- by Sally
*This post contains affiliate links. Please see my D&D policy.
Y’all know how much I love skincare products, and sunscreens are no exception! In fact, sunscreen is one of the most important products I use in my skincare routine. It blocks the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun from damaging the skin.
Using a good, non-toxic sunscreen everyday is one of my #1 tips to help prevent premature aging. This along with a big sun hat will help prevent aging better than anything else 🙌
And because my fair skin burns so easily, I have a nice collection of clean, non-toxic sunscreens on my counter. These are physical sunscreens, meaning they sit on top of the skin and reflect the sun’s rays, as opposed to chemical sunscreens which get absorbed by the skin and take at least 30 minutes to start providing sun protection. Physical sunscreens are much safer and more effective than chemical sunscreens.
Here are the top offending ingredients in chemical sunscreens:
- Homosalate
- Oxybenzone
- Avobenzone
- Octocrylene
- Octinoxate
- Nanoparticles
- Parabens
- Fragrance
You’ll want to avoid sunscreens that have these ingredients since they do more harm than good!
The primary ingredient in physical sunscreens that provides protection for the skin is zinc oxide. Non-nano zinc oxide is the best ingredient to look for in a sunscreen.
I’ll keep adding to the list below as I find new favorites, but here are some tried and true physical sunscreens that are clean, non-toxic and HHW-Approved:
Dime Sunscreens
Both the tinted and un-tinted versions are great and work really well under makeup. I love that it provides a dewy finish on the skin and does not break my sensitive skin out. Dime is a great, budget-friendly, clean skincare brand and their sunscreens are no exception! (Note: Their pump bottles aren’t the best for their sunscreens, but the actual product is good)
Kinfield Sunglow
This has quickly become a new favorite! It has a slightly pink hue and luminous finish, so it literally makes my skin glow. I love it! And it works great under makeup as well (although I love how good my skin looks with it on even without makeup).
dōTERRA Face Sunscreen
dōTerra’s sunscreens for face and body are gentle, non-greasy, and absorb really well, with no white residue. I love the fresh and light scent from the essential oils and how clean these are. Great option for the whole family! They also have a spray sunscreen for the body that is excellent 🙌
Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint
If you want a foundation, a serum, and a sunscreen all rolled into one, the Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint is your answer! This provides great coverage and really is a product that does it all. The trick is finding the shade that works for your skin tone. But I love the foundation-like consistency and finish of this product. Ilia is a great, clean makeup brand!
Derma E Oil-Free Mineral Sunscreen
This is a great drug store brand sunscreen! Works well under makeup, and I love that it is non-comedogenic as well as non-toxic. And at $12, it’s a great budget-friendly option!
Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc Continuous Spray
This is a great, clean brand for the whole family (they have a number of products specifically for babies)! This air-powered mineral spray sunscreen is perfect for the pool, sporting events, or a day in the sun. This is a great option for using all over, not just face.
Having fun in the sun shouldn’t involve toxic chemicals or bad sunburns! You can protect your skin with healthy ingredients so you can enjoy the great outdoors! Check back as I’ll update this page as I continue to find clean sunscreens ☀️