Beauty

The Best Non-Toxic Sunscreens of 2020

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You already know that sunscreen is our top beauty secret and pool-side accessory (sun protection is chic, ladies!). Even if you’re one of the lucky ones who do not burn like a literal lobster after 25 minutes outside (guilty!), sun exposure can cause wrinkles and premature aging, but most importantly, skin cancer. We depend on our trusty SPF to protect our skin and our health from harmful sun rays. But unfortunately, all sunscreens are not created equal.

A recent study done by the FDA found that the active ingredients in many of the sunscreens you might be using (and using on a regular basis if you’re doing it right) can be absorbed into the blood at levels that exceed what the FDA deems “safe.” While the FDA is currently undertaking new SPF regulations (the future is promising!), many of our current sunscreen options can be laced with harmful chemicals.

 

Why should you chose mineral-based sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreen, as opposed to chemical sunscreen, is exactly what it sounds like: sunscreen that uses minerals (most commonly zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) to protect from the sun. The minerals sit on top of your skin and reflect UV rays so they don’t reach you (think: a bunch of tiny mirrors reflecting the light). Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the rays through a chemical reaction. While this process protects rays from burning your skin, your body still absorbs the chemicals, and the chemicals can seep into your bloodstream.

Since mineral sunscreen is not absorbed as much as chemical formulas, it’s considered the more non-toxic option (plus, it’s better for the environment). However, just because a sunscreen says it’s mineral does not always mean it does not also contain chemicals. Look for options that claim 100 percent mineral-based active ingredients, and research the ingredients of any sunscreen you’re unsure about.

For more information on healthy sunscreen practices and harmful ingredients, check out the EWG’s 2020 sunscreen report, and shop our picks below for the very best non-toxic, mineral-based, and natural sunscreens that 2020 has to offer:

 

The Best Non-Toxic Sunscreens of 2020

 

For the Face

Supergoop!
Glowscreen Sunscreen SPF 40
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Coola
Organic Sun Silk Drops SPF 30
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Ren Clean Skincare
Clean Screen Mattifying Face Sunscreen SPF 30
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Biossance
Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
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Drunk Elephant
Physical Daily Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30
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Supergoop!
Glow Stick SPF 50
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For the Body

Beautycounter
Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Mist SPF 30
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Coola
Mineral Body Sunscreen SPF 30
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Suntegrity Skincare
Natural Mineral Sunscreen For Body
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Supergoop!
Glow Oil SPF 50
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Supergoop!
Forever Young Body Butter with Sea Buckthorn SPF 40
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Josie Maran
Whipped Argan Oil SPF 45 Body Butter
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Coola
Body Organic Sunscreen Spray SPF 70
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For Sport

Supergoop!
PLAY Antioxidant Mist SPF 50 with Vitamin C
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Bare Republic
Mineral Sport Stick SPF 50
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Juice Beauty
SPF 30 Sport Moisturizer
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Goddess Garden
SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen Continuous Spray Lotion for Sensitive Skin
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All Good
Organic Sunscreen Butter
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Supergoop!
PLAY Body Mousse SPF 50 with Blue Sea Kale
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For Children/Sensitive Skin

Thinkbaby
Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
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Aveeno
Sensitive Skin Sunscreen
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Supergoop!
Sunnyscreen 100% Mineral Lotion
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Sun Bum
Baby Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
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Babo Botanicals
Baby Skin SPF 50 Mineral Sheer & Gentle Sunscreen Lotion
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