It's World Ocean Day on the 8th June, and with sustainable beauty a widely-discussed topic, there's never been a better time to look at eco friendly sunscreens for summer.
Why should you choose eco friendly? suncare?
It's estimated that 14,000 tons of sunscreen end up in oceans and coral reefs every year from the products we apply onto our bodies. Oxybenzone in particular is one of the worst culprits, poisoning coral reefs in a similar way to how we would see everyday pollution; by bleaching the coral, it disrupts its growth and reproductive abilities, leaving young corals deformed and stunting new growth.
In Hawaii, sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate are set to become a thing of the past, and we're expecting even more American states and countries around the world to follow suit, meaning there's never been a better time to invest in more natural SPF formulations.
What should I look for in eco friendly sunscreens?
- Look out for mineral-based SPF formulations instead of chemical ones. Key ingredients include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are better for the ocean than chemical ones. Take a look at our mineral SPF guide here.
- Stay away from any sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate - they're on their way out and very damaging to the oceans.
- Where possible, go a step further and look for eco friendly sunscreens free from other chemical nasties, such as parabens, petrochemicals and silicones.
5 of the best eco friendly sunscreens
1.REN Clean Screen Mineral Sunscreen
The REN Skincare Clean Screen Mineral Sunscreen is a powerhouse of botanical ingredients that not only care for the planet, but also the skin. Completely free from nasty chemicals such as oxybenzone and completely vegan and cruelty-free, the suncream shields against both UVA and UVB rays, alongside blue light to help protect your skin against pollution and external aggressors. It's ocean-safe and also contains no silicone.2.La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+
One of the bestselling spfs in the industry, the La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ offers all round cover for the skin. Boasting broad spectrum UVA, UVB and ultra-long UVA protection, the water and sand-resistant sun cream is lightweight on the skin, soaking in quickly for maximum efficacy. Suitable for even the most sensitive skin types, it's a true all year round staple.3.Pai Skincare British Summer Time Sensitive Sunscreen
Formulated with zinc oxide as well as nourishing coconut extract, the Pai Skincare British Summer Time Sensitive Sunscreen is a soothing and non-greasy sun cream is specially formulated for daily use come rain or shine. Protecting the skin against UVA and UVB rays, the lightweight formula can be worn alone or under makeup to keep your skin shielded at all times.4.Aveda Daily Light Guard Defense Fluid for Skin - SPF 30
From all natural brand AVEDA, this Daily Light Guard Defense Fluid for Skin is made from 74% natural ingredients and contains mineral filters to protect the skin against both UVA and UVB rays. It feels super lightweight on the skin and doesn't leave a white cast behind. Plus, it's also great for sensitive skin types.5.Ultrasun SPF 50+ Anti-Pollution Face Fluid
The super high SPF 50 Face Protection Cream from Ultrasun is ideal for those with very fair and sensitive skin. It's free from oxybenzone and octocrylene and contains no perfume, mineral oil, silicones and preservatives. It shields the skin against both UVA and UVB rays and contains a unique extract which visibly brightens the complexion for a clearer and more radiant appearance.
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