Protect Your Skin Naturally: Sunscreens That Really Work

Natural Sunscreens: What You Need to Know for Safer Skin and a Healthier Planet

Whether you’re passionate about protecting your health, preserving the environment, or both, the importance of sunscreen cannot be overstated. But not all sunscreens are created equal. With growing awareness of potential skin sensitivities and environmental impact, many people are turning toward natural sunscreens—also known as mineral or physical sunscreens—as a safer and more eco-conscious alternative.

These natural sunscreens are formulated without certain controversial ingredients found in chemical sunscreens. They’re often free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, and other irritants, making them especially suitable for sensitive skin. And when you’re heading out for a beach day, hike, or just a walk in the sun, carrying a trusted mineral SPF can be one of the best decisions you make for both your skin’s health and the world around you.

Still, this doesn’t mean that chemical sunscreens are inherently bad. In fact, both the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and the Skin Cancer Foundation have publicly stated that the benefits of sunscreen—whether chemical or mineral—far outweigh the potential risks. According to board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Joel Schlessinger, “Many people benefit greatly from chemical sunscreens, especially due to their ease of application and broad-spectrum protection.”

So, the big question is: How do natural sunscreens differ from chemical ones? And why might someone choose one over the other?

Chemical vs. Natural Sunscreens: What’s the Difference?

Before diving into the best products, it’s important to understand what sets chemical and mineral sunscreens apart:

Chemical Sunscreens absorb UV rays into the skin, where the rays are converted into heat and released. Common active ingredients include oxybenzone, avobenzone, octocrylene, and octinoxate. These sunscreens tend to be lightweight, easy to spread, and invisible on most skin tones.

Mineral (Natural) Sunscreens, by contrast, sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays. Their active ingredients are usually zinc oxide and titanium dioxide—both naturally occurring minerals. These are less likely to irritate sensitive skin and are often recommended by dermatologists for individuals with skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, or a history of allergic reactions.

Why Choose a Natural Sunscreen?

Natural sunscreens are more than just a skincare trend—they’re part of a growing movement toward clean beauty and sustainable living. Here are some compelling reasons to consider switching to mineral-based SPF:

1. Gentler on Sensitive Skin

People with sensitive skin, acne-prone complexions, or inflammatory conditions like rosacea often find that chemical sunscreens can cause stinging, redness, or breakouts. Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, are less likely to trigger these reactions.

2. No Harsh Chemicals

Many natural SPFs are free of controversial ingredients like oxybenzone, which has been linked to both environmental harm and potential hormone disruption. They also often exclude fragrances, parabens, and phthalates.

3. Reef-Safe and Environmentally Friendly

Oxybenzone and octinoxate—ingredients commonly found in chemical sunscreens—have been shown to contribute to coral bleaching and marine toxicity. This has led to legislation in places like Hawaii and Key West banning sunscreens with these compounds. Mineral sunscreens, being free of these ingredients, are typically labeled “reef-safe,” meaning they won’t disrupt aquatic ecosystems.

4. Immediate Protection

Unlike chemical sunscreens, which can take up to 30 minutes to activate, mineral sunscreens start working as soon as they’re applied.

A Note on Labels: “Natural” Isn’t Always Regulated

One challenge in shopping for natural products is that the term “natural” isn’t regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means that products labeled as natural might still contain synthetic or chemical ingredients. Always read ingredient lists and look for active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, and steer clear of oxybenzone or avobenzone if you want a truly mineral option.

EWG Ratings: A Helpful Resource

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) provides a trusted annual guide to sunscreens, evaluating them on a scale from 1 to 10. A rating of 1 indicates the lowest hazard and highest level of safety. When in doubt, checking the EWG’s database is a great way to make an informed purchase.

Top Dermatologist-Recommended Natural Sunscreens for 2024

Here’s a curated list of the top-rated mineral sunscreens available today, based on expert recommendations and consumer reviews.

1. Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen

Why it’s great: Recommended by dermatologists and consistently ranked as a top sunscreen, Blue Lizard Sensitive is a go-to for individuals with extremely sensitive skin.

Key Features:

Contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide

Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and chemical-free

Bottle changes color in UV light—a helpful reminder to reapply

EWG Rating: 1

Expert Insight: “My patients with the most sensitive skin can tolerate it,” says Dr. Lauren Ploch, board-certified dermatologist and member of the AAD.

2. Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Sunscreen SPF 50

Why it’s great: Lightweight and non-greasy, this sunscreen provides gentle but effective protection and includes skin-soothing oat extract.

Key Features:

Mineral-based with zinc oxide

Oat extract calms irritated skin

Suitable for both face and body

Fragrance-free and oil-free

Expert Insight: “It’s free of chemical blockers and uses mineral technology to protect the skin,” says Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of dermatology research at Mount Sinai Hospital.

3. EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41

Why it’s great: Trusted by dermatologists, EltaMD UV Physical offers water resistance, a tinted matte finish, and excellent protection.

Key Features:

Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide

Tinted, making it ideal as a makeup base

Fragrance- and paraben-free

Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes

Expert Insight: “This provides great pigmented and matte coverage for the face,” says Dr. Julia Tzu, founder of Wall Street Dermatology.

4. Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 Tinted Face Lotion

Why it’s great: A top pick by the Good Housekeeping Beauty Lab, this zinc-based sunscreen functions like a makeup primer—smooth, matte, and perfect for daily wear.

Key Features:

Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free

Matte finish and non-greasy feel

Reef-safe and cruelty-free

User Review: “It spreads easily and dries almost powdery. Regular sunscreen feels greasy on the face after a while, but this one doesn’t,” said one enthusiastic reviewer on Amazon.

5. Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+

Why it’s great: If you’re looking for an organic and water-resistant formula, Thinksport delivers high-performance protection with a clean ingredient list.

Key Features:

Zinc oxide as the active ingredient

Enriched with aloe vera, jojoba oil, hyaluronic acid, and Vitamin C

Broad-spectrum SPF 50+

Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes

Bonus: It absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave behind a sticky residue—perfect for sports, swimming, or lounging poolside.

How to Choose the Right Natural Sunscreen

With so many options on the market, choosing the right sunscreen can feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to guide your search:

Check for Zinc or Titanium: Look for sunscreens that list zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients.

Look for EWG Certification: Products with an EWG rating of 1 or 2 are your safest bets.

Avoid “Chemical-Free” Gimmicks: Some products use the term misleadingly. Always verify ingredient lists.

Match to Your Needs: Tinted formulas are great for daily use, while sport formulas are ideal for swimming or intense activity.

Choose Non-Nano Formulas: Some experts recommend avoiding “nano” particles (ultrafine mineral particles) for environmental reasons, although research is still ongoing.

Final Thoughts: Is Natural Sunscreen Right for You?

Choosing a sunscreen—whether chemical or mineral—is a personal decision that depends on your skin type, lifestyle, and values. What’s most important is that you use it consistently. Unprotected sun exposure is the leading cause of skin aging and a major contributor to skin cancer, so daily sun protection is a must.

Natural sunscreens offer a fantastic balance between skin safety and environmental responsibility. With newer formulations that blend more easily, don’t leave a white cast, and feel luxurious on the skin, there’s never been a better time to make the switch.

So, whether you’re planning your next beach trip, hitting the hiking trails, or simply stepping out for your morning coffee, make sure a trusted mineral SPF is part of your routine. Your skin—and the planet—will thank you.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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