Best Natural Sunscreens: Finding the Perfect
Summertime is synonymous with lounging by the pool, soaking up the sun’s rays. But, before you go slathering on the sunscreen, be sure to take advantage of this list of the best natural sunscreens.
This list of the best natural sunscreens will highlight the top options for you when it comes to finding a natural sunscreen to protect you from the sun. Whether you’re heading to the beach or just taking a walk around the block, be sure to arm yourself with one of these great natural sunscreens.
A few other lists that you might benefit from after reading through this list of the best natural sunscreens are our lists of the best sunscreens for your face, best kid’s sunscreens, and best sun visors. All of these lists will help to keep you better protected from the sun.
Top 20 Natural Sunscreens:
1. EltaMD UV Pure Broad-Spectrum SPF 47
Price: $32.00
About Natural Sunscreen: EltaMD UV Pure is a non-comedogenic, broad-spectrum sunscreen designed for sensitive skin. It’s lightweight, water-resistant, and provides UVA/UVB protection using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Great for daily wear, especially under makeup. It’s gentle, fragrance-free, and highly rated by dermatologists.
2. Badger SPF 30 Unscented Sunscreen Cream
Price: $16.99
About Natural Sunscreen: Badger’s SPF 30 sunscreen uses 98% organic ingredients for natural, mineral-based sun protection. Its creamy texture is moisturizing, and it’s safe for all ages. With no added fragrance, it’s excellent for sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Reef-safe and water-resistant up to 40 minutes.
3. Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
Price: $14.59
About Natural Sunscreen: Sun Bum’s Mineral SPF 50 Lotion offers powerful sun protection with a lightweight, zinc-based formula. It’s vegan, reef-friendly, and free from parabens and sulfates. Designed for water lovers, it resists sweat and splash. A great choice for active, outdoor lifestyles.
4. Thinksport SPF 50+ Sunscreen
Price: $17.89
About Natural Sunscreen: Thinksport SPF 50+ delivers broad-spectrum protection using clean, non-toxic ingredients. It’s water-resistant up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for swimming or sports. Dermatologist-recommended and free of harmful chemicals. Smooth application with a mild, pleasant scent.
5. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen SPF 30+
Price: $18.01
About Natural Sunscreen: Blue Lizard is a trusted brand in mineral sunscreens with SPF 30+ protection. It’s water-resistant and formulated with zinc oxide for physical UV defense. Suitable for all skin types and gentle on sensitive skin. Ideal for beach days or daily use.
6. Bare Republic Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
Price: $18.42
About Natural Sunscreen: Bare Republic’s Mineral SPF 50 sunscreen is non-greasy and designed for sensitive skin. It’s powered by zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, offering full-spectrum protection. With its lightweight and reef-safe formula, it’s great for eco-conscious users. Gentle enough for daily application.
7. Alba Botanica Sunscreen for Face
Price: $10.61
About Natural Sunscreen: Alba Botanica’s facial sunscreen is ideal for delicate or acne-prone skin. It provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without harsh chemicals. Non-greasy and enriched with aloe and antioxidants. A solid budget-friendly option for everyday wear.
8. Supergoop! Zincscreen 100% Mineral Lotion SPF 40
Price: $48.00
About Natural Sunscreen: Supergoop! Zincscreen uses non-nano zinc oxide for powerful, mineral-only protection. It leaves a matte finish, making it great under makeup. Vegan and clean-ingredient certified. Designed for sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin types.
9. Kopari Sun Shield Body Glow SPF 50
Price: $32.50
About Natural Sunscreen: Kopari’s SPF 50 body sunscreen provides a shimmering finish while protecting the skin. Infused with coconut oil, it nourishes while shielding against UV rays. Water-resistant and reef-safe. A glowing choice for beachgoers and outdoor events.
10. Raw Elements Eco Form Sunscreen SPF 30
Price: $19.49
About Natural Sunscreen: Raw Elements offers certified natural, reef-safe protection with broad-spectrum SPF 30. Packed with antioxidants and moisturizing ingredients like green tea and vitamin E. Ideal for both adults and children. Safe, water-resistant, and biodegradable.
11. Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc SPF 30
Price: $18.00
About Natural Sunscreen: Babo Botanicals’ mineral sunscreen is safe for babies, kids, and sensitive skin. It uses non-nano zinc for physical sun defense. Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and water-resistant. Great for family use and gentle enough for everyday wear.
12. California Baby Super Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30+
Price: $25.99
About Natural Sunscreen: California Baby’s Super Sensitive sunscreen is free from fragrance, parabens, and sulfates. Formulated with titanium dioxide for effective, non-chemical sun defense. Gentle enough for infants and sensitive adults. Pediatrician-recommended and allergy-tested.
13. Green People Organic SPF 30 Sunscreen
Price: $88.03
About Natural Sunscreen: Green People Organic Sunscreen offers certified organic ingredients in a non-toxic, mineral-based formula. It protects and nourishes with ingredients like aloe vera and green tea. Excellent for sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Eco-friendly and cruelty-free.
14. Badger Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Price: $17.99
About Natural Sunscreen: Badger’s SPF 50 Sport sunscreen is made for active lifestyles. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and features organic sunflower oil and beeswax. Non-whitening and great for outdoor endurance sports. Safe for reefs and coral reefs.
15. Mineral Sunscreen SPF 25
Price: $19.99
About Natural Sunscreen: Beauty by Earth offers gentle, SPF 25 mineral sun protection with clean, organic ingredients. It’s non-greasy and safe for babies, kids, and adults. Hydrates skin while shielding from harmful rays. Reef-friendly and cruelty-free.
16. Dr. Dennis Gross Sheer Mineral Sun Spray SPF 50
Price: $42.00
About Natural Sunscreen: This sheer spray from Dr. Dennis Gross uses mineral actives for lightweight SPF 50 protection. Easy to apply and quick to absorb, it’s perfect for reapplication. Fragrance-free and ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Elegant and effective for on-the-go use.
17. All Good Sport Sunscreen SPF 30
Price: $21.99
About Natural Sunscreen: All Good Sport Sunscreen offers non-nano zinc protection with a creamy, blendable texture. Water- and sweat-resistant for 80 minutes. Packed with organic green tea and rose hips. A favorite among surfers, athletes, and outdoor explorers.
18. Earth Mama Organics Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40
Price: $18.99
About Natural Sunscreen: Earth Mama’s SPF 40 mineral sunscreen is gentle enough for babies but effective for the whole family. Made with organic red raspberry seed oil and shea butter. Free from artificial fragrance and preservatives. Great for beach days or playground time.
19. Thrive Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF50
Price: $29.95
About Natural Sunscreen: Thrive’s reef-safe sunscreen combines plant-based ingredients with SPF 50 protection. Eco-friendly and biodegradable, it’s great for travel and outdoor sports. Offers antioxidant benefits while shielding from UV rays. Non-greasy and long-lasting.
20. Suntegrity Natural Sunscreen SPF 30
Price: $48.00
About Natural Sunscreen: Suntegrity’s SPF 30 sunscreen doubles as skincare with anti-aging ingredients like aloe, jojoba, and green tea. Non-toxic and vegan, it’s great for face and body use. Leaves a smooth, non-whitening finish. A premium option for daily sun protection.
Editor’s Picks for the Best Natural Sunscreens
When it comes to choosing the best natural sunscreens, a few options consistently stand out. EltaMD UV Pure Broad-Spectrum SPF 47 remains a top pick due to its dermatologist-approved formula and suitability for sensitive skin. Thinksport SPF 50+ Sunscreen is another editor favorite for its water resistance and clean, sport-ready ingredients. For those seeking luxury and performance, Supergoop! Zincscreen SPF 40 delivers a smooth matte finish perfect for daily facial use. Each of these combines effective UV protection with clean, skin-friendly formulas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Natural Sunscreens
What makes a sunscreen “natural”?
Natural sunscreens use mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide instead of chemical UV filters. These minerals act as physical barriers, reflecting the sun’s rays off the skin.
Are natural sunscreens better for sensitive skin?
Yes, natural sunscreens are typically free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and preservatives, making them ideal for sensitive or allergy-prone skin types.
Do natural sunscreens leave a white cast?
Some mineral sunscreens can leave a slight white residue, but many newer formulas are designed to blend more easily into all skin tones. Look for products labeled as “sheer” or “non-whitening.”
Are natural sunscreens water-resistant?
Many of the best natural sunscreens are water- and sweat-resistant, but it’s always important to reapply after swimming or heavy sweating for full protection.
Can natural sunscreen be used on kids?
Absolutely. Most natural sunscreens are safe for children, especially those labeled as baby-friendly or hypoallergenic. Always check the product label for age recommendations.
Tips for Choosing the Best Natural Sunscreens
1. Check for Broad-Spectrum Coverage
Choose a sunscreen labeled “broad-spectrum” to ensure it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. This is especially important when selecting a natural sunscreen, as some only offer UVB protection.
2. Prioritize Non-Nano Zinc or Titanium
Non-nano particles are too large to penetrate the skin, making them safer for the body and better for reef ecosystems. Look for this label when selecting a reef-safe sunscreen.
3. Match the Formula to Your Skin Type
For oily or acne-prone skin, lightweight or matte formulas like Supergoop! Zincscreen work well. For dry or sensitive skin, options with added moisturizers like coconut oil or aloe vera are ideal.
4. Consider the Application Type
Lotions are great for thorough coverage, while sprays and sticks are convenient for on-the-go reapplication. For babies or the face, creams tend to offer better control and coverage.
5. Always Look for Reef-Safe Certification
If you plan on swimming in the ocean, choose a reef-safe sunscreen to avoid harming marine life. This is especially relevant in eco-sensitive areas like Hawaii or the Great Barrier Reef.
Best Natural Sunscreens Conclusion
We hope this list has helped you find the best natural sunscreen for your needs. Remember to always apply sunscreen generously and reapply often, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.
And, if you have any questions about natural sunscreens, be sure to ask us in the comments below.
If you have tried any of these natural sunscreens before, we would love to hear your feedback below in the comments.
