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Maybe you’re on a wellness kick, maybe you’re familiar with the dangers some chemical sunscreens can have on the environment—regardless, natural sunscreens are here for you. Also known as physical or mineral sunscreens, these products’ main ingredients are the minerals zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which essentially create a physical barrier between your skin and the sun, reflecting the damaging rays away. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, work more internally.
“You put chemical sunscreens on your skin, and they protect your skin with a chemical reaction, while physical sunscreen physically protects your skin from the sun,” explains Leslie C. Lucchina, M.D., a Boston-based dermatologist. “A lot of physical sunscreens you can actually see on the skin because they’re white.
“People prefer physical sunblocks because they like the idea of physically protecting themselves from light,” she added, “and, while with chemical sunblocks you can’t see where you’ve applied, physical sunblocks will alert you to the places you've missed.”
If those words conjure up images of ’80s sunbathers with white streaks on their noses, you’re not far off—these minerals, especially zinc oxide, have been around for a long time. But worry not: Many mineral sunscreens, especially those on this list, are now just as sheer as their chemical counterparts. Lucchina suggests mineral sunscreens for those with super fair skin, freckles or pigmentation, or for those planning on using the lotion on a baby.
So dive in and lather on, here are the best natural sunscreens to keep you covered all summer long:
AMOREPACIFIC Natural Protector Broad Spectrum SPF 35 Sunscreen
This sunscreen is like the rosé spritz of sunscreens. But unlike that other spritz, this is good for your skin, fighting off damaging UV rays while leaving you with a lovely sun-kissed glow. The real highlight, though, is its ingredients, which include such delightful extracts like bamboo sap and lotus flower. It’s perfect for all skin types and is so successful at combatting oiliness that you can use it as a makeup primer. In other words, it’s easy to incorporate into your daily routine, even if that routine doesn’t include a visit to the beach.
Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30
Unlike many mineral sunscreens, Drunk Elephant one offers sheer protection, literally, so you won’t have to worry about discoloring your face during the process. Its lighthearted design is sure to spark joy in even the most Marie-Kondo of users, but if that’s not feel-good enough, the company also works to protect the elephants of the world by supporting the International Elephant Foundation.
EltaMD UV Lotion Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+
From the cult-favorite EltaMD comes this broad-spectrum lotion, safe for all skin types. With minimalist packaging and a capped pump to prevent any spillage during your sun-filled adventures, this is an easy and unfussy product that will do its job and do it well. Plus, it’s good for full-body coverage so you can use it anywhere, anytime.
CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
This sunscreen will not only protect your skin from burning up, it will also protect it from drying out. Its trio of natural ceramides restore your skin and keep moisture locked in long after you’ve returned indoors. Plus, it’s been recognized by the National Eczema Association and awarded the Skin Cancer Foundation’s “Daily Use” Seal of Recommendation. As for application, start small and rub it in well to minimize any discoloration.
Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen—Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30+ Broad Protection
If there’s anyone to trust with your skin protection, it’s got to be the Aussies. This sunscreen is both water-resistant and good for the reefs, so your swimming can be guilt-free. Unsure if you really need sunscreen somedays? Just take the bottle out of your bag and wait for it to turn blue—its Smart Bottle Technology will show you if harmful UV rays are present.
MDSolarSciences Mineral Sunscreen Stick Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Keep it in your yoga bag, keep it in your car—this super-portable sunscreen stick can fit anywhere. It’s perfect for getting that one spot you missed earlier or for when your nose needs a little extra attention (no one wants to look like Rudolph out of season). With anti-aging properties and a formula sensitive enough for babies as young as six months, this is a stick you can carry around to for when any family member needs some last-minute coverage.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Body and Face Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
This sunscreen from the famous French brand La Roche-Posay has it all. Water-resistant up to 80 minutes, with a super-high SPF of 50, your skin will stay safe throughout all your sunny activities, and because it’s available in a TSA-compliant size, you can bring it wherever you go. Formulated with clay, it’s non-whitening and non-greasy, and promises a soft, matte finish for practically invisible protection. Do as the French do, and be laissez-faire knowing your skin is safe with this mineral sunblock.
