Sunscreen is an essential part of our skincare routine, protecting us from harmful UV rays that can cause skin damage and even skin cancer. However, the chemicals in traditional sunscreen can be harmful to both our skin and the environment. Chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, commonly found in conventional sunscreens, have been linked to coral bleaching and marine life disruption. Additionally, these chemicals can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. That’s why it’s crucial to choose an ethical sunscreen brand that not only protects your skin but also the ocean. Ethical sunscreen brands use natural, reef-safe ingredients like zinc oxide, homosalate and titanium dioxide, which are non-toxic and don’t harm marine life. In this article, we’ll explore the criteria we expect from an ethical sunscreen and 10 ethical sunscreen brands that prioritize both your skin’s health and environmental sustainability.
Ethical Sunscreen Criteria
To be considered ethical, a sunscreen brand must meet certain criteria. For instance, it should be cruelty-free, vegan, reef-safe, and made with organic ingredients. Many ethical sunscreen brands are also packaged in eco-friendly materials to reduce waste and minimize their carbon footprint.
Reef-safe sunscreens are particularly important for protecting our oceans. Traditional sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate that have been shown to cause coral bleaching and damage marine ecosystems. In contrast, reef-safe sunscreens use mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that don’t harm coral reefs.
When looking for the best ethical sunscreen, it’s important to consider factors like the brand’s certifications and ingredients. Look for certifications from organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and the Leaping Bunny Program, which indicate that a brand is committed to sustainability and cruelty-free practices. Additionally, read the label carefully and look for mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
By choosing an ethical sunscreen brand, you can protect both your skin and the planet.
Top 10 Ethical Sunscreen Brands
Babo Botanicals:
Offers mineral-based sunscreen options that are reef-safe, cruelty-free, and vegan. Contains organic ingredients and comes in sustainable packaging.
Green People:
Offers organic and reef-safe sunscreen options that are cruelty-free and vegan. Comes in recyclable packaging.
Suntegrity:
Provides mineral-based sunscreen options that are free of harmful chemicals and reef-safe. Contains organic ingredients and is cruelty-free and vegan.
Badger Balm:
Provides mineral-based sunscreen options that are reef-safe, cruelty-free, and organic. Comes in recyclable packaging.
Alba Botanica:
A cruelty-free brand with biodegradable and reef-safe sunscreens.
Stream2Sea:
It is A certified eco-conscious and mineral-based sunscreen that’s safe for oceans and coral reefs.
Sun Bum:
The brand offers cruelty-free, vegan, reef-friendly and paraben-free sunscreen options for a fun day under the sun.
Kari Gran:
An organic and vegan sunscreen with non-nano zinc oxide as the active ingredient.
Salt and Stone:
A natural and cruelty-free brand that uses non-nano zinc oxide in its mineral-based sunscreens.
Coola:
A brand that offers organic, cruelty-free, and reef-friendly sunscreens with a range of SPF levels.
In conclusion, protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun is crucial, but it’s equally important to consider the impact that sunscreen has on the environment. By choosing ethical sunscreen brands, you can ensure that you’re not only protecting yourself but also protecting the ocean and marine life. Remember to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure and to reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. We’ve compiled this list of 10 ethical sunscreen brands that offer a range of options for all skin types and needs. So, whether you’re lounging on the beach or hiking in the mountains, you can feel good about the sunscreen you’re using. It’s time to make the switch to ethical sunscreens and take care of both your skin and the environment.
