I’m sure by now you know about sun exposure and the damage that it can do. Too much sun exposure can cause sunburns, which are painful and embarrassing. Even worse, there’s the risk of developing skin cancer. You’re also susceptible to premature aging. The sun’s powerful rays can completely destroy collagen tissue and elastic fibers. This causes wrinkles, discoloration, and sagging skin.
The answer to these concerns is to wear sunscreen. But what you might not know is that certain brands of sunscreen could also cause problems. Most brands of sunscreen are loaded with chemicals, and all of these chemicals are absorbed into your skin, and into your body. All of those chemicals just can’t be good for you, which is why many people are switching to all natural sunscreens such as Babo Botanicals.
We’ll review a few options here that will prevent burning on your next outdoor adventure. You will see that protecting yourself from the sun doesn’t require looking like a mummy or slathering up with chemicals.
| Product | SPF | Price | Rating /5 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Babo Botanicals |  | 30 | $$$ | 5 |
| Blue Lizard |  | 30+ | $$ | 4.5 |
| Beauty by Earth |  | 25 | $$ | 4 |
| Alba Botanica |  | 30 | $ | 4 |
| EltaMD |  | 41 | $$$$ | 4 |
Babo Botanicals SPF 30 Clear Zinc Sunscreen
This is our top recommendation for chemical free sunscreen. Babo Botanicals makes all their products on their certified organic farm located in upstate New York. The products are created in small batches to promote the highest quality, and the formulas were made by respected botanists. In addition to being chemical free, it’s also sulfate free, gluten free, tear free, vegan, and it comes in a BPA free package.
Babo Botanicals sunscreen offers the protection of zinc without the normal white residue. With an SPF of 30, you’ll have enough protection to enjoy some sun before reapplying. Babo offers UVA and UVB broadband protection for the most sensitive skin. It’s also moisturizing and non-greasy.
A common complain about this lotion is that it’s hard to rub in. This is true, but we don’t view it as a big deal. It takes more work to apply, but after it’s absorbed you have the peace of mind that you are completely protected from the sun.
It’s worth mentioning that we aren’t the only ones who like Babo Botanicals- Parents Magazine named it one of seven safe sunscreens. So if it’s safe enough for your little baby, then it’s safe for you too.
Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen SPF 30+
This broad spectrum provides protection from both UVA and UVB rays. The bottle turns blue in UV light, so you’ll know when to apply this chemical and fragrance free lotion. The main ingredient in Blue Lizard sunscreen is micronized zinc oxide, which is one of the best UV-blocking ingredients. Other active ingredients include vitamin E and beeswax.
This is a sensitive sunscreen, which means that it won’t irritate your skin. As of writing, this is one of the only sensitive sunscreens on the market that actually works. You can apply it directly to your face and body without fear of a breakout. The formula is mild and soothing to the skin. It’s water resistant and it lasts a long time.
Beauty by Earth SPF 25
This all-natural sunscreen is made with organic and non-toxic ingredients. The formula is also reef safe, so it’s terrific for snorkeling and enjoying seascapes. This is a physical sunscreen using a mineral base that is immediately effective. There is no need to wait for the lotion to absorb, which is terrific for fidgety babies and active adults.
What’s not in this sunscreen will make you happy. There are no toxic chemicals, parabens, phalates, nano-particles, oxybenzone, or chemical fragrances.
Beauty by Earth includes a list of completely natural organic ingredients such as: aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter, argan oil, vitamin E, and green tea extract.
One big advantage of using this brand is that it smells great. Nobody wants to go walking around the beach smelling like sunblock. With this product you get a clean smell that could pass as a perfume or a light cologne. This is definitely the best smelling brand on the market.
Alba Botanica Fragrance Free SPF 30
This product is cheap, but don’t be fooled- the quality is superb. This is a well-known brand with a reputation for quality. Alba Botanica has made 100% vegetarian products since 1979. It’s products contain no parabens, sulfates, phthalates or artificial colors. You can slather on this product without any concern about the environment or animal testing, which allows you to focus on why you’re outside.
Like the others we’ve reviewed, Alba Botanica sunscreen provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with a mineral sunscreen. The plant oils moisturize and soften skin, while grape seed oil and vitamin E provide antioxidant protection. Other active ingredients include zinc oxide, aloe, sunflower seed oil, and shea butter.
EltaMD UV Physical SPF 41
This is by far the most expensive brand on our list. But rest assured, the quality is outstanding. EltaMD has several features that the other brands don’t have. One of the main features is that it’s SPF 41, most chemical free sunscreens don’t go that high so this is the perfect choice is you have really fair skin. Another good feature is that the formula blends in really well, so you don’t have to spend a lot of time rubbing it in.
One major advantage for females is that you can wear it with or without your makeup. This allows you to look your best while also being protected from the sun’s harmful rays. The formula also has a soft tint, so your face will look bright and smooth.
Any of these five products will keep your skin safe during fun (or work) in the sun. All are chemical free, and one is even safe for reefs and marine life. Get out and enjoy the outdoors with any of these products and rest assured that your skin is both protected and safe.