July 30, 2024
The sunscreen aisle can be a complicated place. You have to choose whether you want to use a mineral sunscreen or chemical sunscreen, find a formula that works with your skin type, and ensure it has a high enough SPF for daily use. But deciphering the ingredients is, perhaps, the most challenging part.
There are several different ingredients that can be used in sunscreen—some of which are a bit controversial. Oxybenzone and octinoxate, for example, are both commonly found in chemical sunscreens. While they can help shield the skin from UV rays, both are also known to harm coral reefs (which is why they’re both banned in Hawaii). Fortunately, plenty of sunscreen brands offer formulas made without these potentially harmful ingredients. While many are mineral sunscreens, there are also excellent chemical (and hybrid) formulas made without oxybenzone and octinoxate.
If you’re looking for a new SPF to add to your lineup, keep reading. We’re sharing some of the best body sunscreens and facial sunscreens made without oxybenzone and octinoxate below.
What Is Oxybenzone?
Oxybenzone is a compound that is commonly found in sunscreens, specifically chemical or hybrid chemical-mineral sunscreens. According to the National Library of Medicine, it works by absorbing UVA rays.
Is oxybenzone safe?
Oxybenzone is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an active ingredient in sunscreens. When used following FDA regulations, oxybenzone is a safe and protective ingredient in sunscreen.
That being said, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), oxybenzone is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Instead, it’s best to opt for a 100% mineral sunscreen during those nine months.
What Is Octinoxate?
Octinoxate is another common ingredient in chemical sunscreens, according to the National Library of Medicine. Like oxybenzone, it is absorbed into the skin, where it converts UV rays into heat before they have a chance to damage your skin.
Is octinoxate safe?
Octinoxate is FDA-approved and considered safe when used as directed. However, because it’s absorbed into the skin, it’s best avoided during pregnancy.
The Difference Between Chemical and Mineral Sunscreen
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), chemical sunscreens are those that use chemical filters—such as oxybenzone or octinoxate (though there are others—to help protect your skin from the sun. These ingredients absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat before they’re able to penetrate your skin, which is how these sunscreens protect against burns and other sun-induced skin concerns.
Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, are formulated with mineral filters, such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide (and they never contain oxybenzone or octinoxate). These ingredients sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays—which is why mineral sunscreens are sometimes referred to as physical sunscreens.
That being said, there are plenty of chemical and hybrid sunscreens formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate. These formulas contain other chemical UV filters, such as avobenzone or homosalate. The simplest way to know what you’re putting on your skin is to opt for a 100% mineral sunscreen, since they’re always formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate. If you’d prefer to use a chemical SPF, be sure to read the ingredients label closely before making your purchase. And at the end of the day, remember that the best suntan lotion is whichever one you’ll actually use.
The Best Sunscreens Without Oxybenzone and Octinoxate
It’s important to keep in mind that oxybenzone and octinoxate are FDA-approved ingredients in sunscreens. That said, if you’re looking for alternatives, find our favorite sunscreens formulated without either, below.
SkinCeuticals Clear Daily Soothing UV Defense SPF 50
The FDA recommends everyone use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 every day—but a higher SPF certainly can’t hurt. If you’re looking for a higher-SPF facial sunscreen that won’t leave your skin feeling greasy, this non-comedogenic pick is an excellent choice. The hybrid sunscreen contains 7% zinc oxide and chemical filters (homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene) and offers SPF 50 protection against the sun’s rays. Plus, it has a gentle formula that’s well-suited for sensitive skin.
IT Cosmetics Hello Sunshine Invisible Sunscreen for Face SPF 50
IT Cosmetics’ sunscreen is a great pick for those who wear makeup every day. The three-in-one formula hydrates like a serum, primes the skin for makeup, and offers SPF 50 protection against the sun’s damaging rays. And true to its name, it’s invisible and won’t leave behind a chalky white cast.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Correct Face Sunscreen SPF 70 With Niacinamide
This sheer-finish sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays and helps correct the visible signs of sun damage, including uneven skin tone and texture. The niacinamide-infused formula is lightweight and non-greasy, and it’s suitable for all skin types. An SPF of 70 (!) is the cherry on top.
CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 for Face & Body
Streamline your morning routine with this hybrid sunscreen, which is designed for use on both the face and body. The ultra-light formula blends evenly without a white cast and leaves the skin feeling hydrated for up to 24 hours. It even helps prime the skin for makeup and won’t pill when layered under your favorite products.
Kiehl’s Super Fluid UV Defense Daily Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+
If you have oily skin and need a facial sunscreen that won’t leave your skin looking greasy, this classic pick from Kiehl’s is a must-try. The antioxidant-infused formula absorbs quickly and leaves the skin with a matte finish. Plus, it’s non-comedogenic, so you won’t have to worry about your SPF breaking you out.
SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50
In our experience, the best mineral sunscreens are those that blend easily without leaving behind a white cast—and this luxe option delivers on both fronts. It contains both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide and absorbs easily with a sheer, weightless matte finish.
Vichy Capital Soleil Tinted 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 60
Opting for a tinted sunscreen is another great way to avoid a white cast. The tint in this 100% mineral sunscreen is super subtle and provides barely-there coverage to leave the skin with a natural-looking glow. It’s a particularly great pick for those with sensitive skin, as it’s formulated without chemical filters, fragrances, or parabens.
Lancôme UV Expert Defense Spf 50+ Primer & Moisturizer
This multi-tasking sunscreen protects, moisturizes, and helps prime the skin for makeup—which is why it’s one of our favorite sunscreens for busy mornings. The ultra-light formula contains a slew of good-for-your-skin ingredients, including vitamin E and moringa seed extract, and it boasts a water-light texture that feels hydrating, but not heavy or sticky.
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
If you want a little bit of coverage but don’t feel like reaching for foundation or concealer, this mineral sunscreen is a great option. It contains translucent color spheres that adapt to most skin tones and leaves the skin looking radiant and healthy. Plus, like many of the other formulas on this list, it’s non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types.
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Tint
This tinted sunscreen blends seamlessly onto all skin tones, making it a great pick for those with darker skin for whom mineral sunscreens sometimes leave a white cast. The formula contains ceramides and niacinamide and leaves the skin with a healthy, natural-looking glow.
Skinbetter Science Sunbetter Sheer SPF 70 Sunscreen Lotion
Shield your skin from damage indoors and out with this unique sunscreen, which helps protect against UV rays as well as blue light, pollution, and infrared radiation. The creamy lotion is made with 100% mineral filters and can be used alone or worn under makeup to help prime your skin.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 50 Gentle Lotion Mineral Sunscreen
La-Roche Posay’s sunscreens are some of our editors’ favorites, thanks to their lightweight feel and compatibility for all skin types. This oil-free sunscreen, in particular, is among the best mineral sunscreens for the face and body we’ve tried: it’s ultra-gentle, blends easily, and offers up to 80 minutes of water resistance (perfect for beach vacations).
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide 50+
Australian sunscreen brand Blue Lizard is well-known amongst outdoor enthusiasts for their reliable sunscreens—which makes sense, given Australia’s hot, sunny climate. This 100% mineral pick is ideal for those planning to work up a sweat, as it boasts up to 80 minutes of both sweat and water resistance.
Supergoop! Glowscreen Body SPF 40
If you’re looking to upgrade your go-to body sunscreen, consider giving this oil-free sunscreen a try. The unique formula boasts a whipped texture and contains light-reflecting minerals to help illuminate the skin. Apply it to your body after showering for lightweight hydration and give your skin a subtle, healthy-looking glow.
COOLA Mineral Body Organic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
This antioxidant-rich, 100% mineral sunscreen meets all of our beach-day needs: It’s sheer, lightweight, and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Plus, it’s fragrance-free, which is ideal for those who prefer to forgo scented skincare products.
Next Up: How to Apply Tinted Moisturizer for a Dewy, Radiant Glow
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