Best Non-Toxic Sunscreens for Face, Body & Kids
Looking for the best non-toxic sunscreen? These safe mineral sunscreens for face, body, and kids are made without harmful chemicals and actually work.
Swimsuits, towels, organic snacks — check! Sounds like you’re ready for some fun in the sun. But what about the sunscreen?
If you’re still using conventional sunscreen filled with chemical UV filters and questionable ingredients, now is a great time to switch to a safer, non-toxic sunscreen made with mineral-based sun protection.
As a mom of two boys who has survived plenty of pool days, beach vacations, and sunscreen battles with squirmy kids, I know how important it is to find a sunscreen that’s safe, effective, and easy to use.
I’ve spent years researching ingredients, comparing brands, and testing products to find the best non-toxic sunscreens for real life. In this guide, you’ll find safe mineral sunscreens for face, body, and kids — including clean sunscreen lotions, zinc oxide sticks, reef-safe options, and the safest non-toxic spray sunscreens that actually work.
Whether you’re looking for a chemical-free sunscreen for sensitive skin, a lightweight face SPF, or a family-friendly mineral sunscreen that won’t leave everyone ghostly white, this list will help you find the best clean sunscreen for your needs.
At Mindful Momma we only endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and honestly love. We may receive commissions from affiliate links in this article including Amazon Affiliates. Full Disclosure
Why Non Toxic Sunscreen Matters
Most conventional sunscreen products on the market contain worrisome chemical ingredients that may lead to health problems like hormone disruption, allergies or even ironically, cancer, which sunscreen is purportedly trying to prevent. Many sunscreens also make misleading SPF claims that may put you at risk of sun damage.
One of the most troubling aspects of chemical sunscreen ingredients is that they are absorbed into the bloodstream after only one use, and can be detected in blood weeks after application.
What Is a Chemical-Free Sunscreen?
The term “chemical-free sunscreen” gets searched a lot, but it’s not technically accurate because all sunscreen products contain chemicals in some form. What most people mean is a mineral sunscreen made without synthetic chemical UV filters like oxybenzone or octinoxate.
Mineral sunscreens use ingredients like non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to help block the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays, while chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation through ingredients like avobenzone, octocrylene, and homosalate.
Many people prefer non-toxic mineral sunscreen because it is considered a safer, cleaner option for sensitive skin, kids, and everyday use. Mineral sunscreens are also less likely to cause irritation, and some chemical sunscreen ingredients have raised concerns about hormone disruption and environmental harm to coral reefs.
In this guide, I’m focusing primarily on mineral-based, non-toxic sunscreens made with safer ingredients and broad-spectrum protection.
Sunscreen Ingredients to Avoid
Not all sunscreens are created equal. Many conventional sunscreen products contain chemical UV filters, synthetic fragrance, preservatives, and other ingredients that may pose concerns for human health or the environment.
Here are some of the main sunscreen ingredients many health-conscious consumers choose to avoid:
Chemical UV Filters
Common chemical sunscreen ingredients include oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, and homosalate. These ingredients work by absorbing UV radiation into the skin rather than sitting on top of the skin like mineral sunscreen ingredients do.
Some chemical UV filters have been shown to absorb into the bloodstream after sunscreen use, and the strongest evidence of potential endocrine disruption is linked to oxybenzone and octinoxate. Certain chemical sunscreen ingredients have also raised concerns about skin irritation and environmental harm to coral reefs and marine ecosystems.
Synthetic Fragrance
Fragrance blends can contain dozens of undisclosed chemicals that may trigger allergies, headaches, skin irritation, or sensitivity — especially for children and people with sensitive skin.
Artificial Preservatives
Some conventional sunscreens contain preservatives that may release formaldehyde or cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benzene (in Sunscreen Sprays)
Benzene is not intentionally added to sunscreen, but independent testing has found contamination in some aerosol sunscreen sprays. Benzene is a known carcinogen, which is one reason many people prefer non-aerosol sunscreen lotions, sticks, or mineral spray sunscreens from trusted brands.
Instead, I recommend choosing mineral sunscreens made with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and looking for products with transparent ingredient lists and trusted safety standards.
If you’d like a deeper dive into sunscreen safety, check out my full guide to harmful sunscreen ingredients to avoid and the EWG’s report on sunscreen chemicals.
Best Clean & Non-Toxic Sunscreens
Finding the best non-toxic sunscreen isn’t always easy. Some mineral sunscreens feel greasy, leave a heavy white cast, or simply don’t hold up during long days outside. That’s why I’ve spent years researching ingredients, comparing brands, and testing safer sunscreen options for real-life use.
This guide includes my top picks for mineral sunscreen lotions, sunscreen sticks, facial SPF, non-toxic spray sunscreen, and sunscreens for babies, kids, sensitive skin, sports, and everyday wear.
All of the sunscreens featured here are mineral-based formulas made with safer ingredients like non-nano zinc oxide instead of chemical UV filters such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. I also prioritized brands that avoid synthetic fragrance and other questionable additives commonly found in conventional sunscreen.
These clean sunscreens rate well in the EWG sunscreen database, with either EWG Verified certification or a low hazard rating of 1 or 2. The one exception is spray sunscreen, which typically receives a slightly higher rating because of inhalation concerns associated with aerosol products.
Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may change over time.
Best Mineral Sunscreens for Body & Family Use
These sunscreen lotions and creams are perfect for everything from a trip to the park or a day in the garden, to beach days and family vacations. I keep one in my bag all summer long and a couple more on hand to give to anyone heading out for the day.
Badger – Best Sunscreen for Families
- Fav product: Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
- Why it’s great: Provides mineral protection that rubs in easily without the whitening.
- Best for: Families who need a lot of sunscreen
- EWG rating: 1
- Price: $24 for 4-oz tube
- Badger also offers different formulas for different needs including active, sport, face, baby & more.
Related: Non-Toxic Shampoo for the Whole Family
Think Sport – Best Sunscreen for Sports
- Favorite product: ThinkSport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
- Why it’s great: Formulated for athletes and active people. Water resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- Best for: Swimming and sweating
- EWG rating: EWG Verified
- Price: $22.99 for 6-oz, $15.49 for 3-oz
Sunly – Best Plastic Free Sunscreen Stick
- Favorite product: Sunly Mineral Sunscreen Stick (I love the light orange blossom scent!)
- Why it’s great: The Sunly line from ATTITUDE is packaged in biodegradable cardboard tubes and of course it is EWG-Verified and super effective at blocking those rays.
- Best for: Plastic free sunscreen application
- EWG rating: EWG-Verified
- Price: $22.95 for 2.1-oz
Earth Mama – Best Sunscreen for Babies
- Favorite product: Earth Mama Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40
- Why it’s great: Earth Mama has specific formulas for babies, kids, adults and people with uber-sensitive skin. NSF organic certified.
- Best for: Babies and anyone who is pregnant
- EWG rating: 1
- Price: $16.99 for 3-oz
Suntegrity – Best Unscented Sunscreen
- Fav product: Suntegrity Unscented Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
- Why it’s great: Unscented formula
- Best for: Anyone who doesn’t want fragrance
- EWG rating: 1
- Price: $26 for 3-oz
Alba Botanica – Best Affordable Non Toxic Sunscreen
- Favorite product: Alba Botanica Sheer Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
- Why it’s great: Easy to find and lower cost than many mineral sunscreens
- Best for: Budget minded
- EWG rating: 1
- Price: $11.99 for 3-oz
- Alba also has sunscreen products for kids, including spray sunscreens
Primally Pure – Best Compact Sunscreen Stick
- Favorite product: Primally Pure Sun Stick SPF 25
- Why it’s great: This handy sunscreen stick is great for throwing in a purse or beach bag. Available in Unscented or Lavender Mint
- Best for: Keeping in purse for emergencies
- EWG rating: N/A
- Price: $26 for 0.5-oz
- Primally Pure also has a Sunscreen Cream
All Good – Best Sunscreen Butter
- Fav product: All Good Sunscreen Butter SPF 50
- Why it’s great: Water and sweat resistant formula in an easy to carry tin
- Best for: Zero wasters (comes in a reusable tin container)
- EWG rating: 1
- Price: $9 for 1-oz
- All Good also offers sunscreen in tubes and sprays
California Baby – Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
- Fav product: California Baby Super Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30
- Why it’s great: Fragrance-free for baby’s super sensitive skin
- Best for: Babies and kids with sensitive skin
- EWG rating: 3 (but I think this is a mistake because all ingredients are rated 1)
- Price: $19.99 for 1.8-oz
We’ve got even more sunscreen for kids here!
Best Non-Toxic Face Sunscreens
These face sunscreens are meant for everyday use in order to provide protection from the sun’s rays throughout the day. I’ve included both tinted and non-tinted facial sunscreens so you can choose your favorite type.
Beautycounter – Best Facial Lotion with Sunscreen
- Favorite product: Beautycounter Countersun Daily Sheer Defence for Face SPF 25
- Why it’s great: A lightweight facial lotion that provides protection from UVA, UVB, and HEV blue light rays while leaving no chalky white cast.
- Best for: Sunscreen + facial care combined
- EWG rating: EWG Verified
- Price: $46 for 1.7 oz (on clearance on Counter.com)
ATTITUDE – Best Facial Sunscreen Stick
- Favorite product: ATTITUDE Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick
- Why it’s great: Unscented facial sunscreen stick that is easy to apply and comes in a biodegradable cardboard tube. Tinted version also available.
- Best for: Sunscreen stick for face
- EWG rating: EWG Verified
- Price: $15.95 for 0.7-oz
Crunchi – Favorite Tinted Sunscreen
- Favorite product: Crunchi Sunlight® Tinted SPF 30
- Why it’s great: A lightweight tinted lotion that is the perfect blend of makeup, skincare, and sun protection. Comes in 5 shades. This is my daily go-to face sunscreen most days!
- Best for: Tinted sunscreen lotion
- EWG rating: EWG Verified
- Price: $52 for 1-oz
Saie – Glowy Tinted Sunscreen
- Favorite product: Slip Tint Tinted Moisturizer, SPF 35
- Why it’s great: A tinted facial sunscreen with light coverage that primes skin and leaves you with a blurred, glowy finish.
- Best for: A glowy finish
- EWG rating: 2
- Price: $38 for 1.35-oz
Best Non-Toxic Spray Sunscreens
A quick note about spray sunscreens – the EWG recommends that we avoid spray sunscreens due to inhalation concerns, as well as concern that it may not provide an adequate coating on the skin to ensure proper protection. But I get it – spray sunscreens are super easy and sometimes the only way we can get sunscreen on our kids.
My kids used to BEG me for spray sunscreen! So I’m sharing a couple of the safest spray sunscreens that I’ve found. Keep in mind that you can lower inhalation risk by applying it to your hands and then apply it to the face with your hands.
Babo Botanicals – Non Toxic Spray Sunscreen
- Why it’s great: The continuous air-powered spray is much safer than aerosol sunscreen sprays but is still very kid-friendly.
- Fav product: Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc Sunscreen Spray
- Best for: Squirmy kids
- EWG rating: 3
- Price: $21.50 for 6-oz
All Good – Mineral Spray Sunscreen
- Why it’s great: A reef-friendly formula that uses compressed air instead of propellent chemicals.
- Fav product: All Good Mineral Sport Sunscreen Spray
- Best for: Anyone who prefers a spray sunscreen
- EWG rating: 3
- Price: $15 for 6-oz
Do you have a favorite safe sunscreen brand? Tell me why you love it and I might add it to the Sunscreen Guide!
More Favorites from Mindful Momma
- Eco Friendly Laundry Detergents
- Best Organic Sheets
- Natural Moisturizer for Face
- Thrive Market Brands
- 360 Pans
- Non Toxic Deodorant That Works
Thanks for this great list. It’s so encouraging to see so many safer products available. Our purse power has really made a difference in this marketplace!
I agree Diane – it’s pretty impressive to think about all that has happened since we first started blogging and met each other!
Thanks for the recommendations. My kids always want spray sunscreens too and they aren’t really the safest option!
Yes, spray sunscreen is one of those compromises – but at least with Goddess Garden we know the ingredients are really safe and if used carefully, it is probably just fine!
So many of my favorites on here and so many to try, too! Thanks for sharing Mindful Momma 🙂
You’re welcome Rachel! I know there are still some great brands I have yet to try – like Coola for instance!
Thanks for this important post! We personally love Badger and Raw Elements (non-GMO) as they are chemical free, but safe for the environment as they are reef safe and biodegradable. Great for the whole family, too.
I use Badger. I burn so badly so sunscreen is a must! Thanks for sharing these great options!
Thanks for sharing 🙂 Staying safe from the sun but also avoiding harsh chemicals can be tough during the summer. These are some great options!
This is a great list! Living in South Florida we are always looking for good sunscreens!
I’m sure you need them year-round in Florida!
So great to have all this info in one spot! Thank you!
You’re welcome! Hope it comes in handy!
Great. Always want to know which are the safest. Saving this for warmer weather.
Can’t wait for that warmer weather to arrive! 🙂
Always looking for safe options to use on my sensitive skin. Thanks!
None of these use artificial fragrances – which is great for sensitive skin!
Love this article! Thanks for putting all of the work into it and making it easier for me! 😉 Do you have a favorite? I tried Badger and it SO hard to rub in and my 3-year-old isn’t a fan of it taking so long to put it on!
Did you try the Badger clear zinc? That one is pretty easy to rub in! My favorite is the Beautycounter sunscreen but I also love the new formula of the Goddess Garden – it rubs in super fast. If you buy, just make sure it says new formula on it!!
I’d like to know how to remove barrier sunscreens. What a nightmare! Ruined a rash guard, 2 neoprene life vests and we still have it on our car and boat upholstery. Not to mention impossible to wash of oneself.
Wow – sorry to hear about that. I’ve never run into that problem before. I asked around and someone recommended using Dawn dish soap and very hot water. Hope that helps!
Thank you! We will give that a try!
I would love to see more products that are 100% fragrance free. I have a chemical disorter and all my products must have no scent if any kind. No vinager, no essential oils.
Thabk you. I love your emails.
Glad you find my emails helpful! I do mix fragrance free products into my roundups!
Four of the sunscreen products listed here can be bought from iHerb. Yippee! That is so incredibly helpful when you live in Australia. Trying to source non-toxic products here in Australia is an absolute nightmare when considering all the best reviews for non-toxic products are coming from American websites and can only be bought from America at exorbitant postage costs. I love shopping at iHerb mainly because they offer free postage when you buy a certain amount of items. Thanks for sending this important article to my inbox. I really appreciate it.