The 6 Best Natural Sunscreens
We're in the thick of summer now — have you found a good sunscreen yet? Of course, wearing sun protection is important all year round. And since we rub it directly into our skin, we want to make sure it's the safest, most effective cream it can be. Here are a few of the top skin-friendly sunscreens on the market, their reviews, and some pros and cons for each.
To see your favorite formula's rating, check out the Environmental Working Group (EGW)'s 2015 Guide to Sunscreens.
1. Del Mar Shade (SPF 32)
4.4 stars with 83 reviews
Price: $19.97 for 4 oz.
USA-made Del Mar Shade sunscreen is organic, fragrance-free, biodegradable, and safe for wearers of all ages — even babies under six months old. The non-nano, not-micronized zinc oxide helps absorb up to 97% of UV rays across the UVA and UVB spectrums. Many reviewers, even those who rave about this product, complain that it's hard to rub in fully and leaves white, chalky residue. But if you're unhappy with this sunscreen, the company offers a 100% money back guarantee. Certainly worth a try!
2. Babyganics Sunscreen (SPF 50)
4.3 stars with 180 reviews
Price: $15.98 for 12 oz.
Babyganics offers water-resistant sun protection for 80 minutes. This mix is tear-free and hypoallergenic, so it won't irritate sensitive skin. It's also reasonably priced. A reviewer noted that this popular mineral-based sunscreen does actually contain chemicals. The company replied that the ingredient — octisalate — has been rated safe by the EWG and doesn't pose cancer concerns. For a truly chemical-free sun lotion from this brand, try the Pure Mineral Sunscreen in SPF 30.
3. Badger Sport (SPF 35)
3.6 stars with 196 reviews
Price: $13.59 for 3 oz.
Talk about simple! There are only six ingredients in this Badger Sport sunscreen. It's also 100% certified natural and 94% certified organic. All Badger sunscreens rate highly, including formulas for babies and kids, but this particular mix is unscented and made for sports with 80-minute water resistance. I have personal experience with this product, and though it works well at helping me avoid burns, it can feel greasy.
4. BurnOut Eco (SPF 35)
4 stars with 184 reviews
Price: $15.50 for 3 oz.
If you have sensitive skin, BurnOut Eco promises to be a great sunscreen for everyday wear. The lotion goes on clear and matte with UVA/UVB broad spectrum protection. Its formula is also free of chemicals, parabens, petroleum, and fragrances, all while being eco-sensitive, ocean safe, and biodegradable. Some reviewers complain that BurnOut is only water resistant for 40 minutes and stings their eyes. Also: It can leave skin feeling somewhat dry.
5. Blue Lizard Sensitive (SPF 30+)
4.6 stars with 273 reviews
Price: $24.50 for 8.75 oz.
Dermatologist-recommended and Amazon number one bestseller Blue Lizard sunscreen gets high marks for its clever packaging. Whenever harmful rays are present, its label turns blue to let you know. This gentle formula contains 10% zinc oxide and 5% titanium dioxide to shield even the most sensitive skin. Several reviewers mention that this sunscreen is not waterproof or even water resistant, so it will need to be reapplied often for optimal protection.
6. Thinkbaby Safe (SPF 50+)
4.3 stars with 625 reviews
Price: $10.99 for 3 oz.
Another Amazon bestseller, Thinkbaby Safe is a highly rated sunscreen for your little ones. The brand, like others on this list, also boasts the highest 80 minute water resistance rating. And just because it's marketed for babies doesn't mean adults can't (and don't) wear it, too. A few reviewers report that their sunscreen separated into solid chunks and thin liquid.
What's your favorite sunscreen?
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