Although it’s important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays on a daily basis, it’s also important to protect our oceans and reefs.
Coral reefs are already under threat from climate change, overfishing, and pollution – the chemicals in some sunscreens can make things even worse. Studies have shown that traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs, leading to bleaching and potentially even killing off marine life.
Fortunately, there are reef-safe sunscreen options available that protect both our skin and our beautiful oceans.
In this article, we’ll be sharing the 14 best reef-safe sunscreen brands to consider for your next beach trip. We’ve looked at factors like effectiveness, ingredients, and price to create a comprehensive list that covers a range of options.
By choosing reef-safe sunscreen brands, you can help preserve our oceans while still enjoying the sunshine. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top 14 picks for reef-safe sunscreen brands.
Coola
Average price range: $10 – $70
Looking for a sunscreen that is safe for the environment and your skin? Coola offers a range of high-quality, reef-safe sunscreens that are formulated with organic and nourishing ingredients (for example, shea butter and aloe vera).
Founded in 2007, Coola is committed to promoting sustainability and eco-consciousness. Their sunscreens are made with organic and responsibly sourced ingredients, plus they are packaged in recyclable materials.
Although their products are on the pricier side, ranging from $25 to $50, the quality of their sunscreen makes it well worth the investment. Coola is also a cruelty-free brand that does not test on animals.
Supergoop
Average price range: $15 – $70
Supergoop is a brand dedicated solely to providing high-quality sun protection since 2007, with a range of products that cater to all skin types and lifestyles. One of their standout features is their commitment to reef-safe ingredients, so you can protect your skin without harming our oceans.
Supergoop’s sunscreen range includes everything from lightweight lotions and sprays to tinted and mineral-based sunscreen options. We especially love their innovative suncare products like their setting spray and mineral setting powder, both of which are perfect for reapplying sunscreen even if you’re wearing makeup.
Some of their key ingredients include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
In addition to its focus on reef-safe ingredients, Supergoop also partners with a variety of organizations to promote sun safety and skin cancer prevention. They even have a “Safe Sunscreen Council” made up of medical experts and scientists who help guide their product development.
RELATED: Supergoop Reviews: Here’s What We Think
All Good
Average price range: $10 – $50
All Good has been around since 2006 with a mission to provide products that are not only good for your skin, but good for the environment as well.
All Good offers a variety of products, including reef-safe sunscreen, skincare, and even herbal remedies, all made with natural and organic ingredients.
All Good’s reef-safe sunscreen is made with mineral-based ingredients that are safe for both your skin and the ocean, such as non-nano zinc oxide. Plus, their formulas are free from oxybenzone and octinoxate (two things that are known to harm coral reefs).
Their sunscreen is also water-resistant and comes in a variety of sizes and SPF levels to fit your needs. On top of that, their packaging is made from recycled materials and is 100% recyclable. They also donate 1% of their annual sales to environmental organizations through 1% for the Planet.
Stream2Sea
Average price range: $5 – $30
Stream2Sea is a brand that has been creating eco-friendly skincare products since 2015. The company was founded by a marine biologist named Autumn Blum who has been passionate about protecting the oceans since she was a child.
Stream2Sea offers a range of products, including sunscreen, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and more. Their reef-safe sunscreen is one of their most popular products as it is formulated without harmful chemicals that can damage the ocean’s delicate ecosystems.
Their sunscreen also comes in a variety of forms, including lotion, spray, and tinted sunscreen, so you can find the perfect product for your needs.
While Stream2Sea’s products are high-quality and eco-friendly, they are also affordable compared to some other popular reef-safe sunscreen brands. Plus, their packaging is recyclable and they use sustainable sourcing practices for their ingredients.
Coral Safe
Average price range: $10 – $30
If you’re looking for reef-safe sunscreen that’s gentle on your skin and the environment, Coral Safe is another brand to consider. Founded in 2010, this family-owned company is dedicated to producing sun protection products that are effective and reasonably priced.
Coral Safe offers a range of sunscreens for different skin types and activities, including their signature biodegradable sunscreen lotion, SPF 30 reef-friendly sport sunscreen, and a tinted facial sunscreen with SPF 20.
All their products are made without harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are known to harm coral reefs and other marine life. Their products are also water-resistant and non-greasy, making them perfect for outdoor activities like surfing, swimming, or hiking.
Plus, the brand’s packaging is made from recycled materials and they donate a portion of their profits to organizations working to protect coral reefs as well as other marine environments. With prices ranging from $10 to $25, Coral Safe offers an affordable and effective option for anyone looking to protect their skin and the planet.
Alba Botanica
Average price range: $5 – $30
Alba Botanica offers a wide range of skin and hair care products that are 100% vegetarian and formulated without any parabens, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances. The company was founded in 1979 with a mission to create a brand that is good for people, animals, and the planet.
Alba Botanica is known for many products, but the brand’s reef-safe sunscreen is a top-rated pick. It’s made with mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without damaging coral reefs.
Their sunscreen comes in a variety of SPF levels (from 15 to 50) and is available in different forms like lotion, spray, and stick.
Plus, they won’t break the bank as their prices are reasonable (ranging from $7 to $15 depending on the product and size).
Native
Average price range: $16 – $36
As summer quickly approaches, it’s important to stay protected from the sun’s harmful rays. That’s where Native comes in, a company founded in 2015 that offers a variety of high-quality, eco-friendly products, including their popular reef-safe sunscreen.
Their sunscreen line features mineral-based formulas that don’t contain harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, making them safe for both your skin and coral reefs. The brand also uses sustainable, recyclable packaging to reduce its environmental impact.
In addition to their sunscreen, Native offers a range of other personal care products, including deodorant, body wash, and toothpaste. Their products are affordably priced, with sunscreen starting at just $15.
Notable ingredients used in their sunscreens include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, both of which provide protection against UVA and UVB rays. Plus, their formulas are water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making them perfect for a day at the beach or pool.
Blue Lizard
Average price range: $8 – $28
This Australian brand has been around since 1997, with a specialty in high-quality, reef-safe sunscreens that are free from harsh chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate.
One of the things we love about Blue Lizard is that they offer a range of sunscreens to suit different skin types and needs.
For example, their “Sensitive” formula is great for those with easily irritated skin, while their “Sport” formula is water-resistant and perfect for outdoor activities. They even offer a “Face” formula that won’t leave you looking greasy or shiny. Additionally, their sunscreens are free from parabens, fragrances, and other potentially harmful ingredients.
Blue Lizard’s price range is mid-range and affordable for most people, and you can typically find their products at your local drugstore.
Badger
Average price range: $4 – $17
Badger has been in the business of making natural and organic personal care products for over 25 years. Their mission is to create safe and effective products while also caring for the environment.
Not only do their sunscreens provide excellent protection from the sun, but they also don’t contain any harmful ingredients that could damage coral reefs.
Although some of their cream formulas can be quite thick based on our experience, this can be minimized depending on the product you buy and how much you apply.
Badger offers a range of sunscreen products, including lotions, sticks, and creams, so you can find the perfect option for your needs. They use natural ingredients like zinc oxide and organic oils to provide broad-spectrum protection that’s water-resistant and gentle on your skin.
La Roche Posay
Average price range: $25 – $50
This French skincare brand has been around for over 40 years and has become well-known for its high-quality, dermatologist-recommended products.
Although not all of their products are considered reef-safe, their Anthelios sunscreen line features reef-safe options that are free from harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Instead, they use mineral filters like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to provide broad-spectrum protection from the sun’s harmful rays. These sunscreens are also formulated to be non-greasy, non-comedogenic, and safe for sensitive skin.
Not only are their products effective, but they’re also backed by scientific research and made with high-quality ingredients.
Pacifica Sunscreen
Average price range: $10 – $20
Pacifica is a vegan and cruelty-free brand that has been around for over 20 years, with a mission to create high-quality products that are good for your skin, your wallet, and the planet.
Their sunscreen line includes a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences, including a mineral face and body sunscreen with SPF 50, a spray-on sunscreen with SPF 30, and a tinted face sunscreen with SPF 30. All of their sunscreens are made with reef-friendly ingredients, meaning they won’t harm coral reefs or other marine life when you’re snorkeling in the ocean.
Best of all, their prices are super reasonable, so you can feel good about protecting your skin and the planet without breaking the bank.
First Aid Beauty
Average price range: $25 – $80
If you’re on the hunt for a gentle and effective sunscreen that won’t harm the environment, look no further than First Aid Beauty. This skincare brand has been around since 2009 and is known for its high-quality products that cater to all skin types, especially those with sensitive skin.
Their line of skin care products is free from common irritants like parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances.
First Aid Beauty’s reef-safe sunscreen is formulated with non-nano zinc oxide, a mineral sunscreen that won’t harm marine life or contribute to the destruction of coral reefs. The sunscreen is also free from other potentially harmful ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Their sunscreen is lightweight, easily blendable, and offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Best of all, it’s relatively affordable, so you can protect your skin and the environment without spending your life savings.
Safe Sea
Average price range: $15 – $55
Safe Sea is a brand founded in 1996 that has been making waves in the sunscreen industry for its effective, non-toxic, environmentally friendly products.
Safe Sea was founded in Israel by a marine biologist who was passionate about protecting the ocean’s delicate ecosystems. Their reef-safe sunscreen is a standout product, as it has been specifically designed to provide sun protection without causing harm to the coral reefs.
In addition to their reef-safe sunscreen, Safe Sea offers a range of products that cater to a variety of skin types, from moisturizing creams to after-sun lotions. Their prices are competitive, and their products are well-researched and developed with the environment in mind.
