We have tested quite a few sunscreens over the years. And ehh... no, not all of them were a great success. From white haze to skin that started to protest, or finding out afterwards that you applied microplastics after all. But fortunately, there are also stayers. In this article, Saskia shares her favourite eco-friendly sunscreen brands. So that you don't have to search, but can just enjoy smearing (without white haze!). These sustainable SPFs are favourites.
Choosing eco-friendly sunscreen
But what actually makes a sunscreen eco-friendly? It's in much more than just trendy packaging. Some sunscreens contain UV filters that are so harmful to coral and marine life that they have now been banned in places like Hawaii. And then there are microplastics, which are unfortunately still surprisingly often hidden in sunscreen. Fortunately, there are good alternatives. Think mineral filters without nanoparticles, vegan formulas without animal ingredients and products that are really rubbish-free. Want to know exactly what to look out for? We wrote an extensive article about it: Choosing eco-friendly sunscreen: what to look out for?
Good sunburn tips
To guide you through that selection process, below we share our three favourites as well as tell you why these sunscreens are here to stay.
Mádara Age Protecting Sunscreen SPF30
This sunscreen from Mádara for your face, neck and hands is one to make you happy. It spreads nicely, smells subtle, has - very importantly - both UVA and UVB filter and does not leave a white haze. That's because Mádara combines mineral filters with natural extracts, with no nano-particles. The formula is vegan, animal-tested and microplastic-free. And if that's not enough: this sunscreen is also packed with antioxidants that protect your skin from premature ageing. Discover Mádara Age Protecting Sunscreen SPF30.
Food for Skin SPF30
A sunscreen we love from head to toe: the SPF 30 Sunscreen from Food for Skin. Suitable for your face and body, this natural sunscreen spreads smoothly and does not leave a white haze. The formula contains a mineral UV filter without nano particles and protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. No microplastics, no perfume, no nonsense. Well packed with nourishing ingredients like raspberry, grape and kakadu plum. And extra nice: it is a Dutch brand and B Corp-certified. Discover Food for Skin SPF 30.
Earth Line Argan Sun Care SPF20
A fine all-rounder: Earth Line's Argan Sun Care is suitable for both face and body. This SPF offers broad protection against UVA as well as UVB thanks to 100% non-nano mineral filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide). So no white haze, and ocean-friendly, just like the other favourites in this list. Earth Line's flagship product? Vitamin E! Supplemented by organic argan, macadamia and coconut oil as well as shea butter, which together provide hydration and care. Additional plus points: this sunscreen is vegan, water-repellent and free of synthetic additives. In short: a delicious, caring sunscreen that spreads like a light cream. Discover Earth Line Argan Sun Care SPF 20.
Eco-friendly sunscreen: which one suits you?
It is not always easy, but there are indeed a lot of eco-friendly sunscreens to choose from. These favourites are just a taste. Have you made another great discovery? Be sure to let us know! We are always on the lookout for new SPF tips!
More fine lists for summer
- Also see: list of favourite deodorant brands.
- Also see: list of the cutest stainless steel drinking cups.
Photo credits: main image: left: Yulia Kuzenkov (Pexels) & right: Lea Schmer (Pexels). Other: Mádara, thegreenlist.nl & Earth Line.
