Top Sunscreen Brands

If you plan to go out into the sun and soak up some vitamin D this summer, don't forget your sunscreen! Sunscreen helps to ensure that we aren’t absorbing the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays are known to cause skin cancer, prematurely age our skin, and, of course, burn us!

Unfortunately, many sunscreens on the market contain harsh and harmful chemicals that can harm our bodies and the ocean. Regrettably, a “reef-safe” label is not regulated, so it’s up to us to delve deeper to ensure that our sunscreen is a win-win solution, protecting both us and Mother Nature!

When it comes to sunscreen, all people are created equal, meaning children and adults alike can use the same sunscreen. Everyone should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, apply it 15-30 minutes before going outside, and reapply based on the recommendations of the purchased sunscreen. The only caveat is that children must use SPF 30 and above (which is also good practice for adults).

My Favorites:

1. Babo Botanicals

Babo Botanica sunblock is my new favorite sunscreen. I love that it is lightweight, hypoallergic, streak-free, and has no harsh chemicals! I typically use the spray and the lotion for everyday use. Don’t be alarmed; since it is zinc, it will come on white, but once rubbed in, there is no lasting white cast. They have one marketed specifically for kids, but as I said before, everyone can use the same one!

2. Think Sunscreen

Think is another great reef-safe choice! It has a higher zinc count than other sunscreens but is very good when participating in water activities. This brand also tends to have a high SPF count. They also have different categories like Thinkdaily, ThinkKids, and Thinkbaby. Since this is a high zinc-content sunscreen, be sure to rub it in completely because it can leave a bit of a white cast.

Others that are great choices:

3. Thrive Natural Care

Thrive is another daily face sunscreen that is reef-safe and is known to be moisturizing on the skin. Plus, their mission is to help restore farmlands in Costa Rica.

4. All Good Body Care

This is a botanical, all-natural, clean-ingredient brand that offers a variety of products for personal use, including a full line of different sunscreens. You can buy their items directly from their website.

This is not an all-encompassing list, so if you want to check out a sunscreen you have at home, avoid these ingredients that are not considered reef-safe:

• Oxybenzone

• Avobenzone

• Octinoxate

• Octocrylene

• 4-methylbenzylidene camphor

• PABA

• Parabens

• Triclosan

• Nanoparticles or “nano-sized” zinc or titanium

• Any form of microplastic like exfoliating beads

Other ways to protect ourselves from the sun while being reef-safe:

• Use hats and sunglasses with UV protection

• SPF clothing or tight-weaved clothing

• Seeking a shaded area

Mindful sun care is important for our bodies and our planet. So, let's all do our part and ensure we use reef-safe sunscreen when in or by the water!

1. "About Reef Save Sunscreen," Save The Reef, accessed June 12, 2024, https://savethereef.org/about-reef-save-sunscreen.html.

2. Environmental Working Group (EWG), "EWG's Guide to Sunscreens," accessed June 12, 2024, https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/.

_{This post contains Amazon links, which means I’m awarded a small commission for purchases made through them at no added cost to you. This post is based on research, my knowledge, and my use of the products. Participation in the Amazon Associates Program does not influence all product recommendations.}