my wishlist to try since I’ve heard so many good things. I’m also a sucker for the pretty pink packaging. Eclipse Sheer Mineral Sunscreen is a lightweight and clean SPF 30 mineral formula that’s non-irritating, blendable, and super hydrating. Macroalgae, green tea extract, and jojoba esters help protect from environmental stressors, blue light, and overproduction of oil (which we’re all more prone to in the warmer months) while making skin appear fresher and more radiant. It goes on sheer so it won’t leave a white cast and doesn’t have the typical sunscreen scent so it’s perfect for everyday wear. If you’ve tried this, I’d love to hear what you think! I’m particularly interested in the macroalgae since I’ve used Osea moisturizers, which also uses marine products, and love them.
Best non-toxic spray sunscreens
Thinksport Kids SPF 50 All Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Spray
Thinksport Kids SPF 50 All Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Spray is a mineral-based, non-aerosol sunscreen spray that is specially formulated for children, but works just as well for adults. It has 20% non-nano zinc oxide and doesn’t contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, or parabens. It’s hard to find sheer mineral sunscreens, but this one is great and leaves no white cast! I keep this one in my running shoe basket and apply it before all my daytime runs!
Best non-toxic body sunscreens
Florida Squeezed SPF 50 Sunscreen Non-Aerosol Spray
This is my #1 pick for a spray sunscreen since it applies clear and smells great. Florida Squeezed SPF 50 Sunscreen Non-Aerosol Spray is a chemical sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. While it is a chemical sunscreen, it has been deemed safe and does not include oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, or phthalates. It’s made with vitamin E, aloe vera, and naturally scented with Florida oranges!
The clear formula is especially great for re-applying since I find white casts tend to build over the day and it was just easier to use when I had sand on my body at the beach . This is also the one I keep in my golf bag so my hands don’t get greasy with a lotion and so my golf outfits don’t get ruined by a white cast.
EltaMD UV Active Full Body Sunscreen
EltaMD is super popular sunscreen brand (known mostly for their Glow Facial Tinted Sunscreen because of Haley Bieber) but my pick is the UV Active Full Body Sunscreen Lotion by EltaMD. Not only does it have SPF 50+, but it’s made with a blend of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which work together to block both UVA and UVB rays. It’s fragrance-free AND won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. It has a VERY low rating on the EWG scale, making it a good option for many! This was also a top pick when I polled my Instagram friends on their favorite sunscreens!
Badger Sport Mineral Sunscreen Cream SPF 40
Badger Sport Sunscreen Cream SPF 40 is a mineral-based sunscreen made with organic sunflower oil, beeswax, and vitamin E for extra hydration. The product is free from harmful chemicals, hypoallergenic, and unscented. It’s a fabulous organic sunscreen for the face. This can also be used on your face, but some people complained of a greasy feeling, so if you have oily skin I would pass. This formula is water-resistant and made for outdoor activities and sports (which is perfect for hot North Carolina summers). This was another top pick from my Instagram friends.
Best non-toxic sunscreen for pregnancy
When it comes to choosing sunscreen during pregnancy, you want to make sure to look for products that are safe and non-toxic for both you and your baby. It’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before using any new skincare products during pregnancy, but this is a great non-toxic option:
Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen
Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen is a mineral sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone and octinoxate. It is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. And not only is it great for pregnancy, but this is also a great option for babies (which is actually who it’s made for!) since it’s been tested for skin irritation and allergy.
Primally Pure SPF 30 Sunscreen
Primally Pure’s new Sun Cream SPF 30 has been a must-have in my pregnancy skincare routine. When you’re pregnant, you’re suddenly hyper-aware of every ingredient—and this one gives me peace of mind. It’s made with non-nano zinc oxide for safe, effective sun protection, and the rest of the formula is full of nourishing, pregnancy-safe ingredients like grass-fed tallow, mango butter, and jojoba oil. No harsh chemicals, no synthetic fragrance, and no worrying about what’s soaking into your skin.
The texture is creamy and hydrating—perfect for pregnancy skin that’s more sensitive or prone to dryness. It blends in easily without a white cast or greasy finish, which makes reapplying actually pleasant (even on hot, swollen days). I keep it in my bag so I’m always covered when I’m out with my kids or getting some much-needed sunshine. If you’re expecting and looking for a clean, moisturizing sunscreen that feels as good as it performs, this one is absolutely worth trying.
Best non-toxic sunscreen for sensitive skin
Primally Pure SPF 30 Sunscreen
Primally Pure’s new Sun Cream SPF 30 Lotion has also become my go-to sunscreen—I’ve been using it nonstop since it arrived. It’s a mineral-based formula made with non-nano zinc oxide, and the ingredient list reads more like skincare than sunscreen: grass-fed tallow, mango butter, jojoba oil, and other nourishing essentials that actually support your skin barrier. The texture is rich but sinks in quickly, with no white cast and zero greasy residue. It leaves my skin feeling moisturized and protected, not sticky or heavy.
I keep a tube in my pool bag at all times because it checks every box: it’s safe for the kiddos, gentle on sensitive skin, and doesn’t dry us out after a long day in the sun. It blends in easily—no frantic rubbing or awkward streaks—and I feel good using it daily, knowing the ingredients are as clean and effective as they come. If you’ve been looking for a truly non-toxic SPF that feels like a treat to wear, this is it.
Best non-toxic tinted sunscreen
I really only like to use tinted sunscreen on my face since tinted body sunscreens rub off on everything. For face sunscreen, these are my favorite tinted options:
Crunchi Sunlight® Tinted SPF 30
The Sunlight® Tinted SPF 30 from Crunchi is a tinted moisturizer with SPF built it. It gives just a slight bit of coverage, it’s hydrating, and the SPF does not dry me out (rare for tinted moisturizers). I LOVE this for everyday wear. Read my full review of Crunchi makeup here.
Read a full roundup of the best tinted moisturizers for each skin type here.
Barefaced Tinted Sunscreen
If there’s one tinted sunscreen that truly checks all the boxes, it’s this SPF from Barefaced. It gives you high SPF 50 protection, blends in like a dream (no chalky cast in sight), and leaves your skin with the prettiest natural glow. The coverage is super lightweight—just enough to even things out without feeling like makeup—and I love that it’s packed with skincare ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. It’s the one I keep coming back to, especially on no-makeup days when I still want to look pulled together and protected.
Best non-toxic sunscreen for kids
Florida Squeezed SPF 50 Sunscreen Non-Aerosol Spray
This top pick for spray sunscreen also made the cut for kid-friendly SPF. It applies clear for a no-mess application with squirmy toddlers, and smells like fresh oranges. (The citrusy scent is a great way to get your kid excited about sunscreen!) I love that this product prevents white casts from forming, so it’s super convenient to use for both me and my 2.5 year old.
Thinkbaby Clear Zinc Sunscreen SPF 30
This clear non-nano zinc formula is pediatric dermatologist recommended and extra gentle for babies. It has aloe and vitamin E for cooling and conditioning without any toxic or harmful ingredients. It doesn’t leave a greasy feeling or a white cast, and is another go-to for when I need to put sunscreen on Thomas or Charles since they won’t hold still long enough for me to rub in lotions that are very white.
Thinksport Kids SPF 50 All Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Spray
Thinksport Kids SPF 50 All Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Spray was one of my top picks for a non-aerosol spray SPF, but it’s also one of my top picks for kid’s sunscreen. It’s SO easy to apply, contains only great ingredients, and doesn’t leave a white cast.
Pipette Mineral Sunscreen – SPF 50
Pipette Mineral Sunscreen was recommended by a few of my friends on Instagram and I recently got my hands on it, and it really is great. Like the others in the post, Pipette Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is a super clean, mineral-based sunscreen that uses non-nano zinc as the main active ingredient. It does not contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and synthetic fragrances, so it’s great for all skin types, including sensitive skin. This one gets bonus points because it also contains plant-derived squalane and glycerin, which help hydrate and nourish the skin while providing sun protection. (You can buy Pipette on Amazon if you prefer, but I do like the new packaging on the Pipette website.)
Primally Pure SPF 30 Sunscreen
Primally Pure’s Sun Cream SPF 30 Lotion is one of the few sunscreens I feel truly good about using on my kids. It’s made with non-nano zinc oxide for safe, mineral-based sun protection—no chemical filters, no synthetic fragrances, and no sketchy ingredients. The formula is packed with nourishing ingredients like mango butter and jojoba oil, so it doesn’t dry out their sensitive skin or cause irritation, even with daily use.
It blends in surprisingly easily (a big deal with squirmy little ones!) and doesn’t leave them looking ghostly. i put this in my Sunbuddies applicator to use on my kids every day and keep a tube in our pool bag all summer long—it’s gentle, effective, and something I actually trust for their sensitive skin. While you’re at it, grab the Primally Pure SPF face stick too – it’s great for getting kids’ noses, cheeks, and ears.
Hot tip for toddler moms: you can also take any lotion sunscreen and put it in this sunscreen applicator tool from Amazon for easy applying. My son even likes applying it to himself!
Best Lip SPF for Everyday Protection
OneSkin OS-01 Lip SPF
The OneSkin OS-01 Lip SPF is a wellness-forward lip sunscreen built not just for UV protection but for long-term lip health. With non-nano zinc oxide and a peptide blend (including their signature OS-01 peptide), it targets both sun damage and cellular aging—all while delivering hydration. It’s flavorless, scentless, and goes on smoothly, almost like a gloss. It’s worth noting that it does make my lips have a little bit of a white cast, so I often layer it over lip liner. At $29, it’s premium—but the science-backed formula and antioxidant support make it feel worth it.
Primally Pure Sun Lip Balm SPF 15
For a more affordable, minimalist option, Primally Pure’s Sun Lip Balm SPF 15 is a standout in clean beauty circles. It combines non-nano zinc oxide with ultra-nourishing ingredients like grass-fed tallow, mango butter, and beeswax—just nine total, all nature-based. It moisturizes, protects, and soothes, and doesn’t leave a white cast (but it doesn’t feel as luxe as the OneSkin option). It’s gentle enough for daily wear, travel-friendly, and wallet-friendly—around $14.
I hope this post helps you find the best chemical free sunblock for your face and family!
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