The best natural sunscreen to protect your skin and the ocean

We all know that Australia has an relatively high UV radiation level, meaning that the sun is essentially “stronger” in our part of the world. So it is essential to be sun-safe and wear protective sunscreen, as well as a hat, sunglasses and protective clothing.

But what do we know about the impact of ingredients in conventional sunscreen?

A study published in JAMA (2019) found that some chemical sunscreen ingredients—avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, and ecamsule—are absorbed into the bloodstream. And they are absorbed at levels that, according to US FDA guidelines, mean that further toxicology studies should be done. The FDA says the findings merit further investigation into whether such blood levels might pose a cancer risk.

By eliminating nasty chemicals, not only can we do better for our skin and bodies, we can also protect the ocean ecosystem. Two of the most widely used chemical sunscreen ingredients, oxybenzone and octinoxate, were banned in 2018 in Hawaii because they devastate marine life, particularly coral (which perhaps speaks even more vividly to the havoc they may wreak in our bodies).

It is of course, still essential to wear sunscreen; but consider switching to a natural or mineral based formula. Or as we like to call them, reef-safe sunscreens!

A natural based formula uses natural ingredients (typically zinc oxide or titanium oxide) to create a physical barrier to the suns rays. Deflecting harmful UVA and UVB rays off your skin, decreasing damage.

Here’s our guide to natural sunscreen:

Prolonged high-risk sun exposure should be avoided. Frequent reapplication and use in accordance with the directions is required for effective sun protection. Always read the label and use only as directed.

Little Urchin Natural Sunscreen

In a non-greasy formula, made with organic ingredients, founder Chris wanted to create something absolutely safe for his young daughter to wear all day, everyday – without harmful chemicals.

• 100%Natural
• Broad Spectrum UVA & UVB
• Organic Ingredients
• Safe For Babies (6 months & older)
• Preservative Free
• Fragrance Free
• Suitable For Sensitive Skin
• Non-Toxic
• Reef Safe
• Smooth, Clear & Non-Greasy
• Not Tested On Animals

Surf Mud Sunscreen Lotion

This hydrating, sweat-resistant formulation for the face and body protects the skin from the harsh conditions faced by surfers. It provides high protection while avoiding chemical UV filters, instead of creating a physical barrier to reflect the sun’s UV rays.

Also available in a baby/children formulation – ‘Surf Baby’.

• SPF 30
• Broad Spectrum UVA & UVB
• 4 hours water resistant
• Reef safe
• Suitable for face and body
• Non-toxic
• Non-irritating
• Non-allergenic
• Fragrance free
• Australian made
• Vegetarian friendly

Sunbutter Sunscreen 

This broad-spectrum SPF50 is a new generation of suncare that is skin and earth-conscious. A sunscreen that won’t give you chemical-induced rashes or stinging eyes. A family-safe and reef-safe formula you actually enjoy putting on.

• SPF 50
• Broad Spectrum UVA & UVB
• 4 hours water resistant
• Reef Safe
• No nanoparticles
• No Sunspheres (Nano Plastic Particles) Certified
• Therapeutic Goods Administration registered
• Vegan and cruelty free
• Rubs in clear
• Safe for all skin types including sensitive skin, babies, and face application
• Made in Australia in a solar-powered factory

Eco by Sonya Driver Natural Sunscreen

This zinc-based Natural Sunscreen rubs in clearly and easily, is untinted, and is suitable for the face. Using natural mineral zinc creates a physical barrier on the skin to deflect sun rays from permeating your skin.

• Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB protection
• Australian made
• Reef friendly
• Natural formula
• Added Vitamin E, Green Tea and Rose Hip
• Non-Greasy Formula