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The 11 Best Reef-safe Sunscreens of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our favorite sunscreens keep the oceans safe and are protective, nourishing, and fast-absorbing.

In This Article

Our Top Picks
Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

Other beach gear you may need.

Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

As more and more tropical destinations ban harmful chemicals often found in traditional sunscreen, like oxybenzone and octinoxate, one of the best ways to help preserve aquatic wildlife is to wear reef-safe sunscreen. These products don't contribute to coral bleaching, and they're just as protective and nourishing as regular sunscreen, too. When you aren’t headed to the beach, using reef-safe sunscreen lessens the chance that you're sending damaging chemicals to water sources through your sink and shower drains.

There are a variety of reef-friendly sunscreens out there, so we thoroughly researched options that exclude chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate and found 26 options from trusted skincare brands. We tested them in our New York City lab, in everyday settings, and during sun-soaked getaways. Whether you’re surfing, snorkeling, or swimming in the ocean waves, our wide-ranging list has something to suit your needs. Plus, we have tips and tricks for buying reef-safe sunscreen to give you the best possible protection from the sun without environmental consequences.

Best Overall

Maui naturals surfer honey all natural sunscreen lotion spf 30.

Transfer 4.5 /5
Opacity 4.8 /5
Water Resistance 5 /5

The nutrient-rich and lightweight formula rubs in easily and leaves skin feeling hydrated but not greasy.

It has a slight white cast that goes away after a few minutes.

While Hawaii officially banned non-reef-safe sunscreens in 2021, Maui Naturals has been making our top-scoring Maui Surfer Honey sunscreen since 2009. The formula is creamy and hydrating and reminds us of a daily moisturizer thanks to its lightweight texture. It's easy to apply and feels gentle even on sensitive skin.

Made in Hawaii , the reef-friendly formula is free of harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, petrochemicals, and nanoparticles and includes natural ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba oil, and honey. We’re big fans of the hint-of-marshmallow aroma that comes from the sunscreen, as we found it to be subtle and sweet. The sunscreen is an off-white shade and left a little white cast that went away after the lotion had a few minutes to set into the skin. Compared to many of the reef-safe sunscreens we tested, the Maui Surfer Honey absorbed incredibly well. We also appreciated that the sunscreen didn’t transfer or come off after a sweaty workout, and we think the formula sets in perfectly for a variety of outdoor activities.

The Details: 30 SPF | 3 ounces | Up to 80 minutes of water resistance

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Sun Milk Body Lotion SPF 50

Transfer 5 /5
Opacity 5 /5
Water Resistance 4 /5

The texture of the sunscreen is milky and smooth, and it smells like a tropical breeze.

The bottle is prone to leaking, which may be messy for travel.

This Hawaiian Tropic sunscreen will instantly transport you to the beach thanks to its subtle but deliciously tropical scents. The milky texture applies like silk on the skin and, although it’s a little watery, it absorbs quickly without leaving a pesky residue behind. Plus, it didn't transfer at all when we rubbed our arms with a black T-shirt after application. While working out and swimming in the pool, none of the sunscreen came off or felt slimy, which led us to believe that this sun lotion lives up to its 80-minute water resistance.

We love the button applicator for applying the sunscreen, but we wish the bottle was more durable to avoid any possibility of spills occurring in a suitcase. That being said, we still think this is one of the best sunscreens we tried thanks to the silky texture, moisturizing effect, and sweet island aroma.

The Details: 50 SPF | 1.7 ounces, 3.4 ounces | Up to 80 minutes of water resistance

Best for Water Sports

Thinksport mineral sunscreen.

It stays on while in the water without dripping or rubbing off.

The white cast never fully went away after it was rubbed in.

This sunscreen has a thick, creamy texture that came out of the tube very smoothly. It felt quite similar to lotion, though the white cast remained after 15 minutes, despite the fact that it felt dry to the touch. Still, it doesn't feel greasy and didn't run on sweaty or wet faces, making this a great option for surfers, body boarders, and even divers. It has a very faint scent of citrus that we found to be pleasing, yet subtle. This vegan and dermatologist recommended formula is also approved for those with sensitive skin. And with an 80-minute water-resistance window, active adults and families with little ones can all happily add this sunscreen to their daily summer routines.

The Details: 50 SPF | 3 ounces | 80 minutes of water resistance

Best for Sensitive Skin

California baby super sensitive spf 30 lotion.

Feel 4.5 /5
Transfer 3.8 /5
Opacity 4.5 /5

The creamy, gentle formula is both reef- and baby-safe.

There is a white cast leftover that takes about 30 minutes to go away.

The California Baby Super Sensitive Lotion formula is free of harsh chemicals like oxybenzone and homosalate, and it’s allergy-tested so it’s safe for gluten, soy, tree nuts, peanut, and sesame allergies. We love the creamy and thick texture of the sunscreen, and even though it takes some elbow grease to rub in, it’s worth it for the non-greasy and hydrating effect it leaves on the skin. After wearing the sun lotion in the ocean, it didn’t run off or get into our eyes and cause stinging, so we think this sunscreen is an excellent option if you’re going on a tropical family vacation and need sun protection for a variety of ages and skin types.

The Details: 30 SPF | 2.9 ounces | Up to 80 minutes of water resistance

Best Non-greasy

Suntegrity skincare natural mineral body sunscreen.

Transfer 4.8 /5
Opacity 4 /5
Water Resistance 4.5 /5

The sunscreen rubs in seamlessly and feels nearly weightless without a trace of oily residue.

It has a mild orange scent our tester didn’t love.

Whether you’re swimming, hiking, running, or hitting the courts, we think Suntegrity’s mineral body sunscreen is ideal for all types of adventures thanks to the non-greasy feel of the lotion — perfect to stash in a beach tote or tennis bag . We love that it applies like a regular lotion with a little bit going a long way, and it feels super hydrating on the skin. You barely feel like you're wearing sunscreen thanks to the lightweight texture and refreshing ingredients like aloe vera, cucumber extract, and jojoba oil. Although the formula includes a variety of oil-based ingredients, the application and result don’t feel slick or greasy at all. There is a very minimal white cast after applying the sunscreen to larger parts of the body like legs and arms, but for a mineral-based sunscreen, the white cast isn’t nearly as bad as others we tried. Plus, if you’re a fan of citrus scents, you’ll like the sunblock's subtle orange aroma, too.

The Details: 30 SPF | 3 ounces

Best for Face

Summer fridays shadedrops spf 30 mineral milk sunscreen.

Feel 4.8 /5
Removal 5 /5

The sunscreen is super lightweight and absorbs quickly, especially on oily skin types.

It leaves a sheen on the face after it’s applied.

We think this face sunscreen from Summer Fridays is the perfect addition to your everyday skincare routine thanks to its protective and non-irritating formula. We were thoroughly impressed by the lightweight feel of the sunscreen that absorbed quickly and didn’t leave an oily residue. A little bit of the liquidy texture goes a long way, and while the lotion leaves a slight sheen after it’s absorbed, we like that it provides more of a glowy rather than greasy look. Best of all, the mineral formula is free of nanoparticles, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and other chemicals that can harm the ocean .

The Details: 30 SPF | 1.7 ounces

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Fragrance-free

Blue lizard sensitive mineral sunscreen spf 50.

The watery formula is super hydrating and free of any scents.

It doesn’t absorb easily and leaves a bit of a residue, which isn’t great for oily skin combinations.

For travelers looking for sunscreen that doesn’t have any added scent, this tube of Blue Lizard lotion is your best option. We’re big fans of the hydrating liquid texture that comes out of the bottle seamlessly and easily spreads around the body. Blue Lizard uses smart-cap technology that makes the cap of this tube change from translucent to blue if there is a harmful level of UV rays outside, so all you have to do is take the bottle out of your bag to see if applying is urgently needed. Because the formula is very watery, it might take some extra rubbing in to get the sunscreen to absorb, so we think the formula is best designed for dry skin rather than oily skin combinations. The sunscreen has a slight white cast and a residual greasiness, but it still feels hydrating and lightweight.

The Details: 50 SPF | 5 ounces | Up to 80 minutes of water resistance

Best Water-resistant

Kokua sun care sunscreen.

The sunscreen doesn’t transfer or run after getting wet, so it’s ideal for outdoor activities.

It takes some effort to fully rub it in.

Designed with outdoor activities top of mind, this sunscreen from Kokua has a plant-based formula and water resistance for up to 80 minutes. We found that the sheer formula is super gentle, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t come off in the water. The ingredients include spirulina, kukui nut oil, macadamia nut oil, noni, and plumeria — all of which are sourced from Hawaii to support local agriculture. The sunscreen ingredients are all approved in destinations with the strictest bans on harmful sunscreen including Palau, Maui, and the Big Island. The consistency of the sunscreen is slightly watery, and a little goes a long way, so the 3-ounce tube could easily last for a weeklong tropical vacation.

The Details: 50 SPF | 3 ounces | Up to 80 minutes of water resistance

Pipette Mineral Sunscreen

The mineral formula is thick but rubs in sheerer than other sunscreens we tried.

Some of the sunscreen ran off in the water and transferred onto a T-shirt during testing.

Mineral sunscreen has a bad rap for being overly thick and pasty, but the Pipette Mineral Sunscreen defies expectations by absorbing quickly without leaving any white cast or greasy residue behind. The non-nano zinc oxide formula provides broad-spectrum protection from harmful UV rays without damaging coral reefs, so you can feel good whether you’re swimming or snorkeling in the ocean . Other natural ingredients include sugarcane-derived squalene to help make the texture extra spreadable and red gooseberry extract for sun protection to create a formula that is designed to be gentle enough for babies, toddlers, and children. We did notice that after getting out of the water, some of the sunscreen ran off and transferred to a shirt, but it didn’t cause any skin irritation or stinging in the eyes.

The Details: 50 SPF | 4 ounces

Best for Families

Reef repair reef safe sunscreen spf 30+.

Water Resistance 3 /5

The sunscreen is easy to rub in and comes with two 1.7-ounce bottles to travel with.

It feels a little chalky once it dries on the skin.

We think the gentle and natural ingredients in Reef Repair’s Suncream make it an excellent choice for the entire family. The purchase includes two 1.7-ounce tubes of sunscreen so you can easily pack it in a carry-on or personal item without having to worry about stocking up when you arrive at your destination. We loved that a little bit of the thicker-consistency sunscreen provides plenty of coverage, and it blends in quickly. It did feel a little sticky during application and slightly chalky when it dried, but the sunscreen stayed put when the skin came into contact with water, so it will work well for water activities. In addition, the formula is kid- and reef-friendly. It doesn’t include oxybenzone or octinoxate, so you can relax on vacation knowing you’re protecting reefs and wildlife as well as your family, too.

The Details: 50 SPF | 1.7 ounces | Up to 60 minutes of water resistance

Best Splurge

Mdsolarsciences mineral creme.

The 1.7-ounce tube and all-in-one formula make it easy to toss in your carry-on or personal item.

It has a slight white cast if it’s not rubbed in well.

We love that this TSA-approved MDSolarSciences sunscreen uses ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc that are designed for sensitivities like acne- or rosacea-prone skin but are still reef-friendly. For extra transparency, you can click on the name of every ingredient included in the sunscreen to learn more about its purpose on the MDSolarSciences site. When it comes to mineral sun lotions, this one was a bit thick, but after rubbing it in thoroughly, the white cast went away, and it absorbed into the body and face evenly. When on vacation, many people bring sunscreen for the face and another tube for the rest of the body, but this product does it all so you can pack less. Since the formula is gentle on the body and face, we think this is an excellent all-in-one sunscreen that is easy to travel with, too.

The Details: 50 SPF | 1.7 ounces, 3.4 ounces | 80 minutes of water resistance

Travel + Leisure / Stella Yu

Other Reef-safe Sunscreens We Liked

The reef-safe sunscreens highlighted below are still tester-approved, but due to some minor issues during testing, they didn’t quite surpass our top performers when it came to slight issues with texture, opacity, and water resistance.

All Good Face & Body Sport Sunscreen Lotion : We love that the formula was non-irritating for our tester with sensitive skin and that it absorbs into the skin within seconds. However, similar-performing sunscreens had higher scores in both our lab and real-world tests.

Raw Love All Natural Mineral Sunscreen : Since the sunscreen is made with beeswax, the consistency is super thick, so we think it’s best as a once-in-a-while face sunscreen rather than a full body lotion.

We began by thoroughly researching sunscreens made with reef-friendly ingredients, which don’t leave behind harmful chemicals, like oxybenzone or octinoxate, that cause damage to coral reefs. We tested 26 tubes of reef-safe sunscreen in our New York City lab and then sent the bottles out for testing in the real world with the help of T+L’s expert product testers, including our editors and writers.

In both of the testing scenarios, we paid close attention to the texture, opacity, transfer, and water resistance of the sun lotion to compare and contrast a variety of reef-friendly sunscreens on the market. In the lab, we spritzed our arms with water and rubbed them with black T-shirts to test water resistance and product transfer. Whether our testers were working up a sweat at the gym, swimming in the ocean, or lounging poolside, the best sunscreens we tried had hydrating formulas that absorbed quickly, didn’t leave any sticky or oily residue behind, and proved to be water and sweat resistant without irritating the skin or stinging the eyes.

When you're heading out for a full day in the sun, be sure to protect more than just your skin with some of these stylish products to keep you comfortable — so you can enjoy even longer days in the sand.

Maui Jim Women's Capri Polarized Cat Eye Sunglasses : These stylish sunglasses feature PolarizedPlus2 lenses to provide the ultimate protection from UV rays while enhancing colors, so you'll want to wear them all day long.

Lightspeed Outdoors Quick Cabana Beach Tent : This spacious, easy-to-assemble pop-up tent will make any trip to the beach feel like a high-end, all-inclusive experience. It's wide enough to fit two or three adults, features an extended porch to keep sand out, and offers 50+ UPF sun protection, so you can lounge all day in comfort.

Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Chair : This compact chair weighs less than eight pounds and can be worn comfortably as a backpack, so you can transport it to your beach set-up hands-free. The chair feels durable and comfortable to sit in, and even reclines all the way flat so you can enjoy a nap on the beach without getting down in the sand.

Tips for Buying Reef-safe Sunscreen

Carefully read the ingredients.

Some destinations have stricter ingredient bans for sunscreen than others, so the first thing you should do is look up the regulations before you start shopping. Tropical destinations like Palau, Hawaii, and Aruba have bans on chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, homosalate, parabens, and more, so you’ll want to research the specific prohibited ingredients ahead of time. Similarly, if you’re looking for organic or all-natural sunscreen, find certifications on the label to ensure you’re getting the sunscreen you need.

Look at the sunscreen's active ingredients

When you’re buying reef-safe sunscreen, it’s essential to look at the active ingredients. Reef-friendly sunscreen will only have non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as the active ingredients, which are the two ingredients that will protect you from harmful UV rays without affecting coral reefs. Inactive ingredients include water, oils, or extracts, so you look for those to find out which ones are natural or organic if that’s important to your sunscreen shopping.

Prioritize water resistance and SPF levels

Depending on how you’ll be spending your vacation, you’ll want to buy sunscreen that will protect your skin for a range of activities. If you’re planning on spending most of your time in the water, consider getting a lightweight sunscreen with higher SPF and water resistance of up to 80 minutes. For those looking for an everyday sunscreen, a sheer and more watery sunscreen will be easy to apply and not super noticeable on the skin.

Reef-friendly sunscreens don’t use any chemicals that can cause harm to ocean wildlife by bleaching coral reefs ; oxybenzone or octinoxate, for example. There are several tropical destinations like Palau and Hawaii that enforce bans on sunscreens that contain certain chemicals known to cause damage. A lot of sunscreen brands will be advertised as reef-friendly or reef-safe, but you’ll want to read the ingredients list to make sure the sunscreen doesn’t include harmful chemicals or nanoparticles and microplastics like exfoliating beads.

Generally, the ingredients that can cause harm to coral reefs include oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are two common chemicals found in sunscreen. In addition, octocrylene, homosalate, 4-methyl benzylidene camphor, Triclosan, parabens, nanoparticles, and microplastics are all harmful ingredients you don’t want in your sunscreen if you want to protect aquatic life.

Currently, non-reef-safe sunscreens are banned in Hawaii, Palau, the U.S. Virgin Islands, parts of Mexico, Key West, Aruba, and Bonaire. However, if you’re planning on snorkeling or scuba diving near coral reefs elsewhere, you may be advised to bring reef-safe sunscreen.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at Travel + Leisure, where she writes about and reviews travel products. She has been travel writing since 2018 and product testing since 2021. Anna tested reef-safe sunscreen herself and worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best reef-safe sunscreens on the market.

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Health and fitness
Personal care

The Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen

A tube of Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 sunscreen pictured with a tube of Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+.

By Nancy Redd

Nancy Redd is a writer who covers health and grooming. She has tested dozens of hair dryers, toothbrushes, and pairs of period underwear.

Although no sunscreen has been proven totally safe for aquatic wildlife—wearing a rash guard or other protective clothing while you snorkel is the best choice for coral as well as for your skin—some formulas are friendlier than others.

After researching the issue and testing 15 sunscreens that claim to be reef safe, we’ve found that Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 and Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+ have ingredients that scientists recommend in a reef-safe sunscreen, plus feel nicer and cost less than competitors.

Everything we recommend

Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50

The best reef-friendly sunscreen.

This formula includes ingredients that are thought to be safest for reefs. It rubs in easily, feels nice on skin, and doesn’t leave a white cast, though it does have a strong, fruity scent.

Buying Options

Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+

Similar formula, thicker consistency.

This sunscreen also uses non-nano zinc oxide, but it is more difficult to rub in than our pick and is more likely to leave a white cast. This sunscreen also has a strong, fruity scent.

What to look for

Along with octinoxate, this active ingredient found in some chemical sunscreen formulas is banned for sale in some coastal areas.

Reef-safe sunscreens are made with non-micronized versions of the active ingredients zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide.

A sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology.

Even if you don’t plan to sweat or swim, water-resistant sunscreens have better staying power on skin.

The main active ingredient in Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 is non-nano zinc oxide, the most coral-friendly option available in the US. Zinc oxide sunscreen might conjure images of lifeguards with white noses, but this one rubs in the clearest of those we tested with minimal effort. Once on skin, Thrive’s Bodyshield SPF 50 feels less greasy than many other sunscreens. This sunscreen typically costs about $4.30 per ounce ($3.80 if purchased in three-packs ), which is less than the price of many of the other reef-safe sunscreens we considered, but much more than our other sunscreen picks.

Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+ is also formulated with non-nano zinc oxide, but it’s a thicker formula that is less translucent on the skin. Many testers—particularly people with darker-hued skin—said this sunscreen left a white cast on their skin. This sunscreen costs around $3 per ounce in the largest-available size (6 ounces), which is less than our top pick.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: thrive bodyshield spf 50, runner-up: thinksport sunscreen spf 50+, another good reef-safe sunscreen, the competition.

We spoke to two scientists who have researched the effects of sunscreen on sea life: Craig Downs , executive director of the nonprofit Haereticus Environmental Laboratory in Virginia; and Roberto Danovaro , PhD, a marine ecologist at Polytechnic University of Marche in Italy. We drew on research from our main sunscreen guide , for which we spoke to nine dermatologists, a skin cancer educator, and a cosmetic chemist. We also read peer-reviewed papers on how sunscreen affects sea life.

If you’re headed on a reef-themed scuba or snorkel excursion, or even just to a beach in a region that’s home to coral habitats, you’ll lessen your environmental impact by using a sunscreen that skips ingredients studies have shown to be harmful to reefs in large quantities. In particular, some sunscreen ingredients can help viruses destroy corals faster, leading to bleaching, according to a 2008 paper published by Roberto Danovaro and colleagues.

The reefs most vulnerable to sunscreen damage are those in highly trafficked areas without a lot of water turnover, like coastal reefs or atolls (circular reef structures left behind after a coral island sinks), the authors of the paper note.

Some such locations and guided tours may even require reef-safe sunscreen. As reported in The New York Times, both Hawaii and Key West, Florida voted to ban the sale of sunscreens containing two ingredients found to be harmful to coral: oxybenzone and octinoxate. The laws took effect January 1, 2021. Hawaii’s state parks urge beachgoers to forgo certain ingredients , and a chain of hotels in Hawaii provides guests with complimentary reef-safe sunscreen . In Mexico, federal regulation requires use of reef-safe sunscreen in a handful of protected areas. And the nation of Palau became the first country to ban any reef-toxic sunscreen that contains any one of 10 prohibited chemicals.

More people are choosing to be as cautious as possible and use reef-safe sunscreen all the time, not just for reef safety. “Reef-safe sunscreen’s main ingredients are zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, and they are the only sunscreens the FDA regards as generally ... safe and effective” at this time, said Dr. Lawrence Eichenfield , chief of the pediatric and adolescent dermatology division at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego.

However, no sunscreen is foolproof when it comes to sea-life safety. Though good reef-safe sunscreens avoid ingredients that have been clearly demonstrated to cause damage to reefs in large doses, they may still contain trace amounts of the offending substances. Plus, scientists disagree about whether the replacement ingredients are actually safe for sea life.

Beyond that, reef-safe sunscreens, like all mineral sunscreens, are generally pricier and harder to rub in than their chemical and combination counterparts , making them potentially trickier to use on a daily basis to best protect your skin from UV rays. Note that chemicals from sunscreen aren’t the main source of worry for reefs— that would be climate change , a phenomenon bolstered by lots of other choices we make every day.

People testing different reef-safe sunscreens.

No label denotes a totally reef-safe sunscreen, and it’s unclear if such a thing exists. “Reef safer” is probably a better way to describe the options available.

In October 2016, Haereticus Environmental Laboratory executive director Craig Downs set out to create a reef-safe sunscreen label to affix to sunscreens that passed a toxicity test in his lab. But as the applications and samples from companies rolled in, he found that even sunscreens that met the mark in theory contained impurities and unlisted ingredients that have been known to cause damage to reefs.

That said, a few factors still help ensure that a sunscreen is safer for reefs than the competition.

Minerals only: The only two ingredients in a reef-safe sunscreen should be non-nano zinc oxide or non-nano titanium dioxide. Some sunscreens use a combination of the two. Particles under a hundred nanometers (in this context, considered “nano”) can be bad news for sea creatures that ingest them, like brine shrimp , and in turn the things that eat the shrimp. (Danovaro is still concerned about non-nano zinc oxide , but in the US it’s the best option we have.)
Water resistant: All sunscreens wash off in water, but the better they are at sticking to your skin, the less they will wind up in the ocean with the reefs.
Lotion, not spray: Each time you use a spray sunscreen at the beach, some ends up on the sand, which in turn ends up in the ocean. Most mineral sunscreens are lotions, anyway.
No parabens: These preservatives are another virus-assisting, reef-bleaching culprit. Sunscreens with parabens can be hard to identify, as parabens are often not listed in the ingredients. If a sunscreen advertises aloe or another plant component, it likely contains preservatives needed to keep that plant fresh, Downs told us, so don’t get those formulas if reef protection is your priority.
Free of other ingredients that may harm coral: Downs compiled a small slew of chemicals that aren’t great for reefs in Haereticus’s HEL List. In addition to oxybenzone and parabens, the list includes octinoxate, octocrylene, triclosan, para-aminobenzoic acid (known as PABA), camphor, and microbeads or other small bits of plastic.

Once an FDA-approved sunscreen passed these requirements for being reef safe, we considered the following factors:

SPF: The minimum SPF experts recommend to protect your skin is 30, though higher is preferred to make up for user error.
Price: For sunscreen to work well, you need to reapply—a lot. Experts recommend a shot-glass amount of lotion every two hours and after you come out of the water. We sought to find a sunscreen that wasn’t a ton of money per application (with reef-safe sunscreens, each full-body application can easily cost upwards of $6).
Size: Hauling one or two large bottles of sunscreen for a family day at the beach is easier than packing a bunch of small tins.

A tube of Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 sunscreen.

The Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50’s main ingredient is non-nano zinc oxide (23.5%), which experts say is the most sea- and coral-friendly active sunscreen ingredient available in the US. Our test panelists favored it over similar broad spectrum, water-resistant formulas for a few reasons.

It’s easy to apply. Thrive lotion rubs into the skin almost as well as chemical sunscreens, and it feels less greasy than many other lotions.

It doesn’t make skin appear chalky. None of the panelists who participated in our brand-concealed testing noted a white cast on their skin after application.

Thrive sunscreen’s SPF 50 rating is appealing because the minerals in physical sunscreens are not as efficient at repelling UV rays as chemical filters are at absorbing them, according to Dr. Henry Lim, a Detroit-based dermatologist and Skin Cancer Foundation spokesperson. Experts recommend looking for formulas labeled SPF 30 or more.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

This sunscreen only comes in one size (5.8 ounces) and typically costs about $4.30 per ounce ($3.80 if purchased in 3-packs ), which is less than the price of many of the other reef-safe sunscreens we considered, but much more than our other sunscreen picks .

Thrive’s formula includes a strong, fruity-smelling added fragrance that takes quite a bit of time to dissipate, which bothered some testers.

Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+ also fits our requirements for a reef-safe sunscreen: It’s made with non-nano zinc oxide (23.4%), it’s water resistant, and it’s a lotion. The formula is also paraben free and water resistant. Although it doesn’t feel as good or look as nice on skin compared with our pick, Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 , it is much more widely available. At around $3 per ounce in the largest-available bottle (6 ounces), this formula is less expensive than many reef-safe sunscreens we’ve considered.

Although Thinksport sells three versions of its sunscreen, they all have the same base formula; only the fragrances differ. The baby and kids versions are identical and have a slightly sweeter and—in our opinion—more off-putting, artificial smell than the original Thinksport sunscreen.

Each Thinksport variation comes in both family-size (6-ounce) and travel-size (3-ounce) bottles. Compared with the travel-size versions, the family-size bottles cost slightly less per ounce. Since each application of sunscreen requires about a shot glass’s worth of the lotion, a single person can expect to easily use up an entire 6-ounce bottle on a daylong trip to the beach.

Like many zinc-oxide-based sunscreens, the Thinksport lotion can leave a noticeable white cast. However, as we’ve found while panel-testing dozens of sunscreens over the past few years, some people find this opacity beneficial: It helps them to see where and how much they’ve applied.

Thinksport’s formula contains added fragrance, which gives it a strong, fruity smell that didn’t appeal to many of our testers.

If you want a reef-friendly sunscreen without added fragrance: Badger Adventure Mineral Sunscreen Cream SPF 50 (active ingredient: zinc oxide 25%) is a four-ingredient formula that is more expensive, more difficult to spread, and has more of a greasy, heavier feel on the skin than Thrive Bodyshield. However, it contains no fragrance and, like our pick, is water resistant for up to 80 minutes. A semi-solid “sport” version comes in a packable tin. Some testers found the semi-solid formula difficult to spread to adequate coverage anywhere other than on the face.

Customer and test panelist reviews are mixed for All Good Sport Sunscreen SPF 30 , a physical formula that contains less of the active ingredient than our picks, and it is comparatively more expensive, even in its largest size.

Testers with darker skin loved the All Good Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 , a reef-safe, face-specific formula. Its paint-like pigment was visible on testers with lighter skin.

Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen SPF 50 leaves a whitish cast and has a polarizing scent.

Babo Botanicals Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 feels and smells good. But it’s almost double the price of our pick.

The highly rated Banana Boat Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ left a strong white cast on most skin tones.

The Bare Republic Mineral Body Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 has a watery, separated consistency that makes it difficult to apply.

Blue Lizard calls many of its sunscreens “reef friendly.” We like Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ , a pick in our main sunscreen guide , though it contains nanoparticles of its active ingredients, which may be harmful to some aquatic wildlife in large quantities.

Testers either loved or hated Goddess Garden Sport Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 , which rubs in easily and has a strong cinnamon scent.

The near-odorless Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Skin Nourishing Milk SPF 50 rubs in easily and feels great on skin, but it’s more expensive than the other physical sunscreens that we recommend and only comes in a 3-ounce bottle.

Hello Bello Kid’s Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 has the same active ingredient (20% non-nano zinc oxide) for around half the cost of our pick, but it’s frequently out of stock.

Kōkua Sun Care Hawaiian Natural Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50 looks and feels nearly identical to our top pick from Thrive, but is nearly double the price.

The most affordable of our mineral sunscreen testing pool, SPF Rx Sunscreen SPF 40 —which is also available in a gallon jug —is heavy-feeling and chalky-looking.

TotLogic Sunscreen SPF 30 is also slightly more matte than our runner-up pick. It smells fruitier, too.

Shannon Palus contributed reporting. This article was edited by Tracy Vence and Kalee Thompson.

Craig Downs, executive director of Haereticus Environmental Laboratory , phone interview , May 1, 2018

Roberto Danovaro, PhD, marine ecologist at Polytechnic University of Marche , email interview , May 1, 2018

Mehmet Ates et al., Comparative evaluation of impact of Zn and ZnO nanoparticles on brine shrimp (Artemia salina) larvae: effects of particle size and solubility on toxicity , Environmental Science: Process and Impacts , November 28, 2012

Roberto Danovaro et al., Sunscreens Cause Coral Bleaching by Promoting Viral Infections , Environmental Health Perspectives , April 1, 2008

Lawrence Eichenfield, MD, chief of pediatric and adolescent dermatology at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego , phone interview , April 23, 2021

Dr. Henry Lim, MD, former president of the American Academy of Dermatology , email interview , June 26, 2019

Meet your guide

Nancy Redd is a senior staff writer covering health and grooming at Wirecutter. She is a GLAAD Award–nominated on-air host and a New York Times best-selling author. Her latest nonfiction book, The Real Body Manual , is a visual health and wellness guide for young adults of all genders. Her other books include Bedtime Bonnet and Pregnancy, OMG!

The Best Sunscreen

by Nancy Redd

It takes a shot glass’s worth of sunscreen to adequately cover a body in a swimsuit. Look for broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher and a scent and feel you like.

A person holding two bottles of sunscreen out of a lineup of assorted sunscreen bottles.

There’s Basically No Difference Between Baby Sunscreen and Regular Sunscreen

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There are few—if any—differences between regular sunscreens and those marketed for babies or kids. Here’s what you need to know.

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Wirecutter’s 100 Most Popular Picks in June 2021

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The 10 Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The Pipette Mineral Sunscreen exceeds expectations.

In This Article

Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

What to keep in mind, your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Jessica Juliao

Does your idea of the perfect vacation center around days spent at the beach, sprawled out on an extra-large towel with a good book, only to get up and take a dip every few hours to cool off? Or perhaps you like to take a more active approach, spending the majority of your time on a board, in the surf, or snorkeling below the surface. Whatever the case may be, we assume that sunscreen is part of your beachside beauty routine. After all, over the past few years, people everywhere are finally beginning to understand that sunscreen is essential.

But did you know that, if you’re someone who likes to spend a lot of time in and near the water, the type of sunscreen you use is important, too. The reason? The chemicals in your SPF can rinse off and affect the ecosystems where you swim. That’s why Hawaii became the first state in the US to ban the sale of sunscreen containing the coral-harming chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate in 2018. Since then, reef-safe sunscreens have become more and more popular, with seemingly endless brands entering the space.

With so many reef-friendly sunscreens on the market, it can be hard to know which ones work the best. To save you from sifting through thousands of reviews, we went ahead and tested the 24 most popular reef-safe sunscreens. We paid attention to everything from texture and residual cast to water resistance and fragrance. In doing so, we were able to narrow down the top 10 reef safe-sunscreens. At the top of the list, you’ll find the Pipette Mineral Sunscreen - Broad Spectrum SPF 50 . While technically developed for children, the formula far exceeded our adult expectations, cementing it as the best overall reef-safe sunscreen we tried.

Best Overall

Pipette mineral sunscreen.

Transfer 4.8 /5
Opacity 5 /5
Water Resistance 5 /5

Since it’s developed for kids, this sunscreen is incredibly gentle.

Because this isn’t noncomedogenic, it can clog pores.

The Pipette Mineral Sunscreen - SPF 50 Broad Spectrum Sunblock with Non-Nano Zinc outperformed the competition with its ultra-gentle, fragrance-free formula that quickly sinks into skin, doesn’t leave a white cast , and doesn’t transfer onto clothes.

“This sunscreen applies very smoothly because of the consistency, and it’s easy to blend into the skin,” our tester shares. “It feels very lightweight on my skin, and there’s absolutely no white cast upon application, nor any pilling.” In addition to sinking seamlessly into skin, we find that this reef-safe sunscreen leaves skin looking semi-matte without making it feel dry.

One more thing: While the SPF isn’t marketed as being water resistant, we found that when splashed with water, it doesn’t run. Still, per the American Academy of Dermatology’s Sunscreen guidelines , it’s best to reapply after taking a dip to ensure you’re fully protected for hours to come. With so many amazing attributes, it was difficult to determine a con for this sunscreen — but alas, it isn’t noncomedogenic, so there is a small possibility that it can clog pores even though it feels nearly weightless.

Size: 4 oz. | Scented: No | SPF Level: 50 | Water-Resistant: No, though it passed our splash test

Best Budget

Hello bello mineral spf 50+ sunscreen lotion.

Transfer 4.5 /5
Opacity 4.8 /5

It absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a white cast.

It gets a bit sticky once wet, and it has a strong lemony scent.

Hello Bello Mineral SPF 50+ Sunscreen is another product formulated for children that adults can most definitely benefit from. In addition to being dermatologist tested, clinically tested, and hypoallergenic, this sunscreen has a fabulous consistency that sinks quickly and fully into skin.

“It doesn’t feel greasy or overly thick and doesn't leave a white cast on my skin,” shares our tester. While it initially glides onto skin, we found that it does become a bit sticky when wet, but that feeling subsides pretty quickly.

One thing to keep in mind: This SPF is formulated without synthetic fragrances but it definitely has a scent. “This sunscreen has a strong, lemony scent. It's not terribly overwhelming, but it is fairly strong,” our tester admits. “It would be nice if the manufacturer forewarned shoppers on the tube that it’s scented.”

Size: 3 oz. | Scented: Yes (but not artificially) | SPF Level: 50+ | Water-Resistant: Yes

Best Splurge

Biossance sheer mineral sunscreen.

Feel 4.5 /5
Opacity 4 /5

A little bit of this soothing sunscreen goes a long way.

The very wet consistency could be a recipe for a mess.

Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen has a very thin texture — so much so that it’s quite runny and takes pretty much zero effort to squeeze out of the tube. The consistency, while a potential leaking/mess hazard, is what makes this sunscreen absorb so well into skin. Even when our tester used a tablespoon of the SPF (instead of the recommended teaspoon), she found that there was no white cast. “I’m very impressed with its ability to absorb into my skin,” she admits.

The absorbability and lack of white cast aren’t the only reasons this sunscreen stands out: Made with water lily and sugarcane-derived squalane, it also deeply hydrates skin and provides a cooling effect, so it can double as post-sun care if you spend too much time soaking up the rays or forget to reapply.

You may want to find another sunscreen if you’ll be engaging in water activities though, because it’s not water-resistant. “I would recommend this to someone looking for [high-quality] daily facial sunscreen, but I wouldn't recommend this as your go-to sun protection on long summer days at the beach,” our tester concludes.

Size: 1.69 oz. | Scented: No | SPF Level: 30 | Water-Resistant: No

Best for Body

Suntegrity skincare natural mineral body sunscreen.

Water Resistance 4.5 /5

This body SPF is easy to travel with given its TSA-friendly size.

The light orange scent may not be for everyone.

In our testing, we found Suntegrity Skincare Natural Mineral Body Sunscreen to work best for full-body protection because of its mineral-based formula that spreads like a dream, and the convenient, travel-friendly packaging. “This sunscreen blends nicely into my skin — it’s not dry, nor oily — it feels so smooth that I can’t even tell I'm wearing sunscreen,” our tester shares.

In addition to being super comfortable, we found that this SPF, while not marketed as water-resistant, does maintain its coverage in the presence of water. “This sunscreen seems to repel the water, making it roll off of my skin,” our tester adds, noting that spritzing her SPF-covered skin didn’t cause the product to run or drip.

Lastly, as far as full-body SPFs go, this one has a more subtle scent. Though, it’s citrusy, so it may not be for everyone.

Size: 3 oz. | Scented: Yes | SPF Level: 30 | Water-Resistant: No, though it passed our splash test

Best for Dry Skin

Blue lizard sensitive mineral sunscreen spf 50.

It absorbs quickly and dries down for a smooth, silky, hydrated finish.

It smells a bit like rubber.

The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide 50+ is beloved for its fast-absorbing formula that leaves skin feeling hydrated and smooth. “It absorbs very quickly with minimal rubbing on my end,” our tester says. “It honestly took less time than some of my regular lotions.”

In addition to absorbing quickly, this sunscreen, which is infused with castor oil and vitamin E , doesn’t leave a white cast behind. Instead, it makes skin look (and feel) dewy and hydrated. “It was almost like a body oil feel and effect, but not in a bad way,” our tester explains. What’s more, we found that the lightweight lotion stands its ground — as advertised — against water. “The water didn't seem to make the sunscreen run at all,” she assures us.

The only thing that could make this SPF better, according to our tester, is if it had a more delightful scent. “It has a very faint smell that doesn't seem deliberate,” she says. “It reminds me of something synthetic that I can't exactly put my finger on, perhaps paint or something rubbery, but it's not overwhelming.”

Size: 5 oz. | Scented: No | SPF Level: 50+ | Water-Resistant: Yes

Best for Sensitive Skin

California baby super sensitive spf 30 lotion.

Transfer 3.8 /5
Opacity 4.5 /5
Water Resistance 4 /5

It’s formulated for kids, so you know it's on the gentler side.

It feels a bit sticky, and it's not water-resistant.

California Baby Super Sensitive SPF 30 Lotion is a fan favorite for children and adults alike. According to our tester, the formula, which is infused with organic and sustainably-grown ingredients, blends in easily despite feeling a bit sticky fresh out of the tube. While it doesn’t dry down for an unnoticeable feel, she says that the creamy paste feels similar to applying a heavy moisturizer, so it’s not distracting or uncomfortable. Instead, it makes skin feel shielded.

That said, the formula doesn’t fully hold its ground in the presence of water. While it doesn’t drip and run, our tester found that, once wet, it does feel more slippery and transfer more.

Size: 2.9 oz. | Scented: No | SPF Level: 30+ | Water-Resistant: No

Best for Dark Skin

Reef repair reef safe sunscreen spf 30+.

Water Resistance 3 /5

The formula is very smooth, which makes it spread easily.

It’s not water resistant despite claiming to be.

Reef Repair Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF 30+ might not look like the highest quality SPF on the market, but inside the tube you’ll find a lighter-weight reef-safe sunscreen that feels considerably better than most of its competitors. “The consistency is really smooth — it spreads easily compared to other reef-safe sunscreens I've tried and absorbs almost immediately without a white cast [anywhere in sight],” our tester says.

On the downside, this SPF smells… different. “It smells a little like a plastic beach ball — but only if you get really close to the skin,” our tester clarifies. “I imagine if I really lathered my whole body the scent might be slightly stronger and could potentially be unpleasant, but that's just a conjecture.”

The other shortcoming of this SPF is its lack of water resistance, despite its claims. “Despite saying this has an hour or more of water resistance, adding water did make the sunscreen run slightly, and I can imagine if I went swimming for a while, a lot of the sunscreen would run off,” our tester admits.

Size: 1.7 oz. | Scented: Yes | SPF Level: 30+ | Water-Resistant: Yes, though it didn’t pass our splash test

Best Water-Resistant

Maui naturals surfer honey all natural sunscreen lotion spf 30.

It blends in effortlessly, absorbs quickly, and feels comfortable on the skin.

It comes out of the tube a bit chalky.

Maui Naturals Surfer Honey All Natural Sunscreen first caught our attention due to its retro packaging, but it retained interest when we realized just how well it works. “This sunscreen applies really smoothly, and the texture is pleasant to rub across my skin,” our tester says — though she points out that it feels a bit chalky and looks grayish-purple out of the tube. “I’m impressed with how easily this sunscreen spreads,” she adds. “This absorbs quite quickly and doesn’t require much rubbing to get it to lose its white cast.”

Best of all, this water-resistant, reef-safe sunscreen, which smells like an orange creamsicle, lives up to its claims. “I was impressed with how water resistant it is,” our tester marvels. “When I rubbed the water around on my arm, it did not seem to dissolve the sunscreen and rather just made the water bead on top of it.”

Size: 3 oz. | Scented: Yes | SPF Level: 30+ | Water-Resistant: Yes

Best Scented

Hawaiian tropic mineral sun milk body lotion spf 50.

Transfer 5 /5

This tropical-scented sunscreen will transport you to an island with every application.

The bottle design is prone to leaks.

If you actually prefer a scented sunscreen, you’ll swoon over Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Skin Nourishing Milk SPF 50. Beyond its refreshing coconut scent, which our tester says smells like a pina colada, this SPF has a very thin consistency, which makes it easy to apply.

“It quickly absorbs into my skin without need for frequent rubbing,” our tester says. Though, she notes that it seems to get darker as it fully dries down, so while it doesn’t initially have a white cast, after 15 minutes, she noticed a slight residue — but not enough to make her not recommend it.

Truthfully, the only downside of this SPF is the bottle design. While the pump top is a lovely addition, we found that it is prone to leaks, filling the cap with product. “Without the plastic safety cap, you would have quite a mess,” our tester admits.

Size: 3.4 oz. | Scented: Yes | SPF Level: 50 | Water-Resistant: No

MDSolarSciences Tinted Solar Stick SPF 40

Transfer 4 /5

It’s lightweight and creamy, and it doesn’t leave a white cast.

The stick is quite small and may not last very long.

Not trying to toss a bottle of reef-safe SPF into your bag only for it to leak all over the place? Opt for a stick. Namely, MDSolarSciences Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 40. Formulated to be lightweight and creamy, the stick SPF applies beautifully, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t leave a white cast — not even on darker skin tones.

“When first applying the product, I was worried because it looked like it would leave a white cast, but once I rubbed it in, it absorbed completely and actually left my skin with a nice glowy look,” our tester reveals, noting that most mineral SPFs, in contrast, give off a ghostly look on her darker skin.

While the small format makes it easy to toss in any purse for touch ups, we find that if you apply it regularly, it probably won’t last you more than a month or two.

Size: 0.6 oz. | Scented: No | SPF Level: 40 | Water-Resistant: Yes

To start, we spent about two weeks researching the top-rated reef-safe sunscreens on the market. After honing in on online ratings, we spent 48 hours putting the 24 most popular sunscreens to the test. We had all of our testers try the sunscreens so that they could analyze the performance of each and write down their insights during the process. In doing so, our testers rated every sunscreen on a scale of 1 to 5 in four key categories: Feel, transfer, opacity, and water resistance. Once the data was collected, we were able to narrow down the original pool of products to the 10 best reef-safe sunscreens.

Generally speaking, scented skincare products are more likely to cause irritation than their fragrance-free counterparts. When it comes to reef-safe SPF, it’s important to remember that just because a product might say that it’s made without synthetic fragrances doesn’t mean that it won’t have a scent. That’s because some products use essential oils, which in and of themselves have a fragrance. With this in mind, when shopping for reef-safe sunscreen look for fragrance-free and/or unscented formulas, as opposed to eagle-eyeing in on synthetic scents (or a lack thereof).

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, using an SPF of level 30 or higher is key to adequately protecting skin against the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. Even with the right SPF level, it’s important to remember that no SPF (not even SPF 100) can fully block out UVB exposure. As such, you should seek shade whenever you can to shield your skin from excessive exposure, and remember to reapply every two hours. And if you’re really prone to burning, select a formula with a higher spf level, like Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Skin Nourishing Milk SPF 50 .

Water-Resistance

Even if an SPF claims to be water-resistant, dermatologists recommend reapplying sunscreen after swimming. If you’re just sweating a lot, though, you can probably get away with holding out for the duration of the product’s purposed resistance (which is typically in the 80 minute range). Just because a sunscreen is reef-safe doesn’t make it inherently water-resistant. Luckily, we found multiple options that are, including Hello Bello Mineral SPF 50+ Sunscreen , BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide 50+ , and Maui Surfer Honey All Natural Sunscreen .

What is reef-safe sunscreen?

“Reef-safe sunscreen, also known as reef-friendly sunscreen, are basically sunscreen products that do not contain octinoxate and oxybenzone,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry , of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan. “Although these ingredients act by blocking UV absorption, octinoxate and oxybenzone have been shown to be toxic and damaging to coral reefs. Thus, reef-safe sunscreens are more environmentally friendly options for sun protection.”

One way to ensure that you’re buying a reef-safe sunscreen? Look for mineral formulas, as they’re made without the aforementioned chemicals.

What makes sunscreen reef-safe?

While oxybenzone and octinoxate are popular chemical sunscreen ingredients, they’ve been shown to cause coral bleaching which can obliterate reefs. “When we apply sunscreens containing these ingredients and then swim in waters where there is coral, the sunscreen gets into the water and poisons the coral,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sumayah Jamal , of Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC. Wearing sunscreens without either oxybenzone or octinoxate can help mitigate the problem and help coral reefs thrive.

Is mineral sunscreen reef-safe?

Usually, yes. In fact, mineral sunscreen is often thought to be synonymous with reef-safe SPF. That said, Dr. Jamal says it depends on the exact formulation. “Mineral sunscreens, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are generally not toxic to coral, however, when they are formulated as nanoparticles they can still damage coral,” she explains. “Micronized or non-nanoparticle mineral screens are best for reef safety.”

How do I know if my sunscreen is reef-safe?

The easiest way to ensure you’re using reef-safe sunscreen is to choose a formula that’s clearly marketed as such. “Sunscreens with the Protect Land + Sea Certification Seal are considered safe,” Dr. Jamal says.

Another option, as mentioned before, is to look for mineral sunscreens. “[Just be sure to] go through the ingredient list to rule out octinoxate, oxybenzone, and octocrylene,” Dr. Henry says.

Does reef-safe sunscreen affect skin differently?

Reef-safe sunscreen (AKA mineral SPF) operates differently than traditional chemical sunscreen. “Mineral sunscreens work by staying on top of the skin and blocking UV rays by reflecting them to keep from entering the surface,” Dr. Henry says. “By shielding the epidermis from UV absorption, mineral sunscreens are also effective forms of sun protection. They reflect light and do not convert it to heat like chemical sunscreens, thus making them ideal for sensitive skin.”

What Is InStyle Picks?

Did you notice the InStyle Picks seal of approval at the top of this story? That means our team of testers has reviewed every product on this list using a unique methodology to ensure it's really worth your time, money, and attention. We may get samples for free to try but we never promise positive (or any!) coverage in exchange. Put simply: InStyle Picks are products we love, and we've put them to the test to be sure you will too.

Rebecca Norris has covered beauty for nearly 10 years. For this story, she compiled the insights and reviews of nine InStyle testers to determine the best reef-safe sunscreens. She also spoke with NYC-based board-certified dermatologists Dr. Sumayah Jamal and Dr. Michelle Henry to uncover what makes a sunscreen reef-safe, as well as how such formulas affect the skin.

Want more product recommendations? From best-in-class concealer to the black pants you need for work, check out all of our InStyle Picks content .

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The 6 Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens of 2024

Protect your skin.

In This Article

Our Top Picks

Where We Stand

How we tested, other options we tested.

What To Look For
Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

The importance of protecting our skin from harmful UV rays has been known for decades—but the understanding of how many sunscreens on the market can cause significant damage to marine life is relatively new. According to Lea d'Auriol , founder of international non-profit Oceanic Global , oxybenzone and octinoxate (common active ingredients in SPF products) are major contributors to coral bleaching. “More than 25% of all marine life depends on healthy coral reefs for survival, ” she explains. Coral bleaching is so harmful that Hawaii and several other regions around the world have banned these ingredients.

The good news is more and more companies are making sunscreens that are“reef-safe.” But bear in mind that the term " reef-safe sunscreen " is not regulated, which means just because a product says it won’t cause harm doesn’t actually mean it is actually reef-safe. “It is important to check the active ingredients label to ensure that reef-harming chemicals are not included,” explains d'Auriol. “As a general rule, options without oxybenzone and octinoxate are a good first indicator of more ocean-friendly options ,” she says.

Still, checking labels can be time-consuming, so we did the research for you. We compiled a list of 24 SPF products that didn’t contain reef-damaging ingredients, then put them to the test both in The Lab as well as at home. We evaluated them based on how easily they spread across the skin and absorbed, how they felt on the skin, how water-resistant they were, whether or not they created a white cast, and most importantly, how well they protected their skin . Next are the six we felt were best for you.

Best Overall

Pipette mineral sunscreen.

Transfer 4.8 /5
Opacity 5 /5
Water Resistance 5 /5

Lightweight, creamy texture

Fragrance-free

Fast-absorbing

Doesn’t create white cast

Comfortable feeling on the skin

Pretty water-resistant

Not transfer proof

While SPF is a skincare routine staple, finding a great one can be challenging. Many are thick, hard to rub in, leave a white cast, etc., but this one is as close to perfect as it gets—and of course, it’s reef-safe. We were thoroughly impressed with how nice and easy it was to apply this sunscreen. Its lightweight, creamy texture is easy to rub in and absorbs quickly without leaving a dry or greasy feel behind. Though it comes out of the tube in a whitish color, it doesn't create even a minor white cast —a major win considering that it’s powered by zinc oxide, which often does.

While we did find in testing that it transfers a little onto clothing, we love that it’s pretty water-resistant and remains well intact after swimming or sweating . If you’re looking for an affordable, reef-safe SPF that’s easy to apply, comfortable on the skin, and doesn’t leave a white cast, we absolutely recommend this one.

Who It's For

This sunscreen was specifically formulated for babies and children, meaning it's gentle enough to use on even the most sensitive of skin types . If you find that sunscreen formulas irritate your skin or your eyes, this is a great choice for everyday protection.

Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 50 | Size: 4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Budget

Hello bello mineral spf 50+ sunscreen lotion.

Transfer 4.5 /5
Opacity 4.8 /5

Lightweight, lotion texture

Easy to blend into the skin

White cast disappears after rubbing product in for a few seconds

Feels comfortable on the skin

Very resistant to transfer and water

Has a strong fragrance

Considering how much SPF you need to use in order for it to effectively protect your skin from the sun (roughly one ounce to cover the entire body, according to the American Academy of Dermatology ), it’s a product that can be really pricey to continuously repurchase. That’s why having an affordable go-to is so important, and this one is fantastic. The formula contains cocoa seed butter and avocado to nourish the skin, it boasts 80 minutes of water resistance, and it’s dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic .

The creamy lotion texture rubs into the skin with ease and absorbs quickly. After rubbing it in for a few seconds, any remnants of a white cast disappear, and the skin is left feeling comfortable and non-greasy . It’s also impressive in terms of how well it resists transfer and water.

One con to note about this formula is that it has a strong, lemony fragrance that some people might find overpowering, especially if they’re not a fan of lemons. But considering all of its other positive attributes and how affordable and accessible it is, this product absolutely still earns the Byrdie stamp of approval.

We love this formula for drier skin types, as it contains multiple ingredients to add hydration to the skin (including shea butter , calendula , coconut oil , and more). This is also a great reef-safe pick for those who burn easily, as it has the highest SPF protection on this list (55+).

Active Ingredients: Non-nano zinc oxide | SPF: 50 | Size: 3 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Byrdie/Jessica Juliao

Best for Sensitive Skin

California baby super sensitive spf 30 lotion.

Feel 4.5 /5
Transfer 3.8 /5
Opacity 4.5 /5
Water Resistance 4 /5

Formulated without many potential irritants and allergens

Comfortable on the skin

Water-resistant

Non-greasy finish

Texture is a bit thick

Does leave a white cast for a while

Those with sensitive skin know that finding a sunscreen that’s effective and non-irritating can be tricky. We love this one because it’s safe for the oceans as well as sensitive skin and baby skin . It’s free from tons of potential irritants and allergens , like most nuts (except coconut), gluten, soy, dairy, fragrance, and chemical SPF.

While the texture is pretty thick and takes a bit of effort to rub in, it’s smooth and creamy, and it feels comfortable once applied . It’s also non-greasy and super resistant to water. It does create a noticeable white cast when first applied, but we found out that it fades pretty much completely after about 30 minutes . If you’ve struggled to find sunscreens that are non-irritating on your skin, this one is absolutely worth giving a try.

Since it's our best pick for sensitive skin types, we also recommend it for those who are allergic to common skincare ingredients, like plant oils and fragrances . This formula is squeaky clean, making it perfect for those who are sensitive to common irritants.

Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide | SPF: 30 | Size: 1.8, 2.9, 6, 19 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Fast-Absorbing

Suntegrity skincare natural mineral body sunscreen.

Opacity 4 /5
Water Resistance 4.5 /5

Doesn’t leave a residue on the skin

Has a slight fragrance

Working hard to fully rub your SPF into your skin isn’t a pleasant experience, making absorbency one of the key factors we evaluated during this test. While many options boasted impressive absorption capabilities, this one was the best at melting into the skin with almost no effort required . The fluid lotion consistency makes it easy to spread around the body, and it absorbs into the skin in the blink of an eye without leaving behind a thick, chalky, or greasy residue . Though it does create a hint of a white cast upon the initial application, we found in testing that the cast quickly fades after just a moment or two.

We were also impressed with how well this sunscreen resists transfer and running when it comes into contact with water. If you’re particularly picky about finding sunscreens that don’t feel like the dry, heavy, hard-to-blend products of the past, we highly recommend checking this one out.

This option is oil-free, making it a great choice for those with oily skin or body acne . Many sunscreen formulas contain ingredients that can clog pores and potentially irritate the skin, but you won't find that in this pick.

Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 30 | Size: 3, 5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Lightweight

Hawaiian tropic mineral sun milk body lotion spf 50.

Transfer 5 /5

Comes in packaging with a pump

Non-sticky finish

Has a minor white cast

We’d be comfortable betting that many people who neglect to wear sunscreen on a regular basis do so because many SPF formulas are unpleasant to apply and wear throughout the day—but not this one. This liquid-y formula pumps out of the bottle easily, blends into the skin with minimal effort, doesn’t leave an annoying chalky or oily residue on the skin, and doesn’t transfer or run when it comes into contact with sweat . Seriously— it lasted through swimming, a workout, and the sauna despite its thin texture and weightless feel on our skin.

We do generally prefer unscented sunscreens, and this one does feature that typical beachy scent that many heritage SPF brands are known for—but it does smell nice and nostalgic . And while it does create a minor white cast, that cast is fairly undetectable after about 20 minutes of wear. If you’ve been searching for a weightless, reef-safe sunscreen, this is the one for you.

If you hate having to keep two different formulas on hand when you're headed to the beach, we recommend picking this one up. Although it's advertised as a body sunscreen, it can also be used on the face without causing irritation .

Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | SPF: 30 | Size: 3.4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for Beach Days

Blue lizard sensitive mineral sunscreen spf 50.

Silky texture

Very water-resistant

Consistency can be a bit runny

Leaves a slightly tacky finish on the skin

Although proper SPF protection is important on an everyday basis, it’s especially important when you’re spending extended periods of time in direct sunlight. This sunscreen is a great option for beach days because it’s reef-safe (of course), features a color-changing cap that goes from white to blue or pink when exposed to UV rays to indicate it’s time to reapply, and it’s water-resistant . It has a gentle, liquid-like formula that can be a bit runny and hard to control out of the tube, but the weightless texture makes it easy to spread and comfortable on the skin . It absorbs within seconds before setting down to a radiant finish with almost no white cast in sight.

What impressed us the most about this formula is how well it performed during water-resistance and transfer-resistance tests. It stayed put almost completely, making it a great option for those who frequently do outdoor activities—especially days at the beach or pool . Plus, we love that it’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin .

Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | SPF: 50 | Size: 5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Overall, our favorite reef-safe sunscreen is the Pipette Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 . It’s lightweight, fast-absorbing, fragrance-free, water-resistant, and doesn’t create a white cast, all while remaining affordable. But if you have sensitive or reactive skin, we highly recommend the California Baby Super Sensitive Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+ Sunscreen for you.

In order to determine which reef-safe SPF is best, we put 24 options to the test in The Lab as well as at home in the real world over the course of four weeks. In our lab facility, we tested the formulas to determine if they transfer onto clothing, whether or not they’re water-resistant, how well they absorb into the skin, and if they created a white cast. At home, we used the products consistently to determine the same things (as well as how they protected the skin from the sun), but over a longer period of time and in practice in our daily lives. Some other key factors we took into consideration when judging each product include:

Active ingredients
Immediate and long-term benefits
Feel upon application
Scent/fragrance

Coola Mineral Body Organic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Although we appreciate that this body SPF is fragrance-free and packed with antioxidants, the texture is quite greasy, and it does create a white cast.

Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen

While this product is marketed as a clear sunscreen, we find that it does create a white cast, and it feels a bit heavy on the skin.

Manda Organic Sun Paste

We love that this formula has a unique paste texture and is pretty water-resistant, but it takes some warming up in between the hands in order to get it spread evenly on the skin.

What to Look for When Buying a Reef-Safe SPF

Water-resistance: Lea d'Auriol recommends opting for SPFs that are water-resistant because this makes them less likely to wash off of your skin into the ocean. Plus, the better your sunscreen remains on your skin, the more protected you are from the harmful effects of the sun. The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen 50+ is our favorite water-resistant option.
Level of protection: It’s important to consider what level of protection you’re getting out of your SPF, regardless of whether it’s reef-safe or not. According to the American Academy of Dermatology , you should use a product that has an SPF of 30 or higher. They also recommend opting for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection to protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. Our top pick is the Pipette Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 —it has a high SPF, offers broad-spectrum protection, and is water-resistant.

There’s a growing movement to opt for reef-safe sunscreens—but why? Perhaps you’ve heard of coral bleaching, but what does it mean? According to d'Auriol, “Coral bleaching occurs when changes in the corals (rising temperature, lack of nutrients, exposure to toxins, etc.) cause coral to become stressed. Stressed corals expel the symbiotic, food-producing algae that live in their tissues. Exposing their white skeletons (kind of like taking off your sweater when the room is too hot).” While bleached corals aren’t dead, they are more at risk of becoming diseased or dying—which in turn impacts the marine ecosystems that rely on the coral for survival. Chemicals in sunscreen can be toxic to the coral and also alter the pH in their environments, increasing the risk of the coral becoming stressed and bleaching. Why is this important? Maintaining the health of corals is essential to other marine life, explains d'Auriol. “Over 25 percent of all marine life depends on healthy coral reefs for survival,” she says.

There is no regulated “reef-safe” definition, but in general, experts tend to consider reef-safe SPFs to be those that are formulated without chemical ingredients, like oxybenzone and octinoxate, that are harmful to ocean life.

According to d’Auriel, when buying reef-safe sunscreen, check that none of the following ingredients are included: oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, 4-methyl benzylidene camphor, PABA, parabens , triclosan, any nanoparticles (or ‘nano-sized’ zinc), titanium, and any form of microplastics like exfoliating beads.

Alyssa Kaplan is an experienced writer in the beauty industry and product tester specializing in cosmetics. She received a bachelor’s degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she studied marketing and product development in the cosmetics industry as well as fashion business marketing. Alyssa has been a commerce writer at Byrdie since 2022, where she covers all things beauty. To better inform her for this article, she spoke with an expert on the topic:

Lea d'Auriol , Founder of International Non-Profit and Partner of UN World Oceans Day, Oceanic Global .

The best reef-safe sunscreens, according to experts

When it comes to picking a reef-safe sunscreen, experts recommend avoiding chemical formulas that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate.

Wearing sunscreen regularly is a must — no matter your age or skin tone. It not only helps protect against skin cancer, but can also help prevent premature wrinkles and age spots, according to the The American Academy of Dermatology .

There are a lot of factors to consider when shopping for the right SPF. For example, you may require sunscreen for sensitive skin or need a kid-friendly SPF formula . Another consideration you may want to think about: Picking an environmentally friendly product — especially if you’ll be spending lots of time near the ocean. According to experts, certain chemicals in your SPF could rinse off in water and impact ocean ecosystems.

SKIP AHEAD The best reef safe sunscreen of 2023 | How to shop for reef safe sunscreen | How to apply sunscreen correctly

Specifically, research suggests that chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate have a negative impact on coral reefs. (An estimated 25% of all marine life depends on coral reefs for survival, according to the Environmental Protection Agency .) It’s so harmful that places like Hawaii and Key West, Florida, no longer allow the sale of sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate.

That’s where reef-safe sunscreen comes in. “These sunscreens tend to be mineral-based , utilizing ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to provide physical, rather than chemical, sun protection,” says Dr. Divya Shokeen, a board-certified dermatologist at the Ocean Skin and Vein Institute in California.

To help you shop for reef-safe formulas, we spoke to dermatologists and environmental experts about what to look for in an SPF that will protect both you and the environment. Then, we rounded up expert picks, along with highly rated options that met their standards.

Selected. Our top picks

select Sensitive skin? Here's what to look for in sunscreen, according to dermatologists

How we picked the best reef-safe sunscreen.

We interviewed two dermatologists and an environmental expert about what to look for in a sunscreen that will protect your skin from harmful rays, while not damaging coral reefs or other ocean ecosystems. The experts we spoke to recommend keeping the following factors in mind when shopping:

Reef-safe ingredients: There are two types of sunscreens: chemical and mineral . Chemical sunscreens use ingredients to filter out UV rays, whereas mineral (also known as physical) formulas sit on top of your skin and reflect rays away. The former contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, two ingredients that research suggests can be harmful to the ocean ecosystem by bleaching coral reefs and damaging their DNA. For this list, we selected mineral formulas, none of which contain oxybenzone octinoxate. Instead, they incorporate physical blockers like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. “When shopping for reef-safe, mineral sunscreens, look for something containing zinc or titanium as the active ingredients,” says Dr. Brendan Camp, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City.
Level of protection: You want to protect the ocean, but you also need to protect your skin. To do so, look for broad-spectrum products with an SPF rating of at least 30. (Broad-spectrum protection means your skin will be safe from both UVA and UVB rays).
Water-resistance: Denoted by time (typically 40 or 80 minutes), this refers to how long your sunscreen will stay on wet skin. Water-resistant sunscreens serve a couple of purposes, according to our experts. Firstly, the better your sunscreen stays on your skin , the more protected you are. And second, your SPF will be less likely to wash off and harm the ocean.

The best reef-safe sunscreen

To help you find the best reef safe sunscreen, we considered recommendations from dermatologists, along with highly rated options from brands like Cerave, Blue Lizard and more. None of our recommendations contain oxybenzone or octinoxate.

Best overall: ThinkSport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen

ThinkSport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen

This water-resistant formula is a favorite of Camp’s because it is environmentally friendly, offers broad-spectrum protection and has skin-boosting benefits. This zinc oxide-based formula absorbs quickly and doesn’t feel sticky or oily going on. “In addition to SPF 50 protection, it includes antioxidants like vitamin E and moisturizing ingredients like jojoba oil,” he says. “Whereas some sunscreens feel sticky going on, this one feels smooth thanks to these ingredients, which also help nourish your skin as you wear it.”

Best for body: Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 Suncreen

Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 Suncreen

With zinc oxide as the primary active ingredient, Camp says this is a great option for protecting your body and keeping reefs safe. It offers SPF 50 and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. While some mineral sunscreens leave a white residue on skin, this one blends in very nicely so you don’t look like you’re wearing a ton of sunscreen even when you are, according to Camp. You can also feel good about the packaging — it’s made of recycled plastic, according to the brand.

Best budget pick: Blue Lizard Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+

This expert-recommended mineral sunscreen is a great option for those with sensitive skin around the entire body (not just the face). It offers broad-spectrum SPF 50+ coverage and has zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect skin from UV rays. Plus, the fragrance-free formula is sweat- and water-resistant too. An added bonus? As this sits in the sun, the bottle turns from white to blue to remind you when it’s time to reapply your sunscreen.

Best splurge: MDSolarScience Mineral Tinted Crème SP F 30 Sunscreen

MDSolarScience Mineral Tinted Crème SPF 30 Sunscreen

If you are looking for a face-specific formula, you may want to consider a lotion with a tint. “Tinted sunscreens are often formulated with pigment that blends in well without leaving noticeable residue,” says Camp. This one uses both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to create a protective barrier from the sun. I use this daily on my face and love that it dries with a slightly matte finish and evens out my skin tone. The water-resistant formula also has vitamins C and E to help soothe and moisturize skin, according to the brand.

Best for acne prone skin: Cerave Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

Cerave Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

This SPF 30, which is great for sensitive skin , has a sheer tint, offsetting any white cast on the skin, says NBC Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin , who uses it daily. The noncomedogenic sunscreen also contains hyaluronic acid to boost moisture and ceramides to support the skin’s natural barrier. Plus, it’s free of oil and fragrances, making it a good option for acne-prone and sensitive skin.

Best moisturizing: Reef Repair Sunscreen SPF 30

Reef Repair Sunscreen SPF 30

Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, this SPF 30 formula uses zinc oxide to protect skin from the sun. Along with being reef safe, it won’t harm other marine and aquatic life, according to the brand. Plus, according to Reef Repair, it won’t leave a white cast and doesn’t feel sticky or greasy on the skin. Ingredients like red raspberry seed oil and coconut oil are also included to ensure the skin is as moisturized as it is protected.

Best tinted: Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Face Lotion

Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Face Lotion

Another face-specific option, this mineral sunscreen from Sun Bum uses zinc oxide to protect skin from UVA and UVB rays. The tinted formula blends seamlessly into skin and has a matte finish, according to the brand. The SPF 30 should be applied 15 minutes before going into the sun and it can be used on its own or as a primer under makeup, according to Sun Bum.

select Why dermatologists love these mineral sunscreens

How to shop for reef-safe sunscreen.

When shopping for environmentally friendly sunscreens that will also keep you protected from the sun, our experts recommend keeping the below factors in mind:

Prioritize reef-safe ingredients. Like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide that create a physical block on your skin that make rays bounce off it without penetrating through. Though it’s important to note that there is no actual, legal definition for ‘reef safe’, according to Emily Spilman, a healthy living science program manager at the Environmental Working Group . The term’s unregulated and generally, companies have their own definitions, she says. “While there are still a lot of data gaps about how certain sunscreens impact coral reefs, the main concern is that specific ingredients can cause coral bleaching, which can leave reefs under distress and vulnerable.”

Reef-safe sunscreens are also usually made up of micro-sized or non-nano particles. This is because nanoparticles can be ingested by coral and negatively impact its health, according to the National Park Service . Most reef-safe products will identify what type of particles their formula is made up of.

Avoid oxybenzone, octinoxate and parabens. Oxybenzone and octinoxate are chemical ingredients that work to protect skin from the sun by filtering harmful rays out — and while they are effective at doing that, they can cause other issues. “They have been shown to be toxic to aquatic life, including coral,” Spilman says.

Parabens are preservatives that keep beauty products shelf stable for longer. However, they can bleach reefs and even damage the DNA in coral, according to the National Ocean Service .

Opt for broad spectrum sunscreens. This will protect you against both UVA and UVB rays. Exposure to UVA rays is associated with skin aging, while exposure to UVB is connected to skin burning — so preventing both from impacting your complexion is crucial, according to our experts. “You should also be looking for a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher,” says Shokeen. Just know that anything higher than SPF 50 only offers marginal improvements when it comes to protecting your skin.

Look for water-resistance. Not only does this help keep your skin safe while you engage in water play, it may be safer for the environment. This is because water-resistant sunscreen isn’t as likely to wash off in the ocean and negatively impact aquatic life.

How to apply sunscreen correctly

Once you’ve picked your reef-safe sunscreen, make sure you apply it correctly to ensure you get maximum protection. Your goal should be to use it liberally and frequently, according to Shokeen. The general rule of thumb is to use a quarter-sized dollop on your face and a shot glass-size amount for your body. You want to apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going out in the sun and reapply those amounts every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

Kate Beebe is the associate marketing director at the Coral Reef Alliance .
Dr. Brendan Camp is board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City.
Dr. Divya Shokeen is a board-certified dermatologist at the Ocean Skin and Vein Institute in California.
Emily Spilman is a healthy living science program manager at the Environmental Working Group .

Why trust NBC Select?

Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers topics like beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed three experts to gather their guidance and researched highly rated reef-safe sunscreens based on their advice.

Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

Bethany Heitman is a contributing editor at NBC Select.

The Best Reef-Friendly Sunscreens That Protect Your Skin, According to Dermatologists

Here's everything you need to know about these eco-friendly SPF formulas.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

In 2015, a group of scientists including Dr. Craig Downs, PhD, Executive Director of the Haereticus Environmental Laboratory, was tasked by the Federal Government to figure out why coral reefs in the U.S. Virgin Islands were dying. After ruling out the usual suspects like “sewage, fuel, pesticides, and road runoff,” says Downs, they realized that there were high concentrations of chemicals found in sunscreens in the water of the highly popular tourist beaches. Their subsequent study found that there was over 14,000 tons of sunscreen in our oceans , which they have now been able to directly link to irreversible damage to coral and other marine life.

Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen Spray

Sun bum mineral spf 30 sunscreen spray.

Best Fragrance-Free Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Coola organic mineral sunscreen spf 50.

Best Mineral Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Ren clean screen mattifying face sunscreen spf 30.

Most Innovative Sunscreen

Bare republic mineral gel sunscreen spf 30 sunblock body lotion.

Best Mineral-Safe Zinc Sunscreen

Thinksport sunscreen spf 50+.

Best Matte Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Neutrogena sheer zinc oxide dry-touch sunscreen lotion spf 30.

Most Comfortable Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Supergoop play 100% mineral lotion spf 50 sunscreen.

Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen for Travel

Babo botanicals clear zinc sport sunscreen stick spf 30.

Best Organic Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Badger active broad spectrum sunscreen cream spf 30.

Best Moisturizing Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Australian gold botanical sunscreen spf 50.

Best Sunscreens | Best Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin | Best Mineral Sunscreens | Best Zinc Oxide Sunscreens | Best Face Sunscreens | Best Moisturizers With SPF Doctors who've looked at the research results agree that some sunscreen ingredients cause damage to coral reefs and contribute to the declining health of coral reefs worldwide. "Certain ingredients in chemical sunscreens have been shown to cause coral bleaching, which stresses the coral reef and makes it susceptible to disease and death," says Dr. Leah Ansell , a New York-based board-certified dermatologist and clinical instructor of dermatology at Columbia University.

Following the growing amount of evidence that what sunscreens we put on our bodies can have a devastating effect on the environment around us, Hawaii became the first state to ban the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate in 2018, two known endocrine disrupting chemical ingredients that have been shown to drastically affect ocean life. Key West followed in 2019 and around the same time the Food and Drug Administration proposed a new rule to regulate common chemicals found in sunscreens , including oxybenzone and octinoxate, pending updated testing. (Though it should be noted that the FDA is more concerned with these chemicals’ effects on humans, rather than the environment).

If you want to minimize the damage that's being done to the ocean's coral reefs, Dr. Ansell recommends for non-nano mineral sunscreens, which are considered to be reef safe. "Avoid products that contain oxybenzone or octinoxate, two common UV-blocking chemicals," she says. "Nano-mineral sunscreens have tiny particles which may damage reefs, so be sure to choose a 'non-nano' mineral sunblock."

As a result of these new research findings, you’ve probably noticed more sunscreens promoting themselves as "reef safe". But what exactly does that mean and should you make the switch? It’s complicated. Ahead, check out the 12 best reef-safe and reef-friendly sunscreens. We’d be willing to bet you’ll find one you like so much, you won’t even miss your old chemical screen. The reefs will thank you.

This brilliant solve for gloopy, thick mineral sunscreen comes out of the can in a whipped cream consistency, which makes it easier to rub in and feel lighter on the skin. It still leaves a slight white cast at first, but is useful to see if you’ve missed a spot before it disappears.

Testing Notes: We love the ease of application of this sunscreen. It sprays out in a fine mist, which allows you to get those hard-to-reach areas like your back. It has thin consistency, but since it's mineral, it doesn't exactly blend into your skin. Expect to see a white-ish tint after using, which indicates you're protected from the sun. It also makes it easy to know when you need to reapply. We would only recommend this reef-safe sunscreen for those with fair to light complexions, unless you don't mind looking like Casper the Friendly Ghost at the beach.

Read more: Best Natural Sunscreens for Men

This fragrance-free zinc sunscreen lotion is top rated by the EWG because of the 70% organic formula and high quality plant-derived ingredients. Since there’s no added fragrance, it’s gentle enough to use on sensitive or irritation-prone skin.

Testing Notes: We found that it takes some vigorous rubbing to get this sunscreen completely blended into the skin, but your patience will be rewarded. We can really feel a difference when it comes to the ingredients in this sunscreen versus others. Antioxidant-rich nutrients like red raspberry seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil, and prickly pear extract provide a moisturizer-like texture that actually makes us want to reapply. If a day in the sun leaves your skin feeling extra dry, you might enjoy this nourishing reef-safe sunscreen.

Wearing mineral sunscreen on your body is one thing, but how it feels on your face is another. This clean-ingredient formula contains zinc to help protect your face from UV rays but is non-greasy and contains rice starch to help soak up excess oil.

Testing Notes: Hate the feeling of greasy sunscreen? Us too. We love this sunscreen because it dries matte and doesn't contain dimethicone like other sunscreens, which gives some sunscreens that slippy quality. We found that warming the product up in your hands before applying it on your face helps it 'melt' into the skin. If you don't warm it up, it might be difficult to blend and leave behind a white cast.

Read more: Best Mineral Sunscreen for Men

This innovative clear gel completely does away with the white, chalky look of some other mineral sunscreens, but still has non-nano zinc oxide particles to give broad spectrum protection. It’s also chock-full of botanical oils to help moisturize skin as well as protect it.

Testing Notes: We love this reef-safe sunscreen for dry skin, thanks to the hydrating plant-based ingredients including aloe, shea butter, and sunflower seed oil. The gel-lotion texture is super lightweight and allows it to sink into the skin faster without having to rub your face off like you're scratching a lottery ticket. If you have oily skin, this sunscreen might be too rich for your skin type, but for dry skin, it's incredible to help prevent your skin from flaking after a fun day in the sun.

Almost as close to pure zinc as you can get (while still sinking into skin quickly and without a greasy film), this mineral-based sunscreen is approved by the EWG and Whole Foods. It’s best suited when you’re being especially active, because of the 80-water resistant factor which applies to sweat, too.

Testing Notes: We love using this sunscreen before any outdoor activity because it's sweat and water-resistant. Plus, it doesn't feel heavy on our skin, like it's sitting on the surface. The best way to apply it is in thin layers. If you squeeze out a giant glob of it, you might find it difficult to rub in. Applying it in thin layers ensures you are protected while also preventing the dreaded white cast that can happen with most reef-safe sunscreens.

Read more: Best Zinc-Oxide Sunscreens for Men

“Neutrogena makes a lot of good zinc sunscreens and has good science behind it,” says Dr. Bhanusali. We’re partial to this zinc formula which goes on smooth and dries to a powdery finish that doesn’t leave you with a grey film or sticky feeling (there is also a version specifically for your face).

Testing Notes: We're huge fans of the texture of this reef-safe sunscreen. It's not sticky or overly creamy and dries down to a sheer matte finish that won't lave your face looking shiny or greasy. The non-greasy formula is easy to spread on its own, but it blends even better if you apply it on top of your daily moisturizer. Within a few minutes, it'll feel weightless on your skin.

There are no chemical sunscreens in this formula, only a powerful combination of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. It’s lightweight enough for your face, but protective enough to use on your body, too. It sinks in quickly without feeling heavy on your skin.

Testing Notes: We found that the texture of this sunscreen is really elegant compared to other mineral sunscreens, which can be quite thick. Despite its thin consistency, it doesn't lack in terms of coverage. A little goes a long way, but it's also easy to layer and reapply. We recommend putting some in your hand, rubbing them together and patting it on your skin before rubbing it in completely. This application method gives you complete coverage without having to work too hard to blend.

This EWG-approved, non-nano mineral sunscreen formula also comes in a lotion, but we especially like the stick because it makes sunscreen easy to apply on areas most prone to sunburn like ears, noses, and even lips. Plus, it makes reapplying every two hours less of chore.

Testing Notes: A stick isn't our preferred method of applying sunscreen. If you plan to be out in the sun for multiple hours, we definitely recommend using a liquid reef-safe sunscreen as your primary sun protection strategy. This sunscreen stick is great to keep handy if you're going on a bike ride or a long run and don't want to carry an entire tube of sunscreen when it comes time to reapply. Since it is a solid, we found that this sunscreen can be tricky to rub in, which causes it to leave a heavy white cast. To make it blend easier, we recommend rubbing the stick on the palm of your hands to warm up the formula a bit before rubbing it on your face.

With only five ingredients in this Protect Land + Sea certified formula , Badger sunscreen is as natural is you can find, but doesn’t sacrifice any sun protection. There’s a high concentration of zinc to protect from UV rays, but somehow still applies smoothly and doesn’t leave your limbs sticky.

Testing Notes: We love how simple this formula is, which gives us the confidence to reapply without worrying that it might irritate our skin. The addition of sunflower oil, beeswax, and vitamin E helps this sunscreen spread easily and absorb into the skin, but it also gives your skin a slightly shiny finish. Be warned that it can rub off on clothing or gear, so we recommend that you clean your hands before touching anything.

As mineral sunscreens climb higher in SPF, some can start feeling heavier and stickier with greater sun protection. That's not the case with this formula. It contains ingredients like squalane and red algae to help moisturize and protect skin, while also allowing it to spread easily and quickly.

Testing Notes: We love that this sunscreen doesn't smell like your typical sunscreen. It has a natural citrus scent that isn't too strong. Unlike other sunscreens, it dries down to an almost powdery finish. We wouldn't recommend this sunscreen for dry skin, but if you have oily skin, you'll love how this sunscreen instantly mattifies your complexion.

Drunk Elephant Umbra™ Sheer Physical Daily Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30

On the luxe end of the spectrum, this Drunk Elephant mineral sunscreen costs a bit more than others, but is ideally suited for everyday wear on your face. It contains zinc to help protect your mug from UVA and UVB rays, as well as ingredients like soothing aloe and jojoba oil to keep it moisturized.

Testing Notes: If you're worried about your reef-safe sunscreen leaving a white cast, we encourage you to give this one a shot. It comes out white from the tube but after rubbing it in for a minute or two, it's almost completely sheer. The only negative is that you do have to reapply it, especially if you plan on being in the water, as it's not water resistant. We love this one for daily sun protection, however, it's not our top choice for bringing to the beach.

Coppertone Pure & Simple SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion

This EWG-approved formula from Coppertone is made of zinc oxide and natural botanicals, like tea leaf and sea kelp extracts. It’s also hypoallergenic and suitable for even the most sensitive skin.

Testing Notes: We love that this sunscreen is made with 100% naturally sourced zinc oxide, which is gentle on the skin, but we found that it never truly absorbs; it just sits on the surface of your skin. That being said, we found that it stays on your skin even after an hour of being in the water, which is quite impressive. As an SPF 50, it works to give your skin the best level of protection, but it does come at the cost of a heavy white cast. If you have a medium or deeper skin tone, you might want to skip this one.

.css-1c42clk{font-family:Knockout,Knockout-roboto,Knockout-local,Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif;font-weight:normal;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1c42clk{font-size:3rem;line-height:1;letter-spacing:0.06rem;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-1c42clk{font-size:3.125rem;line-height:1;letter-spacing:0.06rem;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1c42clk{font-size:3.75rem;line-height:1;letter-spacing:0.075rem;}}.css-1c42clk b,.css-1c42clk strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-1c42clk em,.css-1c42clk i{font-style:italic;font-family:inherit;}.css-1c42clk a{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#FFF200;text-decoration-thickness:0.19rem;}.css-1c42clk a:hover{color:#D2232E;} How Exactly Can Sunscreen Harm the Environment?

Ultimately it comes down to what kind of sunscreen it is. “The issue is more with chemical sunscreens because those are the ones that have been shown to accumulate [in the water],” says cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson, whereas mineral-based sunscreens like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide don’t, at least not in the same way. “[Chemicals] get absorbed by some of the marine life and cause damage and even death. Minerals sink to the bottom.” According to Downs, coral bleaching is the most visible effect of damage but it goes way beyond that. These chemicals can affect all aspects of an ocean ecosystem—from fertility issues in sea urchins and fish to killing off seaweed and other marine plant life. “Sunscreens are incredible herbicides, worse than commercial herbicides,” says Downs.

What’s the Difference Between Chemical and Mineral Sunscreens?

“In the simplest terms, mineral [also called physical] sunscreens deflect UV rays and chemical sunscreens actually absorb them and use heat to break them apart,” says dermatologist Dhaval Bhanusali, MD. Physical sunscreens also tend to be natural, like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, whereas chemical sunscreens are synthetic. The easiest way to think about it is to picture the old-school lifeguards or surfers with pure white zinc on their noses. These physical blockers actually sit on top of skin, which is why dermatologists like Dr. Bhanusali actually prefer them. “They do a better job of protecting us, but the biggest issue is that people don’t always like them because they leave a barrier,” he says. That’s why chemical sunscreens were developed—they sink into skin easier and don’t usually leave a white, chalky cast. These days, however, formulations of mineral sunscreens are getting better and grind the minerals down to a microscopic size called nanoparticles to ensure they disappear on skin quicker and more easily without leaving a film or chalky look.

But nanoparticles aren’t perfect, even those of natural substances like zinc or titanium dioxide. “They tend to accumulate god knows where,” says Dr. Bhanusali. As manufacturers began to micronize particles smaller and smaller, “they went too far,” says Robinson. “There are potentially harmful effects as they seep into the skin,” which can be bad news for humans as well as marine life. “Nanoparticles still pose an increased toxicological risk because, just like in humans, they can be absorbed into the blood stream [of marine life],” says Downs. The impact is still being studied and may not be as extreme in some cases as chemical sunscreens, but is still something scientists like Downs are concerned about. “It’s the dose that makes the poison, so if you had 6,000 people go into [the same water] with nanosized zinc oxide, yes, I think there would be an impact,” he says.

What Makes a Sunscreen Reef Safe?

Keep in mind that “reef safe” is not a standardized term - it’s something come up by marketers. “Calling something reef safe implies you’ve actually tested that product on reef organisms and most companies don’t do that toxicity testing,” says Downs. When you see the words reef safe on a bottle, it usually just means it’s free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, which is a start but not the be-all-end-all. To be as safe as possible, the sunscreen should contain only non-nano mineral sunscreens.

"For a reef-safe option, men can opt for mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients," says Beverly Hills-based integrative aesthetics doctor Dr. Rahi Sarbaziha . "These sunscreens work by creating a protective layer that shields the skin from UVA/UVB rays." There are some independent agencies who have set up their own certification and testing processes to help identify sunscreens that don’t contain harmful ingredients. Protect Land & Sea , which Downs oversees, tests sunscreens for 11 potentially harmful chemicals as well as a slew of other things like parabens and other preservatives. The Environmental Working Group also has rigorous standards in what they consider safe to use. Look for their logos on packages to help easily identify products that they deem safe.

Can Using a Reef-Safe Sunscreen Really Make a Difference?

Cynics among us may wonder if saving marine life could be as simple as switching their sunscreen. There are multiple factors to consider, according to Dr. Bhanusali, like climate change and pollution, which also contribute to the deterioration of coral reefs and nothing is black and white. “The only thing that’s non-negotiable,” he says, “is that you have to wear something because extended UV damage over time can lead to skin cancers.” And if you’re still unconvinced, consider this: physical sunscreens can actually protect you better from the sun’s rays. Mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are broad spectrum protectors, which means they protect from UVA and UVB rays (not all chemical sunscreens protect you from both). So switching to a reef safe sunscreen could do your body good as well as the ocean.

Basically, says Robinson, you have to make the decision for yourself. “If you’re going swimming in the ocean, I would choose a product that is reef safe,” he says. “If you’re going to the beach and laying out, it doesn’t matter as much.” But consider that, as Downs says, “the poison is in the dose.” The harmful chemicals in sunscreens compound over time, so even one person making the switch could make a difference.

How to Choose A Reef Safe Sunscreen

One of the biggest reasons people stay away from mineral sunscreens is how they look (chalky) and feel (filmy) on their skin. That may have been true for the old-school zinc, but now formulas are smoother and easier to rub in, though may still take some getting used to. “Buy a few different sunscreens and try them all to figure out which one your skin likes best because all skin is different,” says Bhanusali. “People may have reactions to certain ingredients, so you have to play around with it.” Always choose a sunscreen that is at least broad spectrum SPF 30, as advised by the American Academy of Dermatology , and look for versions that are water resistant. Be wary of any product that doesn’t list an SPF rating, since those are substantiated and regulated by the FDA, even if some of the ingredients are not. And if you can’t find a mineral sunscreen you like, but still want to be reef safe, consider UPF clothing which still protects your skin from UV rays.

Meet the Experts

Dhaval Bhanusali , MD, board-certified dermatologist
Ron Robinson , cosmetic chemist
Craig Downs, Ph.D, chemist and executive director of Haereticus Environmental Laboratory
Dr. Leah Ansell , MD, board-certified dermatologist and clinical instructor of dermatology at Columbia University
Dr. Rahi Sarbaziha , double-board certified integrative medicine doctor and aesthetics specialist

How We Selected

For the past two years, we consulted with Men's Health's Grooming editors and writers on the top reef-safe sunscreens for men. Experts including our Grooming Editor Garrett Munce have tried over 100 reef-safe sunscreens and evaluated them for their protection, texture, and finish, and if their ingredients lined up with the Protect Land & Sea's requirements for a reef-safe sunscreen. We also considered top-reviewed sunscreens that had at least 100 five-star customer ratings on e-commerce websites that we trust.

Christian Gollayan oversees e-commerce content for Men's Health and Women's Health. Previously, he was the Associate Managing Editor at TheManual.com. Christian's work has also been featured in Food & Wine, InStyle, the New York Post, and Tatler Asia.

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The Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens for Your Tropical Vacation

Carol McPherson

Carol McPherson is an Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @cj_mcpherson.

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Summer is just around the corner, and if you’ve been knee-deep in planning your dream beach vacation , you’ve probably run across the term “reef-safe sunscreen.” Studies in recent years have shown that the UV-blocking chemicals in sunscreen cause damage to marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. In response, sunscreen manufacturers have shifted their focus to reef-safe products—but what makes a sunscreen ‘reef-safe’?

Whether you’re an environmentally conscious beach-goer or traveling to a destination with a sunscreen ban in place , here’s how you can soak up the sun sans harmful chemicals this summer.

Young woman snorkeling at coral reef in tropical sea

What Makes Sunscreen Reef-Safe?

There is no standardized definition “‘reef-safe”, but it is commonly accepted that reef-safe sunscreens do not contain the chemicals oxybenzone or octinoxate. Other common UV-blocking ingredients, like octocrylene, can also cause damage to aquatic ecosystems. These chemicals wash off your skin while swimming in the ocean and contribute to coral bleaching.

What is Coral Bleaching?

Coral bleaching is when the algae living in the tissue of healthy coral dies or is expelled due to stressful conditions, causing the coral to lose its color and leaving it vulnerable to illness and damage. These conditions can be brought on, in part, by the chemicals commonly found in sunscreen.

What Type of Sunscreen is Safest for Coral Reefs?

When it comes to the science of sunscreen, there are two schools of thought: physical and chemical.

Physical Sunscreen vs. Chemical Sunscreen vs. Organic Sunscreen

Physical sunscreen uses non-chemical ingredients, such as the zinc-oxide and titanium dioxide found in many mineral sunscreens, to create a physical barrier that deflects UV light away from the skin. Overall, physical sunscreens are more likely to be reef-safe, since they don’t contain the hallmark chemicals that interfere with marine life.

Chemical sunscreens use UV-blocking chemicals to create a barrier that either absorbs harmful rays or deflects them away from your skin.

Organic sunscreen is a subtype of chemical sunscreen.The term “organic” has become synonymous with health and wellness. However, the designation ‘organic’ simply means that the chemicals in the formula are carbon-based. That means that many organic sunscreens could still contain the reef-bleaching chemical octinoxate.

How Effective is Reef-Safe Sunscreen?

Since reef-safe sunscreens contain a spectrum of ingredients, the effectiveness of the sun protection they provide can vary.

Physical sunscreens tend to provide less protection than their chemical counterparts and are less resistant to water and sweat. However, physical sunscreens are typically chemical-free, making them better for sensitive skin and safe for children.

While some chemical sunscreens meet the minimum accepted standard required by several nations’ sunscreen bans, better sun protection may come at an environmental cost. The research on what chemicals can impact marine life and to what extent is still uncertain, and chemicals that have taken a backseat could come forward as major players in potential environmental damage.

Consumer Reports recommends aiming for a balance between mitigating environmental risk and prioritizing your own sun protection. Travelers can do this by minimizing the amount of skin exposed to the sun (and therefore covered in sunscreen) through sun-protective clothing and staying in the shade when possible.

What Are the Best Reef Safe Sunscreen?

Luckily, the rise in awareness of our impact on coral reefs has caused a rise in options for reef-safe products. Some sunscreens are marketed as biodegradable, which is another way to flag that a sunscreen is reef-safe.

Here are the best replacements for your sun protection favorites.

Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens for Body

Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen
Classi c Body Organic Sunscreen Lotion
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
Badger SPF 40 Clear Zinc

Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens for Face

Classic Face Organic Sunscreen Mist
Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen Sunscreen
Innisfree Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen
Bubble Solar Matte Daily Mineral SPF

Best Reef-Safe Spray Sunscreens

Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen Spray
Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Spray
Coral Isles Reef Safe Sunscreen
Elta MD UV AOX Mist Broad Spectrum SPF 40

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A Complete Guide to "Reef-Safe" Sunscreen

Experts help decipher what’s behind the claim.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

"Reef-safe” or “reef-friendly” claims have been popping up with mass and indie brands alike. "Reef-safe" and "reef/ocean-friendly" claims imply that the actives used in that particular product are better for the well-being of the reefs and other aquatic life in the ocean. Sunscreen actives reach the ocean by direct release when we are swimming in the water but also can find their way by storm and waste waters that are fed by the drainage of pools and showers. But the term is tricky — both in what it implies, and how it's regulated.

Where did the need for "reef-safe" sunscreen come from?

In 2018, Hawaii passed legislature banning sunscreen products containing oxybenzone and/or octinoxate. This ban came on the heels of research out of the Haereticus Environmental Laboratory in Virginia that suggested oxybenzone (a.k.a. benzophenone-3) and octinoxate could slow growth of a coral species, and demonstrated that oxybenzone was also toxic to six other coral species in lab tests .

While not all scientists agreed on the effects of sunscreen being the dominant effect in coral reef damage, the marketplace saw an influx of sunscreen product launches claiming to be “reef-safe.” Most "reef-safe" formulas in the market use mineral sunscreen actives zinc oxide and titanium dioxide and have eliminated not only the two chemical sunscreen actives banned in Hawaii, but all chemical UV filters approved by the FDA.

What does “reef-safe” sunscreen protect?

The recent emphasis on "reef-safe" sunscreen is spurred by damage to coral reefs (the so-called rainforests of the sea) which are made of limestone deposited by coral polyps over thousands of years. Changes in environmental conditions such as temperature, light or nutrients can stress to reefs, leading to them expel their colorful algae and turn white : If the stress persists, it can lead to death of the coral and disrupt the ecosystem that depends on it.

Why is this important? " Coral reefs represent less than 0.15% of the ocean yet they house more than 2 5% of all marine species — including thousands of fish and plants ," said Dr. Nicole Crane, marine biologist and executive director of One People One Reef Project, at a recent seminar hosted by the Society of Cosmetics Chemists NYC chapter . Corals are in a global crisis due, in part, to natural factors such as diseases, predators, storms, industrial pollution and unsustainable fishing practices, coupled with rising ocean temperatures and increased ocean acidification due to climate change . These coral structures are very precious as they grow ever so slowly — rates can vary widely between 0.3 cm/year to 10 cm/year — and they protect the coastlines from storms and erosion . Plus, through fishing, diving and snorkeling, reefs add hundreds of millions of dollars to local economies around the world. That's why scientists are exploring how much additional factors, such as sunscreen filters, play a role in their decline.

What ingredient in sunscreen is bad for reefs?

Well, it's TBD. “The evidence regarding the different filters is so incomplete that we can neither identify 'bad actors' nor 'safe actors' with any certainty,” says Mark Cullen, M.D ., founding director of the Stanford Center for Population Health Science, who recently delved into sunscreen actives in a 400-page report by the National Academies (NAA) committee to analyze all available aquatic toxicity data on both chemical and mineral filters in the U.S. market.

Their main finding: There are data gaps to decide which actives, if any, pose an actual risk to the marine environment. Hence, the committee would like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the federal regulatory body that funded the NAA’s efforts, to conduct an ecological risk assessment (ERA) for all currently marketed UV filters, both chemical (UV absorbing) and mineral/physical (UV blocking) actives, and any new ones that become available.

How do I know my SPF is reef-safe?

The bottom line: There is currently no sure way of knowing which sunscreen products are better than others for the well-being of reefs and aquatic life. The present availability of toxicity data to conduct environmental risk studies varies between "limited to non-existent," according to Carys Mitchelmore , professor at the University of Maryland’s Center for Environmental Science and Chesapeake Biological Laboratory. “Only when such studies are completed, then you can begin to compare the risk between different UV filters,” she says. Dr. Cullen agrees that calling out one ingredient to be safer than other at this point in time is premature, saying, "this evidence falls short of being a strong reason to recommend a policy [or] even [make a recommendation] for consumers.”

So does buying "reef-safe" sunscreen actually matter?

Experts agree that the science of understanding the damage posed by sunscreens, or for that matter any other chemical, is still very young. There are "no standards for test methodologies, where and when to take samples in the environment and which species to use as models in the laboratory," according to Mitchelmore.

“Despite all good intentions, various descriptors such as 'reef-safe' have no well-defined, official or, frankly, clear meaning,” says Dr. Cullen. “Terms such as ‘reef-safe’ presently are more for marketing than actually to inform that a product has proved to be safer for the reefs.” In fact, earlier this year, a class action lawsuit was filed against Australian sunscreen brand Bondi Sands in the Northern District of California , over using false “reef-friendly” advertisement claims. While the brand’s formulation does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate, it does contain other FDA-approved chemical sunscreen filters, namely avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate and octorylene. The class action complaint accused Bondi Sands of using chemical sun filters without a distinction, stating that they may potentially harm reefs and marine life.

However, science-based or not, many manufacturers quietly phased out the two chemical sunscreen actives banned in Hawaii (oxybenzone and octinoxate) from sunscreen formulas. While this might ease the confusion consumers face when making purchase decisions or packing for a trip to Hawaii, it didn't slow down the "reef-safe sunscreen" marketing frenzy nor the controversy around it.

Bottom line: Do I need to change my SPF?

As a general rule of thumb, if you like your current sunscreen, then there is no definitive evidence yet that you should avoid certain sunscreen filters for the sake of the reefs. Dr. Cullen recommends that “increased use of shade, protective clothing and other barrier approaches to skin protection, even at the beach, may be the best way to protect the reef until the EPA has taken the formal steps we have urged."

But this, by no means, implies that you should stop using sunscreens to help the environment: On the contrary, t he NAA report emphasized the importance of continuing sunscreen use for preventing skin cancers. The report also warned against the possibility of consumers altering either sunscreen choices or the amount and frequency they apply them with based on "their perceived impacts on the environment," which seems like a premature behavioral change according to the experts we interviewed. TLDR: Keep using your sunscreen and reapply often.

The best "reef-safe" sunscreens of 2023:

With that said, here is a list of sunscreens that have t opped our most recent consumer tests consisting of mineral-only sunscreens as well as those with chemical filters, except for oxybenzone and octinoxate , which have been banned in Hawaii and happen to have been eliminated from the formulations of many brands.

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection SPF 50 Body Shield

If you are convinced that you would rather use a mineral-only formula, give this high performer a try. With 95% of testers agreeing that it doesn't cause any stinging or irritation, this pure zinc oxide formula topped one of our past GH Beauty Lab sunscreen studies for being gentle. Though designed for use on the body, quite a few of our panelists used it on their faces too and 100% agreed that it didn't irritate their eyes or facial skin. Raves on this "silky" lotion included that it "melted into" users' skin, and that it “spread on a lot easier" than some other formulas they have used in the past .

Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Sun Milk Body Lotion SPF 50

Mineral-only sunscreens tend to be pricier than those formulated with chemical sunscreen filters. This drugstore formula not only rose to the top among the mineral sunscreens in the GH Beauty Lab’s most recent body SPF test, but it is also packs value in each ounce . Infused with coconut oil, Hawaiian Tropic was lauded for its smooth application, transfer resistance and “deliciously tropical” scent. Many raved that the "scent was amazing" and the "application process was clean." However, some thought the formula can feel greasy on skin.

Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Face Lotion

For those mineral-only sunscreen users who prefer a separate sunscreen for their face, the "velvety" texture of this Sun Bum sunscreen was a hit among GH Beauty Lab testers. The sunscreen earned a near-perfect score for not causing irritation or redness , and many testers found that it worked well under makeup. While it didn't make skin shiny or oily, some noted a white cast or slight grayish tone after application despite the product being tinted. It was praised for being "very easy to apply and non-sticky" and for feeling "silky on my skin and looks so natural."

Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry-Touch Mineral Face Sunscreen SPF 50

In a recent GH Beauty Lab consumer use test of facial sunscreens, Neutrogena's product proved its mettle among other mineral-only competitors for providing great value, being easy to apply and effectively preventing sunburn. The softening formula was found to wear well under makeup . Several users remarked that they liked how it "moisturized skin," a desirable attribute for mature complexions. Typical of mineral-only formulas, it might leave a bit of a white cast upon application, so it may be better suited for fairer skin tones.

SkinCeuticals Light Moisture UV Defense SPF 50

If you're looking to avoid the white residue associated with mineral-only sunscreens, look no further than this top performer from SkinCeuticals. This all-over formula is made with chemical sunscreen actives but does not contain those two that are banned in Hawaii. In a recent GH Beauty Lab sunscreen test, it scored well for its appealing texture, absorbing quickly, and not feeling sticky or greasy or making skin feel dry. Most remarkably, 93% of panelists agreed it doesn't leave a white residue on skin . Though it feels "invisible" on skin, it also earned raves for providing great sun protection: "When using it I did not burn, and I felt protected from the 100 degree sun rays and heat."

Hawaiian Tropic AntiOxidant+ Sunscreen Lotion

Those on the hunt for sun protection at a value price point minus the two chemical actives banned in Hawaii will appreciate this drugstore hero that excelled across the board in a recent GH Beauty Lab study. Hawaiian Tropic lotion not only earned perfect scores for not drying or irritating skin, it rated highly for easy absorption, not feeling tacky or oily and not leaving white residue on skin. In addition, its "beachy" scent was a hit, even with testers who tend to be critical about fragranced products. "It worked perfectly," a tester commented.

Vichy LiftActiv Peptide-C Sunscreen SPF 30

The winner of the GH Beauty Lab’s most recent face sunscreen test, Vichy topped the charts for almost every attribute we tested for. It earned the best score for being easy to apply, making skin feel hydrated, and not being sticky or leaving a white cast, thanks to its well-balanced formula containing chemical sunscreen actives. Not only did 100% of testers agree that it had an appealing texture, it also ranked highest at effectively protecting skin from sunburn . "It blended in easily and didn't leave a white film and was also very moisturizing without being greasy," a tester said. Another chimed in: "My skin looks/feels more healthy and vibrant after using this."

Hawaiian Tropic Matte Effect Sunscreen

For a lightweight, more affordable option for facial sunscreen, this GH Beauty Lab top-tested Hawaiian Tropic sunscreen rated well for not inflaming skin and leaving behind a grease-free matte finish. The fast-absorbing lotion ranked well among testers for not running into eyes and not leaving a visible white residue (it employs only chemical sunscreen actives in its formula). Users also appreciated its pleasant and mild scent. "It went on smooth, soaked in quickly and had a nice 'vacation-y' coconut scent with no sticky oily feel," said a tester. "Works much better than anything I have used,” said another.

Birnur (she/her) led the Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab at t he Good Housekeeping Institute from 2007 to 2023. In addition to overseeing product testing and GH Seal applications, she conducted our annual Beauty Awards selection process and was an active leader in GH’s green initiatives, including the Sustainable Innovation Awards and Raise the Green Bar Summit. In addition to earning M.Eng. and Ph.D. degrees in chemical engineering, she also has a professional certificate in sustainability management from Columbia University.

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Best reef-safe sunscreens of 2023

These ocean-safe sunblocks will protect your skin and Earth’s vital coral reefs.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

When it comes to being out in the sun, wearing sunscreen is non-negotiable—and if you care about the oceans, you’ll want to reach for reef-safe sunscreen. Damaging UV rays fall into two categories: UVA and UVB rays, both of which can cause skin damage, like early aging or burning, and can eventually contribute to skin cancer. But many sunscreen brands have a problem: they include chemicals that are bad for the oceans and the planet. Fortunately, in the last few years, a host of new reef-safe (also called reef-friendly) sunscreens have become available to consumers. These ocean-safe sunblocks are accessible, affordable, and work just as well as traditional chemical-based sunscreens when used correctly. We rounded up nine of the best reef-safe sunscreens on the market to ensure you’re protecting your skin and keeping the oceans oxybenzone-free.

Best overall: ThinkSport SPF 50

Best spray: Blue Lizard Mineral Active Spray

Best high-SPF: Bare Republic SPF 100

Best set: coola kit with carrying case, best for acne-prone skin: nécessaire: the sunscreen.

Best solid sunscreen: All Good SPF 50 Stick

Best tinted: Josie Maran Argan Daily Moisturizer

Best SPF lip balm: Rubber Ducky Mineral Lip Balm
Best budget: SunBum Sport Sunscreen

How we chose the best reef-safe sunscreens

I focus on outdoor travel and adventure, so I’m familiar with techniques to be a more sustainable and earth-friendly traveler. But perhaps more importantly, I have very pale skin and am an avid scuba diver, having dived on everything from Caribbean reefs to deep-water shipwrecks in Indonesia. I’ve been using reef-safe sunscreen for years, from budget brands from box stores to more expensive options bought at resort gift shops in a hurry.

In addition to my personal experience with reef-safe sunscreens, I looked at dermatologist recommendations and online reviews from other buyers of various ages, colors, genders, and skin conditions. I looked at the active ingredients for each sunscreen and researched how harmful they are to marine ecosystems, comparing different definitions and standards of what “reef-safe” means around the world. I also spoke with multiple reef and marine experts to get their insight on the best methods for keeping reefs healthy while still protecting your skin.

Things to consider when shopping for the best reef-safe sunscreens

Knowing what to consider when buying reef-safe sunscreens can be overwhelming, especially considering the various recommendations on what chemicals to avoid and understanding the differences between different blends and active ingredients—so we’ve narrowed down what to focus on to make shopping a bit easier.

Decide what reef-safe means to you

When buying a reef-safe sunscreen, the most important thing to consider is what standard of “reef-safe” you’re going to use. Unfortunately, there is no global or federal standard for what constitutes a reef-safe sunscreen. Hawaii’s congressional Rep. Ed Case introduced the Reef Safe Act of 2021, which would direct the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to come up with technical specifications for what the reef-safe label means. However, as of now, environmentally safe sunscreen means different things to different brands.

Hawaii was the first state to ban the two main harmful chemicals (oxybenzone and octinoxate), but other organizations like Save The Reef suggest that you should also rule out sunscreens with chemicals like octocrylene and homosalate.

Expect a thicker application

Sunscreens without those four chemicals will be mineral based. Mineral-based ocean-safe sunscreens (also called physical sunscreens) tend to be thicker and leave a thin white layer on your skin if not fully rubbed in because they act as a physical blocker, stopping the UV rays from touching your skin. Chemical-based sunscreens that meet Hawaii’s sunscreen standards likely will have some questionable ingredients but they’ll be easier to spread and less likely to leave a white filmy layer. Chemical sunscreens work by converting UV rays into something less harmful via a chemical reaction.

Pay attention to the instructions

Because of how mineral sunscreens work, it’s very important to keep a layer of it on your skin at all times, whether you can see it or not. As such, you’ll need to pay close attention to the sunscreen’s application instructions, most of which will advise applying no less frequently than once every two hours. You’ll also need to use a slightly thicker application (brands like ThinkSport advise 1 ounce to cover an average adult). You’ll need to rub it in more and should wait at least 30 minutes or so before going in the water after application.

Protection level

Each sunscreen has a sun protection factor (commonly written as “SPF”), which indicates the level of protection it offers. For instance, it would take roughly 50 times as long to get a sunburn while wearing an SPF 50 product as it would with no protection at all. Of course, even the highest SPF options still require proper application and reapplication for them to work as intended.

The best reef-safe sunscreens of 2023: Reviews & Recommendations

Why it made the cut: A high SPF and water resistance make this a great buy for swimmers who always forget to reapply, and the recyclable and sustainable packaging go the extra mile in being Earth-friendly.

SPF: 50
Available formulas: 3-ounce cream, baby cream, or kids’ cream
Active ingredient: Non-nano (small) zinc oxide
Water-resistant for 80 mins
Biodegradable/recyclable packaging
Good for sensitive skin
Vegan
Thick consistency
A little expensive compared to chemical brands

When it comes to the best reef-safe sunscreens, it can feel a bit like splitting hairs since so many are very similar. Most have a zinc-oxide base, are on the thicker side, and work in the same way (by physically blocking your skin from UV rays). So it’s impressive that ThinkSport manages to stand out among the similar competition.

Not only does this blend offer a high level of protection (an SPF of 50 allows half as many rays to hit your skin as an SPF 30), but it’s also good for sensitive skin. The formula is vegan, mostly organic, and has none of the more than 180 chemicals that could hurt the environment. It meets not only Hawaii reef-safe standards but also the much stricter standards laid out by nonprofits and areas with stricter bans, like the U.S. Virgin Islands.

ThinkSport doesn’t stop at removing potentially harmful chemicals from its products, however. It also uses recyclable packaging and makes annual contributions to various like-minded nonprofit organizations. It’s a little pricey compared to a box-store sunscreen spray, so opt for the cream version to make it last as long as possible.

Best spray: Blue Lizard Mineral Active Sunscreen Spray

BLUE LIZARD

Why it made the cut: A spray-on reef-safe sunscreen with a minimal white residue and a smart bottle feature to remind you to reapply.

Available formulas: Lotion, spray
Primary ingredients: Zinc oxide

Pros

Non-drying
Easy application
Less of a white residue
Added oils to soothe skin
Scent is subjective
Bottle won’t last as long as a cream/lotion

A major complaint with reef-safe sunscreens is that their mineral-based ingredients tend to leave a white residue on one’s skin. Fortunately, this reef-safe spray sunscreen avoids that pitfall. While it does appear white as soon as it’s sprayed, the thinner layer means it quickly turns clear without any significant rubbing.

Blue Lizard—a sunscreen brand based in Australia, where the UV rays are some of the strongest on the planet—gives all their bottles and sprays another interesting feature. The bottle caps turn blue when exposed to UV rays, a feature intended to serve as a reminder. If you notice the change in color, reapply your sunscreen. Blue Lizard also skips the usual chemicals used for aerosol sprays, opting to use air pressure for the spray functionality rather than CO2.

Bare Republic

Why it made the cut: An ultra-high SPF means your skin stays protected for longer, and the chemical-based formula helps avoid the white residue that comes with mineral blends.

SPF: 100
Available formulas: spray, lotion, face-specific lotion
Primary ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
Vegan, not tested on animals
No white residue

Cons

Some users report a fruity scent
Contains ingredients on some non-reef-safe lists

If you’re taking skin protection seriously, you’ll want to take every step you can to protect yourself, which includes using the highest SPF you can find. SPF isn’t a measurement, exactly—it’s an estimate of how many times longer it’ll take you to get burned when you’re wearing it versus not wearing it. So, in theory, it’ll take you 100 times longer to burn if you’ve properly applied this SPF. (Of course, a proper application still means reapplying as needed.)

Aside from offering SPF 100 protection, this coral- and eco-friendly sunscreen also has a natural scent (from the fruit-based ingredients) that’s generally subtle and pleasant. This sunscreen is compliant with Hawaii Act 104, banning the sale of sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate, but it does contain octocrylene, which may have a damaging effect on reefs.

Why it made the cut: A travel-ready set with a face sunscreen, a lip balm, a body spray, and a post-sun serum to soothe skin, all tucked into a small secure case.

Available formulas: n/a
Primary ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene
Classic Body Sunscreen Spray: 2 oz
Classic Face Sunscreen Lotion: .85 oz
Lip Balm: .15 oz
After Sun Lotion: 2 oz
Includes extra products to protect skin
Comes with travel bag
Lightweight, easy on pores
Meets only Hawaii reef-safe standards (contains octocrylene)

If you’re looking for a small reef-safe sunscreen set that meets TSA standards, you’ll want to consider using Coola products , which are among buyers who prefer plant-based products. The kit comes with four travel-sized products: an organic face sunscreen, an after-sun lotion to calm redness and overexposure, a small SPF spray, and a non-tinted hydrating lip balm.

All four products are vegan and meet Hawaii’s reef-safe standards. The three SPF products are hydrating and light so they won’t leave you feeling oily or sticky. The after-sun lotion has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients. It’s ideal for use in the evenings to calm any redness you do notice, ensuring your face feels hydrated and even again the next morning.

The kit is great for travel and the sizes are all well below the TSA carry-on maximums. The only downside is that while the products lack oxybenzone and octinoxate, they do contain octocrylene, which some organizations also have on their harmful ingredients lists. While the actual SPF product uses primarily organic and natural products that won’t irritate the skin (such as fruit oils and plankton extract), it’s the first two products that truly ensure against acne. Use the facial cleanser once you’re out of the sun to remove all irritants from your pores, and use the skin serum before going to bed to soothe any dryness or redness from being in the sun. It comes with a carrying case for travel.

Why it made the cut: This is the best reef-safe sunscreen for faces to protect your skin and even reduce wrinkles, but it won’t clog pores or get overly greasy.

Specs

Other available formulas: None
Primary ingredients: Non-nano zinc, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide
Size: 1.7 ounces
Includes hyaluronic acid to reduce wrinkles
Meets very high environmental standards
Unlikely to clog pores
Climate-neutral company
Easy-use pump applicator
Expensive

Necassaire: The Sunscreen has quite the list of adjectives to justify the higher-than-average price for a reef-safe sunscreen for face protection. It’s hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (won’t block pores), free of ingredients like phthalates and formaldehyde, and meets Sephora’s very high standards for being considered “Clean + Planet Positive.” It doesn’t include any of the ingredients on the Protect our Reefs banned list, but this face sunscreen does have natural additives like Vitamin B3 to help strengthen skin and algae, which add collagen and helps fight dry skin.

Ingredients aside, this reef-safe face sunscreen has a leak-proof pump applicator and can be used as a standalone product or blended with a liquid foundation. Because it’s a mineral sunscreen it does leave a bit of a very thin white layer, but most buyers report that it’s minimal and easy to get rid of with just a little extra rubbing.

Best solid sunscreen: All Good Sport Sunscreen Stick

All Good Makes Everything Better

Why it made the cut: An easy-to-carry solid sunscreen that won’t melt with extra ingredients to prevent drying.

Available formulas: Butter, lotion
Primary ingredients: Non-nano zinc oxide
Size: 2.75 ounces
Easy to carry
No scent
Additional coconut oil and jojoba oil to prevent dryness
Rolls on thick

Sometimes, you don’t want to risk carrying a bottle of sunscreen around in your bag or luggage—it’s never a happy surprise when you reach into your backpack to find the cap was loose on your sunblock. So if you need to carry just a small amount of sunscreen with you, consider packing the AllGood SPF stick, which offers AllGood’s highly rated SPF stick. Though it’s less than 3 ounces, it seems to last a while and is quite easy to carry even when paddleboarding or mountain biking.

One of the best things about this particular reef-safe sunscreen stick is that it’s nearly melt-proof, provided you don’t leave it exposed in direct sunlight. Because it’s a stick it does go on a bit thicker, so be prepared to massage it into your skin if you want to avoid the white layer common with mineral-based sunscreens.

Why it made the cut: A light, hydrating SPF formula with reef-safe ingredients and extra soothing oils to help prevent dryness in the sun, plus a bit of extra glow for your cheeks.

Available formulas: N/a, though there’s a body butter (without a tint)
Primary ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, Argan oil, SunBoost ATB
Adds subtle brightness/warmth
Includes soothing/healing ingredients
Looks best with warm undertones

If you’re used to wearing a BB cream or tinted moisturizer with sunscreen at the beach, consider swapping that out for this ocean-friendly tinted option instead. It’s similar to a moisturizing BB cream, except that its sun-protective ingredients won’t harm coral. It’s a great option for buyers who aren’t quite ready to leave their usual makeup products at home in tropical areas but also don’t want those harmful chemicals to contribute to coral bleaching and ocean decline.

The Argan Daily Moisturizer Tinted Protect + Perfect is SPF 47. It’s also free of synthetic fragrances and formaldehyde, and has antioxidants like argan oil and green tea—so it helps protect sensitive skin from getting dried out and wind burned in the sun. It’s a “one shade fits all” product, offering a warm glow for women and men regardless of skin color.

Best SPF lip balm: Rubber Ducky Mineral Lip Balm

Rubber Ducky

Why it made the cut: With an SPF rating of 30 and all-natural ingredients safe by both Hawaii reef standards and narrower environmental standards, this is a highly rated, affordable lip balm to keep in your beach bag.

Available formulas: Only as a balm
Primary ingredients: Zinc Oxide
Size: .15 oz (pack of three or four)
Higher SPF than most lip balms
Water-resistant
Added beeswax and shea butter
Pleasant scent, no taste
Great price
Application less smooth than with chemical lip balms

It’s not unusual to find lip balms with SPF properties, but most options only offer SPF 15. It’s harder to find one with an SPF as high as 30—and even more unusual to find one that uses reef-sage ingredients to create that level of sun protection. It’s petroleum-based, so it glides on like a “regular” lip balm, rather than having the thicker application associated with some reef-safe sunscreens. It’s also water-resistant, so you won’t wash it off if you apply and then drink water (or order a tropical cocktail) a minute later. In fact, that’s why the brand is called “ Rubber Ducky .” Its water resistance makes water roll off your skin (or lips, in this case) like water off a duck’s back.

As with many mineral-based sunscreens, it does leave a bit of a white tint. So you may want to rub it in a bit after each application. It doesn’t need to be your daily SPF lip balm (though you should have some kind of SPF lip balm every day), but it’s a good buy to throw in your beach bag or carry-on luggage if you’re finally taking that coastal trip you’ve been planning.

Best budget: SunBum Original SPF 30

Why it made the cut: The standard bottle is two ounces larger than most sunscreens, and the non-mineral-based formula rubs on clear without the usually white cast from zinc oxide.

SPF: 30
Available formulas: Spray, face lotion, solid stick, lip balm
Primary ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
Size: 8 ounce
Good for sensitive skin (non-oily)
Hypoallergenic
No white filmy layer
Contains some questionable ingredients

If budget is your biggest concern when it comes to buying a reef-safe sunscreen, SunBum’s original blend may be a good choice. It’s the best reef-safe sunscreen value that meets Hawaii’s current reef-safe standards by being free of octinoxate and oxybenzone, but it does contain a few other chemicals some environmental groups say to avoid. However, it’s certainly at least better than using traditional sunscreens. And it’s hard to beat the value. The 8-ounce bottle is usually priced around $15, which works out to about $1.90 per ounce. Compare that to smaller 5-ounce bottles priced closer to $19 and it’s a clear saving.

If you’d like to go the extra mile and buy a SunBum product without chemicals like homosalate or octisalate, opt for items from the SunBum mineral-based line . There are lotions in SPFs of 30 and 50, plus a spray and lip balm, all free of any questionably damaging ingredients. Of course, it’s a bit pricier per ounce; a 3-ounce bottle is usually priced at around $15.

Q: How much does reef-safe sunscreen cost?

Reef-safe and Hawaii-safe sunscreens do cost a bit more than a mass-produced chemical sunscreen but it’s not drastically more expensive. And the shared human cost of destroying coral reefs will be far greater. Expect to pay around $12-$15 for a tube of reef-safe sunscreen, though, of course, the coast varies greatly based on where you are. It’ll cost a lot more to buy it at a hotel gift shop in Hawaii than it will if you buy it online in advance.

Q: How do I know if sunscreen is reef-safe?

Reef-safe generally means that it lacks two well-known chemicals, oxybenzone and octinoxate, both of which lead to coral bleaching—one of the final steps before coral dies. Dead coral means no fish and no reefs and, without reefs, the entire ocean food chain collapses. So while it may seem like one person’s sunscreen choices don’t matter, they do on a grand scale. And since Hawaii alone welcomes nearly 10.5 million visitors per year, all those chemicals in the oceans quickly add up.

Q: What does reef-safe sunscreen help protect?

Reef-safe sunscreen helps protect reefs, right? But what does that mean, exactly? Is it to help the creatures on the reef? The coral itself? I asked an expert to weigh in. “Reef-safe and reef-friendly” are the terms used to qualify sunscreens that do not contain harmful chemicals for the ocean and, especially, for corals. “Mineral, UV-blocking ingredients like [zinc] oxide are harmless to corals,” says Emeline Bouchet, resident marine biologist at Maldives’ Velaa Private Island (home to the largest coral restoration project in the Indian Ocean). “Corals are animals from the phylum of Cnidaria and live in colonies where each individual is called a ‘polyp’. A polyp has a mouth for feeding and, while feeding, corals can absorb the chemicals contained in the ocean through our sunscreen. Those chemicals can disturb the growth and reproduction and eventually the survival of corals. “Twenty-five percent of marine life in the ocean depends on corals. Sunscreens have a major impact on corals and indirectly on all the marine life depending on them, but the chemicals are also directly absorbed by the fish when breathing.” So, essentially, introducing chemicals into the ocean poisonous coral (which is alive) and, in turn, hurts all the marine creatures that rely on reefs.

Q: Are mineral sunscreens better than “normal” sunscreen?

Mineral (sometimes called physical) and chemical sunscreens do an equally effective job of protecting your skin when properly applied (and proper application means frequent reapplication). So, in terms of preventing sun damage, mineral sunscreens aren’t better (or worse) than “normal” sunscreens. But if by better you mean better for the environment, then the answer is a resounding “yes.” Bouchet says that corals are very sensitive and it doesn’t take much to negatively impact them. “Corals are found in less than 1% of the oceans. We are living in a period called ‘the Anthropocene,’ in which most of the ecosystems on Earth are impacted by human activity—and the coral reef is one of them.” And coral bleaching, which is partially caused by the chemicals in non-reef-safe sunscreen, is a major contributor to reef decline. “Bleaching means corals are expelling the algae living in their tissue,” says Bouchet. “And without those symbionts, corals have a limited chance of survival. For example, in the Maldives, mortality has been recorded after a few weeks of exposure [to harmful chemicals].” Of course, chemicals in sunscreen aren’t the only threat to reef health—Bouchart points to the rise in global temperatures and the damage from producing and discarding plastics—but that’s all the more reason to wear reef-safe sunscreen options. Anyone who enjoys the beach, ocean, or marine world should make the small effort to use reef-safe sunscreens as the ocean already has enough health challenges without adding more harmful chemicals to the mix.

Q: Do you need to use reef-safe sunscreen in an area without reefs?

You should consider using reef-safe sunscreen even if you’re nowhere near a reef, advises Kathy FitzPatrick, the head coastal engineer in Florida’s Martin County . Or even better—use UPF clothing as your first barrier against UV rays. “Since the science on what sunscreen is truly ‘safe’ is still emerging, the very best thing to do is to cover up with sun shirts, hats, and the like to reduce the amount of any chemicals you introduce into the water,” says FitzPatrick. “Beyond swimming on the reefs, when you shower, chemicals that are washed off can make their way to the ocean.” FitzPatrick compares reefs to the rainforests of the ocean owing to their importance to the marine ecosystem—and to humans, especially in coastal areas. That’s part of the reason she advises doing everything possible to protect them, even if it seems as minor as one person’s sunscreen choices. “Reefs help protect coastlines from storm waves and have been found to contain potentially lifesaving pharmaceutical compounds. Like many other natural systems, oceans and coral reefs, in particular, are facing a multitude of stressors and degraded water quality from pollutants is one of them.”

Final thoughts on the best reef-safe sunscreens

Ultimately, unless you’re in a place with legislation limiting certain sunscreens, the choice to use reef-safe sunscreen or not is up to the buyer. While there are some downsides to most reef-safe sunscreens—primarily that they cost a bit more and can leave a white layer if not rubbed in thoroughly—they’re also the far more ecologically responsible choice. As long as the slightly increased cost isn’t a factor, most buyers should consider working one or two of the best reef-safe sunscreens into their summer routine, especially when they’re spending time near tropical shorelines.

Like science, tech, and DIY projects?

These Are the 10 Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens, According to Derms

Our fascination with "clean" beauty was never just about putting certain ingredients on our skin. It was also about reducing waste, lessening our impact on the environment , and being more responsible with our consumption.

In that vein, the idea of reef-safe sunscreen sounds pretty damn good. Coral reefs not only sustain vital underwater ecosystems ( about 25% of all marine species), they do us a solid here on land. They protect coastlines from storms and erosions, are an important source of food, and contain chemical compounds that have been used in treatments for leukemia, lymphoma, and cardiovascular diseases, among others.

Brooke Jeffy, MD , board-certified dermatologist and founder of BTWN , a skin-care line specifically formulated for children, tweens, and teens
Jeremy Fenton, MD , Jeremy Fenton, MD, is a board certified dermatologist and medical director of Schweiger Dermatology Group.
Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD , board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery in New York
Naana Boakye, MD, MPH , board-certified dermatologist and founder of Bergen Dermatology
Neil Farnsworth, MD , is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Houston, TX.
Quynh-Giao Sartor, MD , is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Houston, TX.

However, the research on sunscreen ’s effect on our coral friends is still new and evolving, so products calling themselves “reef-safe” have no real way of knowing if they are , indeed, reef-safe. That said, we’d rather err on the side of caution and shop with the reef in mind, so we tapped the pros to help us understand what reef-safe sunscreen really means and give us a few recommendations for our next sunscreen purchase.

How does sunscreen impact the ocean?

When you get in the ocean, your sunscreen inevitably washes away into the water to some extent. The problem is that many sunscreens contain ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate , and octocrylene. These chemical ingredients absorb UV radiation, Dr. Sartor says, but unfortunately, they may also bleach coral reefs, impair the growth and photosynthesis of algae, and harm the overall health and reproduction of ocean wildlife. Once a coral reef dies, it rarely comes back , and entire ecosystems depend on its vitality.

Studies are still underway to determine just how much damage these ingredients are doing to underwater ecosystems (and there are certainly other factors like climate change). Still, early lab-based research with these ingredients has been enough to raise environmentalists' concerns.

"How these lab-based studies translate into what actually happens in the ocean is unknown," Dr. Jeffy notes. "In studies, sea life is exposed to extremely high concentrations of these chemicals, which are unlikely to occur in normal conditions. It is also possible that even lower concentrations may have negative effects, but it's still unknown."

Regardless, some destinations, including Hawaii, Key West, Aruba, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, aren't risking it in the meantime and require visitors to use reef—safe sunscreen. Despite the evolving research, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Boakye says it's safer to assume that reef-safe sunscreen is still better for the environment than non-reef-safe sunscreen.

What is reef-safe sunscreen?

"Reef-safe" and "ocean-friendly" are unregulated terms, which is to say that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn't set a standard for products to meet to use the word. So technically, any brand can call their product "reef-safe." And because the research isn't complete, it's hard to say if "reef-safe" is even really a thing.

"Given corals' importance and concern about their vulnerability to climate change, one can validly propose that potential risks may outweigh these ingredients' benefits to humans, especially when more effective alternative ingredients exist," says Dr. Farnsworth.

If you're looking for sunscreen without those potentially environmentally harmful ingredients, you can keep an eye out for a few things. "Sunscreens considered reef-safe are those that contain only physical blockers such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide that reflect, rather than absorb, UV radiation," says Dr. Sartor.

Looking for sunscreen labeled as "mineral" or "physical" is a good start. You can also look for the term "non-nano," meaning that the sunscreen particles are large enough not to be as easily absorbed by your skin or coral. "Preservatives, fragrances, and another UV-blocking chemical agent, octocrylene, have also been scrutinized," adds Dr. Jeffy.

Physical and mineral sunscreens will have a bit of a white cast to them, but that's purely a cosmetic concern. "A pale cast can actually be useful in helping one monitor how quickly one is sweating or swimming one's sunscreen off," says Dr. Farnsworth.

If you're headed to Hawaii or want to be cautious while waiting for more evidence to emerge (again, better safe than sorry), here are a few of the pro's favorites:

“Alastin Hydratint or SilkShield are my favorites for every day because they are cosmetically elegant and leave minimal cast,” says Dr. Sartor.

This “reef-friendly” mineral formula is also made with 98% organic ingredients and contains vitamin E for extra moisture and environmental protection.

Dr. Garshick also likes this lightweight mineral sunscreen which also contains antioxidants and a patented Enviroscreen technology to protect against UVA/UVB, blue light, pollution, and infrared radiation.

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jeremy Fenton recommends this mineral sunscreen because of its high concentration of zinc oxide. It’s also “nicely moisturizing and doesn’t leave your face looking white and pasty,” he says.

Dr. Farnsworth likes this hypoallergenic mineral sunscreen because of its affrodable price point (being environmentally friendly shouldn’t have to come at a premium).

Dr. Jeffy likes this SPF 35 mineral sunscreen as a daily sunscreen because it’s lightweight enough for those prone to acne and has a light tint that blends nicely with all skin tones.

“This sunscreen is safe for the whole family, contains zinc oxide, and is especially great for those who are active and spend a lot of time outdoors as it is water resistant up to 80 minutes,” says Dr. Garshick.

This non-nano zinc oxide also checks a few environmentally-friendly boxes, notes cosmetic chemist Dr. Shuting Hu . “Aside from the ocean-friendly formulation, the packaging is made from sugarcane waste which reduces plastic consumption.”

Dr. Hu recommends this mineral SPF 30. “This sunscreen is 100% microplastic free and comes in fully biodegradable jars, making it another really great, environmentally friendly option,” she says.

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick recommends this “reef-safe” formula because it’s paraben-free and fragrance-free, making it a great option for sensitive skin. “It is a great option for summer days as it is also water-resistant,” she says.

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7 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens For All Skin Types

Protecting our reefs and your skin! Discover the best reef safe sunscreen brands, ensuring both sun-filled fun and marine conservation go hand in hand.

True Reef Safe Sunscreen Brands

The marketing and labeling of products can be confusing, especially when it comes to sunscreen. Many major sunscreen brands claim to be "reef-friendly," but they often fall short in avoiding all compounds potentially hazardous to both our health and reefs.

While some brands avoid well-known toxic ingredients like Oxybenzone and Octinoxate, they still use other active chemical ingredients harmful to coral reefs , such as Octisalate, Homosalate, Octocrylene and Avobenzon.

Considering this, we have excluded these so-called "reef-safe" brands from our list. Instead, we recommend sunscreens that only use Zinc Oxide and/or titanium dioxide, balanced with other natural and mostly organic ingredients.

Now, let's dive into our top 7 mineral-based sunscreen picks, carefully selected for their exceptional credentials and application qualities.

1. Best Value SPF50+

Investing in SPF50+ sunscreen, despite a slightly higher upfront cost, brings enhanced protection and potential health benefits. Additionally, its longer sun exposure duration reduces the need for frequent reapplication, resulting in less sunscreen washing off into the ocean.

Best Value Reef Safe SPF50 Sunscreen by Blue Lizard

Blue Lizard Sensitive

Blue Lizard Sensitive sunscreen provides robust sun protection with a high SPF factor of 50+, safeguarding the skin from harmful UV rays effectively. Considering its high sun protection, gentle formulation, ample quantity, and reef-safe properties, this option is excellent value for those seeking an effective and reliable SPF50+ mineral sunscreen.

Milky texture, spreads easily.
Non-irritating for sensitive skin.
Scentless formula.
Sun-induced color change on bottle prompts reapplication.
No travel-friendly size available.
Initially leaves a slight residue, but fades with rubbing.

2. Best Packaged Sunscreen

Tins are our top pick for travel containers as they are eco-friendly, compact, lightweight, space-saving, and reusable. Moreover, their sturdy and tightly sealed design minimizes the risk of leakage, preventing wastage and mess, making them an ideal choice for your sun protection on the go.

Best Reef Safe Travel Sunscreen by Raw Elements

Raw Elements Face and Body

Raw Elements ' dedication to sustainability and eco-friendly packaging is commendable. Their Reef-safe SPF 30+ sunscreen, enriched with certified organic ingredients, is free from soy, gluten, and nuts, and contains no synthetic chemicals. Packed with nourishing antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, it's an excellent choice for protecting both yourself and the environment.

Eco-friendly packaging (recyclable, reusable, compostable, plastic-free).
Convenient application (easier than tube).
Certified organic.
Small enough to fit in a pocket.
Thick consistency.
Requires warmth for easy application (challenging in cold environments).
SPF 30, necessitating more frequent reapplication.

3. Best Tinted Sunscreen

Tinted sunscreens are an excellent choice for a flawless face glow. They contain pigments for light coverage, evening out skin tone and blurring imperfections, offering a polished look without heavy makeup. With sheer coverage, they enhance the skin's natural appearance, perfect for a "no-makeup makeup" effect.

Available in various shades, they suit different skin tones and prevent the white cast associated with some sunscreens. Tinted sunscreen simplifies reapplication, serving as both sunscreen and light foundation, crucial for all-day sun protection.

Reef Safe Australian Gold Tinted Sunscreen for Face

Australian Gold Botanical Tinted Face

Face the sun with confidence! Australian Gold's mattifying daily sunscreen is not only compliant with the Hawaii Reef Compliant Act 104 but also enriched with soothing Eucalyptus & Red Algae, creating a unique blend of antioxidant-rich plants to combat free radicals and nourish the skin. This fragrance-free sunscreen doubles as a blemish balm foundation, providing seamless blending and improving complexion by reducing uneven color, fine lines, and wrinkles. It dries quickly, offers decent coverage without feeling too thick or greasy.

Tint prevents white cast.
Smooth consistency, non-greasy, blends easily.
High SPF compared to other facial sunscreens.
TSA-friendly size for travel.
Leaves tint/residue on fingers.
May require makeup remover to cleanse fully.
Limited shade range.
Can stain clothing.

4. Best Travel Sunscreen

Mineral sunscreen sticks offer precise and effortless application, directly on face, body, or specific areas without using hands. They're compact and portable, fitting in pockets, purses, or travel bags, allowing hassle-free reapplication. Unlike lotions or creams, they avoid spills and leaks, preventing messes in bags or on clothing. For a good reef-safe travel sunscreen, opt for a TSA-compliant 3.4 fl oz (100 ml) size to carry in your carry-on bag hassle-free.

Reef Safe Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen Stick

Blue Lizard Sensitive Stick

This excellent sunscreen stick by Blue Lizard is reef-safe, free from parabens, fragrances, and dyes. Perfect for kids who dislike sunscreen, its stick form makes application easier. Goes on clear, no residue. A win-win for parents and kids!

Easy stick application for kids.
Clear, no residue.
Gentle on sensitive skin.
Convenient and portable.
Limited coverage area.
Potential for missed spots.
Some may find a slight waxy texture.

5. Best Non-greasy Sunscreen

A matte sunscreen specifically formulated for oily skin is an excellent choice for individuals with acne-prone skin. Such sunscreens often have oil-absorbing properties, which help reduce excess oil and shine on the skin's surface. They are non-comedogenic, meaning they won't clog pores, reducing the risk of breakouts.

Australian Gold Botanical

The Australian Gold Botanicals range is formulated without Parabens, PABA, Phthalate, Petroleum, SLS (Sulfate), Dye & Oil, and is cruelty-free. Its lightweight, non-greasy texture makes it an ideal makeup base. This mineral sunscreen truly delivers on its matte promise. It dries quickly, stays matte all day, and doesn't transfer or look oily. Impressive formula!

Very affordable compared to other mineral sunscreens.
Leaves no white cast on the skin.
Non-greasy and non-sticky texture.
Thick consistency, feels a bit heavy after reapplying.
Challenging application near the hairline or on eyelashes, resulting in a noticeable white cast.

6. Best Sunscreen for Babies

For babies aged 6 months to 4 years old, a good sunscreen should be gentle, devoid of harsh chemicals and fragrances. Choose a baby sunscreen with zinc oxide as the sole active ingredient, providing broad-spectrum protection with at least SPF 30. Note that marketing sunscreen to babies under 6 months is regulated, and younger infants may need a doctor's prescription. To safeguard their delicate skin, it's best to avoid direct sunlight for babies under 6 months.

Thinkbaby SPF 50+

Thinkbaby sunscreen is a trailblazer, being the first to meet Whole Foods Premium Care standards, and since 2010, it has consistently held EWG's top rating. Being paraben-free, PABA-free, gluten-free, and vegan, this sunscreen guarantees no harmful chemicals and derives its fragrance solely from natural oils, ensuring a pleasant scent without any adverse effects.

Not too thick SPF 50+ lotion.
Highly rated by EWG.
Gentle for sensitive skin.
6 fl oz and travel-friendly 3 fl oz (89 ml) size available.
Leaves a slight white cast

7. Best Application for Kids

The ingredients in adults' and kids' sunscreens are often identical, with the primary difference lying in marketing and branding. However, when it comes to getting kids to apply sunscreen themselves or putting it on squirmy toddlers, making the application process fun and engaging becomes crucial.

Best Kids Sunscreen Applicator by Solar Buddies

Solar Buddies Sunscreen Applicator

Solar Buddies , the award-winning refillable sunscreen applicator, provides a mess-free and speedy application method. Its kid-friendly design encourages independent use, making kids more inclined to apply sunscreen willingly.

Say goodbye to messy sunscreen hands! Just fill the container with your preferred sunscreen, shake it towards the roller ball, and apply effortlessly. The sponge ring aids in smooth lotion application, preventing wastage from squeezing excess sunscreen.

For the best results, we suggest combining this applicator with Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Sunscreen .

Kid-friendly application.
Non-greasy hands.
Minimizes sunscreen waste.
Fully recyclable components.
Travel-friendly 100ml capacity.
Challenging with thicker mineral sunscreen.
Potentially large for young toddlers' faces.

Why Use Reef Safe Sunscreen?

Approximately 25% of marine life relies on coral reefs for survival. Sunscreen chemicals, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, have become so harmful that locations like Hawaii, Florida, and several Caribbean islands have banned their sale.

These toxic substances cause detrimental effects on developing coral, including increased vulnerability to bleaching, DNA damage, abnormal skeleton growth, and severe deformities in baby coral. Once coral reefs perish, they cannot be revived.

Protecting our oceans and coral reefs is vital, and choosing reef-safe sunscreen is a responsible choice.

Is Your Sunscreen Reef-Friendly?

Regrettably, the term "reef-friendly" lacks regulation, leading to uncertainty about its validity. To ensure sunscreen or personal care products are truly reef-friendly, carefully inspect the "active ingredients" label at the back, excluding any reef-harming chemicals.

To determine if a sunscreen is "reef-friendly," look for the following characteristics and labels:

Inspect the label: Avoid products with harmful substances from the "HEL list," including Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene, Homosalate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor, PABA, Parabens, and Triclosan.

Mineral size: Look for sunscreens that use non-nano-sized mineral particles. Larger particles are less likely to be absorbed by corals and are considered safer for marine ecosystems.

Packaging: Choose sunscreens with eco-friendly packaging, such as reusable containers, high recycled content, or biodegradable plant-based materials, to reduce single-use plastic waste.

Sunscreen formats: Opt for lotions and roll-on sunscreens while avoiding spray or misting variants, particularly those containing titanium dioxide, as inhaling it can pose health risks.

Alternatives To Mineral Sunscreen

Mineral sunscreens containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide are optimal for the reef and your skin, but extended exposure can be costly in sunscreen usage. Combining sunscreen with UPF-rated swimwear , such as rash guards and full-suit skins , notably decreases the amount of sunscreen needed.

Elevate your swimming and snorkeling experience with a one-piece fullsuit, contouring to your body shape and minimizing drag. By wearing this Cressi fullsuit skin , you can significantly reduce your sunscreen usage.

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Reef Safe Sunscreen Guide

Your Reef Safe Sunscreen Guide

Marine Sanctuaries are home to some of the ocean’s most biologically diverse and culturally significant marine areas, and we need to ensure that these critical areas are protected from harmful chemicals, in addition to other damaging practices like oil and gas extraction

To keep ocean life happy, the key is to find an SPF that uses physical UVA and UVB filters (as opposed to the chemical ones that have been connected to coral reef deterioration). You’ll be able to find them by flipping the SPF tube over and looking for the active ingredients: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients form an actual physical block to shield skin from absorbing any rays (whereas chemical filters absorb UV and turn it into heat that’s released from skin).

“The term reef safe typically means that the sunscreen contains only mineral UV-blocking ingredients like oxide and titanium dioxide,” explains Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “Both nano particle—a smaller particle size—and traditional zinc oxide sunscreens are both safe and effective, and both will be considered safe for reefs. The only difference is the cosmetic feel on the skin.” So you’re pretty much good to go with a mineral-based option.

How do I know if a sunscreen is "reef friendly"?

Unfortunately the term “reef friendly” is not regulated, so you can’t always trust products with this description. It's important to actually check the “active ingredients” label on the back of your sunscreen or personal care product to ensure that reef-harming chemicals are not included. The size of minerals can also have an impact. Be sure to use micro-sized (or non-nano) mineral sunscreens to avoid nanoparticles, as these smaller particles can be toxic in high concentrations. It’s also advised to stick with lotions and avoid spray or misting sunscreens, especially those that contain titanium dioxide as it can be harmful to your health if inhaled. Finally, it's always good to use products that cut back on single use plastic packaging , either by using containers that are reusable, have high recycled content or are made out of biodegradable plant-based materials like cardboard.

Check the label! Make sure your sunscreen does not contain the following harmful substances on the "HEL list:

Octocrylene
4-methylbenzylidene camphor
Any nanoparticles or “nano-sized” zinc or titanium (if it doesn’t explicitly say “micro-sized” or “non-nano” and it can rub in, it’s probably nano-sized)
Any form of microplastic, such as “exfoliating beads”

Spread the word and advocate for bans on reef harming sunscreens

In addition to changing our actions and purchasing decisions to protect the marine environment, it’s also important to spread awareness about the issue to friends, family and community members. At the local level, ensure that your town’s stores are offering "reef friendly" sunscreen products, and encourage them to stop the sale of harmful products.

You can also advocate for local legislation that bans the sale and use of toxic sunscreens. For instance, in 2018, Hawaii passed the first ever statewide ban on oxybenzone and octinoxate sunscreens, soon after, island nations including Palau, Bonaire and Aruba followed suite. Due to widespread community support, the Florida Keys were also able to pass an oxybenzone and octinoxate sunscreen ban in Key West, but chemical companies have been working tirelessly to try and revoke this important legislation through the use of statewide preemption.

At the federal level, you can ask your federal representatives to support the first federal bill to ban oxybenzone and octinoxate sunscreens in National Marine Sanctuaries with coral reefs!

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Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+ (3oz)

Introducing our award-winning, EWG Top Rated ThinkSport Safe Sunscreen created for athletes, outdoor enthusiasts and environmentally conscious consumers.

This dermatologist tested natural, mineral based sunscreen is highly effective for all skin types, is non-toxic and works to protect the skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays without the use of harmful chemicals found in other brands.

What Makes ThinkSport Sunscreen a safer alternative?

Non-Aerosol & Biodegradable
Dermatologist tested

Features & Benefits of ThinkSport Sunscreen:

SPF50 Broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection
Water resistance (80 minutes)
Non-aerosol formulation
Applies and absorbs easily. Non-oily feel.
For face and body
Made in the USA
Top Rated on EWG's Skin Deep with a "1" rating since 2010
Daily use sunscreen
Protects immediately upon application
Free of biologically harmful chemicals. No PABA, parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, gluten, dairy, or toxic chemicals. No animal by-products or testing.
No animal by-products or testing

ACTIVE INGREDIENT: ZINC OXIDE 20% (NON-NANO)

INACTIVE INGREDIENTS: PURIFED WATER, CAPRYLIC /CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, POLYGLYCERY-4, ISOSTERATE, CETYL DIMETHICONE, HEXYL LAURATE, GLYCERIN, HYDROGENATED METHYL, ABIETATE (PINE WOOD RESIN), MAGNESIUM SULFATE (EPSOM SALT), CAPRYLHDROXAMIC ACID, GLYCERYL CAPRYLATE, SORBITAN SESQUIOLEATE, RIBES RUBRUM (CURRANT) FRUIT, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) OIL, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS (JOJOBA) SEED OIL, TOCOPHEROL, OLEA EUROPAEA (OLIVE) FRUIT OIL, HYALUROUNIC ACID (PLANT BASED), CITRUS PARADISI (GRAPEFRUIT)

How do I apply Thinkbaby and Thinksport Sunscreen?

Thinkbaby and Thinksport sunscreens are perfect for daily use and for anyone spending time in the sun, including pregnant women, children over 6 months, and for anyone with sensitive skin. Please note that use of sunscreen on children younger than 6 months of age requires a doctor's prescription. This is true for ALL brands. Thinkbaby and Thinksport sunscreens are a physical sunscreen, meaning it works immediately upon application. It will maintain its SPF after 80 minutes of water immersion. The Environmental Working Group and the FDA recommend reapplying sunscreen every two hours. Thinkbaby and Thinksport sunscreens are perfect for sensitive skin. We recommend testing on a small area of the body to ensure that you don't have any sensitivities. Sunscreens that claim to be hypo-allergenic are nothing more than marketing hype in our opinion. As the population's exposure to chemicals has risen, there has been a direct correlation to things that people become allergic to. Simply google environmental exposure and allergies to view some of this research.

Tips for Application Thinkbaby and Thinksport formula applies easily and absorbs quickly. Be sure to apply all areas that will be exposed to sunlight, including behind the ears, neck, hands, feet, and scalp. Reapply every two hours or more as needed. While the sunscreen applies very easily, we recommend not spreading it too thin. Otherwise, you will decrease the effectiveness of the sunscreen. Keep in mind that physical sunscreens work by reflecting sunlight.

Recent studies uncovered far too many solutions with potentially harmful ingredients. Since 2006, Thinksport has been creating safe products for little ones. We continue the safer products mission by targeting harmful consumer product categories and developing safer alternatives.

The Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens for Summer

Traditional sunscreen isn’t all it's chalked up to be. Sure, it’ll protect you from the sun’s harmful rays but it’s also laden with chemicals that are not only harmful to the oceans and reefs but are also toxic to your body.

Oxybenzone and octocrylene are active ingredients in most traditional sunscreens. Not only can they contribute to coral bleaching, but they can even affect humans’ endocrine or hormone systems in the body. The solution: out with chemical lotions and sprays, in with mineral sunscreen .

Chemical sunscreens offer protection by dissipating UV rays, however, they can absorb into the skin . Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, form a layer on top of your skin to reflect the UV rays away from the body.

Unlike chemical sunscreens, mineral sunscreens use natural minerals as the active ingredients, so they are healthier for both your body and the reefs — and, any other natural bodies of water where you swim.

Reef-Safe Sunscreens: What to Look For

When shopping for reef-safe sunscreen, you’ll want to avoid ingredients like oxybenzone, oxtinoxate, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, and avobenzone. Instead, look for sunscreens whose active ingredients are minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and natural oils for skin hydration.

You’ll want to make sure that the minerals are non-nano to ensure that they are safe for the corals. It can be helpful to look for reef-safe labels, but some companies are guilty of false advertising. So, be sure to double-check the ingredient list.

Here are our favorite reef-safe sunscreens on the market.

Raw Elements USA

Developed by an ocean lifeguard with a vision of creating a natural sunscreen, Raw Elements is committed to education, environmental awareness, and sun safety. And 23% non-nano zinc oxide is the only active ingredient. All the products contain certified natural and organic ingredients. Additionally, Raw Elements’ sunscreens are hypoallergenic and contain no fragrances, preservatives, or chemicals.

Made in the USA, Raw Elements is Non-GMO Project approved, Leaping Bunny (no animal testing) certified, EWG #1 rated, and Natural Products Association certified. Many of its sunscreens come in plastic-free packaging. Its range of products includes tinted and natural face and body sunscreen, sunscreen sticks, kids’ creams, and “lip rescue.”

Raw Elements has been my go-to reef-safe sunscreen for years due to the fact that it’s reasonably priced, rubs in fairly well, and contains ingredients I recognize.

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Founded by a group of lifelong surfers, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts, Manda is on a mission to provide organic, food-grade suncare solutions that work.

All of its products feature high-quality, natural ingredients you recognize, with non-nano zinc oxide being the active ingredient. The most unique ingredient on its list is Thanaka , a sustainable, regenerative ingredient from the bark of a tree native to Myanmar. Thanaka has been used for over 2,000 years as a natural sun protectant. The addition of renewable Thanaka allows Manda to minimize its environmental footprint.

Manda’s line of suncare products is short but thorough. It includes organic sun paste that is thick and well suited for the face, as well as an organic sun paste that does wonders in protecting the body.

Its sunscreens are thick, providing maximum protection but the sun paste can be rubbed in a bit if you work at it. The tint in the sun paste is courtesy of cocoa powder, so it smells like chocolate. Who doesn’t love chocolate?

Little Hands

Born on the beaches of Oahu, Little Hands is Hawaii’s only locally made, plastic-free sunscreen approved by the FDA.

Little Hands’ goal is to preserve your skin and the environment. So, it makes its sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide, organic coconut oil, beeswax, raw shea butter, jojoba oil, vitamin E oil, frankincense oil, and elderberry. Safe for all ages, the Little Hands collection includes tinted and natural sunscreen tins and face sticks to cover all the bases.

The sunscreen feels good going on — the face sunscreen stays on thick, to offer the protection you need for long days in the sun. And the body cream rubs in so you’re not walking around looking like a ghost all day.

I use the face stick religiously for long surfs under the Hawaiian sun, and it’s kept me burn-free all summer long. I even smear some on my lips when I need a little extra protection.

In 2010, a search for an effective, natural, and sustainable sunscreen led to thoroughly researching the traditional ingredients used in natural medicine and ethnopharmacology. The results of the research, coupled with some green chemistry, eventually resulted in Avasol .

In an effort to be eco-conscious, Avasol offers bio-based and refillable packaging. Additionally, the company uses only the finest natural and organic ingredients that are certified Fair Trade. Its line of products includes a cream and a face stick, both of which are available in four different tint options, so it’s easy to match your skin tone.

Unlike traditional sunscreens, Avasol’s creams aren’t oily, nor do they run, so you don’t have to worry about getting any in your eyes. The sunscreen feels good against the skin and is lightweight and breathable, so it’s easy to wear all day long.

Feel Good Inc.

Inspired by a campfire discussion during a surf trip, Feel Good Inc. is the brainchild of three adventure-seeking couples who sought a sunscreen that they could feel good about using.

Australia-based Feel Good’s products are free from parabens, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and PABAs, and add in vitamin E and aloe vera to hydrate the skin. Although not as natural as some other reef-safe brands, Feel Good’s sunscreens avoid the worst of the toxic chemicals and feel luxurious against the skin.

Its sunscreen line is extensive and includes Feel Good’s signature sunscreen, coconut sunscreen, sensitive-skin sunscreen, sticky zinc, cocoa lip balm, and baby mineral sunscreen. I appreciate the wide selection and love the lightweight feel of the sunscreen against the skin.

Kokua Sun Care

Designed to keep you covered day in and day out, Kokua Sun Care features high-performance, broad-spectrum protection that rubs in clear.

Safe for both the reef and your skin, Kokua’s products include 23 antioxidants (seven local to Hawaii) to help nourish the skin. The only active ingredient is non-nano zinc oxide — the company uses the highest percentage available (25%) to ensure maximum protection.

Its product line includes a natural zinc sunscreen and a natural sun healing serum , should you forget to apply and end up looking like a lobster. Featuring a hula dancer and muted earth tones, the packaging will take you straight to the tropics while protecting you from the harsh sun.

The sunscreen feels lightweight and smooth against the skin and is easier to rub in than most mineral sunscreens, making it perfect to wear during long days in the sun.

Mama Kuleana

In Hawaiian, “kuleana” means accepting responsibility with diligence and intent. At Mama Kuleana , its sunscreens are made with that sentiment in mind: to protect your skin as well as the future of our lakes, oceans, and rivers.

Mama’s sunscreen is packaged in 100% microplastic-free, fully biodegradable, and compostable screwtop bio jars. The broad-spectrum water- and sweat-resistant sunscreen inside contains non-nano zinc as the main ingredient.

The fact that the packaging is fully biodegradable, the sunscreen itself smells good and feels good against the skin — it’s a winner.

Coola is passionate about creating product experiences that “embody a happy, healthy lifestyle,” and its wide range of products has everything you could ever need, and more. Its line of sunscreens includes face sunscreens, sprays, lotions, face sticks, lip balms, mineral lipsticks, and even a hair and scalp mist.

Standout features in its product line are recyclable, sugarcane-based tubes; plant-derived oleosome technology to optimize performance; and an antioxidant-rich “Plant Protection” to help fight free radicals and hydrate the skin. In addition to being reef-safe, Coola products are vegan too.

While all of Coola’s products are certified reef-safe, they aren’t all mineral-based. Luckily, Coola does have a number of mineral sunscreens available, so just be sure and double-check the labels before purchasing.

Coola’s sunscreens feel remarkably lightweight against the skin, and they give that extra nourishment your skin needs after long days in the sun.

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A family-owned company, Badger is in the business of creating pure and effective products through trustworthy and ecological business practices. Badger boasts its commitment to protecting the environment — only using ingredients that are organic, regenerative, and biodynamic. Additionally, they are USDA Organic, NSF, and Fair Trade certified.

Badger’s line of suncare products includes traditional , sport , active , baby , lip balm , and after-sun cream — so you’re covered regardless of your choice of activity. While many zinc sunscreens leave a white sheen, Badger offers clear zinc that can be rubbed in, which is a game-changer. Badger advertises that it cares about employees, customers, and the environment — and its products uphold those values.

Protekt Sunscreen

Protekt Sunscreen was founded by Nick Norris, Tim Duba, and pro surfer Mark Healey. The company specifically makes reef-safe, zinc-based sunscreen — tailored to be as safe as possible both for your skin and the oceans, and water-resistant as well.

Protekt’s sunscreens are reef-safe, meaning they have zero parabens or chemicals (its main ingredients include 20% non-nano zinc, beeswax, coconut and jojoba oils, and aloe vera). They are also certified organic. And, our staff found they have a really great water-resistance level (80-90 minutes).

The brand’s hallmark sunscreen is its SPF 30 lotion , but it also offers convenient face sticks, tinted sunscreen , and SPF lip balms too. Still not sure? The veteran-owned brand offers a 60-day guarantee.

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We Found the Best Travel-Size Sunscreen Products That Are Perfect for Your Honeymoon Carry-On

Collage of travel-sized sunscreen products.

Lauren writes and edits articles for The Knot Worldwide, with a specialty in fashion, beauty and size inclusivity.
Prior to The Knot Worldwide, Lauren worked in wedding editorial for Brides, Style Me Pretty and Enaura Bridal.
Lauren studied public relations and advertising at the University of Central Florida.

Hey bestie, is travel-size sunscreen on your honeymoon packing list ? If not, it definitely needs to be, like ASAP. Daily sun protection is important (traveling or not.) However, with carry-on luggage restrictions, it can be challenging to find the perfect sunscreen for travel that meets TSA guidelines and takes care of your gorgeous skin. But don't worry, there's no gatekeeping here at The Knot. Whether you're planning an island getaway in Cozmul or looking for a bit of adventure in Europe , we've curated the perfect list of travel-size sunscreens. Keep scrolling for a breakdown of the best travel-size face sunscreen products to pack on your upcoming trip.

In this article:

Your TSA Guide to Traveling with Sunscreen

The Best Travel-Size Sunscreens Perfect for Your Carry-On

How to choose travel sunscreen by destination, the tl;dr on tsa liquid limits.

Traveling with sunscreen and other liquids can be confusing. Luckily, we consulted with our besties at TSA, so you don't have to.

Can you travel with full-size sunscreen?

Yes, you can travel with full-size sunscreen. However, due to unforch TSA rules, it will need to be added to checked baggage if it contains over 3.4 fluid ounces of liquid, aerosol or gel.

What size sunscreen can you carry on a plane?

You can carry liquids, gel and aerosol sunscreen in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces Per TSA regulations, each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of these items. For more information regarding traveling with liquids, you can view TSA's liquid packing guide here or contact your booked airline directly.

Can you travel with spray sunscreen?

Yes, you can travel with spray sunscreen on a plane. A cap must cover travel sunscreen sprays with an aerosol nozzle to prevent accidental release.

Take note: travel-sized sunscreen spray for the face is pretty easy to find at your local Target , Sephora or Ulta . However, most spray sunscreen for the body comes in full size, which is above TSA's carry-on regulations. So this may have to be an item that needs to be packed in your checked luggage or purchased at your destination.

Does stick sunscreen count as liquid?

Stick sunscreen does not count as a liquid and is allowed in your carry-on bag with no size limitation; it also does not need to be packed in your quart-sized liquid bag (love that for us.)

So now that you know the rules, it's time to play by them. We don't gatekeep at The Knot, so here's a round-up of some of the best travel-size sunscreens for your upcoming honeymoon, bachelorette weekend or destination wedding.

1. Best Overall: Supergoop! Mini Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

Supergoop Unseen travel-size sunscreen from Sephora.

Supergoop's infamous Unseen Sunscreen has over 2,000 five-star reviews on Sephora for a reason. This travel-size sunscreen has a gel-like formulation that dries completely clear and pairs perfectly with all complexions and skin types. So wherever your honeymoon plans take you to Aspen or Key Largo , this travel sunscreen has glycerin to keep you hydrated for winter weather and soothing aloe lotion for warmer temps.

SPF: 40 | Size: 0.68 fl oz | Form: Liquid | Type: Chemical | Scent: No

Highlights: Oil-Free Cruelty-Free, Vegan, Reef-Safe, Sulfate-Free, Paraben-Free Non-Comedogenic, Free of Synthetic Colors

2. Best for Acne-Prone Skin: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 46

Elta MD travel-sized sunscreen for acne-prone skin.

EltaMD is considered one of the G.O.A.T.s of sunscreen thanks to its ability to calm and protect acne-prone skin. Infused with key ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and lactic acid, this travel-size face sunscreen has a lightweight and silky formula that can be worn with makeup or alone. One reviewer even said, "This is my favorite sunscreen for my face. It's not heavy or sticky, and it actually gives you a nice glow under or over makeup." (P.S. You can also opt for the tinted version if you prefer.)

SPF: 46 | Size: 1.7 fl oz | Form: Lotion | Type: Chemical | Scent: No

Highlights: Vegan, Paraben-Free, Cruelty-Free, Non-comedogenic

3. Best for Sensitive Skin: Beekman1802 Mini Milk Primer SPF 35 3-in-1 Daily Defense Sunscreen & Makeup Perfecter

Best travel-sized sunscreen primer by Beekman.

If you're new to Beekman 1802, they are an LGBTQ+-owned skincare company that nourishes skin with goat milk skincare products that are game-changing, and their milk primer is no exception. This travel-size mineral face sunscreen has a 3-in-1 formula that also acts as a moisturizer and makeup primer. And it gets better. This milk primer is made for everyone ; it's pregnancy safe, completely oxybenzone-free, won't damage coral reefs, won't irritate sensitive skin and is made with recyclable packaging. It's an immediate add-to-cart for me.

SPF: 35 | Size: 0.5 fl oz | Form: Lotion | Type: Mineral | Scent: No

Highlights: Oxybenzone-Free, Reef-Safe, Pregnancy Safe, Cruelty-Free, Sustainable Packaging, Oil-Free

4. Best SPF Foundation: Dior Dreamskin Fresh & Perfect Cushion

Even if you're not spending your honeymoon on the beach, you 100% still need to wear sunscreen. So why not make packing lighter with this Dior foundation-SPF hybrid? Not only does their luxurious Dreamskin Fresh & Perfect Cushion offer sun protection and hydration, but it also blurs pores, reduces minor redness, and reduces shine for a flawless "it girl" finish.

SPF: 50 | Size: 0.5 fl oz | Form: Lightweight Serum | Type: Chemical | Scent: Yes

Highlights: Refillable Packaging, Sulfate-Free, Paraben-Free, Phthalate-Free

5. Best for Oily Skin: Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield Powder SPF 50

Not a fan of putting liquid or stick travel sunscreens over makeup? Say hello to the iconic Colorescience award-winning mineral sunscreen brush, which allows you to easily stay protected all day long. Embrace the convenience of a powder that will easily pass through TSA and be applied over makeup for a quick touchup while you take a romantic stroll through the French Riviera with your new spouse.

SPF: 50 | Size: 6 g | Form: Powder | Type: Mineral | Scent: No

Highlights: Chemical-Free, Reef-Safe, Cruelty-Free, Water Resistant

6. Best for Dark Skin: Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Travel sized Black Girl Sunscreen with SPF 30.

The TikTok viral Black Girl Sunscreen is a multitasking beauty that can be applied to both the face and the body. It has thousands of five-star ratings across multiple sites, with one reviewer saying, "I adore everything about this sunscreen—it nourishes my skin, feels silky smooth after application, leaves no white cast, is reef-friendly, and is from a beautiful business owned by women of color!"

Tip: This product currently comes in a size that would have to go into a checked bag; if you are only bringing your carry-on, simply snag this travel bottle set from Target that includes eight TSA-approved small containers to store your sunscreen for travel.

SPF: 30 | Size: 3 fl oz | Form: Liquid | Type: Mineral | Scent: No

Highlights: Paraben-Free, Oxybenzone-Free, Octinoxate-Free, Silicone-Free, Aluminum-Free, Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Water Resistant

7. Best for Dry Skin: Supergoop! Mini Glowscreen Sunscreen SPF 40 with Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide

Get your glow on with Supergoop! Glowscreen that protects skin with a subtle illuminating effect (Psst: It's my personal favorite sunscreen for travel as The Knot's resident beauty editor.) Enjoy the effortless application that blends seamlessly into the skin before hitting the pool. Bonus: You can wear it on its own or as a hydrating, makeup-gripping primer.

SPF: 40 | Size: 0.68 fl oz | Form: Lotion | Type: Chemical | Scent: Yes

Highlights: Cruelty-Free and Gluten-Free

8. Best SPF for the Beach: Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

Travel-sized Shiseido sunscreen stick from Sephora.

If you're ready for your hot newlywed summer on the beach , then this Shiseido sunscreen stick needs to be added to your tote ASAP. Thanks to its no-fuss stick application, the greasy-free formula just simply needs to be swiped on for instant protection (with no white cast, might I add.) Not to mention it's totally water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you can totally hit the waves without worry.

SPF: 50 | Size: 0.7 fl oz | Form: Stick | Type: Mineral | Scent: Yes

Highlights: : Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Gluten-Free, Recyclable Packaging, Paraben-Free, Phthalate-Free, Oxybenzone-Free, Sulfate-Free.

9. Best Travel-Size Sunscreen Spray: COOLA Travel-Size Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Spray SPF 50

If you love a quick sunscreen application like me, then this travel sunscreen spray from COOLA is a must-pack for your honeymoon or beachside bachelorette party. The lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-aerosol spray is made with over 70% certified organic ingredients and has 80-minute water resistance. Oh, and the mango-guava scent is like paradise.

SPF: 50 | Size: 2 fl oz | Form: Spray | Type: Chemical | Scent: Yes

Highlights: Vegan, Gluten Free, Cruelty-Free, Hawaii Reef Compliant (Act 104)

10. Best Affordable Travel Sunscreen: Sun Bum Sunscreen Face Stick SPF 30

SunBum travel-sized sunscreen from Target.

Are you ready for a travel-size sunblock that's under $15? Look no further than Sun Bum, who's coming in clutch with their budget-friendly SPF 30 sunscreen stick. The stick formula is made with Vitamin E to neutralize free radicals and aloe lotion to help calm and soothe the skin. Plus, the rollerball application makes it quick and easy when you just need a quick swipe of sunscreen across your face.

SPF: 30 | Size: 0.53 oz | Form: Stick | Type: Chemical | Scent: No

Highlights: Dye-Free, Phthalate-Free, Vegan, Sulfate-Free, Aluminum-Free, Gluten-Free, Oxybenzone-Free, Paraben-Free, Propylparaben-Free, Oil-Free, Cruelty-Free, Water-Resistant, Non-Comedogenic, Hawaii Act 104 Reef Compliant

11. Best Sunscreen Skin Tint: ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation

Sometimes you may need a little extra boost of coverage with your SPF for that I-just-woke-up-like-this glow. Enter ILIA skin tint. This clean beauty formula, available in 30 diverse shades, does so much more than just protect your skin from harmful rays with mineral SPF 40; it is also packed with skin-loving ingredients like squalane, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to hydrate, protect and improve the appearance of pores, blemishes, redness, and wrinkles.

SPF: 40 | Size: 1 fl oz | Form: Liquid | Type: Mineral | Scent: No

Highlights: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Cruelty-Free, Recyclable Packaging, Non-comedogenic, Silicone-Free

12. Best SPF Lip Product: Naked Sundays SPF 50 Glow and Go Lip Oil

We know that SPF is important for our face and body, but did you know that you need it on the lips too? Pucker up with Naked Sundays, which has your pout covered (literally) with SPF 50. With its hydrating formula, three gorgeous shades, and TSA-approved size, just throw it in your honeymoon carry-on, and you'll be good to go.

SPF: 50 | Size: 6 g | Form: Oil | Type: Mineral | Scent: Yes

Highlights: Cruelty-Free, Vegan, Reef-Safe, Sulfate-Free, Paraben-Free Non-Comedogenic, Free of synthetic colors

Ok, we just gave you a list of awesome shoppable options, and while all of these SPF choices are sun-worthy, your honeymoon destination can help you narrow down your decision. Like, what is the best sunscreen for the beach? What about colder climates? Let's quickly chat about the UV index, altitude and destination regulations you may want to consider when choosing your travel-size sunscreen.

SPF Levels: UV Index and Altitude

Just because your honeymoon is in the Swiss Alps doesn't mean you are exempt from needing sunscreen. In fact, elevation levels can drastically affect the amount of UV you are exposed to. In fact, according to Reuters, for every 1,000 feet of altitude, you gain around 10% more UV exposure. That means you have more exposure in the mountains than on the beach!

There's also the UV Index, which provides a daily forecast of the expected risk of overexposure to the sun. The index predicts UV intensity levels on a scale of 1 to 11+, where 1 indicates a minimal risk of overexposure and 11+ means a very high risk. You can use your weather app or simply Google the city name and UV index today.

Regardless of where you spend your honeymoon days, it's recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology that everyone apply a broad-spectrum protection of SPF 30 or higher around 15 minutes before going outside. Sunscreen should be reapplied to the face and body approximately every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.

Beach Benefits: Waterproof & Reef-Safe

Waterproof Sunscreen. If you plan on going for a dip in the pool or a morning run on the beach, your travel sunscreen must be sweat- and water-resistant. This means that it's designed to stay on your skin for anywhere from 40 to 80 minutes, even when you're sweating or swimming. Be sure to reapply water-resistant sunscreen after this time period or immediately after swimming or sweating.

Reef-Safe Sunscreen. Reef-safe sunscreens are products that do not use UV-blocking oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are known to cause coral bleaching. When coral turns white, it causes severe stress and makes it susceptible to disease or death. The terms "reef-friendly" and "reef-safe are not currently regulated as of 2023, so be sure to check the ingredient label on the back of your travel-size sunscreen.

In the United States, Hawaii and the city of Key West, Florida , have banned the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. There has been a ban on sunscreens containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene in the U.S. Virgin Islands as of March 2020. Then there's Australia , which has some of the strictest sunscreen regulations in the world, where products must undergo extensive testing before being placed on shelves.

Mineral vs. Chemical. The key difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens is that mineral sunscreen sits on top of the skin and blocks rays at the surface using ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, while chemical sunscreens absorb rays like a sponge using ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, or octinoxate.

Mineral sunscreens tend to be better suited for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin and are better trusted when it comes to concerns about reef safety. However, the formulas can be thick and potentially leave a white cast on those with darker skin tones. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, are lighter and less likely to leave an annoying white cast, but they can have ingredients that can irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Sunscreen Stick vs. Spray vs. Lotion: Does It Matter?

All sunscreen forms can provide great protection and coverage. It's all about personal preference and proper application. Spray sunscreen is easy to apply, but it can also easily end up being picked up by the wind as opposed to landing on your skin. Lotions and sticks, on the other hand, provide direct contact and are more likely to provide a thick layer of protection and stay on through a long day of sweating in the sun. So, if you're looking for a quickie, the spray is the way to go, but for maximal protection, a sunscreen stick or lotion is your best bet.

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

10 Best Sunscreen Oils to Score a Healthy Glow This Summer

Talk about fun in the sun!

Shop the Best Sunscreen Oils

BEST OVERALL

Sun bum sunscreen oil spf 30.

BEST FOR DRY SKIN

Supergoop glow oil spf 50 dry body oil sunscreen.

BEST DRUGSTORE

Hawaiian tropic weightless hydration dry oil sunscreen mist spf 30.

BEST WATER-RESISTANT

L’oréal paris sublime sun sheer protect spf 30 oil spray.

BEST CLEAN FORMULA

Vacation chardonnay oil spf 30 sunscreen.

BEST SCENTED

Cay skin isle body oil spf 30.

BEST FOR MATURE SKIN

Hampton sun spf 30 silk body oil.

BEST NON-GREASY

Mele no shade spf 30.

Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance SPF 50 Shimmering Body Oil Sunscreen

BEST LIP OIL

Coola classic liplux organic hydrating lip oil sunscreen spf 30.

Sunscreen oils and tanning oils are very different. According to Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, Florida, tanning oils are designed to "speed up the tanning process by attracting and focusing on the sun's UV rays on the skin." Sure, tanning oils might leave your skin feeling soft and supple; however, a lot of formulas forgo SPF, which can result in everything from sunburns to hyperpigmentation , to serious diagnoses like melanoma

"Tanning oil is very different from sunscreen oil because it does not protect the skin from sun damage," Camp adds. "In fact, tanning oil helps facilitate the tanning process of skin: by reducing the refractive index, tanning oils increase the absorption of UV rays into the skin." Some benefits of sunscreen oils overlap, but the SPF formula is the key to keeping skin healthy. "Sunscreen oil is a form of sunscreen that is oil-based, so that it moisturizes and softens skin, and protects skin from ultraviolet radiation," explains Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist of MDCS Dermatology in New York City. "Sunscreen oils offer a sheer finish and leave skin with a glow."But before you fill your e-cart with formulas that promise a fresh-from-the-beach glow in no time, it's important to recognize that

With so many oils to sift through, how do you know which one is right for your needs? Start by perusing through our list of best sunscreen oils. From consistent crowd-pleasers to lesser-known finds that deserve a spot on your radar, the picks here are begging for some fun in the sun.

If you're looking for a formula that has everything , you simply can't go wrong with Sun Bum's Sunscreen Oil. "It sprays on easily and hydrates skin while protecting it from the sun," says Camp. This dermatologist-approved, Reef Act-compliant option trades in harmful oxybenzone for a better-for-you (and the environment) mix of avobenzone, homosalate, ethylhexyl salicylate , and octocrylene. However, the star of this vegan choice is its certified-organic coconut oil, a simple way to keep the skin silky smooth.

Customer Review:

"Feels great, smells great, works great! Also, I like that it hits the list of top sunscreens for environmental concerns and human safety."— Susan H.

Combat dry skin—and lock in a sun-kissed tan—with the help of Supergoop's Glow Oil. While this tanning oil is technically suitable for many skin types, moisturizing ingredients like argan oil, grapeseed oil, and meadowfoam seed oil make this pick particularly good for those who fall on the drier end of the spectrum. "Offering SPF 50 protection, this lightweight sunscreen oil is water-resistant for 80 minutes and offers an antioxidant-rich formula," Camp notes.

"This is the best body sunscreen I’ve used!! feels lightweight and doesn’t have that gross sunscreen smell. Smells light and fresh. Feels great on the skin and is the only sunscreen I enjoy using. Buy it."— Jsky

Thanks to this option from Hawaiian Tropic, you don't have to look far to find an excellent sunscreen oil for less. Think of its Weightless Hydration formula as a great option for oil sunscreen beginners. The aerosol applicator and dry oil texture are great for those who might find a traditional oil intimidating and, admittedly, messy. Meanwhile, a mix of coconut, argan, olive, and grapeseed work together to create a jolt of moisture for up to 12 hours.

Not only is the formula itself fast-absorbing and non-greasy, but it's also reef-safe so you'll do your skin and the environment a favor.

"This sunscreen is just perfect! It sprays lightly, rubs in quickly, doesn't feel sticky, and protected me well. I will continue to use this as my go to beach sunscreen."— Lily

Though you should always reapply sunscreen after swimming, a special, patent-pending polymer technology in L’Oréal Paris's Sublime Sun Sheer Protect Oil helps this formula stay water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Built to block UVA and UVB rays, this pick uses ingredients like Vitamin E, argan oil, shea butter oil, grapeseed oil, and sunflower oil to nourish the skin in the process.

"I burn every single time I go to the beach. I'm on the pastier side and only tan after I burn. I actually got a tan—not really a dark one—but a tan nonetheless without the burn. I was skeptical at first but it actually works."— Leni

If you want to clean up your sun care routine, Vacation's Chardonnay Oil Sunscreen is cruelty-free and vegan—not to mention it comes in a bottle made with recycled materials.

Not only does this formula have SPF 30—so you can stay protected from the sun's UVA and UVB rays—but it also uses a chamomile-derived ingredient called bisabolol to minimize irritation from the sun. Marula and passionfruit seed oils work hard to protect your skin's barrier; jojoba oil and shea oil pack on the moisture; and the formula's eponymous chardonnay grape seed oil provides a subtle shine.

"Love this product. Feels like an indulgent tanning oil but the SPF 30 coverage protected from burning or too much sun."— JHJH

While most tanning oils smell like a piña colada, the amber and vanilla notes used in Cay Skin's Isle Body Oil will be a welcomed change. (Less of your typical SPF, more of a cool-girl fragrance.) Though important, scent is only one thing this SPF oil offers. Vegan and cruelty-free, Cay Skin's formula features rich ingredients like a moisturizing squalane and sea moss, which will strengthen, nourish, and protect your skin. Speaking of protection, this oil also has SPF 30 baked inside.

"Smells great and light. Goes on fast and easy and soaks in pretty quick. The packaging is nice, too. This stuff is too good to be true!"— Pifflove

As you age—and your skin's ability to retain moisture, elastin, and collagen decreases—your cosmetic needs will naturally change. So, why should your sunscreen be any different? Enter Hampton Sun's SPF 30 Silk Body Oil, a fast-absorbing formula that has a matte, velvety finish. Powered by an ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid as well as Vitamin E, which is known to help produce elastin, this oil will leave the skin moisturized, supple, and oh-so radiant. Plus, a dose of bisabolol will help reduce skin pigmentation.

"I love the scent, it’s stunning and fresh—unlike any other sun brand scent. The feel on my skin is so soft and non greasy.. I was enticed after reading reviews for this on the brands site. I can’t imagine how great it’s going to be to use this on vacation. " — Ellie

There can be a very fine line between sunscreen oils that are hydrating and those that leave your skin feeling sticky and...well, greasy . If you're looking to bridge the gap in style, Camp is a fan of MELLE's No Shade SPF 30 Oil. "Free of parabens, alcohol and mineral oil, this lightweight, fast-absorbing sunscreen oil offers SPF 30 protection without leaving behind a noticeable residue," he notes.

Instead of drying alcohols and harsh parabens, MELLE uses a mix of avobenzone and octinoxate to give your skin the sun protection it needs, minus the greasy aftermath. Since this formula was made in collaboration with dermatologists of color, you can rest assured that it'll leave a residue-free glow on a wide range of complexions.

"This is one of the best sunscreen oils that I have ever used. It's not greasy or messy. It gives your skin a beautiful sheen and it does protect. Love this product!!"— Cocoahoney

If you're looking for a sunscreen oil that will help you glow at full wattage, Sol de Janeiro delivers with its Radiance Shimmering Body Oil. Decked out with a generous SPF 50 rating, this oil uses patauá oil and pongamia seed extract for quick absorption and antioxidant protection, respectively. But what makes this oil really shine—pun intended—is a helping of mica that creates an instant glow. It's also worth noting that this formula is cruelty-free, water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, and made without harsh oxybenzone.

"My first experience using body sunscreen oil and it's fantastic. It gives my skin a beautiful shine, making it look juicy and flawless. The moisturizing effect is wonderful, and the scent is amazing."— Tao M.

Arms, legs, and face aren't the only places to apply sunscreen: Your lips deserve some tender, loving (sun) care, too. COOLA's Classic Liplux Organic Hydrating Lip Oil Sunscreen goes on just like your favorite gloss and is packed with nourishing Vitamin E as well as jojoba and camellia oils. It also has a broad-spectrum SPF 30 rating that protects against UVA and UVB rays, plus it's reef-safe. You can kiss sunburnt lips goodbye once and for all.

"What else can you ask for?! Keeps your lips from getting dry and cracked, and protects them. Love it."— Eliza

.css-p3fpzg{font-family:NewParisTextBook,NewParisTextBook-roboto,NewParisTextBook-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:-0.015rem;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-p3fpzg b,.css-p3fpzg strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-p3fpzg em,.css-p3fpzg i{font-style:normal;font-family:NewParisTextItalic,NewParisTextItalic-roboto,NewParisTextItalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;} Who are Sunscreen Oils Best Suited For?

With the right formula, sunscreen oils can work for everyone . However, thanks to the ultra-moisturizing ingredients typically used, sunscreen oils are a particularly good match for those with dry skin. "Normal and dry skin types may be most amenable to the use of [sunscreen] oils," says Camp."The oils in these products will act as an emollient to soften skin and make it smoother, as well as trap moisture into skin. "

That said, just because you don't have dry doesn't mean you have to write off sunscreen oil quite yet. "[Those] with sensitive or acne-prone skin may want to use sunscreen oils sparingly or opt for non-comedogenic formulas to avoid skin irritation or breakouts," Chacon adds.

What to Look For in Sunscreen Oil

When shopping for sunscreen oil, look closely at a formula's ingredients. For example, Chacon recommends options that are packed with nourishing ingredients like argan, coconut, and avocado oils. (Jojoba oil and Vitamins A, C, and E are also popular elements.) Of course, not all oils are created equal. "Avoid oils that contain ingredients like mineral oil, which can clog pores," she says. Chacon also recommends avoiding sunscreen oils with added fragrances, which can be irritating. "Other factors to consider might include the oil's scent, whether it's water-resistant, and how easily it's absorbed by the skin," she adds.

How Much SPF Should You Look for in a Sunscreen Oil?

While tanning oils have very low (if any) sun protection, sunscreen oils will give you the coverage you need. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using an SPF that offers a minimum of SPF 30 protection, broad-spectrum coverage, and water resistance. Though higher SPFs will provide slightly more protection from UVA and UVB rays, a 30 rating remains a safe choice.

How to Use Sunscreen Oil

Just because sunscreen oils are lighter in nature doesn't mean the rules of application (and reapplication) differ from a traditional SPF. Camp adds that the American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying sunscreen to dry skin fifteen minutes before going outdoors, so you'll want to plan ahead. Like a typical cream or lotion, Chacon recommends reapplying every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.

Meet the Experts

Dr. Anna Chacon is a broad-certified dermatologist in Miami, Florida.
Dr. Brendan Camp is a double board-certified dermatologist of MDCS Dermatology in New York City.

Why trust Harper's Bazaar ?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

Kelsey Mulvey is a freelance lifestyle journalist, who covers shopping and deals for Good Housekeeping , Women's Health , and ELLE Decor , among others. Her hobbies include themed spinning classes, Netflix, and nachos.

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COMMENTS

The 11 Best Reef-safe Sunscreens of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best Water-resistant: Kokua Sun Care Sunscreen at Amazon ($35) Jump to Review. Best Sheer: Pipette Mineral Sunscreen at Pipettebaby.com (See Price) Jump to Review. Best for Families: Reef Repair ...
The 2 Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens of 2024
This sunscreen also has a strong, fruity scent. $9 from Amazon. (3 ounces) Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+ also fits our requirements for a reef-safe sunscreen: It's made with non-nano zinc oxide ...
The 10 Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best for Sensitive Skin: California Baby Super Sensitive SPF 30 Lotion at Amazon ($27) Jump to Review. Best for Dark Skin: Reef Repair Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF 30+ at Amazon ($18) Jump to Review ...
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We tested tons of products and collaborated with experts to find the six best reef-safe sunscreens on the market. ... 30 | Size: 1.8, 2.9, 6, 19 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes Best Fast-Absorbing Suntegrity Skincare Natural Mineral Body Sunscreen. PHOTO: Amazon. $26 at Amazon $38 at Dermstore $28 at Nordstrom.
7 best reef-safe sunscreens of 2024, according to experts
Our top picks. Best overall/editor's pick: ThinkSport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen. Best budget pick: Blue Lizard Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30. Best splurge: MdSolarScience Mineral Tinted Crème SPF ...
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Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen for Travel Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sport Sunscreen Stick SPF 30. $11 at Amazon. ... Size: 3 ounces each: Water resistance: Up to 80 minutes: Advertisement - Continue ...
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Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens for Body. Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen. Classi c Body Organic Sunscreen Lotion. Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion. Badger SPF 40 Clear Zinc.
8 Best "Reef-Safe" Sunscreens of 2023
Experts explain what reef-safe sunscreen means, report on Hawaii's legislation, whether you need to swap out your sunscreen and recommend the best sunscreens.
Reef Safe Sunscreen: Our Guide to Ocean-Friendly Sun Protection
Snorkelers, divers, surfers, boaters, and beachgoers should all take measures to reduce their risk, and reef safe sunscreen does serve as an important tool in that effort. Our recommendations: 1. Cover Up. The best thing that you can do is to first reduce your need to use sunscreen by covering up. Wearing rash guards, dive skins, wetsuits, and ...
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Best reef-safe sunscreens of 2023. These ocean-safe sunblocks will protect your skin and Earth's vital coral reefs. slide 1 to 3 of 3. Best Overall. ThinkSport SPF 50. SEE IT. A high SPF and ...
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Mama Kuleana Reef Safe Sunscreen — $31.00. Dr. Hu recommends this mineral SPF 30. "This sunscreen is 100% microplastic free and comes in fully biodegradable jars, making it another really ...
7 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens For All Skin Types
For a good reef-safe travel sunscreen, opt for a TSA-compliant 3.4 fl oz (100 ml) size to carry in your carry-on bag hassle-free. Pocket-sized and mess-free, Blue Lizard Sunscreen Stick is a convenient and precise way to apply sunscreen. ... Mineral size: Look for sunscreens that use non-nano-sized mineral particles. Larger particles are less ...
Reef Safe Sunscreen Guide
"The term reef safe typically means that the sunscreen contains only mineral UV-blocking ingredients like oxide and titanium dioxide," explains Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. ... The size of minerals can also have an impact. Be sure to use micro-sized (or non-nano) mineral sunscreens to avoid ...
13 best travel-size sunscreens of 2022 you need on your next vacation
Amazon Brand Solimo Sheer Face Sunscreen SPF 55. Amazon. This 3-ounce tube of SPF 55 sunscreen from Amazon brand Solimo is a great option for travelers. Not only does its compact size fit in the ...
Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF50+ (3oz)
Introducing our award-winning, EWG Top Rated ThinkSport Safe Sunscreen. Water-Resistant and Reef Safe. This dermatologist tested natural, mineral based sunscreen is highly effective for all skin types, is non-toxic. Protects the skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays without the use of harmful chemicals found in other brands.
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12 Travel-Size Sunscreens Perfect for Your Carry-On
The terms "reef-friendly" and "reef-safe are not currently regulated as of 2023, so be sure to check the ingredient label on the back of your travel-size sunscreen. In the United States, Hawaii and the city of Key West, Florida , have banned the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate.
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10 Best Sunscreen Tanning Oils in 2024, Tested and Reviewed
It also has a broad-spectrum SPF 30 rating that protects against UVA and UVB rays, plus it's reef-safe. You can kiss sunburnt lips goodbye once and for all. Customer Review:
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The 11 Best Reef-safe Sunscreens of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our Testing Process

Frequently Asked Questions

Best Overall

Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Sun Milk Body Lotion SPF 50

Best for Water Sports

Best for Sensitive Skin

Best Non-greasy

Best for Face

Best Fragrance-free

Best Water-resistant

Pipette Mineral Sunscreen

Best for Families

Best Splurge

Other Reef-safe Sunscreens We Liked

Tips for Buying Reef-safe Sunscreen

Look at the sunscreen's active ingredients

Prioritize water resistance and SPF levels

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Related Articles

The Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Everything we recommend

Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50

Buying Options

Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+

What to look for

The research

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Meet your guide

Further reading

The Best Sunscreen

There’s Basically No Difference Between Baby Sunscreen and Regular Sunscreen

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The 10 Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our Testing Process

Best Overall

Best Budget

Best Splurge

Best for Body

Best for Dry Skin

Best for Sensitive Skin

Best for Dark Skin

Best Water-Resistant

Best Scented

MDSolarSciences Tinted Solar Stick SPF 40

Water-Resistance

What is reef-safe sunscreen?

What makes sunscreen reef-safe?

Is mineral sunscreen reef-safe?

How do I know if my sunscreen is reef-safe?

Does reef-safe sunscreen affect skin differently?

What Is InStyle Picks?

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Where We Stand

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Best Overall

Who It's For

Best Budget

Best for Sensitive Skin

Best Fast-Absorbing

Best Lightweight

Best for Beach Days

Coola Mineral Body Organic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen

Manda Organic Sun Paste

What to Look for When Buying a Reef-Safe SPF

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The best reef-safe sunscreens, according to experts

Selected. Our top picks

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The best reef-safe sunscreen

Best overall: ThinkSport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen

ThinkSport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen

Best for body: Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 Suncreen

Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 Suncreen

Best budget pick: Blue Lizard Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+

Best splurge: MDSolarScience Mineral Tinted Crème SP F 30 Sunscreen