travel friendly sunscreen

The Best Sunscreens of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Stay safe in the sun with our top choices, based on real-world testing

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TripSavvy / Jessica Juliao

If you spend time outside in the sun, sunscreen is essential to prevent painful burning, potentially life-threatening skin cancers, and signs of premature aging. Choosing the right sunscreen for you may seem simple, but several factors must be considered. Do you love the summery scent of fragranced sunscreen? Or do you have sensitive skin that prefers fragrance-free? 

Sunscreens come in various formats, from creams to sticks and sprays. While the latter two are often easier to apply, professional dermatologist Dr. Claire Wolinsky says these should only be used as a second line of defense. She also prefers mineral sunscreens to chemical ones because they form a physical barrier that's naturally more resistant to sweat and water and don't require chemical absorption. However, many people prefer chemical sunscreens' lighter feel and invisible look. 

To help you find your best fit, we tested 23 different sunscreens in real-life scenarios. Each one was scored for feel, opacity, transfer, and water resistance, resulting in an overall winner, the Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen, which we love for its everyday lightness and dewy appearance. Here are the other sunscreens we tested. 

• TripSavvy's Picks

Other Sunscreens We Tested

How we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, innisfree daily uv defense sunscreen.

Incredibly lightweight

Zero transference to other surfaces

Infused with green tea and cica

The shimmer effect may not be for everyone

If you’re looking for an effective sunscreen designed for barely noticeable, everyday use, we love the Daily UV Defense Sunscreen from Innisfree. Rated SPF 36, this water-based chemical sunscreen makes it incredibly lightweight and easy to get out of the container and apply. We appreciated how seamlessly it blended with our skin, leaving it looking dewy and a little shimmery with zero white cast. However, the shimmer may not appeal to everybody, so it’s important to remember it’s not entirely invisible as advertised. 

The sunscreen also has a light floral scent, which can be a pro or a con depending on your tastes. It’s infused with green tea, sunflower seed oil for soothing hydration and moisture, and cica, a herb traditionally used to reduce redness and other visible signs of irritation. We particularly liked how this sunscreen set on our skin, with no noticeable transfer to our clothes or other surfaces. It’s also formulated without oxybenzone and octinoxate, two chemicals most associated with coral reef damage.

TripSavvy / Shana Stahl

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Babo botanicals sheer mineral sunscreen lotion spf 50.

Formulated for sensitive skin

Easy to apply and absorb

Water-resistant

Some rubbing in is required

Those that prefer mineral sunscreen will love Babo Botanicals’ Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion. With an SPF 50 rating, it’s dermatologist tested and especially formulated for sensitive skin, making it suitable for everyone from six months of age. It doesn’t have any added fragrance, although there is a light scent from its 24 plant-based ingredients, which we found both pleasant and subtle. These include moisturizing sunflower oil and shea butter, soothing calendula and chamomile, and natural-origin zinc oxide for broad-based sun protection. 

The consistency is thinner than most mineral sunscreens, which we loved because it made it easy to achieve full, reliable coverage while using less product. Once rubbed in, the lotion was quickly absorbed and invisible, with a non-greasy yet moisturized feel and zero irritation or dryness. There was also no transference. It’s rated as water resistant for up to 80 minutes (a claim that we tested in the ocean) and is also a vegan, cruelty-free choice made by a certified B corp company.

TripSavvy / Melody Chiu

Best Budget

Banana boat sport sunscreen lotion.

Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes

No running or transference

Provides lightweight moisture

Fragrance may be a con for some

Retailing for several dollars less than our overall winners, the Banana Boat Sport Performance Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 is, in the words of our tester, “not fancy, but a classic, standard go-to for an active beach vacation that offers good value and gets the job done.” It’s especially formulated for swimming, watersports, and any other activity that will have you sweating since it’s non-running and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. We found it set well on our skin, although we couldn’t feel it in the water. 

This chemical sunscreen is lightweight, breathable, and easy to apply (although you’ll need to rub it in for a minute or two to eliminate the initial white cast). We found it smooth, non-greasy, creamy, and lightweight, and we loved how it kept our skin moisturized. It wasn’t irritating and didn’t transfer noticeably to other surfaces. It is fragranced–that classic banana and coconut scent–but not overwhelmingly so. Finally, although it may not qualify as reef-safe in places like Hawaii, it is free from oxybenzone and octinoxate. 

TripSavvy / Nina Ruggiero

Best for Sports

Coola classic body sunscreen.

Certified organic ingredients

Subtle guava and mango scent

Absorbs quickly with no transfer

Relatively expensive

Looking forward to a vacation full of physical pursuits, from swimming in the sea to kayaking or hiking? The COOLA Organic Classic Body Sunscreen is a broad spectrum SPF 50 lotion specifically designed for long, active days. It’s rated as water resistant for up to 80 minutes, and we found that it lived up to this promise well, setting quickly on our skin and visibly repelling water. Even after vigorous scrubbing with a towel, we couldn’t see any transference–suggesting reliable cover capable of staying put even when you sweat. 

The sunscreen contains over 70 certified organic ingredients and is enriched with antioxidants that fight free radicals and hydrate the skin. We liked its smooth, creamy consistency and found it easy to apply. Best of all, it absorbed quickly, didn’t leave any visible residue, and never felt greasy. Essentially, it felt more like high-quality body lotion than sunscreen. The tropical guava and mango scent are neither overpowering nor overly sweet, while a cruelty-free rating and a bottle made from sugar cane resin score points for ethics.

TripSavvy / Taylor Fox

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen

No greasy shine or white cast

Doesn't clog pores

Small bottle size

Those that hate the feel of standard sunscreen will love Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion. A chemical sunscreen with an SPF 55 rating, it uses Helioplex Technology to provide broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. It’s also incredibly lightweight, with a creamy consistency that makes it easy to apply and rub in. It absorbs quickly, leaving skin moisturized rather than greasy. We didn’t experience any irritation or dryness and appreciated that the sunscreen is non-comedogenic (it doesn’t clog pores). 

There’s zero white cast and no noticeable transfer, and we found that it set well even when sweating. This was as expected–after all; it’s rated for up to 80 minutes of water resistance. Although it isn’t advertised as having a fragrance, we did find that it had a subtle floral scent. However, it was not overpowering, even for our male tester. The only downside? We wish the bottle was slightly larger because, at 3 fluid ounces, it doesn’t make the most of the standard airline liquid allowance. 

TripSavvy / Elena Garcia

Best Moisturizing

La roche-posay anthelios melt-in milk sunscreen.

Nourishing feel, even when used sparingly

Enriched with antioxidants

Easy to apply and rub in seamlessly

Strong sunscreen smell

Formulated for the face and body, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt In Milk Sunscreen is an award-winning, SPF 60-rated chemical sunscreen that protects from UVA and UVB rays. We loved that although it felt a little greasy out of the bottle, it rubbed in easily and ultimately felt lightweight yet deeply nourishing, even when we only used a small amount. It’s enriched with antioxidants to protect skin from free radicals and has a velvety texture for ultimate hydration. 

The sunscreen has a slightly thicker consistency than lotion but blended seamlessly with our skin, leaving no visible cast. We didn’t experience any dryness or irritation (and, in fact, the product has been rigorously tested for skin tolerance), and we especially liked that it didn’t run at all, even when worn during an intense workout session. When some got into our eyes during our post-workout shower, it didn’t sting at all. The only major downside was a strong sunscreen smell, even though it’s meant to be fragrance-free.

TripSavvy / Anna Popp

Vacation Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen

Summer-in-a-bottle scent

Zero white cast or transfer

Feel instantly hydrating

We would prefer a higher SPF

If you’re addicted to that summer sunscreen smell, Vacation’s Classic Lotion SPF 30 takes it to a new level. The dermatologist-tested, broad-spectrum chemical sunscreen was developed in conjunction with ARQUISTE Parfumeur to be “The World’s Best-Smelling Sunscreen” and claims to include notes of coconut, banana, pool water, and swimsuit lycra. We can verify that claim and feel it smells like every good summer memory you’ve ever had in a bottle. Think old-school tanning oils, but much better for you. 

It’s just the right consistency for easy application, rubbing in quickly and never feeling greasy. We loved that our skin felt instantly hydrated without any white cast or transfer. The sunscreen is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, and if you’re heading to Hawaii, good news–it’s compliant with the state’s reef-safe sunscreen laws. It’s also PEG- and paraben-free, certified cruelty-free and vegan, and a top choice for sustainability fans with fully recycled and recyclable packaging. 

TripSavvy / Shannon Bauer

Best Mineral

Mdsolarsciences mineral creme.

Formulated for use on the face and body

Hypoallergenic for all skin types

True matte finish

Can't apply immediately after moisturizer

MDSolarSciences’ Mineral Crème SPF 50 Sunscreen contains naturally derived zinc oxide as its active ingredient. It’s also enriched with vitamin C and free-radical-fighting antioxidants, including green tea, cranberry, and pomegranate extract. Its natural, fragrance-free formula makes it a hypoallergenic option suitable for even the most sensitive skin types and conditions–including acne and rosacea. We loved its silky smooth feel and that although it comes out of the tube thick, it’s easy to apply with a little going a long way.

It feels virtually weightless and has a true matte finish meant to even out your complexion and double as a makeup primer. We found that although there was an initial white cast, this disappeared completely after one or two minutes of rubbing the sunscreen in. Other highlights include that it’s meant for use on your face and body (great for minimalist packers) and doesn’t transfer onto other surfaces. It’s also water resistant for up to 80 minutes, cruelty-free, vegan, and reef-safe.

TripSavvy / Stella Yu

Best for Dark Skin Tones

Black girl sunscreen broad spectrum spf 30.

Specifically formulated for darker skin

Dries clear, with no white cast

Super lightweight

The Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 from Black Girl Sunscreen is custom-made for melanated skin. It protects against the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays, helping to prevent signs of premature aging, including hyperpigmentation and dark spots, and comes in a sheer formula that dries completely clear. No ghostly white residue here! In fact, we found that it blended seamlessly with our skin and added a beautiful shimmer. It stayed set, with no transfer throughout our wear period. 

The sunscreen doubles as a moisturizing lotion with naturally nourishing ingredients, including jojoba, cacao, and avocado. We liked the creamy consistency and found it easy to dispense and apply (although a little goes a long way, so be careful not to use too much). It felt so light on our skin that we sometimes felt we weren't wearing anything at all, and with no parabens or fragrances, it's also perfect for sensitive skin. Finally, it's water resistant for up to 80 minutes and reef-safe thanks to an absence of oxybenzone and octinoxate.

Coola Organic Classic Sunscreen & Sunblock Spray

Ultra-fine mist application

Colorless for zero residue or transfer

Water-resistant and reel safe

We would prefer a slightly larger can

COOLA’s Organic Classic Body Sunscreen Spray was our favorite spray product, offering an SPF 30 rating and broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. We loved how easy it was to apply, with an ultra-fine mist that came out evenly with a bit of pressure on the nozzle. This resulted in a lightweight coverage that left our skin feeling moisturized before absorbing for a dry, non-greasy finish. Our skin looked more hydrated thanks to the spray’s enriching antioxidants, and since it’s colorless, there was no white cast or transfer. 

This product is rated as water resistant for up to 80 minutes, and indeed, we found that it set well and wasn’t affected by exposure to running water, even after it had dried. With mostly organic ingredients and no harmful chemicals, it’s also reef safe. Finally, the spray has a natural Tropical Coconut scent, which we really liked. We found it subtle and authentic (unlike the overpowering artificial fragrance of many sunscreens) and appreciated that it lasted for hours after application.

TripSavvy / Alessandra Amodio

Shiseido UV Clear Stick Protector SPF 50

Perfectly sized to fit in your purse

Clear stick for invisible application

It can be applied over makeup

Expensive considering the small size

Shiseido’s dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ is an award-winning option designed to provide invisible protection for your face and body. It works under and over makeup–a game-changer for our tester, who said she previously only applied sunscreen once a day before makeup. We loved its compact size and ability to fit easily in a purse for daily touch-ups. It’s non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types, and since the stick itself is clear, there’s no risk of a white cast. 

When first applied, we noted a slight sheen and greasiness. However, it absorbed within a few minutes (even quicker when rubbed in by hand), and the sunscreen was completely invisible. It didn’t cause any redness or dryness, didn’t transfer onto our clothes and had a pleasant yet very subtle floral scent. It’s rated for up to 80 minutes of water resistance and stood up well to a long bath and 45-minute spin class during testing. Finally, it’s reef-safe and compliant even with Hawaii’s strict regulations. 

TripSavvy / Morgan Ashley Parker

Best Splurge

Shiseido ultimate sun protector lotion.

Rubs in clear to match all skin tones

Protection increases with exposure to heat and water

Truly fragrance-free

The considerable price tag

The Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+ Sunscreen, also from Shiseido, comes in several sizes–all luxury products with a price tag to match. This is an excellent, broad-spectrum sunscreen in a lightweight, liquid format for those willing to invest. We found it very easy to apply, with just a little going a long way. It rubbed in well, so although it felt a little greasy at first, the result was a soft, slightly dewy texture that glowed beautifully in the sunlight. It comes out beige but rubs in clear, providing invisible protection for all skin tones. 

The sunscreen is also meant for all skin types but is incredibly hydrating for dry skin. Our tester particularly appreciated that, unlike many unscented sunscreens, this one is truly fragrance-free–a major benefit for those with sensitive skin. It’s water resistant for up to 80 minutes, with unique WetForce and HeatForce technology. These innovations mean the lotion’s protective barrier strengthens when exposed to water, sweat, and heat. Keep in mind, you will need to transfer the lotion into a travel toiletry bottle if you plan on carrying it with you onto a plane.

TripSavvy / Cai Cramer

TripSavvy's Picks

Our top chemical pick is Innisfree’s Daily UV Defense Sunscreen (view at Amazon ), while our top mineral pick is Babo Botanicals’ Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion (view at Amazon ). Both are easy to apply, non-transferring, and provide lightweight moisture and protection. For those on a budget, we recommend Banana Boat Sport Performance Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 (view at Amazon ). 

Sun Bum Original SPF 70 Sunscreen Lotion

Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion

Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Daily Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Everyday Humans Oh My Bod! Daily SPF 50

EltaMD UV Sport Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen Sport Lotion

AbsoluteJOI Daily Hydrating Moisturizing Cream w/ SPF 40 Mineral Sunscreen

Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion

Hampton Sun Continuous Mist Sunscreen SPF 50

Sun Bum Baby Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray

CeraVe Broad-Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen Stick

Bare Republic Mineral Sport Sunscreen Stick

We tested each sunscreen over two weeks, with at least seven full-body applications. On each occasion, we took note of the product’s feel and smell, and how seamlessly it blended into our skin. If any white cast was left after the initial application, we waited 15 minutes to see if the sunscreen continued to blend with time. Other factors that we took note of included how easy the sunscreen was to apply, whether it transferred to clothes or other surfaces (and if so, how easy it was to clean off), whether it was affected by exposure to running water, and how much of it was left after the two-week test period. 

Each product was scored from 1 to 5 for feel, opacity, transfer, and water resistance, and the overall score was used to determine our category winners.

What to Look for in Sunscreens

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and indicates the time it takes for exposed skin to burn. So, if you use SPF 30 sunscreen properly, it should take 30 times longer to burn than without sunscreen. Dermatologist Dr. Claire Wolinsky recommends using SPF 30 or higher for all outdoor use. However, she also indicates that the level of extra protection offered by sunscreens rated higher than 30 is minimal since the curve flattens at 30. Correct application and dedicated reapplication are more effective than purchasing SPF 50, for example. 

Waterproofness

No sunscreen is truly waterproof since all of them will eventually wash off. However, levels of water resistance vary. If you plan on spending lots of time in the water (perhaps on your next beach or lake vacation), opt for a product marked “water-resistant” for up to either 40 or 80 minutes of protected swimming. Dr. Wolinsky also points out that mineral sunscreen tends to stand up better to water and sweat than chemical sunscreen since it forms a physical barrier on your skin and is harder to wash off.

Ingredients

Sunscreen can generally be divided into two categories: mineral, which includes ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that act as a physical barrier to prevent UV rays from penetrating the skin, and chemical, which uses ingredients such as avobenzone or octisalate to absorb the rays before they can do harm. Dr. Wolinsky prefers mineral sunscreens since they are naturally more water-resistant, less likely to cause skin irritation, and don’t require a 30-minute waiting period before safe sun exposure. 

However, she acknowledges that many people don’t like the white residue left by mineral sunscreens and says that “the best sunscreen is the one you like and will actually use.” If you opt for chemical sunscreen and are heading to the coast, bear in mind that some ingredients (including oxybenzone and octinoxate) are not considered reef-safe. Mineral sunscreens are the only ones acceptable for babies of six months or less.

According to Dr. Wolinsky, remembering to reapply your sunscreen correctly is often more important than the kind of sunscreen you use or the initial quantity applied. All types of sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. It’s also a good idea to reapply to your whole body (in case you take layers off later). You should also remember that even if the clouds come out, up to 80 percent of the sun’s UV radiation can still penetrate so as long as you’re outside, reapplication is necessary. 

Many sunscreen brands clearly print expiration dates on their containers. Others use an open jar symbol (usually found on the back) with a number and the letter M, e.g. 12M. This number represents how many months the product can be safely used for after opening. If your sunscreen doesn’t have either of these, bear in mind that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that all American sunscreens keep their original strength for at least three years. Changes in color and consistency indicate that your sunscreen may have expired and is no longer safe to use. 

It’s a common misconception that because darker skin contains more melanin, a chemical that absorbs the sun’s harmful UV rays, people of color do not need to wear sunscreen. However, while it’s true that dark skin does enjoy more natural protection than light skin, sunburn, skin cancer, and other forms of skin damage (including wrinkles and age spots) remain a concern for people of all skin tones. Regular application of sunscreen with a rating of at least SPF 30 is recommended for everyone. 

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert and a regular contributor of commerce articles relating to adventure and family travel. After eight years living in South Africa and several more spent working as a scuba diving instructor in tropical destinations around the world, she has a keen appreciation for good sunscreen. Each product included in this article was subjected to two weeks of real-world testing, while medical insight was provided by expert Manhattan dermatologist Dr. Claire Wolinsky .

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What Are the Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens?

You already have a lot to consider when buying a sunscreen : Will it break me out ? Is it safe for my kids ? Can I just get my sun protection from my moisturizer ? So while we feel a bit bad about giving you another thing to worry about, we can’t overlook the mounting evidence that the chemicals found in many sunscreens are destroying our oceans’ coral reef ecosystems — and entering our bloodstreams . (That said, we should also note that the FDA still allows these chemicals for use in sunscreen, and dermatologists continue to recommend chemical sunscreens for their other benefits.)

“Up to 6,000 tons of sunscreen are estimated to wash into coral reefs around the globe each year,” says Ashlee Piper , sustainability expert and author of Give a Sh*t: Do Good. Live Better. Save the Planet . “En masse, this can create an oil-slick-type situation that suffocates, bleaches, and kills reefs, which are crucial to the health of our planet and oceans.” Furthermore, Craig A. Downs, an ecotoxicologist and executive director of the Haereticus Environmental Laboratory , says that the same chemicals found in some sunscreens are also endocrine disruptors that, over time, can cause health issues in people, too. Which is why he, Piper, and the other experts we spoke with suggest using a sunscreen that’s as environmentally safe as possible (in addition to relying on umbrellas , hats , and clothing to guard against sun damage).

But unlike claims about SPF strength and water-resistance that are regulated by the FDA, Downs explains that “biodegradable” and “reef-safe” are mostly marketing lingo. There are no standards that a sunscreen has to meet to call itself reef-safe, so it’s important to look at the ingredient list. The best reef-safe sunscreens are made with natural, mineral sun blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. (When it comes to ingredients to avoid, Downs’s lab created a list that names substances in sunscreen , including parabens and chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, that are dangerous to the environment.) To make your safe-sunscreen search as easy as possible, we consulted with Piper, Downs, and two more experts, who recommended the following options.

Best overall reef-safe sunscreen

Both Piper and Tara Foley, founder and CEO of the natural beauty store Follain , are fans of this mineral sunscreen that’s also cruelty-free, water-resistant, and can be used on the face and body. It uses non-nanosized zinc oxide, which Downs and Joseph DiNardo , a retired research and development scientist in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries, agree is one of the safest ingredients. Many sunscreen manufacturers use nanosized zinc particles because they blend into the skin quickly without leaving a white cast, but because they’re so tiny, Downs explains that the particles can also “enter into the bloodstream … especially with aquatic organisms.” Slightly larger non-nano particles, like the ones used in this formula, don’t pose the same risk.

Raw Elements, along with all of the sunscreen brands on this list, is a member of the Safe Sunscreen Council , a group of companies dedicated to raising awareness about the environmental dangers of sunscreen and developing safer products. DiNardo says he “would basically go with anybody in this group” when it comes to recommending sunscreens that are “environmentally safer [and] safer and more friendly to humans.”

Best reef-safe tinted sunscreen

A common complaint about mineral sunscreens is that, because they lack the chemicals that ease blending and absorption, they leave skin with a thick white cast. Fortunately, as the demand for safe sunscreen grows, brands are developing new, more cosmetically elegant formulas. Foley likes that this sunscreen (with non-nanosized zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) is tinted, which she says “provides a slight glow and ensures there’s no white cast from the zinc sunscreen.” It also contains hyaluronic acid for hydration and a blend of natural antioxidants that can further reduce sun damage.

Best reef-safe SPF moisturizer

Another tinted option, Foley says this “provides serious protection from the sun” and is one of her store’s most popular face sunscreens. Raw Elements’ SPF moisturizer also features antioxidants as well as skin-soothing vitamin E. Piper likes that it’s packaged in a recyclable (or reusable) plastic-free tin.

Best reef-safe vegan sunscreen

If you want a vegan sunscreen, this water-resistant one (that’s also cruelty-free) is Piper’s favorite for when she’s swimming outdoors. The non-nanosized zinc sunscreen can resist water and sweat for up to 80 minutes.

Best reef-safe body sunscreen

Foley’s pick for the body, Suntegrity’s non-nanosized, cruelty-free, and vegan sunscreen goes on without feeling greasy and contains antioxidants like green tea to block free-radical damage from UV rays, she says.

Best spray-on reef-safe sunscreen

If you like the convenience of a spray-on sunscreen, this one from Babo Botanicals is another one of Foley’s top sellers. It’s got non-nanosized zinc oxide for protection, and comes in a continuous spray bottle so you can easily apply it to your whole body.

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The Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens for Your Tropical Vacation

Carol McPherson

Carol McPherson is an Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @cj_mcpherson.

A member of SmarterTravel since 2019, Carol is an eco-friendly travel enthusiast with a passion for exploring historical sites and trying new things (especially new foods!) She’s lived in Boston and Rome, and hopes to call more cities home in the future.

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Summer is just around the corner, and if you’ve been knee-deep in planning your dream beach vacation , you’ve probably run across the term “reef-safe sunscreen.” Studies in recent years have shown that the UV-blocking chemicals in sunscreen cause damage to marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. In response, sunscreen manufacturers have shifted their focus to reef-safe products—but what makes a sunscreen ‘reef-safe’?

Whether you’re an environmentally conscious beach-goer or traveling to a destination with a sunscreen ban in place , here’s how you can soak up the sun sans harmful chemicals this summer. 

What Makes Sunscreen Reef-Safe?

There is no standardized definition “‘reef-safe”, but it is commonly accepted that reef-safe sunscreens do not contain the chemicals oxybenzone or octinoxate. Other common UV-blocking ingredients, like octocrylene, can also cause damage to aquatic ecosystems. These chemicals wash off your skin while swimming in the ocean and contribute to coral bleaching.

What is Coral Bleaching?

Coral bleaching is when the algae living in the tissue of healthy coral dies or is expelled due to stressful conditions, causing the coral to lose its color and leaving it vulnerable to illness and damage. These conditions can be brought on, in part, by the chemicals commonly found in sunscreen.

What Type of Sunscreen is Safest for Coral Reefs?

When it comes to the science of sunscreen, there are two schools of thought: physical and chemical. 

Physical Sunscreen vs. Chemical Sunscreen vs. Organic Sunscreen

Physical sunscreen uses non-chemical ingredients, such as the zinc-oxide and titanium dioxide found in many mineral sunscreens, to create a physical barrier that deflects UV light away from the skin. Overall, physical sunscreens are more likely to be reef-safe, since they don’t contain the hallmark chemicals that interfere with marine life.

Chemical sunscreens use UV-blocking chemicals to create a barrier that either absorbs harmful rays or deflects them away from your skin. 

Organic sunscreen is a subtype of chemical sunscreen.The term “organic” has become synonymous with health and wellness. However, the designation ‘organic’ simply means that the chemicals in the formula are carbon-based. That means that many organic sunscreens could still contain the reef-bleaching chemical octinoxate.

How Effective is Reef-Safe Sunscreen?

Since reef-safe sunscreens contain a spectrum of ingredients, the effectiveness of the sun protection they provide can vary. 

Physical sunscreens tend to provide less protection than their chemical counterparts and are less resistant to water and sweat. However, physical sunscreens are typically chemical-free, making them better for sensitive skin and safe for children.

While some chemical sunscreens meet the minimum accepted standard required by several nations’ sunscreen bans, better sun protection may come at an environmental cost. The research on what chemicals can impact marine life and to what extent is still uncertain, and chemicals that have taken a backseat could come forward as major players in potential environmental damage.

Consumer Reports recommends aiming for a balance between mitigating environmental risk and prioritizing your own sun protection. Travelers can do this by minimizing the amount of skin exposed to the sun (and therefore covered in sunscreen) through sun-protective clothing and  staying in the shade when possible. 

What Are the Best Reef Safe Sunscreen?

Luckily, the rise in awareness of our impact on coral reefs has caused a rise in options for reef-safe products. Some sunscreens are marketed as biodegradable, which is another way to flag that a sunscreen is reef-safe. 

Here are the best replacements for your sun protection favorites.

Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens for Body

• Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen
• Classi c Body Organic Sunscreen Lotion
• Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
• Badger SPF 40 Clear Zinc

Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens for Face

• Classic Face Organic Sunscreen Mist
• Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen Sunscreen
• Innisfree Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen
• Bubble Solar Matte Daily Mineral SPF

Best Reef-Safe Spray Sunscreens

• Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen Spray
• Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Spray
• Coral Isles Reef Safe Sunscreen
• Elta MD UV AOX Mist Broad Spectrum SPF 40

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Why a Cosmetic Chemist Is Begging You Not To Transfer Your Sunscreen Into Travel Containers

Beauty lovers know that the most challenging part of traveling with just a carry-on is toting your skin-care arsenal . And while you can decant your moisturizer and conditioner into those teeny, TSA-friendly containers, it's important to know that there's one thing you should never, ever transfer: your sunscreen .

That's because the new container can cause the sunscreen to degrade, making it less effective, explains Michelle Wong, PhD , a cosmetic chemist in Sydney, Australia. And since the point of SPF is to protect your skin, the last thing you want to do is compromise its efficacy—which, yes, can happen over the course of a quick weekend trip. For example, "a cosmetic scientist Ava Perkins tested some mineral sunscreens and found that it only took a few days for some of the samples to harden, so changes can happen quite quickly," says Dr. Wong.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Dr Michelle Wong - Beauty Science (@labmuffinbeautyscience)

• Michelle Wong, PhD , Sydney, Australia-based cosmetic chemist

Learn about the three different reasons why putting your sunscreen in a travel container is a big no-no, and browse a few travel-friendly (and Amazon Prime-eligible!) sunscreen options.

Why you should never decant your sunscreen

1. it can react with the container.

"Lots of ingredients in sunscreens are good solvents, so they can often react with plastics or soak into it," says Dr. Wong. "This means what's left in the sunscreen lotion will be different, and how it spreads on the skin will change. So you might not end up with the same level of protection as before."

2. It doesn't have as good of protection against sunlight and air

"The container your sunscreen came in might be designed to protect the sunscreen from air and light, so the new container might not work as well," says Dr. Wong. "The light can break down some of the ingredients or cause separation of the emulsion, which means the sunscreen might not protect as well as it should."

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3. You can potentially contaminate the sunscreen

Pulling out a dusty container and swishing around some hot water isn't enough to prep a travel container for SPF. That's because any microbes present also have the power to degrade your sunscreen's efficacy. "As well as potential reactions and changing the composition of the sunscreen, putting your sunscreen in a travel container can introduce microbes that might contaminate the sunscreen."

5 travel-friendly sunscreen options

IMO, the best travel skin-care options are stick formulas. They’re totally solid, meaning they’re measured in ounces, not fluid ounces, so they don’t count toward your liquid quota. This stick from EltaMD is a mineral sunscreen made for the face and body that provides over SPF 50 protection.

If you prefer chemical formulas over mineral ones, this stick from Coola is perfect. It provides SPF 50 protection with a totally clear and hydrating finish. It’s packed with hyaluronic acid and coconut water so it goes on cool and slick, feeling amazing on skin that’s hot from the sun. Plus, it has a proprietary blend of antioxidants and plant-derived actives that help protect your skin from blue light.

If you want a traditional lotion, this one from Kinfield is perfect. Weighing in right at the TSA-approved 3.4 fl oz, you’ll have a full bottle of water-resistant, reef-safe mineral sunscreen with SPF 35 protection. As a mineral sunscreen, it has a bit of a white cast when applied but rubs into the skin to become nearly invisible. It also has hydrating glycerin and soothing aloe.

If you want to up your protection, reach for this chemical sunscreen from Neutrogena that’s got SPF 70 protection. Because it’s a chemical formulation, it’s totally sheer so you don’t have to worry about any white cast. Plus, it’s lightweight and won’t leave your skin feeling greasy.

If you’re traveling with kids (or just like an SPF spritz yourself), keep this Supergoop! speay on hand. It’s a 100 percent mineral formula designed for kids and babies. It’s free of potentially irritating ingredients like silicones, parabens, and fragrance, and is easy to apply (and reapply, and reapply).

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The Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen

By Nancy Redd

Nancy Redd is a writer who covers health and grooming. She has tested dozens of hair dryers, toothbrushes, and pairs of period underwear.

Although no sunscreen has been proven totally safe for aquatic wildlife—wearing a rash guard or other protective clothing while you snorkel is the best choice for coral as well as for your skin—some formulas are friendlier than others.

After researching the issue and testing 15 sunscreens that claim to be reef safe, we’ve found that Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 and Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+ have ingredients that scientists recommend in a reef-safe sunscreen, plus feel nicer and cost less than competitors.

Everything we recommend

Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50

The best reef-friendly sunscreen.

This formula includes ingredients that are thought to be safest for reefs. It rubs in easily, feels nice on skin, and doesn’t leave a white cast, though it does have a strong, fruity scent.

Buying Options

Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+

Similar formula, thicker consistency.

This sunscreen also uses non-nano zinc oxide, but it is more difficult to rub in than our pick and is more likely to leave a white cast. This sunscreen also has a strong, fruity scent.

What to look for

Along with octinoxate, this active ingredient found in some chemical sunscreen formulas is banned for sale in some coastal areas.

Reef-safe sunscreens are made with non-micronized versions of the active ingredients zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide.

A sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology.

Even if you don’t plan to sweat or swim, water-resistant sunscreens have better staying power on skin.

The main active ingredient in Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 is non-nano zinc oxide, the most coral-friendly option available in the US. Zinc oxide sunscreen might conjure images of lifeguards with white noses, but this one rubs in the clearest of those we tested with minimal effort. Once on skin, Thrive’s Bodyshield SPF 50 feels less greasy than many other sunscreens. This sunscreen typically costs about $4.30 per ounce ($3.80 if purchased in three-packs ), which is less than the price of many of the other reef-safe sunscreens we considered, but much more than our other sunscreen picks.

Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+ is also formulated with non-nano zinc oxide, but it’s a thicker formula that is less translucent on the skin. Many testers—particularly people with darker-hued skin—said this sunscreen left a white cast on their skin. This sunscreen costs around $3 per ounce in the largest-available size (6 ounces), which is less than our top pick.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: thrive bodyshield spf 50, runner-up: thinksport sunscreen spf 50+, another good reef-safe sunscreen, the competition.

We spoke to two scientists who have researched the effects of sunscreen on sea life: Craig Downs , executive director of the nonprofit Haereticus Environmental Laboratory in Virginia; and Roberto Danovaro , PhD, a marine ecologist at Polytechnic University of Marche in Italy. We drew on research from our main sunscreen guide , for which we spoke to nine dermatologists, a skin cancer educator, and a cosmetic chemist. We also read peer-reviewed papers on how sunscreen affects sea life.

If you’re headed on a reef-themed scuba or snorkel excursion, or even just to a beach in a region that’s home to coral habitats, you’ll lessen your environmental impact by using a sunscreen that skips ingredients studies have shown to be harmful to reefs in large quantities. In particular, some sunscreen ingredients can help viruses destroy corals faster, leading to bleaching, according to a 2008 paper published by Roberto Danovaro and colleagues.

The reefs most vulnerable to sunscreen damage are those in highly trafficked areas without a lot of water turnover, like coastal reefs or atolls (circular reef structures left behind after a coral island sinks), the authors of the paper note.

Some such locations and guided tours may even require reef-safe sunscreen. As reported in The New York Times, both Hawaii and Key West, Florida voted to ban the sale of sunscreens containing two ingredients found to be harmful to coral: oxybenzone and octinoxate. The laws took effect January 1, 2021. Hawaii’s state parks urge beachgoers to forgo certain ingredients , and a chain of hotels in Hawaii provides guests with complimentary reef-safe sunscreen . In Mexico, federal regulation requires use of reef-safe sunscreen in a handful of protected areas. And the nation of Palau became the first country to ban any reef-toxic sunscreen that contains any one of 10 prohibited chemicals.

More people are choosing to be as cautious as possible and use reef-safe sunscreen all the time, not just for reef safety. “Reef-safe sunscreen’s main ingredients are zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, and they are the only sunscreens the FDA regards as generally ... safe and effective” at this time, said Dr. Lawrence Eichenfield , chief of the pediatric and adolescent dermatology division at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego.

However, no sunscreen is foolproof when it comes to sea-life safety. Though good reef-safe sunscreens avoid ingredients that have been clearly demonstrated to cause damage to reefs in large doses, they may still contain trace amounts of the offending substances. Plus, scientists disagree about whether the replacement ingredients are actually safe for sea life.

Beyond that, reef-safe sunscreens, like all mineral sunscreens, are generally pricier and harder to rub in than their chemical and combination counterparts , making them potentially trickier to use on a daily basis to best protect your skin from UV rays. Note that chemicals from sunscreen aren’t the main source of worry for reefs— that would be climate change , a phenomenon bolstered by lots of other choices we make every day.

No label denotes a totally reef-safe sunscreen, and it’s unclear if such a thing exists. “Reef safer” is probably a better way to describe the options available.

In October 2016, Haereticus Environmental Laboratory executive director Craig Downs set out to create a reef-safe sunscreen label to affix to sunscreens that passed a toxicity test in his lab. But as the applications and samples from companies rolled in, he found that even sunscreens that met the mark in theory contained impurities and unlisted ingredients that have been known to cause damage to reefs.

That said, a few factors still help ensure that a sunscreen is safer for reefs than the competition.

• Minerals only: The only two ingredients in a reef-safe sunscreen should be non-nano zinc oxide or non-nano titanium dioxide. Some sunscreens use a combination of the two. Particles under a hundred nanometers (in this context, considered “nano”) can be bad news for sea creatures that ingest them, like brine shrimp , and in turn the things that eat the shrimp. (Danovaro is still concerned about non-nano zinc oxide , but in the US it’s the best option we have.)
• Water resistant: All sunscreens wash off in water, but the better they are at sticking to your skin, the less they will wind up in the ocean with the reefs.
• Lotion, not spray: Each time you use a spray sunscreen at the beach, some ends up on the sand, which in turn ends up in the ocean. Most mineral sunscreens are lotions, anyway.
• No parabens: These preservatives are another virus-assisting, reef-bleaching culprit. Sunscreens with parabens can be hard to identify, as parabens are often not listed in the ingredients. If a sunscreen advertises aloe or another plant component, it likely contains preservatives needed to keep that plant fresh, Downs told us, so don’t get those formulas if reef protection is your priority.
• Free of other ingredients that may harm coral: Downs compiled a small slew of chemicals that aren’t great for reefs in Haereticus’s HEL List. In addition to oxybenzone and parabens, the list includes octinoxate, octocrylene, triclosan, para-aminobenzoic acid (known as PABA), camphor, and microbeads or other small bits of plastic.

Once an FDA-approved sunscreen passed these requirements for being reef safe, we considered the following factors:

• SPF: The minimum SPF experts recommend to protect your skin is 30, though higher is preferred to make up for user error.
• Price: For sunscreen to work well, you need to reapply—a lot. Experts recommend a shot-glass amount of lotion every two hours and after you come out of the water. We sought to find a sunscreen that wasn’t a ton of money per application (with reef-safe sunscreens, each full-body application can easily cost upwards of $6).
• Size: Hauling one or two large bottles of sunscreen for a family day at the beach is easier than packing a bunch of small tins.

The Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50’s  main ingredient is non-nano zinc oxide (23.5%), which experts say is the most sea- and coral-friendly active sunscreen ingredient available in the US. Our test panelists favored it over similar broad spectrum, water-resistant formulas for a few reasons.

It’s easy to apply. Thrive lotion rubs into the skin almost as well as chemical sunscreens, and it feels less greasy than many other lotions.

It doesn’t make skin appear chalky. None of the panelists who participated in our brand-concealed testing noted a white cast on their skin after application.

Thrive sunscreen’s SPF 50 rating is appealing because the minerals in physical sunscreens are not as efficient at repelling UV rays as chemical filters are at absorbing them, according to Dr. Henry Lim, a Detroit-based dermatologist and Skin Cancer Foundation spokesperson. Experts recommend looking for formulas labeled SPF 30 or more.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

This sunscreen only comes in one size (5.8 ounces) and typically costs about $4.30 per ounce ($3.80 if purchased in 3-packs ), which is less than the price of many of the other reef-safe sunscreens we considered, but much more than our other sunscreen picks .

Thrive’s formula includes a strong, fruity-smelling added fragrance that takes quite a bit of time to dissipate, which bothered some testers.

Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+ also fits our requirements for a reef-safe sunscreen: It’s made with non-nano zinc oxide (23.4%), it’s water resistant, and it’s a lotion. The formula is also paraben free and water resistant. Although it doesn’t feel as good or look as nice on skin compared with our pick, Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 , it is much more widely available. At around $3 per ounce in the largest-available bottle (6 ounces), this formula is less expensive than many reef-safe sunscreens we’ve considered.

Although Thinksport sells three versions of its sunscreen, they all have the same base formula; only the fragrances differ. The baby and kids versions are identical and have a slightly sweeter and—in our opinion—more off-putting, artificial smell than the original Thinksport sunscreen.

Each Thinksport variation comes in both family-size (6-ounce) and travel-size (3-ounce) bottles. Compared with the travel-size versions, the family-size bottles cost slightly less per ounce. Since each application of sunscreen requires about a shot glass’s worth of the lotion, a single person can expect to easily use up an entire 6-ounce bottle on a daylong trip to the beach.

Like many zinc-oxide-based sunscreens, the Thinksport lotion can leave a noticeable white cast. However, as we’ve found while panel-testing dozens of sunscreens over the past few years, some people find this opacity beneficial: It helps them to see where and how much they’ve applied.

Thinksport’s formula contains added fragrance, which gives it a strong, fruity smell that didn’t appeal to many of our testers.

If you want a reef-friendly sunscreen without added fragrance: Badger Adventure Mineral Sunscreen Cream SPF 50 (active ingredient: zinc oxide 25%) is a four-ingredient formula that is more expensive, more difficult to spread, and has more of a greasy, heavier feel on the skin than Thrive Bodyshield. However, it contains no fragrance and, like our pick, is water resistant for up to 80 minutes. A semi-solid “sport” version comes in a packable tin. Some testers found the semi-solid formula difficult to spread to adequate coverage anywhere other than on the face.

Customer and test panelist reviews are mixed for All Good Sport Sunscreen SPF 30 , a physical formula that contains less of the active ingredient than our picks, and it is comparatively more expensive, even in its largest size.

Testers with darker skin loved the All Good Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 , a reef-safe, face-specific formula. Its paint-like pigment was visible on testers with lighter skin.

Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen SPF 50 leaves a whitish cast and has a polarizing scent.

Babo Botanicals Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 feels and smells good. But it’s almost double the price of our pick.

The highly rated Banana Boat Baby Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ left a strong white cast on most skin tones.

The Bare Republic Mineral Body Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 has a watery, separated consistency that makes it difficult to apply.

Blue Lizard calls many of its sunscreens “reef friendly.” We like Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ , a pick in our main sunscreen guide , though it contains nanoparticles of its active ingredients, which may be harmful to some aquatic wildlife in large quantities.

Testers either loved or hated Goddess Garden Sport Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 , which rubs in easily and has a strong cinnamon scent.

The near-odorless Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Skin Nourishing Milk SPF 50 rubs in easily and feels great on skin, but it’s more expensive than the other physical sunscreens that we recommend and only comes in a 3-ounce bottle.

Hello Bello Kid’s Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 has the same active ingredient (20% non-nano zinc oxide) for around half the cost of our pick, but it’s frequently out of stock.

Kōkua Sun Care Hawaiian Natural Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50 looks and feels nearly identical to our top pick from Thrive, but is nearly double the price.

The most affordable of our mineral sunscreen testing pool, SPF Rx Sunscreen SPF 40 —which is also available in a gallon jug —is heavy-feeling and chalky-looking.

TotLogic Sunscreen SPF 30 is also slightly more matte than our runner-up pick. It smells fruitier, too.

Shannon Palus contributed reporting. This article was edited by Tracy Vence and Kalee Thompson.

Craig Downs, executive director of Haereticus Environmental Laboratory , phone interview , May 1, 2018

Roberto Danovaro, PhD, marine ecologist at Polytechnic University of Marche , email interview , May 1, 2018

Mehmet Ates et al., Comparative evaluation of impact of Zn and ZnO nanoparticles on brine shrimp (Artemia salina) larvae: effects of particle size and solubility on toxicity , Environmental Science: Process and Impacts , November 28, 2012

Roberto Danovaro et al., Sunscreens Cause Coral Bleaching by Promoting Viral Infections , Environmental Health Perspectives , April 1, 2008

Lawrence Eichenfield, MD, chief of pediatric and adolescent dermatology at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego , phone interview , April 23, 2021

Dr. Henry Lim, MD, former president of the American Academy of Dermatology , email interview , June 26, 2019

Meet your guide

Nancy Redd is a senior staff writer covering health and grooming at Wirecutter. She is a GLAAD Award–nominated on-air host and a New York Times best-selling author. Her latest nonfiction book, The Real Body Manual , is a visual health and wellness guide for young adults of all genders. Her other books include Bedtime Bonnet and Pregnancy, OMG!

Further reading

The Best Sunscreen

by Nancy Redd

It takes a shot glass’s worth of sunscreen to adequately cover a body in a swimsuit. Look for broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher and a scent and feel you like.

There’s Basically No Difference Between Baby Sunscreen and Regular Sunscreen

by Rose Maura Lorre

There are few—if any—differences between regular sunscreens and those marketed for babies or kids. Here’s what you need to know.

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After six years of relaxing in the sand and playing in the surf, we’ve chosen the best picks to help you enjoy a perfect beach day.

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The 10 Best Face Sunscreens of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 24 face sunscreens to find the best ones for all-day protection.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Other Sunscreens We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

While you can use any sunscreen on your face (any SPF is better than none), face sunscreen targets the more sensitive skin in that area. Whether you’re vacationing somewhere tropical or integrating SPF into your everyday skincare routine, it’s worth it to invest in a protective and moisturizing face sunscreen.

There are tons of trusted skincare brands on the market, so we went to work to research and choose 24 face sunscreen contenders to test in our New York City lab. We then sent them out into the real world to be further tested in everyday scenarios. We compared the formulas based on opacity levels, water resistance, texture feel, and we even used a moisture reader device in the lab to test hydration levels. The sunscreens highlighted below impressed us with silky smooth formulas that offered all-day protection. Plus, most of these face sunscreens have TSA-friendly bottles under 3.4 ounces, meaning they can easily be tossed in a carry-on.

Best Overall

Summer fridays shadedrops spf 30 mineral milk sunscreen.

• Feel 4.8 /5
• Transfer 5 /5
• Opacity 5 /5
• Water Resistance 5 /5
• Removal 5 /5

This thin-consistency sunscreen goes on effortlessly and absorbs extremely fast.

It’s fairly runny.

This face sunscreen from Summer Fridays is the perfect addition to your everyday skincare routine since it feels nearly weightless, especially under makeup. Ideal for a range of skin types, the formula leaves a nice healthy glow that isn’t greasy, and the ingredient list includes zinc oxide for UV protection and squalane for soft and smooth skin. The soothing feeling of applying the sunscreen is immediately followed with quick absorption that leaves the skin feeling hydrated without a white cast or residue left behind. A little bit of the watery formula can cover the entire face, and although the tube is only 1.7 ounces, it will last you a long time. Plus, it’s TSA-friendly so it can be placed in a carry-on or personal item with ease. If you’re headed to the beach, this mineral formula is free of nanoparticles, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and other chemicals that can be harmful to reefs and wildlife. Note, however, that the formula isn’t water resistant so you'll want to double up with a water resistant sunscreen for extra protection if you’re going swimming.

The Details: 30 SPF | 1.7 ounces | Reef safe | Fragrance free | Vegan

Travel & Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Unscented

Supergoop unseen sunscreen spf 40.

• Feel 4.9 /5
• Opacity 4.4 /5

It feels weightless to wear as a daily sunscreen or layered under other products.

There’s a slightly oily residue after wearing it all day.

Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen truly lives up its name of looking and feeling nearly invisible all day long. The transparent formula doesn’t leave a white cast or have a shiny finish, but you might notice a slightly greasy feeling at the end of the day, especially if you have oily skin. Best of all, this weightless sunscreen lacks fragrance which is better for sensitive skin and it doesn't cause any irritation or eye stinging when washing your face at the end of the day. If you’re swimming in the ocean or working out, the sunscreen offers 40 minutes of water resistance before it needs to be reapplied.

The Details: SPF 40 | 1.7 ounces | 40 minute water resistance | Oil free | Fragrance free

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Splurge

Isdin eryfotona actinica mineral spf 50+ sunscreen.

• Opacity 4.7 /5

A small amount of this sunscreen goes a long way and it absorbs very quickly.

There is a slight white cast that disappears once it absorbs.

If your skincare budget is on the higher end, ISDIN’s daily mineral sunscreen has near-perfect scores across all of our testing categories. Although this formula is mineral-based, the texture is very milky and watery so a little bit of sunscreen from the 3.4-ounce tube will cover your entire face with ease. In under 15 minutes, the sunscreen absorbs into the skin, leaving behind a slight white cast you might notice while applying it, but will disappear once fully absorbed. When faced with water or sweat, the sunscreen remains absorbed into your skin without running into your eyes or causing a stinging feeling, and it offers up to 40 minutes of water resistance. Plus, it can easily be layered over makeup or moisturizer when it’s time to reapply.

The Details: SPF 50+ | 3.4 ounces | 40 minute water resistance | Mineral based

Best Tinted

Iris & romeo weekend skin spf 50 + vitamin c + glow.

Iris & Romeo

• Opacity 4.8 /5

The glowy formula is so lightweight it doesn’t even feel like sunscreen.

We wish it were a bit more hydrating.

This two-in-one face sunscreen and primer has a silky texture that will leave your skin with a glowy finish thanks to the tinted formula. The directions on the tube recommend applying generously as the lightweight texture isn’t very hydrating, so you may also want to put on extra moisturizer if you have dry skin. Made with vegan and reef-safe ingredients, the list includes vitamin C, vitamin E, chamomile, and allantoin to hydrate and soothe the skin while the zinc oxide SPF 50 offers broad-spectrum protection from harmful UV rays. While you may need to keep applying the sunscreen throughout the day to keep the glow going, the formula is super easy to take off with micellar water at night. Best of all, you can save room in your toiletry bag since you won't have to pack separate skin care products.

The Details: SPF 50 | 1.18 ounces | Reef safe | Vegan

Best Budget

Hero cosmetics superlight sunscreen spf 30.

• Opacity 4.3 /5
• Removal 4 /5

The sunscreen is sheer which makes it very easy to keep applying throughout the day.

It may take some extra effort to rub in due to its green tint.

This wallet-friendly face sunscreen from Hero is perfect for everyday wear thanks to its lightweight and soothing texture. It’s super easy to reapply this watery formula all day long since it blends into the skin seamlessly and doesn’t leave a white cast or residue for a sheer and slightly glowy end result. Because the sunscreen is made with what the brand calls a “green surge,” the antioxidant superfood botanical ingredient gives it a light green tint which needs a little extra rubbing in to get a completely transparent finish. After massaging it into the face, you can easily layer other beauty products on top or let the natural glow from the sunscreen radiate on its own. It won’t irritate your eyes when it comes off at the end of the day, and it can even be worn in a sweaty workout class without having to worry about the sunscreen transferring onto your clothing or getting in your eyes.

The Details: SPF 30 | 1.69 ounces | Reef safe | Mineral based | Fragrance free

Best Mineral

Kinship moisturizing sunscreen.

The texture is much lighter and less cakey than in most mineral-based sunscreens.

It has a pink tint to it.

Mineral-based sunscreen can get a bad rap, but we were blown away by the lightweight feel and transparent application of this one by Kinship. The subtle vanilla-scented formula is packed full of vegan and reef-safe ingredients like turmeric, jojoba, and coconut, as well as other plant-based probiotics designed for soothing sensitive skin. With a similar texture as a creamy lotion, the sunscreen applies evenly, and two lengths of a finger is the perfect amount to cover the entire face. There is a pinkish tint to this sunscreen which leaves more of a glowy look than a white cast, but it’s still slightly noticeable on the skin after it absorbs. The more sunscreen you use, the more of a sheen will be left on your face, but luckily it’s more of a glowy sheen than a greasy one.

The Details: SPF 32 | 1.75 ounces | Reef safe | Mineral based | Vegan

Best Hybrid

Cocokind silk spf.

• Opacity 4.9 /5
• Water Resistance 4 /5

The silky formula combines mineral and chemical SPF for sun protection and a smooth texture.

It runs when it comes into contact with water.

Get the best of both worlds with this hybrid Cocokind sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection from mineral compounds with the smoother and lighter texture of chemical compounds. The sunscreen applies like a lotion (although slightly greasier) and dries quickly without leaving a film behind. During our tests, it didn’t transfer onto clothes but it did come off and run a bit when we sprayed water onto our face. However, it’s not designed to be water resistant and the brand does recommend putting a layer of sunscreen with water resistance on top if you’re planning to swim. A little bit of this sunscreen goes a long way, so although the tube is only 1.7 ounces, it does last a while, even with daily use.

The Details: SPF 30 | 1.7 ounces | Vegan

Glossier Invisible Shield SPF 35

The ultra-lightweight formula has a cooling feel to it.

It dries fairly quickly so you’ll need to rub it in right away.

This unique sunscreen from Glossier has a gel-like texture that feels very cooling and hydrating as it glides onto the skin. It dries super quickly so you’ll need to rub it in fast, but the end result leaves your skin feeling moisturized without any residue left over. Because the jelly material is so lightweight and quick-drying, it’s easy to keep applying the sunscreen throughout the day as needed. The product remains in place even when it comes into contact with water or sweat, so it may take an extra rinse to clean your face at the end of the day. If any of the sunscreen gets into your eyes by accident, the formula doesn’t sting or cause irritation. It also comes in a small 1-ounce container so it's perfect to stick in a carry-on or personal item.

The Details: SPF 25 | 1 ounce | Gel formula | Vegan

Best Travel Size

Black girl sunscreen broad spectrum spf 30.

• Feel 4.3 /5
• Water Resistance 4.5 /5

The formula absorbs into the skin seamlessly and comes in a 3-ounce bottle, adhering to the TSA regulations.

It gets a little oily at the end of the day.

Black Girl Sunscreen is a woman-of-color-owned business that creates sunscreen designed for darker skin tones, with an ingredient list that includes carrot juice, jojoba, avocado, cacao, and sunflower oil. With a formula that offers 80 minutes of water resistance and comes in a 3-ounce bottle, this sunscreen is an all-around travel-friendly favorite. Plus, the sunscreen is fragrance-free, making it better suited for sensitive skin, but it does leave a slightly oily sheen so it may not be best for those with oily skin. For a more liquidy formula, the texture is still thick enough that it absorbs into the skin quickly and doesn’t run off or leave a white cast after your face gets wet, so it’s ideal for working out or swimming.

The Details: SPF 30 | 3 ounces | 80 minute water resistance | Reef safe

Best for Outdoor Activities

Coola classic face organic sunscreen lotion.

The thicker formula absorbs into the skin evenly and offers up to 80 minutes of water resistance.

It has a slightly oily finish.

Whether you’re swimming, hiking, biking, or running outdoors, this Coola face sunscreen has a thick texture that absorbs evenly into the skin and leaves a dewy finish once it’s been massaged thoroughly into your face. With up to 80 minutes of water resistance, this face sunscreen boasts the same protection as body sunscreen, but its non-irritating formula is better suited to more sensitive facial skin. The broad spectrum formula has an SPF of 50 and it excludes harmful chemicals like octinoxate and oxybenzone so you can snorkel or swim near reefs without harming them. We noticed a slightly oily or shiny residue that was left over after rubbing it in, but there was no white cast or streaking, and the sunscreen didn’t run down our face when it got wet or sweaty.

The Details: SPF 50 | 1.7 ounce | 80 minute water resistance | Reef safe | Fragrance free

Other Face Sunscreens We Liked

The face sunscreens below are all excellent options, but compared to our top-performing sunscreens they fell slightly behind due to minor issues like formula texture and opacity. Still, we felt they were worth an honorable mention.

EltaMD UV Daily Face Sunscreen Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid : The formula is non-irritating and it applies very smoothly, but it leaves a fairly thick white cast, so it may be more of a beach day essential rather than worn underneath makeup on a daily basis.

Dr. Rossi Derm MD The Day Formula : It’s a thick formula that still layers evenly under makeup, but it takes some serious rubbing to get it fully absorbed into the skin without leaving residue or a white cast. Plus, the high price point was also a downside since the tube is quite small.

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Sunscreen : With a similar feel to a lightweight lotion, this formula spread smoothly across our face without leaving a residue or white cast. However, it didn’t layer well over foundation and concealer, so it pilled throughout the day.

After thoroughly researching a number of face sunscreens, we chose 24 options from trusted skincare brands to test out in our New York City lab. We then sent the face sunscreen out into the real world to try in everyday life to garner even more testing insights to help determine the overall winners.

In both series of tests, we factored in the feel, opacity, transferability, water resistance, and removal ease of each sunscreen, plus we used a moisture reader device in our lab to measure moisture levels. We tested the sunscreens in a real-world setting for two weeks where we wore the sun lotion for activities like working out, hiking, swimming, and running errands. The face sunscreens with the highest praise from both sets of tests were noted as having a silky formula that stayed on our face all day long without running while sweating or leaving a white cast finish.

Tips for Buying Face Sunscreen

Look for spf and uv protection.

Be sure to look at the label and choose sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher as well as broad spectrum protection to ward off both UVA and UVB rays. If you end up wearing sunscreen for outdoor activities like swimming or running, you’ll also want to check the water or sweat resistance capabilities and reapply accordingly. It’s important to get a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection that defends against both UVA and UVB rays, so you’ll want to look for one that has the FDA seal of approval for broad-spectrum protection on the tube or label.

Choose the right formula for your skin type

Since face sunscreen can be worn daily, you should treat it as part of your everyday skincare routine and invest in a bottle that fits your needs. Those with oily or acne-prone skin may want to opt for a non-irritating mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. If you have dry skin, be sure to read the ingredients and look for moisturizing elements like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid.

Opt for reef-safe sunscreen when in the ocean

Going on a tropical vacation ? Before buying face sunscreen, you’ll want to do some research on your destination to find out which products might be banned in the state or country. For example, Hawaii, Palau, and the U.S. Virgin Islands all have bans on sunscreens that include ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, homosalate, 4-methyl benzylidene camphor, Triclosan, parabens, nanoparticles, and microplastics.

It can be hard to gauge how much sunscreen to put on your face, so consider using the two-finger rule to apply an appropriate amount. Squeeze two lines of sunscreen from the tube onto both your index finger and middle finger before applying to ensure you’re using enough, then wait 15 minutes before going in the water or sweating to let it soak in.

Since sunscreen counts as a liquid, it can be packed in a carry-on as long as it falls at or below the 3.4-ounce liquid restrictions for going through the TSA security inspection at airports. If the bottle is larger than 3.4 ounces, it will need to be packed in checked luggage.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure Commerce Writer, Anna Popp , tests and writes about T+L’s best travel products. She has been a travel writer since living overseas in 2018 and began testing products for various publications in 2021 before joining T+L in 2022. Anna participated in several other sunscreen tests we conducted and collaborated with editors and testers to compile this list of the best face sunscreens for everyday wear.

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The 10 Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The Pipette Mineral Sunscreen exceeds expectations.

In This Article

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What to keep in mind, your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Jessica Juliao

Does your idea of the perfect vacation center around days spent at the beach, sprawled out on an extra-large towel with a good book, only to get up and take a dip every few hours to cool off? Or perhaps you like to take a more active approach, spending the majority of your time on a board, in the surf, or snorkeling below the surface. Whatever the case may be, we assume that sunscreen is part of your beachside beauty routine. After all, over the past few years, people everywhere are finally beginning to understand that sunscreen is essential. 

But did you know that, if you’re someone who likes to spend a lot of time in and near the water, the type of sunscreen you use is important, too. The reason? The chemicals in your SPF can rinse off and affect the ecosystems where you swim. That’s why Hawaii became the first state in the US to ban the sale of sunscreen containing the coral-harming chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate in 2018. Since then, reef-safe sunscreens have become more and more popular, with seemingly endless brands entering the space.

With so many reef-friendly sunscreens on the market, it can be hard to know which ones work the best. To save you from sifting through thousands of reviews, we went ahead and tested the 24 most popular reef-safe sunscreens. We paid attention to everything from texture and residual cast to water resistance and fragrance. In doing so, we were able to narrow down the top 10 reef safe-sunscreens. At the top of the list, you’ll find the Pipette Mineral Sunscreen - Broad Spectrum SPF 50 . While technically developed for children, the formula far exceeded our adult expectations, cementing it as the best overall reef-safe sunscreen we tried.

Best Overall

Pipette mineral sunscreen.

• Transfer 4.8 /5
• Opacity 5 /5
• Water Resistance 5 /5

Since it’s developed for kids, this sunscreen is incredibly gentle. 

Because this isn’t noncomedogenic, it can clog pores.

The Pipette Mineral Sunscreen - SPF 50 Broad Spectrum Sunblock with Non-Nano Zinc outperformed the competition with its ultra-gentle, fragrance-free formula that quickly sinks into skin, doesn’t leave a white cast , and doesn’t transfer onto clothes. 

“This sunscreen applies very smoothly because of the consistency, and it’s easy to blend into the skin,” our tester shares. “It feels very lightweight on my skin, and there’s absolutely no white cast upon application, nor any pilling.” In addition to sinking seamlessly into skin, we find that this reef-safe sunscreen leaves skin looking semi-matte without making it feel dry. 

One more thing: While the SPF isn’t marketed as being water resistant, we found that when splashed with water, it doesn’t run. Still, per the American Academy of Dermatology’s Sunscreen guidelines , it’s best to reapply after taking a dip to ensure you’re fully protected for hours to come. With so many amazing attributes, it was difficult to determine a con for this sunscreen — but alas, it isn’t noncomedogenic, so there is a small possibility that it can clog pores even though it feels nearly weightless.

Size: 4 oz. | Scented: No | SPF Level: 50 | Water-Resistant: No, though it passed our splash test

Best Budget

Hello bello mineral spf 50+ sunscreen lotion.

• Transfer 4.5 /5
• Opacity 4.8 /5

It absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a white cast. 

It gets a bit sticky once wet, and it has a strong lemony scent.

Hello Bello Mineral SPF 50+ Sunscreen is another product formulated for children that adults can most definitely benefit from. In addition to being dermatologist tested, clinically tested, and hypoallergenic, this sunscreen has a fabulous consistency that sinks quickly and fully into skin. 

“It doesn’t feel greasy or overly thick and doesn't leave a white cast on my skin,” shares our tester. While it initially glides onto skin, we found that it does become a bit sticky when wet, but that feeling subsides pretty quickly.

One thing to keep in mind: This SPF is formulated without synthetic fragrances but it definitely has a scent. “This sunscreen has a strong, lemony scent. It's not terribly overwhelming, but it is fairly strong,” our tester admits. “It would be nice if the manufacturer forewarned shoppers on the tube that it’s scented.”

Size: 3 oz. | Scented: Yes (but not artificially) | SPF Level: 50+ | Water-Resistant: Yes

Best Splurge

Biossance sheer mineral sunscreen.

• Feel 4.5 /5
• Opacity 4 /5

A little bit of this soothing sunscreen goes a long way. 

The very wet consistency could be a recipe for a mess.

Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen has a very thin texture — so much so that it’s quite runny and takes pretty much zero effort to squeeze out of the tube. The consistency, while a potential leaking/mess hazard, is what makes this sunscreen absorb so well into skin. Even when our tester used a tablespoon of the SPF (instead of the recommended teaspoon), she found that there was no white cast. “I’m very impressed with its ability to absorb into my skin,” she admits.

The absorbability and lack of white cast aren’t the only reasons this sunscreen stands out: Made with water lily and sugarcane-derived squalane, it also deeply hydrates skin and provides a cooling effect, so it can double as post-sun care if you spend too much time soaking up the rays or forget to reapply.

You may want to find another sunscreen if you’ll be engaging in water activities though, because it’s not water-resistant. “I would recommend this to someone looking for [high-quality] daily facial sunscreen, but I wouldn't recommend this as your go-to sun protection on long summer days at the beach,” our tester concludes.

Size: 1.69 oz. | Scented: No | SPF Level: 30 | Water-Resistant: No

Best for Body

Suntegrity skincare natural mineral body sunscreen.

• Water Resistance 4.5 /5

This body SPF is easy to travel with given its TSA-friendly size. 

The light orange scent may not be for everyone.

In our testing, we found Suntegrity Skincare Natural Mineral Body Sunscreen to work best for full-body protection because of its mineral-based formula that spreads like a dream, and the convenient, travel-friendly packaging. “This sunscreen blends nicely into my skin — it’s not dry, nor oily — it feels so smooth that I can’t even tell I'm wearing sunscreen,” our tester shares.

In addition to being super comfortable, we found that this SPF, while not marketed as water-resistant, does maintain its coverage in the presence of water. “This sunscreen seems to repel the water, making it roll off of my skin,” our tester adds, noting that spritzing her SPF-covered skin didn’t cause the product to run or drip. 

Lastly, as far as full-body SPFs go, this one has a more subtle scent. Though, it’s citrusy, so it may not be for everyone.

Size: 3 oz. | Scented: Yes | SPF Level: 30 | Water-Resistant: No, though it passed our splash test

Best for Dry Skin

Blue lizard sensitive mineral sunscreen spf 50.

It absorbs quickly and dries down for a smooth, silky, hydrated finish. 

It smells a bit like rubber.

The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide 50+ is beloved for its fast-absorbing formula that leaves skin feeling hydrated and smooth. “It absorbs very quickly with minimal rubbing on my end,” our tester says. “It honestly took less time than some of my regular lotions.”

In addition to absorbing quickly, this sunscreen, which is infused with castor oil and vitamin E , doesn’t leave a white cast behind. Instead, it makes skin look (and feel) dewy and hydrated. “It was almost like a body oil feel and effect, but not in a bad way,” our tester explains. What’s more, we found that the lightweight lotion stands its ground — as advertised — against water. “The water didn't seem to make the sunscreen run at all,” she assures us.

The only thing that could make this SPF better, according to our tester, is if it had a more delightful scent. “It has a very faint smell that doesn't seem deliberate,” she says. “It reminds me of something synthetic that I can't exactly put my finger on, perhaps paint or something rubbery, but it's not overwhelming.” 

Size: 5 oz. | Scented: No | SPF Level: 50+ | Water-Resistant: Yes

Best for Sensitive Skin

California baby super sensitive spf 30 lotion.

• Transfer 3.8 /5
• Opacity 4.5 /5
• Water Resistance 4 /5

It’s formulated for kids, so you know it's on the gentler side.

It feels a bit sticky, and it's not water-resistant. 

California Baby Super Sensitive SPF 30 Lotion is a fan favorite for children and adults alike. According to our tester, the formula, which is infused with organic and sustainably-grown ingredients, blends in easily despite feeling a bit sticky fresh out of the tube. While it doesn’t dry down for an unnoticeable feel, she says that the creamy paste feels similar to applying a heavy moisturizer, so it’s not distracting or uncomfortable. Instead, it makes skin feel shielded. 

That said, the formula doesn’t fully hold its ground in the presence of water. While it doesn’t drip and run, our tester found that, once wet, it does feel more slippery and transfer more.

Size: 2.9 oz. | Scented: No | SPF Level: 30+ | Water-Resistant: No

Best for Dark Skin

Reef repair reef safe sunscreen spf 30+.

• Water Resistance 3 /5

The formula is very smooth, which makes it spread easily.

It’s not water resistant despite claiming to be.

Reef Repair Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF 30+ might not look like the highest quality SPF on the market, but inside the tube you’ll find a lighter-weight reef-safe sunscreen that feels considerably better than most of its competitors. “The consistency is really smooth — it spreads easily compared to other reef-safe sunscreens I've tried and absorbs almost immediately without a white cast [anywhere in sight],” our tester says.

On the downside, this SPF smells… different. “It smells a little like a plastic beach ball — but only if you get really close to the skin,” our tester clarifies. “I imagine if I really lathered my whole body the scent might be slightly stronger and could potentially be unpleasant, but that's just a conjecture.”

The other shortcoming of this SPF is its lack of water resistance, despite its claims. “Despite saying this has an hour or more of water resistance, adding water did make the sunscreen run slightly, and I can imagine if I went swimming for a while, a lot of the sunscreen would run off,” our tester admits.

Size: 1.7 oz. | Scented: Yes | SPF Level: 30+ | Water-Resistant: Yes, though it didn’t pass our splash test

Best Water-Resistant

Maui naturals surfer honey all natural sunscreen lotion spf 30.

It blends in effortlessly, absorbs quickly, and feels comfortable on the skin. 

It comes out of the tube a bit chalky.

Maui Naturals Surfer Honey All Natural Sunscreen first caught our attention due to its retro packaging, but it retained interest when we realized just how well it works. “This sunscreen applies really smoothly, and the texture is pleasant to rub across my skin,” our tester says — though she points out that it feels a bit chalky and looks grayish-purple out of the tube. “I’m impressed with how easily this sunscreen spreads,” she adds. “This absorbs quite quickly and doesn’t require much rubbing to get it to lose its white cast.”

Best of all, this water-resistant, reef-safe sunscreen, which smells like an orange creamsicle, lives up to its claims. “I was impressed with how water resistant it is,” our tester marvels. “When I rubbed the water around on my arm, it did not seem to dissolve the sunscreen and rather just made the water bead on top of it.”

Size: 3 oz. | Scented: Yes | SPF Level: 30+ | Water-Resistant: Yes

Best Scented

Hawaiian tropic mineral sun milk body lotion spf 50.

• Transfer 5 /5

This tropical-scented sunscreen will transport you to an island with every application. 

The bottle design is prone to leaks.

If you actually prefer a scented sunscreen, you’ll swoon over Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Skin Nourishing Milk SPF 50. Beyond its refreshing coconut scent, which our tester says smells like a pina colada, this SPF has a very thin consistency, which makes it easy to apply. 

“It quickly absorbs into my skin without need for frequent rubbing,” our tester says. Though, she notes that it seems to get darker as it fully dries down, so while it doesn’t initially have a white cast, after 15 minutes, she noticed a slight residue — but not enough to make her not recommend it.

Truthfully, the only downside of this SPF is the bottle design. While the pump top is a lovely addition, we found that it is prone to leaks, filling the cap with product. “Without the plastic safety cap, you would have quite a mess,” our tester admits.

Size: 3.4 oz. | Scented: Yes | SPF Level: 50 | Water-Resistant: No

MDSolarSciences Tinted Solar Stick SPF 40

• Transfer 4 /5

It’s lightweight and creamy, and it doesn’t leave a white cast.

The stick is quite small and may not last very long.

Not trying to toss a bottle of reef-safe SPF into your bag only for it to leak all over the place? Opt for a stick. Namely, MDSolarSciences Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 40. Formulated to be lightweight and creamy, the stick SPF applies beautifully, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t leave a white cast — not even on darker skin tones. 

“When first applying the product, I was worried because it looked like it would leave a white cast, but once I rubbed it in, it absorbed completely and actually left my skin with a nice glowy look,” our tester reveals, noting that most mineral SPFs, in contrast, give off a ghostly look on her darker skin.

While the small format makes it easy to toss in any purse for touch ups, we find that if you apply it regularly, it probably won’t last you more than a month or two.

Size: 0.6 oz. | Scented: No | SPF Level: 40 | Water-Resistant: Yes

To start, we spent about two weeks researching the top-rated reef-safe sunscreens on the market. After honing in on online ratings, we spent 48 hours putting the 24 most popular sunscreens to the test. We had all of our testers try the sunscreens so that they could analyze the performance of each and write down their insights during the process. In doing so, our testers rated every sunscreen on a scale of 1 to 5 in four key categories: Feel, transfer, opacity, and water resistance. Once the data was collected, we were able to narrow down the original pool of products to the 10 best reef-safe sunscreens.

Generally speaking, scented skincare products are more likely to cause irritation than their fragrance-free counterparts. When it comes to reef-safe SPF, it’s important to remember that just because a product might say that it’s made without synthetic fragrances doesn’t mean that it won’t have a scent. That’s because some products use essential oils, which in and of themselves have a fragrance. With this in mind, when shopping for reef-safe sunscreen look for fragrance-free and/or unscented formulas, as opposed to eagle-eyeing in on synthetic scents (or a lack thereof).

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, using an SPF of level 30 or higher is key to adequately protecting skin against the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. Even with the right SPF level, it’s important to remember that no SPF (not even SPF 100) can fully block out UVB exposure. As such, you should seek shade whenever you can to shield your skin from excessive exposure, and remember to reapply every two hours. And if you’re really prone to burning, select a formula with a higher spf level, like Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Skin Nourishing Milk SPF 50 .

Water-Resistance

Even if an SPF claims to be water-resistant, dermatologists recommend reapplying sunscreen after swimming. If you’re just sweating a lot, though, you can probably get away with holding out for the duration of the product’s purposed resistance (which is typically in the 80 minute range). Just because a sunscreen is reef-safe doesn’t make it inherently water-resistant. Luckily, we found multiple options that are, including Hello Bello Mineral SPF 50+ Sunscreen , BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide 50+ , and Maui Surfer Honey All Natural Sunscreen .

What is reef-safe sunscreen?

“Reef-safe sunscreen, also known as reef-friendly sunscreen, are basically sunscreen products that do not contain octinoxate and oxybenzone,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry , of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan. “Although these ingredients act by blocking UV absorption, octinoxate and oxybenzone have been shown to be toxic and damaging to coral reefs. Thus, reef-safe sunscreens are more environmentally friendly options for sun protection.” 

One way to ensure that you’re buying a reef-safe sunscreen? Look for mineral formulas, as they’re made without the aforementioned chemicals.

What makes sunscreen reef-safe?

While oxybenzone and octinoxate are popular chemical sunscreen ingredients, they’ve been shown to cause coral bleaching which can obliterate reefs. “When we apply sunscreens containing these ingredients and then swim in waters where there is coral, the sunscreen gets into the water and poisons the coral,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sumayah Jamal , of Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC. Wearing sunscreens without either oxybenzone or octinoxate can help mitigate the problem and help coral reefs thrive.

Is mineral sunscreen reef-safe?

Usually, yes. In fact, mineral sunscreen is often thought to be synonymous with reef-safe SPF. That said, Dr. Jamal says it depends on the exact formulation. “Mineral sunscreens, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are generally not toxic to coral, however, when they are formulated as nanoparticles they can still damage coral,” she explains. “Micronized or non-nanoparticle mineral screens are best for reef safety.”

How do I know if my sunscreen is reef-safe?

The easiest way to ensure you’re using reef-safe sunscreen is to choose a formula that’s clearly marketed as such. “Sunscreens with the Protect Land + Sea Certification Seal are considered safe,” Dr. Jamal says.

Another option, as mentioned before, is to look for mineral sunscreens. “[Just be sure to] go through the ingredient list to rule out octinoxate, oxybenzone, and octocrylene,” Dr. Henry says.

Does reef-safe sunscreen affect skin differently?

Reef-safe sunscreen (AKA mineral SPF) operates differently than traditional chemical sunscreen. “Mineral sunscreens work by staying on top of the skin and blocking UV rays by reflecting them to keep from entering the surface,” Dr. Henry says. “By shielding the epidermis from UV absorption, mineral sunscreens are also effective forms of sun protection. They reflect light and do not convert it to heat like chemical sunscreens, thus making them ideal for sensitive skin.”

What Is InStyle Picks?

Did you notice the InStyle Picks seal of approval at the top of this story? That means our team of testers has reviewed every product on this list using a unique methodology to ensure it's really worth your time, money, and attention. We may get samples for free to try but we never promise positive (or any!) coverage in exchange. Put simply: InStyle Picks are products we love, and we've put them to the test to be sure you will too.

Rebecca Norris has covered beauty for nearly 10 years. For this story, she compiled the insights and reviews of nine InStyle testers to determine the best reef-safe sunscreens. She also spoke with NYC-based board-certified dermatologists Dr. Sumayah Jamal and Dr. Michelle Henry to uncover what makes a sunscreen reef-safe, as well as how such formulas affect the skin.

Want more product recommendations? From best-in-class concealer to the black pants you need for work, check out all of our InStyle Picks content .

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The best reef-safe sunscreens, according to experts

Slathering on sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays is a must — no matter your age or skin tone. It not only help protects against skin cancer, but can also help prevent premature wrinkles and age spots, according to the The American Academy of Dermatology .

When it comes to finding the right SPF, however, there are a lot of factors to take into account. For example, you may require sunscreen for sensitive skin or need a kid-friendly SPF formula . Another consideration you may want to think about: Picking an environmentally friendly product — especially if you’ll be spending lots of time near the ocean. According to experts, certain chemicals in your SPF could rinse off in water and impact ocean ecosystems.

Specifically, research suggests that chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate have a negative impact on coral reefs. (An estimated 25% of all marine life depends on coral reefs for survival, according to the Environmental Protection Agency .) It’s so harmful, in fact, that places like Hawaii and Key West, Florida, no longer allow the sale of sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate.

That’s where reef-safe sunscreen comes in. “These sunscreens tend to be mineral-based , utilizing ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to provide physical, rather than chemical, sun protection,” says Dr. Divya Shokeen, a board-certified dermatologist at the Ocean Skin and Vein Institute in California.

SKIP AHEAD How we picked the best reef safe sunscreen | The best reef safe sunscreen | How to shop for reef safe sunscreen | How to apply sunscreen correctly

To help you shop for reef-safe formulas, we spoke to dermatologists and environmental experts about what to look for in an SPF that will protect both you and the environment. Then, we rounded up expert picks, along with highly rated options that met their standards.

Our top picks

• Best overall/editor’s pick: ThinkSport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen
• Best budget pick : Blue Lizard Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30
• Best splurge : MdSolarScience Mineral Tinted Crème SPF 30 Sunscreen

select Sensitive skin? Here's what to look for in sunscreen, according to dermatologists

How we picked the best reef-safe sunscreen.

We interviewed two dermatologists and an environmental expert about what to look for in a sunscreen that will protect your skin from harmful rays, while not damaging coral reefs or other ocean ecosystems. The experts we spoke recommend keeping the following factors in mind:

Reef-safe ingredients : There are two types of sunscreens: chemical and mineral . Chemical sunscreens use ingredients to filter out UV rays, whereas mineral (also known as physical) formulas sit on top of your skin and reflect rays away. The former contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, two ingredients that research suggests can be harmful to the ocean ecosystem by bleaching coral reefs and damaging their DNA. For this list, we selected mineral formulas, none of which contain oxybenzone octinoxate. Instead, they incorporate physical blockers like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. “When shopping for reef-safe, mineral sunscreens, look for something containing zinc or titanium as the active ingredients,” says Dr. Brendan Camp, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City.

Level of protection : You want to protect the ocean, but you also need to protect your skin too. To do so, look for broad-spectrum products with an SPF rating of at least SPF 30 . (Broad-spectrum protection means your skin will be safe from both UVA and UVB rays).

Water-resistance : Denoted by time (typically 40 or 80 minutes), this refers to how long your sunscreen will stay on wet skin. Water-resistant sunscreens serve purposes, according to our experts. Firstly, the better your sunscreen stays on your skin , the more protected you are. And second, your SPF will be less likely to wash off and harm the ocean.

The best reef-safe sunscreen

To help you find the best reef safe sunscreen, we considered recommendations from dermatologists, along with highly rated options from brands like Cerave, Blue Lizard and more. None of our recommendations contain oxybenzone or octinoxate.

ThinkSport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen

This water-resistant formula is a favorite of Camp’s because it is environmentally friendly, offers broad-spectrum protection and has skin-boosting benefits. This zinc oxide-based formula absorbs quickly and doesn’t feel sticky or oily going on. “In addition to SPF 50 protection, it includes antioxidants like vitamin E and moisturizing ingredients like jojoba oil,” he says. “Whereas some sunscreens feel sticky going on, this one feels smooth thanks to these ingredients, which also help nourish your skin as you wear it.”

Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 Suncreen

With zinc oxide as the primary active ingredient, Camp says this is a great option for protecting your body and keeping reefs safe. It offers SPF 50 and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. While some mineral sunscreens leave a white residue on skin, this one blends in very nicely so you don’t look like you’re wearing a ton of sunscreen even when you are, according to Camp. You can also feel good about the packaging — it’s made of recycled plastic, according to the brand.

Thrive Natural Body Mineral Sunscreen SPF50

Blue lizard sensitive sunscreen spf 30.

This expert-recommended mineral sunscreen is a great option for those with sensitive skin around the entire body (not just the face). It offers broad-spectrum SPF 50+ coverage and has zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect skin from UV rays. Plus, the fragrance-free formula is sweat- and water-resistant too. An added bonus? As this sits in the sun, the bottle turns from white to blue to remind you when it’s time to reapply your sunscreen.

MDSolarScience Mineral Tinted Crème SPF 30 Sunscreen

If you are looking for a face-specific formula, you may want to consider a lotion with a tint. “Tinted sunscreens are often formulated with pigment that blends in well without leaving noticeable residue,” says Camp. This one uses both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to create a protective barrier from the sun. I use this daily on my face and love that it dries with a slightly matte finish and evens out my skin tone. The water-resistant formula also has vitamins C and E to help soothe and moisturize skin, according to the brand.

Cerave Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

This SPF 30, which is great for sensitive skin , has a sheer tint, offsetting any white cast on the skin, says Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin , who uses it daily. The noncomedogenic sunscreen also contains hyaluronic acid to boost moisture and ceramides to support the skin’s natural barrier. Plus, it’s free of oil and fragrances, making it a good option for acne-prone and sensitive skin.

Pipette Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

I originally bought this broad-spectrum sunscreen with zinc oxide for my daughter, but quickly fell in love with it thanks to its lightweight, creamy texture that doesn’t leave a white cast on your skin, which is something that can be common with mineral sunscreens. It happens to be a favorite of Camp’s as well thanks to the sugarcane-derived squalane (a plant-based hydrating ingredient) that’s in it, which helps moisturize skin as you wear it. It’s also fragrance-free, which is helpful if you have sensitive skin or prefer products that aren’t scented.

How to shop for reef-safe sunscreen

When shopping for environmentally friendly sunscreens that will also keep you protected from the sun, our experts recommend keeping the below factors in mind:

Prioritize reef-safe ingredients. Like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide that create a physical block on your skin that make rays bounce off it without penetrating through. Though it’s important to note that there is no actual, legal definition for ‘reef safe’, according to Emily Spilman, a healthy living science program manager at the Environmental Working Group . The term is unregulated and generally, companies have their own definitions, she says. “While there are still a lot of data gaps about how certain sunscreens impact coral reefs, the main concern is that specific ingredients can cause coral bleaching, which can leave reefs under distress and vulnerable.”

Reef-safe sunscreens are also usually made up of micro-sized or non-nano particles. This is because nanoparticles can be ingested by coral and negatively impact its health, according to the National Park Service . Most reef-safe products will identify what type of particles their formula is made up of.

Avoid oxybenzone, octinoxate and parabens. Oxybenzone and octinoxate are chemical ingredients that work to protect skin from the sun by filtering harmful rays out — and while they are effective at doing that, they can cause other issues. “They have been shown to be toxic to aquatic life, including coral,” Spilman says.

Parabens are preservatives that keep beauty products shelf stable for longer. However, they can bleach reefs and even damage the DNA in coral, according to the National Ocean Service .

Opt for broad spectrum sunscreens. This will protect you against both UVA and UVB rays. Exposure to UVA rays is associated with skin aging, while exposure to UVB is connected to skin burning — so preventing both from impacting your complexion is crucial, according to our experts. “You should also be looking for a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher,” says Shokeen. Just know that anything higher than SPF 50 only offers marginal improvements when it comes to protecting your skin.

Look for water-resistance. Not only does this help keep your skin safe while you engage in water play, it may be safer for the environment. This is because water-resistant sunscreen isn’t as likely to wash off in the ocean and negatively impact aquatic life.

How to apply sunscreen correctly

Once you’ve picked your reef-safe sunscreen, make sure you apply it correctly to ensure you get maximum protection. Your goal should be to use it liberally and frequently, according to Shokeen. The general rule of thumb is to use a quarter-sized dollop on your face and a shot glass-size amount for your body. You want to apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going out in the sun and reapply those amounts every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.

Meet our experts

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

Kate Beebe is the associate marketing director at the Coral Reef Alliance .

Dr. Brendan Camp is board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City.

Dr. Divya Shokeen is a board-certified dermatologist at the Ocean Skin and Vein Institute in California.

Emily Spilman is a healthy living science program manager at the Environmental Working Group .

Why trust NBC Select?

Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers topics like beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed three experts to gather their guidance and researched highly rated reef-safe sunscreens based on their advice.

Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

Bethany Heitman is a contributing editor at NBC Select.

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The 6 Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens of 2024

Protect your skin.

Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

The importance of protecting our skin from harmful UV rays has been known for decades—but the understanding of how many sunscreens on the market can cause significant damage to marine life is relatively new. According to Lea d'Auriol , founder of international non-profit Oceanic Global , oxybenzone and octinoxate (common active ingredients in SPF products) are major contributors to coral bleaching. “More than 25% of all marine life depends on healthy coral reefs for survival, ” she explains. Coral bleaching is so harmful that Hawaii and several other regions around the world have banned these ingredients.

The good news is more and more companies are making sunscreens that are“reef-safe.” But bear in mind that the term " reef-safe sunscreen " is not regulated, which means just because a product says it won’t cause harm doesn’t actually mean it is actually reef-safe. “It is important to check the active ingredients label to ensure that reef-harming chemicals are not included,” explains d'Auriol. “As a general rule, options without oxybenzone and octinoxate are a good first indicator of more ocean-friendly options ,” she says.

Still, checking labels can be time-consuming, so we did the research for you. We compiled a list of 24 SPF products that didn’t contain reef-damaging ingredients, then put them to the test both in The Lab as well as at home. We evaluated them based on how easily they spread across the skin and absorbed, how they felt on the skin, how water-resistant they were, whether or not they created a white cast, and most importantly, how well they protected their skin . Next are the six we felt were best for you.

Where We Stand

How we tested, other options we tested.

• What To Look For

Why Trust Byrdie

Best overall, pipette mineral sunscreen.

• Transfer 4.8 /5
• Opacity 5 /5
• Water Resistance 5 /5

Lightweight, creamy texture

Fragrance-free

Fast-absorbing

Doesn’t create white cast

Comfortable feeling on the skin

Pretty water-resistant

Not transfer proof

While SPF is a skincare routine staple, finding a great one can be challenging. Many are thick, hard to rub in, leave a white cast, etc., but this one is as close to perfect as it gets—and of course, it’s reef-safe. We were thoroughly impressed with how nice and easy it was to apply this sunscreen. Its lightweight, creamy texture is easy to rub in and absorbs quickly without leaving a dry or greasy feel behind. Though it comes out of the tube in a whitish color, it doesn't create even a minor white cast —a major win considering that it’s powered by zinc oxide, which often does. 

While we did find in testing that it transfers a little onto clothing, we love that it’s pretty water-resistant and remains well intact after swimming or sweating . If you’re looking for an affordable, reef-safe SPF that’s easy to apply, comfortable on the skin, and doesn’t leave a white cast, we absolutely recommend this one.

Who It's For

This sunscreen was specifically formulated for babies and children, meaning it's gentle enough to use on even the most sensitive of skin types . If you find that sunscreen formulas irritate your skin or your eyes, this is a great choice for everyday protection.

Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 50 | Size: 4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Budget

Hello bello mineral spf 50+ sunscreen lotion.

• Transfer 4.5 /5
• Opacity 4.8 /5

Lightweight, lotion texture

Easy to blend into the skin

White cast disappears after rubbing product in for a few seconds

Feels comfortable on the skin

Very resistant to transfer and water

Has a strong fragrance

Considering how much SPF you need to use in order for it to effectively protect your skin from the sun (roughly one ounce to cover the entire body, according to the American Academy of Dermatology ), it’s a product that can be really pricey to continuously repurchase. That’s why having an affordable go-to is so important, and this one is fantastic. The formula contains cocoa seed butter and avocado to nourish the skin, it boasts 80 minutes of water resistance, and it’s dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic .

The creamy lotion texture rubs into the skin with ease and absorbs quickly. After rubbing it in for a few seconds, any remnants of a white cast disappear, and the skin is left feeling comfortable and non-greasy . It’s also impressive in terms of how well it resists transfer and water. 

One con to note about this formula is that it has a strong, lemony fragrance that some people might find overpowering, especially if they’re not a fan of lemons. But considering all of its other positive attributes and how affordable and accessible it is, this product absolutely still earns the Byrdie stamp of approval.

We love this formula for drier skin types, as it contains multiple ingredients to add hydration to the skin (including shea butter , calendula , coconut oil , and more). This is also a great reef-safe pick for those who burn easily, as it has the highest SPF protection on this list (55+).

Active Ingredients: Non-nano zinc oxide | SPF: 50 | Size: 3 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

• Byrdie/Jessica Juliao

Best for Sensitive Skin

California baby super sensitive spf 30 lotion.

• Feel 4.5 /5
• Transfer 3.8 /5
• Opacity 4.5 /5
• Water Resistance 4 /5

Formulated without many potential irritants and allergens

Comfortable on the skin

Water-resistant

Non-greasy finish

Texture is a bit thick

Does leave a white cast for a while

Those with sensitive skin know that finding a sunscreen that’s effective and non-irritating can be tricky. We love this one because it’s safe for the oceans as well as sensitive skin and baby skin . It’s free from tons of potential irritants and allergens , like most nuts (except coconut), gluten, soy, dairy, fragrance, and chemical SPF.

While the texture is pretty thick and takes a bit of effort to rub in, it’s smooth and creamy, and it feels comfortable once applied . It’s also non-greasy and super resistant to water. It does create a noticeable white cast when first applied, but we found out that it fades pretty much completely after about 30 minutes . If you’ve struggled to find sunscreens that are non-irritating on your skin, this one is absolutely worth giving a try.

Since it's our best pick for sensitive skin types, we also recommend it for those who are allergic to common skincare ingredients, like plant oils and fragrances . This formula is squeaky clean, making it perfect for those who are sensitive to common irritants.

Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide | SPF: 30 | Size: 1.8, 2.9, 6, 19 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Fast-Absorbing

Suntegrity skincare natural mineral body sunscreen.

• Opacity 4 /5
• Water Resistance 4.5 /5

Doesn’t leave a residue on the skin

Has a slight fragrance

Working hard to fully rub your SPF into your skin isn’t a pleasant experience, making absorbency one of the key factors we evaluated during this test. While many options boasted impressive absorption capabilities, this one was the best at melting into the skin with almost no effort required . The fluid lotion consistency makes it easy to spread around the body, and it absorbs into the skin in the blink of an eye without leaving behind a thick, chalky, or greasy residue . Though it does create a hint of a white cast upon the initial application, we found in testing that the cast quickly fades after just a moment or two.

We were also impressed with how well this sunscreen resists transfer and running when it comes into contact with water. If you’re particularly picky about finding sunscreens that don’t feel like the dry, heavy, hard-to-blend products of the past, we highly recommend checking this one out.

This option is oil-free, making it a great choice for those with oily skin or body acne . Many sunscreen formulas contain ingredients that can clog pores and potentially irritate the skin, but you won't find that in this pick.

Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 30 | Size: 3, 5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Lightweight

Hawaiian tropic mineral sun milk body lotion spf 50.

• Transfer 5 /5

Comes in packaging with a pump

Non-sticky finish

Has a minor white cast

We’d be comfortable betting that many people who neglect to wear sunscreen on a regular basis do so because many SPF formulas are unpleasant to apply and wear throughout the day—but not this one. This liquid-y formula pumps out of the bottle easily, blends into the skin with minimal effort, doesn’t leave an annoying chalky or oily residue on the skin, and doesn’t transfer or run when it comes into contact with sweat . Seriously— it lasted through swimming, a workout, and the sauna despite its thin texture and weightless feel on our skin.

We do generally prefer unscented sunscreens, and this one does feature that typical beachy scent that many heritage SPF brands are known for—but it does smell nice and nostalgic . And while it does create a minor white cast, that cast is fairly undetectable after about 20 minutes of wear. If you’ve been searching for a weightless, reef-safe sunscreen, this is the one for you.

If you hate having to keep two different formulas on hand when you're headed to the beach, we recommend picking this one up. Although it's advertised as a body sunscreen, it can also be used on the face without causing irritation .

Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | SPF: 30 | Size: 3.4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for Beach Days

Blue lizard sensitive mineral sunscreen spf 50.

Silky texture

Very water-resistant

Consistency can be a bit runny

Leaves a slightly tacky finish on the skin

Although proper SPF protection is important on an everyday basis, it’s especially important when you’re spending extended periods of time in direct sunlight. This sunscreen is a great option for beach days because it’s reef-safe (of course), features a color-changing cap that goes from white to blue or pink when exposed to UV rays to indicate it’s time to reapply, and it’s water-resistant . It has a gentle, liquid-like formula that can be a bit runny and hard to control out of the tube, but the weightless texture makes it easy to spread and comfortable on the skin . It absorbs within seconds before setting down to a radiant finish with almost no white cast in sight.

What impressed us the most about this formula is how well it performed during water-resistance and transfer-resistance tests. It stayed put almost completely, making it a great option for those who frequently do outdoor activities—especially days at the beach or pool . Plus, we love that it’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin .

Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | SPF: 50 | Size: 5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Overall, our favorite reef-safe sunscreen is the Pipette Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 . It’s lightweight, fast-absorbing, fragrance-free, water-resistant, and doesn’t create a white cast, all while remaining affordable. But if you have sensitive or reactive skin, we highly recommend the California Baby Super Sensitive Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+ Sunscreen for you.

In order to determine which reef-safe SPF is best, we put 24 options to the test in The Lab as well as at home in the real world over the course of four weeks. In our lab facility, we tested the formulas to determine if they transfer onto clothing, whether or not they’re water-resistant, how well they absorb into the skin, and if they created a white cast. At home, we used the products consistently to determine the same things (as well as how they protected the skin from the sun), but over a longer period of time and in practice in our daily lives. Some other key factors we took into consideration when judging each product include:

• Active ingredients
• Immediate and long-term benefits
• Feel upon application
• Scent/fragrance

Coola Mineral Body Organic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Although we appreciate that this body SPF is fragrance-free and packed with antioxidants, the texture is quite greasy, and it does create a white cast.

Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen

While this product is marketed as a clear sunscreen, we find that it does create a white cast, and it feels a bit heavy on the skin.

Manda Organic Sun Paste

We love that this formula has a unique paste texture and is pretty water-resistant, but it takes some warming up in between the hands in order to get it spread evenly on the skin.

What to Look for When Buying a Reef-Safe SPF

• Water-resistance: Lea d'Auriol recommends opting for SPFs that are water-resistant because this makes them less likely to wash off of your skin into the ocean. Plus, the better your sunscreen remains on your skin, the more protected you are from the harmful effects of the sun. The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen 50+ is our favorite water-resistant option.
• Level of protection: It’s important to consider what level of protection you’re getting out of your SPF, regardless of whether it’s reef-safe or not. According to the American Academy of Dermatology , you should use a product that has an SPF of 30 or higher. They also recommend opting for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection to protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. Our top pick is the Pipette Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 —it has a high SPF, offers broad-spectrum protection, and is water-resistant.

There’s a growing movement to opt for reef-safe sunscreens—but why? Perhaps you’ve heard of coral bleaching, but what does it mean? According to d'Auriol, “Coral bleaching occurs when changes in the corals (rising temperature, lack of nutrients, exposure to toxins, etc.) cause coral to become stressed. Stressed corals expel the symbiotic, food-producing algae that live in their tissues. Exposing their white skeletons (kind of like taking off your sweater when the room is too hot).” While bleached corals aren’t dead, they are more at risk of becoming diseased or dying—which in turn impacts the marine ecosystems that rely on the coral for survival. Chemicals in sunscreen can be toxic to the coral and also alter the pH in their environments, increasing the risk of the coral becoming stressed and bleaching. Why is this important? Maintaining the health of corals is essential to other marine life, explains d'Auriol. “Over 25 percent of all marine life depends on healthy coral reefs for survival,” she says.

There is no regulated “reef-safe” definition, but in general, experts tend to consider reef-safe SPFs to be those that are formulated without chemical ingredients, like oxybenzone and octinoxate, that are harmful to ocean life.

According to d’Auriel, when buying reef-safe sunscreen, check that none of the following ingredients are included: oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, 4-methyl benzylidene camphor, PABA, parabens , triclosan, any nanoparticles (or ‘nano-sized’ zinc), titanium, and any form of microplastics like exfoliating beads.

Alyssa Kaplan is an experienced writer in the beauty industry and product tester specializing in cosmetics. She received a bachelor’s degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she studied marketing and product development in the cosmetics industry as well as fashion business marketing. Alyssa has been a commerce writer at Byrdie since 2022, where she covers all things beauty. To better inform her for this article, she spoke with an expert on the topic:

• Lea d'Auriol , Founder of International Non-Profit and Partner of UN World Oceans Day, Oceanic Global .

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11 Best Sunscreen Sticks for SPF Protection on the Go

By Jennifer Hussein

Sunscreen is the most essential part of your skin-care routine, but chances are you knew that already. With that being said, some of us come across a few issues when using a classic sunscreen lotion — white casts , greasy residue, and nauseating scents (which can irritate sensitive skin types ) are just the start. That's why we swipe on one of the best sunscreen sticks when we're in need of UV-ray protection.

Fatima Fahs, MD , a board-certified dermatologist based in Camden, Michigan, says broad-spectrum solid stick formulas perform just as well as lotions. Like any sunscreen, you have to apply the right amount of formula in order to have and maintain broad-spectrum protection. "The more the merrier in general, but I tell patients to apply for four passes back and forth on each area of application to make sure you get a good amount on," says Dr. Fahs. "Rub it in a bit after applying to help ensure you don't have skip areas." She also recommends applying your sunscreen stick on dry skin so the formula "stays put."

Overall, Dr. Fahs says sunscreen sticks can be a great replacement for lotions if they are applied correctly. Below, check out the 11 best broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen face sticks you can buy.

Our Top Picks:

• Best Overall: EltaMD UV Stick SPF 50+ , $35
• Totally Transparent: Live Tinted Hueguard Invisible Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 , $28
• Allure Best of Beauty Winner: Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ , $30
• Dew-Enhancer: Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50 , $26
• Best Roll-On Formula: Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Roll-On Lotion , $18
• Smells Amazing: Coola Classic Sunscreen Stick SPF 30 , $24
• Skin Soother: Kinlò Sunscreen Stick SPF 30 , $12

All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

EltaMD UV Stick SPF 50+

Dr. Fahs says EltaMD's UV Stick SPF 50+ is one of the best stick formulas to recently hit the market for its water-resistant, mineral formula . This fragrance-free sunscreen stick is infused with zinc oxide to provide broad-spectrum SPF protection and is compact enough to tuck away in your bag for easy, mess-free application.

Live Tinted

Live Tinted Hueguard Invisible Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

Ulta Beauty

The beauty of Live Tinted's Hueguard Invisible Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 is that its completely transparent and glides smoothly on the skin, thanks to its gel-like finish. This water- and sweat-resistant sun stick can be used all over your face and body for optimal broad-spectrum SPF 50 UV protection.

Kinlò Sunscreen Stick SPF 30

Though the Kinlò Sunscreen Stick SPF 30 looks more like a lip balm than a sunscreen stick, the brand guarantees that this solid formulation was made for every part of exposed skin. As it guards your skin against harmful UV rays, this mineral-based sunscreen intensively moisturizes skin with ingredients like soothing aloe vera , antioxidant vitamin E , and conditioning sunflower seed oil.

Banana Boat

Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 was practically made for your sweatiest days yet. This drugstore sunscreen stick is totally sweat- and water-proof, so you can feel free to sweat away without fear of your SPF coverage smearing.

By Annie Blay

By Angela Trakoshis

Blue Lizard

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

Sensitive skin types should definitely look into the Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50. This gentle, matte-finish, mineral-based sunscreen is delicate on the skin and doesn't contain harsh irritants like fragrances or dyes.

Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+

Shiseido's Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ is such a great sunscreen stick that it won an Allure Best of Beauty Award back in 2021 and still earns praise from our editors and dermatologists alike (including Dr. Fahs) for its lightweight, blendable formula. This non-greasy formula is water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes and has a sheer, dew-enhancing finish that works well alone and under makeup.

Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50

If you're all about dew-enhancing products, Dr. Fahs would like to introduce you to Supergoop's Glow Stick SPF 50 . This fragrance-free formula is totally transparent and boosts radiance with a blend of moisturizing pracaxi, tamanu, and buriti oils.

Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

Sensitive skin types will love Cetaphil's Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 for its gentle formula that's free of fragrances, parabens, and chemical filters including avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate. This lightweight sunscreen leaves behind a transparent veil of broad-spectrum SPF that protects skin from UVA and UVB rays. On top of sun protection, this sunblock provides moisture retention and free radical-damage prevention from antioxidant vitamin E .

Dr. Fahs says that she enjoys this sunscreen just as much as her children do — quick application with minimal fuss from the little ones? "A total win for a mom," she says.

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Roll-On Lotion

Sun Bum's Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Roll-On Lotion just makes application (and reapplication, because you still need to do that) way easier, thanks to its rollerball head that evenly distributes the formula. Speaking of the formula, this mineral-based sunscreen is infused with vitamin E to provide free radical protection and moisture retention.

Coola Classic Sunscreen Stick SPF 30

Coola's Classic Sunscreen Stick SPF 30 may smell like a tropical vacation, but that's not the only reason why we love this coconut-scented sunscreen stick. This water-resistant formula is based on chemical sunscreen filters and contains an antioxidant-rich blend of prickly pear extract, red raspberry seed, buriti, and meadowfoam seed oils to assist in moisturizing and fighting against skin-damaging free radicals.

CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

Dry skin types should try gliding on the CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50. This oil-free formula contains hydrating hyaluronic acid and three different types of moisturizing ceramides to condition and soften skin on your face and body.

By Audrey Noble

By Sarah Han

We Found the Best Travel-Size Sunscreen Products That Are Perfect for Your Honeymoon Carry-On

• Lauren writes and edits articles for The Knot Worldwide, with a specialty in fashion, beauty and size inclusivity.
• Prior to The Knot Worldwide, Lauren worked in wedding editorial for Brides, Style Me Pretty and Enaura Bridal.
• Lauren studied public relations and advertising at the University of Central Florida.

Hey bestie, is travel-size sunscreen on your honeymoon packing list ? If not, it definitely needs to be, like ASAP. Daily sun protection is important (traveling or not.) However, with carry-on luggage restrictions, it can be challenging to find the perfect sunscreen for travel that meets TSA guidelines and takes care of your gorgeous skin. But don't worry, there's no gatekeeping here at The Knot. Whether you're planning an island getaway in Cozmul or looking for a bit of adventure in Europe , we've curated the perfect list of travel-size sunscreens. Keep scrolling for a breakdown of the best travel-size face sunscreen products to pack on your upcoming trip.

In this article:

• Your TSA Guide to Traveling with Sunscreen

The Best Travel-Size Sunscreens Perfect for Your Carry-On

How to choose travel sunscreen by destination, the tl;dr on tsa liquid limits.

Traveling with sunscreen and other liquids can be confusing. Luckily, we consulted with our besties at TSA, so you don't have to.

Can you travel with full-size sunscreen?

Yes, you can travel with full-size sunscreen. However, due to unforch TSA rules, it will need to be added to checked baggage if it contains over 3.4 fluid ounces of liquid, aerosol or gel.

What size sunscreen can you carry on a plane?

You can carry liquids, gel and aerosol sunscreen in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces Per TSA regulations, each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of these items. For more information regarding traveling with liquids, you can view TSA's liquid packing guide here or contact your booked airline directly.

Can you travel with spray sunscreen?

Yes, you can travel with spray sunscreen on a plane. A cap must cover travel sunscreen sprays with an aerosol nozzle to prevent accidental release.

Take note: travel-sized sunscreen spray for the face is pretty easy to find at your local Target , Sephora or Ulta . However, most spray sunscreen for the body comes in full size, which is above TSA's carry-on regulations. So this may have to be an item that needs to be packed in your checked luggage or purchased at your destination.

Does stick sunscreen count as liquid?

Stick sunscreen does not count as a liquid and is allowed in your carry-on bag with no size limitation; it also does not need to be packed in your quart-sized liquid bag (love that for us.)

So now that you know the rules, it's time to play by them. We don't gatekeep at The Knot, so here's a round-up of some of the best travel-size sunscreens for your upcoming honeymoon, bachelorette weekend or destination wedding.

1. Best Overall: Supergoop! Mini Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

Supergoop's infamous Unseen Sunscreen has over 2,000 five-star reviews on Sephora for a reason. This travel-size sunscreen has a gel-like formulation that dries completely clear and pairs perfectly with all complexions and skin types. So wherever your honeymoon plans take you to Aspen or Key Largo , this travel sunscreen has glycerin to keep you hydrated for winter weather and soothing aloe lotion for warmer temps.

SPF: 40 | Size: 0.68 fl oz | Form: Liquid | Type: Chemical | Scent: No

Highlights: Oil-Free Cruelty-Free, Vegan, Reef-Safe, Sulfate-Free, Paraben-Free Non-Comedogenic, Free of Synthetic Colors

2. Best for Acne-Prone Skin: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 46

EltaMD is considered one of the G.O.A.T.s of sunscreen thanks to its ability to calm and protect acne-prone skin. Infused with key ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and lactic acid, this travel-size face sunscreen has a lightweight and silky formula that can be worn with makeup or alone. One reviewer even said, "This is my favorite sunscreen for my face. It's not heavy or sticky, and it actually gives you a nice glow under or over makeup." (P.S. You can also opt for the tinted version if you prefer.)

SPF: 46 | Size: 1.7 fl oz | Form: Lotion | Type: Chemical | Scent: No

Highlights: Vegan, Paraben-Free, Cruelty-Free, Non-comedogenic

3. Best for Sensitive Skin: Beekman1802 Mini Milk Primer SPF 35 3-in-1 Daily Defense Sunscreen & Makeup Perfecter

If you're new to Beekman 1802, they are an LGBTQ+-owned skincare company that nourishes skin with goat milk skincare products that are game-changing, and their milk primer is no exception. This travel-size mineral face sunscreen has a 3-in-1 formula that also acts as a moisturizer and makeup primer. And it gets better. This milk primer is made for everyone ; it's pregnancy safe, completely oxybenzone-free, won't damage coral reefs, won't irritate sensitive skin and is made with recyclable packaging. It's an immediate add-to-cart for me.

SPF: 35 | Size: 0.5 fl oz | Form: Lotion | Type: Mineral | Scent: No

Highlights: Oxybenzone-Free, Reef-Safe, Pregnancy Safe, Cruelty-Free, Sustainable Packaging, Oil-Free

4. Best SPF Foundation: Dior Dreamskin Fresh & Perfect Cushion

Even if you're not spending your honeymoon on the beach, you 100% still need to wear sunscreen. So why not make packing lighter with this Dior foundation-SPF hybrid? Not only does their luxurious Dreamskin Fresh & Perfect Cushion offer sun protection and hydration, but it also blurs pores, reduces minor redness, and reduces shine for a flawless "it girl" finish.

SPF: 50 | Size: 0.5 fl oz | Form: Lightweight Serum | Type: Chemical | Scent: Yes

Highlights: Refillable Packaging, Sulfate-Free, Paraben-Free, Phthalate-Free

5. Best for Oily Skin: Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield Powder SPF 50

Not a fan of putting liquid or stick travel sunscreens over makeup? Say hello to the iconic Colorescience award-winning mineral sunscreen brush, which allows you to easily stay protected all day long. Embrace the convenience of a powder that will easily pass through TSA and be applied over makeup for a quick touchup while you take a romantic stroll through the French Riviera with your new spouse.

SPF: 50 | Size: 6 g | Form: Powder | Type: Mineral | Scent: No

Highlights: Chemical-Free, Reef-Safe, Cruelty-Free, Water Resistant

6. Best for Dark Skin: Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

The TikTok viral Black Girl Sunscreen is a multitasking beauty that can be applied to both the face and the body. It has thousands of five-star ratings across multiple sites, with one reviewer saying, "I adore everything about this sunscreen—it nourishes my skin, feels silky smooth after application, leaves no white cast, is reef-friendly, and is from a beautiful business owned by women of color!"

Tip: This product currently comes in a size that would have to go into a checked bag; if you are only bringing your carry-on, simply snag this travel bottle set from Target that includes eight TSA-approved small containers to store your sunscreen for travel.

SPF: 30 | Size: 3 fl oz | Form: Liquid | Type: Mineral | Scent: No

Highlights: Paraben-Free, Oxybenzone-Free, Octinoxate-Free, Silicone-Free, Aluminum-Free, Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Water Resistant

7. Best for Dry Skin: Supergoop! Mini Glowscreen Sunscreen SPF 40 with Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide

Get your glow on with Supergoop! Glowscreen that protects skin with a subtle illuminating effect (Psst: It's my personal favorite sunscreen for travel as The Knot's resident beauty editor.) Enjoy the effortless application that blends seamlessly into the skin before hitting the pool. Bonus: You can wear it on its own or as a hydrating, makeup-gripping primer.

SPF: 40 | Size: 0.68 fl oz | Form: Lotion | Type: Chemical | Scent: Yes

Highlights: Cruelty-Free and Gluten-Free

8. Best SPF for the Beach: Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

If you're ready for your hot newlywed summer on the beach , then this Shiseido sunscreen stick needs to be added to your tote ASAP. Thanks to its no-fuss stick application, the greasy-free formula just simply needs to be swiped on for instant protection (with no white cast, might I add.) Not to mention it's totally water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you can totally hit the waves without worry.

SPF: 50 | Size: 0.7 fl oz | Form: Stick | Type: Mineral | Scent: Yes

Highlights: : Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Gluten-Free, Recyclable Packaging, Paraben-Free, Phthalate-Free, Oxybenzone-Free, Sulfate-Free.

9. Best Travel-Size Sunscreen Spray: COOLA Travel-Size Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Spray SPF 50

If you love a quick sunscreen application like me, then this travel sunscreen spray from COOLA is a must-pack for your honeymoon or beachside bachelorette party. The lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-aerosol spray is made with over 70% certified organic ingredients and has 80-minute water resistance. Oh, and the mango-guava scent is like paradise.

SPF: 50 | Size: 2 fl oz | Form: Spray | Type: Chemical | Scent: Yes

Highlights: Vegan, Gluten Free, Cruelty-Free, Hawaii Reef Compliant (Act 104)

10. Best Affordable Travel Sunscreen: Sun Bum Sunscreen Face Stick SPF 30

Are you ready for a travel-size sunblock that's under $15? Look no further than Sun Bum, who's coming in clutch with their budget-friendly SPF 30 sunscreen stick. The stick formula is made with Vitamin E to neutralize free radicals and aloe lotion to help calm and soothe the skin. Plus, the rollerball application makes it quick and easy when you just need a quick swipe of sunscreen across your face.

SPF: 30 | Size: 0.53 oz | Form: Stick | Type: Chemical | Scent: No

Highlights: Dye-Free, Phthalate-Free, Vegan, Sulfate-Free, Aluminum-Free, Gluten-Free, Oxybenzone-Free, Paraben-Free, Propylparaben-Free, Oil-Free, Cruelty-Free, Water-Resistant, Non-Comedogenic, Hawaii Act 104 Reef Compliant

11. Best Sunscreen Skin Tint: ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation

Sometimes you may need a little extra boost of coverage with your SPF for that I-just-woke-up-like-this glow. Enter ILIA skin tint. This clean beauty formula, available in 30 diverse shades, does so much more than just protect your skin from harmful rays with mineral SPF 40; it is also packed with skin-loving ingredients like squalane, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to hydrate, protect and improve the appearance of pores, blemishes, redness, and wrinkles.

SPF: 40 | Size: 1 fl oz | Form: Liquid | Type: Mineral | Scent: No

Highlights: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Cruelty-Free, Recyclable Packaging, Non-comedogenic, Silicone-Free

12. Best SPF Lip Product: Naked Sundays SPF 50 Glow and Go Lip Oil

We know that SPF is important for our face and body, but did you know that you need it on the lips too? Pucker up with Naked Sundays, which has your pout covered (literally) with SPF 50. With its hydrating formula, three gorgeous shades, and TSA-approved size, just throw it in your honeymoon carry-on, and you'll be good to go.

SPF: 50 | Size: 6 g | Form: Oil | Type: Mineral | Scent: Yes

Highlights: Cruelty-Free, Vegan, Reef-Safe, Sulfate-Free, Paraben-Free Non-Comedogenic, Free of synthetic colors

Ok, we just gave you a list of awesome shoppable options, and while all of these SPF choices are sun-worthy, your honeymoon destination can help you narrow down your decision. Like, what is the best sunscreen for the beach? What about colder climates? Let's quickly chat about the UV index, altitude and destination regulations you may want to consider when choosing your travel-size sunscreen.

SPF Levels: UV Index and Altitude

Just because your honeymoon is in the Swiss Alps doesn't mean you are exempt from needing sunscreen. In fact, elevation levels can drastically affect the amount of UV you are exposed to. In fact, according to Reuters, for every 1,000 feet of altitude, you gain around 10% more UV exposure. That means you have more exposure in the mountains than on the beach!

There's also the UV Index, which provides a daily forecast of the expected risk of overexposure to the sun. The index predicts UV intensity levels on a scale of 1 to 11+, where 1 indicates a minimal risk of overexposure and 11+ means a very high risk. You can use your weather app or simply Google the city name and UV index today.

Regardless of where you spend your honeymoon days, it's recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology that everyone apply a broad-spectrum protection of SPF 30 or higher around 15 minutes before going outside. Sunscreen should be reapplied to the face and body approximately every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.

Beach Benefits: Waterproof & Reef-Safe

Waterproof Sunscreen. If you plan on going for a dip in the pool or a morning run on the beach, your travel sunscreen must be sweat- and water-resistant. This means that it's designed to stay on your skin for anywhere from 40 to 80 minutes, even when you're sweating or swimming. Be sure to reapply water-resistant sunscreen after this time period or immediately after swimming or sweating.

Reef-Safe Sunscreen. Reef-safe sunscreens are products that do not use UV-blocking oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are known to cause coral bleaching. When coral turns white, it causes severe stress and makes it susceptible to disease or death. The terms "reef-friendly" and "reef-safe are not currently regulated as of 2023, so be sure to check the ingredient label on the back of your travel-size sunscreen.

In the United States, Hawaii and the city of Key West, Florida , have banned the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. There has been a ban on sunscreens containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene in the U.S. Virgin Islands as of March 2020. Then there's Australia , which has some of the strictest sunscreen regulations in the world, where products must undergo extensive testing before being placed on shelves.

Mineral vs. Chemical. The key difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens is that mineral sunscreen sits on top of the skin and blocks rays at the surface using ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, while chemical sunscreens absorb rays like a sponge using ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, or octinoxate.

Mineral sunscreens tend to be better suited for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin and are better trusted when it comes to concerns about reef safety. However, the formulas can be thick and potentially leave a white cast on those with darker skin tones. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, are lighter and less likely to leave an annoying white cast, but they can have ingredients that can irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Sunscreen Stick vs. Spray vs. Lotion: Does It Matter?

All sunscreen forms can provide great protection and coverage. It's all about personal preference and proper application. Spray sunscreen is easy to apply, but it can also easily end up being picked up by the wind as opposed to landing on your skin. Lotions and sticks, on the other hand, provide direct contact and are more likely to provide a thick layer of protection and stay on through a long day of sweating in the sun. So, if you're looking for a quickie, the spray is the way to go, but for maximal protection, a sunscreen stick or lotion is your best bet.

11 Reef-Safe Sunscreens That Are Great for Your Skin and the Planet

Here’s everything you need to know about this earth-friendly SPF. 🌍

If you buy something from the links on this page, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

What is reef-safe sunscreen? Simply put, it’s a mineral sunscreen that uses specific ingredients — namely zinc oxide and titanium dioxide — to protect skin from UV rays. These mineral ingredients physically block UVA and UVB rays from entering the skin (which is why mineral sunscreen is also referred to as physical sunscreen). They’re considered reef-safe or coral-safe because these ingredients don’t damage coral reefs, and aren’t found to be harmful to marine life.

In particular, reef-safe sunscreen uses “non-nano” or non-nanoparticle-sized zinc or titanium, as studies have found nanoparticles to have toxic effects on aquatic organisms .

Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, use ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate to provide sun protection. These work by absorbing UV rays and turning them into heat that’s then dissipated from the skin. Unlike mineral sunscreens, however, the ingredients in chemical sunscreens do leach into marine environments, have been linked to reef degradation, and are found to have a negative impact on sea life and the ecosystem. Resources like the National Ocean Service and Save the Reef include many others in their HEL List of harmful and/or controversial ingredients, so check your labels before you apply your go-to sunblock.

The Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens

• Best Overall: Kōkua Sun Care Reef Safe Natural Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50
• TSA-Friendly: Reef Repair Reef-Safe Sunscreen SPF 30
• Highly Rated: Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Mineral Lotion SPF 50
• Best for Activities: Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
• Best Under Makeup: Suntegrity Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen and Primer Broad Spectrum SPF 30
• Best Organic: MANDA Organic Sun Creme SPF 50
• Best Mattifying: COOLA Mineral Face Sunscreen Sheer Matte SPF 30
• Best for Blue Light: Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Alba Botanica Sport Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45
• Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Banish The Defender Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

How We Chose

Luckily, reef-safe sunscreens are becoming much more widely available, so it’s easier than ever to make this environmentally conscious swap. We've made sure that all of the following sunscreens in this guide leave out oxybenzone, octinoxate, and more, so you can enjoy your fun in the sun without worrying about Mother Earth. These sunscreens also have an SPF of at least 30, which is the minimum recommended number by the Skin Cancer Foundation .

One of our writers, Jennifer Hussein , also tested several of the sunscreens that we’re recommending here to give you first-hand feedback on their application and wear. In addition, each of these sunscreens has tons of positive reviews on Amazon and Sephora.

It’s also good to note that there are already several coastal travel destinations that have strictly enforced bans on chemical sunscreen . So if you’re planning to visit Hawaii, Key West, Palau, Los Cabos, Rivera Maya, Aruba, Bonaire, or the U.S. Virgin Islands anytime soon, it’s important to have a reef-safe sunscreen option on hand. We put together a list of our faves to give you the best — and most universally accepted — options.

Looking for more sunscreens? Check out our guides on powder sunscreen , spray sunscreen , mineral sunscreen , sunscreen for dark skin , kids sunscreen , baby sunscreen , face sunscreen , and tinted sunscreens .

Kōkua Sun Care Reef Safe Natural Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50

Key Features

• Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide, 25%
• Protection: SPF 50, UVA, UVB
• Texture: Light lotion
• Extras: Organic noni juice, noni honey, plumeria extract, spirulina, kukui nut oil, KonaRed Hawaiian coffee fruit extract, macadamia nut oil

Kōkua's Natural Zinc Sunscreen is the pick for those who absolutely want a lightweight, non-greasy SPF, with zero compromises on protection.

Boasting the highest percentage of non-nano zinc oxide on the market, it also comes with an impressive roster of Hawaiian antioxidants. It goes on clear, has an irresistible, light coconut-vanilla scent, meets all worldwide sunscreen regulations, and is safe enough for kids, too. The only downside is we didn't discover it early enough!

More: The Absolute Best Sunscreens in Every Type

Reef Repair Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF 30

• Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide, 20%
• Protection: SPF 30+, UVA, UVB, PA+++
• Texture: Cream
• Extras: Red raspberry seed oil, coconut oil

This cheery, wholesome, reef-safe sunscreen from Reef Repair will safely keep skin protected for up to 80 minutes when used in water.

Infused with natural ingredients like red raspberry seed and coconut oil, it includes an extra dose of natural fragrance and sun protection that will have you swearing off all other sunscreens. And at 50 milliliters in size, it's completely TSA-compliant for your carry-ons.

Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Mineral Lotion SPF 50

• Active Ingredient: Titanium dioxide, 4%; zinc oxide, 4%
• Texture: Lotion
• Extras: Kakadu plum, eucalyptus, red algae

This botanical-forward formula is pretty much the holy grail, with upwards of 17,000 Amazon 5-star reviewers. Hypoallergenic as well as dermatologist- and pediatrician-tested, its lightly tinted formula is able to absorb readily into skin and improve nourishment via a slew of soothing, Australian-sourced antioxidants.

The main draw of this sunscreen is its longevity. The non-greasy formula almost feels powdery as it dries, and it doesn't irritate sensitive skin, either.

Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+

• Protection: SPF 50+, UVA, UVB
• Texture: Light cream
• Extras: Aloe vera, sunflower oil, jojoba oil, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, olive oil, raspberry seed oil, cranberry seed oil, hyaluronic acid

Ready to work up a sweat? Then, this reef-safe sunscreen from Thinksport has you covered. Whether your sport of choice is swimming, running, surfing, or just going buns-out by the beach, this SPF 50 sunscreen will keep your skin guarded against harmful rays without polluting our oceans and coral reefs.

This mineral-based formula features amazing antioxidants and hydrators, and it's also water- and sweat-resistant for up to a full 80 minutes. Its formula is lightweight and glides right on like your favorite lotion. Plus, its bargain-friendly price tag makes it hard to pass up.

Suntegrity Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen and Primer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

• Protection: SPF 30, UVA, UVB
• Texture: Moisturizing cream
• Extras: Hyaluronic acid, astaxanthin, red algae; certified organic aloe vera, jojoba, sunflower, pomegranate, cucumber, and green tea

Rich but non-greasy ... never the 'twain shall meet? Think again. This moisturizer-sunscreen-primer (yup!) hybrid is a skincare minimalist's dream: A few dots on the face gives you ample sun protection, while also pampering skin with youth-promoting antioxidants.

It's a vegan formula that gets skin smooth and even-toned prior to applying makeup. Couple that with the redness-reducing properties of its 20% zinc oxide formula, and you've found your next best multitasker.

MANDA Organic Sun Creme SPF 50

• Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide, 23%
• Extras: Thanaka powder; organic coconut oil, almond oil, cocoa butter, beeswax, shea butter, cacao powder, and cinnamon oil

This sunscreen is made with 100% natural ingredients. That's right: Everything on their inactives list is pronounceable, recognizable, and earth-sourced.

This safe and gentle cream — in addition to smelling divine and being chock-full of certified organic good stuff — is great for kids and completely nontoxic.

Its special sauce lies in thanaka powder (Burmese sandalwood), a ground bark that's high in antioxidants and touts amazing anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-acne, and regenerative benefits.

Coola Organic Mineral Sheer Matte Sunscreen SPF 30

• Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide, 10.5%
• Texture: Sheer matte cream
• Extras: Organic aloe leaf juice, raspberry seed oil, evening primrose oil, Buriti oil, and rosehip oil; safflower, meadowfoam seed oil, sunflower seed oil, castor seed oil

We love sunscreen, but we don't love the greasy feel that many of them leave behind. So, if you'd rather take the mattifying approach with your reef-safe sunscreen, this formula from COOLA should be front of mind.

It has a sheer finish that makes it perfect for a wide variety of skin tones, along with mattifying powers to give your complexion a shine-free look. The number of organic antioxidants it has for a sun protection product is pretty impressive, to boot.

Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35

• Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide, 15.2%
• Protection: SPF 35, UVA, UVB
• Extras: Sea fennel, moringa seed extract

Yes, your devices can and do damage your skin . However, the end isn't nigh: Take a gander at this hardworking (and rather chic, if we do say so ourselves) non-nano zinc sunscreen, which is a pretty formidable triple threat. It provides broad-spectrum protection against the sun, while also guarding against environmental pollution and screen pollution ... aka blue light. (Not today, iPhone. Not today. )

It comes in a tinted formula and sits at that sweet spot between matte and dewy, so you're left with a natural glow. Their no-nasty formulation also lets you rest easy: Along with being reef-safe and paraben-free, it's also vegan, dye-free, and woman-owned.

Alba Botanica Sport Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45

• Active Ingredient: Titanium dioxide, 7%; zinc oxide, 9%
• Protection: SPF 45, UVA, UVB
• Extras: Gingko Biloba leaf extract, aloe leaf juice

If your skin is rather delicate and prone to irritation, then this sunscreen has you covered (literally).

This reef-friendly formula from Alba Botanica ditches the chemicals that are harmful to both you and the planet. Plus, it's fragrance-free, and even recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation .

Banish The Defender SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen

• Active Ingredient: Titanium dioxide 7%, zinc oxide 7%, mica 3%
• Extras: Organic aloe vera leaf juice, aloe vera leaf gel, cucumber fruit extract, and shea butter; blue passionflower, avocado seed oil, jojoba seed oil, grapeseed oil, vitamin E

Founder Daisy Jing formulated The Defender during the height of the pandemic lockdown, when she needed sunscreen gentle enough for her acne-prone skin, as well as for her newborn during their daily walks.

The result is a lightweight, fragrance-free, super spreadable gem of an SPF, which boasts a non-nano mineral formula that also works great as a makeup base. You'll forget you even have it on (which, with facial sunscreens, is pretty much the goal). Plus, its organic, skin-benefiting ingredients are a godsend for blemish-prone complexions.

All Good Kid's Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

• Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide, 12%
• Extras: Organic chamomile extract, aloe leaf juice, safflower seed oil, rosehip oil, calendula, sunflower seed oil, Buriti oil, olive oil

Apart from covering the basics of offering broad-spectrum protection and 80-minute water resistance, this mineral sunscreen is also gentle enough for children and babies 6 months and older.

It's hypoallergenic, lightweight, and great for sensitive skin. It also contains good-for-you nourishers like calendula, rosehip, Buriti, and olive oils for a skin-smoothing effect that's neither greasy nor off-putting.

Jennifer is the former beauty editor for BestProducts.com, where she’s testing out everything from the latest lip gloss to the craziest skincare trend sweeping the online beauty-verse. Her work has been featured in Allure, Byrdie, HelloGiggles , and more. When she’s not swatching eyeshadow all over her arms, you can find the NYC-based editor scouring for hours on end for vintage finds, eating pad thai, and hanging out with her cat, Chunks.

Eunice Lucero-Lee is the Senior Editor, Reviews, for Best Products , Popular Mechanics , Runner’s World , and Bicycling handling lifestyle, astrology, and home content. Her obsession with beauty and pop culture keeps her on top of the latest trends and viral online finds, which can also be seen in her work spearheading the Hearst Enthusiast Group’s sales and deals content. Her editorials have been featured in publications like Cosmopolitan, Esquire, The Numinous, woman&home, and Sparkling, among many others. A former music editor, she pioneered Asia’s first-ever English-helmed K-Pop magazine and has extensive experience with celebrity profiling and red-carpet reportage. She is based in Manhattan where she watches Scandi-noir crime procedurals with her cat.

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• 13 Best Travel Size Sunscreens
• Travel Gear

If you’re planning a vacation to the beach, island, or other sunny places, don’t forget to bring sunscreen. It will prevent sunburn and protect you against other risks of sun exposure. But if you prefer to pack lightly, you can choose among the best travel size sunscreens out there.

Regardless of the packaging, travel size sunscreens provide the same benefits as their full-size versions. They’ll protect you from intense UV rays in the middle of the day, which in turn reduces the risk of premature aging, wrinkles, or even skin cancer. However, the difference is that it won’t take up much space in your luggage and there’s no risk of being confiscated at the airport.

But with so many options out there, where do you start? To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the 13 best travel size sunscreens. But before we get started, check out some of these helpful tips.

How to Choose Best Travel Size Sunscreens

Carrying large bottles of sunscreen is uncomfortable and prohibited by most airlines. This is exactly why you should opt for a travel size sunscreen. Besides, you can carry it around and re-apply it whenever needed. But since it will directly affect your skin, you should consider allergy, absorption, and side effects before picking one. Other than that, don’t forget about ease of use because you may not have time for a skincare routine during your trip. So, let’s take a look at some of the factors you should consider before choosing the best travel-size sunscreen.

Wherever you buy a travel size sunscreen, make sure it is labeled ‘broad-spectrum’. This means that the product provides protection not only against UVA rays but also UVB. The former is believed to cause premature aging and skin cancer, while the latter is a cause of sunburn.

Sun protection factor (SPF)

You’ll want a sunscreen with an SPF of more than 30. That’s because the higher the number, the more protection it offers. For example, a sunscreen with SPF 15 will only prevent sunburn but does not reduce the risk of skin cancer or premature aging. So make sure you take this into account before buying.

Ease of Reapplication

Sunscreen is easily rubbed off by water or sweat. For optimal effect, you need to reapply it every two hours. This is why you should choose a sunscreen with compact packaging. That way, it will be easy to grab and reapply at any time. However, if the size does not really matter to you, you could always opt for regular size product, such as Sea and Ski Sunscreen .

Water-Resistant

Yes, you read that right. There’s no best travel size sunscreen out there that’s waterproof or sweat-proof. The best they can do is make sure it lasts long enough when you swim or sweat. So before you buy, check this information on the back of the packaging. This way, you’ll know exactly when to reapply. Most will suggest every two hours, especially during intense activity.

Banana Boat Ultra Sport

If you’re planning to visit the hardest mountains to climb or do some other intense activity while on vacation, then you definitely need a high-performance sunscreen like Banana Boat Ultra Sport . It offers great resistance to water and sweat, for up to 80 minutes! They also use a fast-absorbing formula, so your skin won’t feel greasy at all. With SPF 50, Banana Boat Ultra Sport promises protection against UVA and UVB. You can stay active all day long, without the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, or premature aging.

What We Love

Sweat and water resistance for up to 80 minutes.

• TSA approved size
• Water and sweat resistance
• UVA and UVB protection
• No oxybenzone and octinoxate
• Cannot be refilled

Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen Lotion

Outdoor activities like camping or hiking are sure to expose your skin to the sun all day long. So make sure you wear a sunscreen with a high SPF, such as Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen Lotion . Its SPF 50 promises 98 percent protection against the most damaging UV rays. They also add moisturizers and Vitamin E to protect your skin from anti-oxidants.

This high-performance lotion is claimed to be resistant to water and sweat for up to 80 minutes. The formula used is also light, allows the skin to breathe, and doesn’t feel sticky. This makes the Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen Lotion a must-have item when camping, in addition to a travel bag with a water bottle holder , trekking pole, and a lightweight rain jacket .

Additional Vitamin E and moisturizer to protect skin from anti-oxidants.

• Water and sweat-resistant
• Contains Vitamin E and moisturizer
• 98 percent protection from UV rays
• It doesn’t have a long shelf life

SumBum Original Moisturizing Sunscreen

If you’re not sure how dangerous sun exposure is, read the following facts carefully. One in five people is at risk of developing skin cancer because of it. However, you can reduce that risk by up to 80 percent using SumBum Original Moisturizing Sunscreen .

This SPF 30 lotion will protect you from 97 percent of UV rays. It’s also free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it safe for coral reefs. You can take care of your skin without worrying about potentially damaging the environment.

SumBum Original Moisturizing is also perfect for those who like outdoor activities since it’s resistant to water and sweat. But for maximum protection, you need to reapply every two hours.

The clinical formula protects from sun exposure.

• Contains moisturizer and Vitamin E
• Protects against UVA and UVB
• Oxybenzone and Octinoxate free
• Do check for allergic reaction before applying completely

Neutrona Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen Stick (CU)

Applying sunscreen can be messy sometimes. Luckily you can always pick the one that comes with a stick design. One that we recommend is the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen Stick . This lotion feels light on the skin and absorbs quickly. It comes with the Helioplex technology formula, which promises broad protection against both UVA and UVB. Unlike most sunscreens, you won’t feel the oily sensation.

Neutrogena also promises that this lotion will not clog pores, since it is PABA-free and non-comedogenic. No need to worry about applying it every two hours for maximum protection.

The stick design makes it easier to use when traveling.

• SPF 70, offers broad protection against UVA and UVB
• Practical stick design
• Non-comedogenic and PABA free
• Light on the skin and absorbs quickly
• It’s not recommended to share with others, since it’s applied directly to the skin

EltaMD UV Sports Sunscreen Lotion

EltaMD UV Sports Sunscreen Lotion is claimed to be a sunscreen that’s suitable for all skin types. That’s because this product doesn’t contain oil, fragrances, or parabens. They also use formulated zinc oxide, which is said to be safe for even the most sensitive skin.

SPF 50 makes this lotion effective against nearly all UVA and UVB, while its anti-oxidants fight free radicals and infrared radiation. All packaged in an airless pump case for extra efficacy. Among all the best sunscreens, travel size, this one is worth the money.

Formulated zinc oxide, making it safe for all skin types.

• Water resistance
• Formulated zinc oxide
• Parabens free
• Some may consider this too expensive

Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin

Using the wrong sunscreen can cause a rash or stinging sensation. So if you have sensitive skin, choose the appropriate product. One that you might want to consider is Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin . This SPF 50 lotion is labeled as broad-spectrum. It offers protection against almost all UVA and UVB. It also contains 100% zinc oxide and nourishing oats, making it gentle on sensitive skin.

Those who often have intense activities are also suitable to use this lotion. That’s because the formula has water and sweat resistance for up to 80 minutes. Among the best sunscreens in travel size out there, this one will not disappoint.

Reliable sunscreen for sensitive skin.

• SPF 50, protects from almost all UVA and UVB
• 100% zinc oxide for sensitive skin
• Resistant to water and sweat
• TSA approved packaging
• Thick and doesn’t spread easily

Beauty by Earth SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen Stick

If you’re into something organic, the Beauty by Earth SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen Stick is probably the right product for you. It claims to use a special formula that makes it safe for everyday use. They also mentioned that this sunscreen contains non-nano zinc oxide. It promises protection against UV radiation, without penetrating the body’s systems.

Most of the best travel-size sunscreens out there often leave a mark. Some even have to be scrubbed for 45 minutes before they disappear. However, Beauty by Earth claims you won’t have this problem with their product. Perfect for summer vacation!

Skin-friendly organic sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection.

• 30 SPF protection
• Stick design
• Organic skincare products
• Non-nano zinc oxide
• Some might consider this too expensive for its size

Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF 30+

When it comes to protection for the whole family, most of the best sunscreens in travel size out there aren’t safe for children. Therefore, you need to choose the appropriate product. One that we recommend is Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF30 + . This sunscreen doesn’t contain parabens, silicon, or titanium dioxide. They also use grade A non-nano zinc oxide to make mineral-based products that offer complete UV protection. It’s guaranteed safe for all ages, including children. A must-have when traveling with family!

As its name implies, Reef Safe Sunscreen is also environmentally friendly. You won’t find oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other substances that are harmful to coral reefs in it.

Sunscreen that’s safe for children and environmentally friendly.

• Safe for children and the environment
• Doesn’t leave white stains
• Natural formula
• Some may find it too thick

Alba Botanica Soothing Sunscreen

Sensitive skin requires a special formula and that’s why Alba Botanica Soothing Sunscreen comes with 100% natural ingredients. It doesn’t contain parabens, gluten, oxybenzone, or octinoxate. Apart from protecting against UVA and UVB, this SPF 45 lotion also contains green tea and vitamin E. Both are powerful anti-oxidants and nourish the skin. It smells nice and light, thanks to pure lavender.

Alba Botanica is a brand that really cares about protecting the environment. That’s why you’ll see the Leaping Rabbit symbol on this product, which indicates it’s made without animal testing or violence. They also make sure all products are biodegradable, making them safe for coral reefs.

Comes with 100% natural ingredients, making it one of the best sunscreens out there.

• SPF 45, broad spectrum
• Water-resistant
• Biodegradable
• Contains grape seed, green tea, and Vitamin E for antioxidant protection
• Some report that it can attract bees

CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen

CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen is a mineral-based product that offers 100% UV protection. It should reflect both UVA and UVB easily. They also use an essential ceramide formula to ‘lock-in’ moisture and protect the skin layers.

Those with allergies don’t need to worry, because CeraVe has tested this product thoroughly. They use non-comedogenic ingredients to reduce the risk of irritation, especially in children. Furthermore, its also free of oxybenzone, oil, parabens, and fragrances, which makes it safe for reefs.

Essential ceramides keep skin moisturized throughout the day.

• Broad-spectrum UV protection
• Essential ceramides formula
• Free of parabens, oxybenzone, and oil
• Suitable for sensitive skin
• It may leave white marks on darker skin tones

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen

How many times have you used sunscreen and it left stains or marks? Well, Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen won’t let you have that problem. As the name suggests, it doesn’t leave anything behind. Completely invisible!

Rated SPF 40, this product offers total protection against UVA, UVB, blue light, and IRA. The formula feels light, suitable for all skins. Moreover, Supergoop doesn’t use additional oils or fragrance. Among all the best sunscreens in travel size out there, this is the only one advertised as ‘beard friendly’! Let’s not dwell on what that really means. The only thing we need to know is that Supergoop claims this product to be suitable for both men and women.

A special formula that promises to leave no stain.

• Does not leave stains
• Light formula
• Protects against UVA, UVB, blue light, and IRA
• Suitable for men
• A bit pricey

Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen

While protecting your skin from sun exposure is important, you need to know that many of the best travel size sunscreens out there come with harmful chemicals. Therefore, try to be more selective. Go for a product that is truly trusted, like the Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen .

This SPF 30+ lotion is claimed to not use active chemicals at all. Its zinc oxide provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB. And if you’re wondering whether this sunscreen is reef safe, it’s completely free of oxybenzone and octinoxate.

Strolling around Barcelona or Ibiza can be very hot. But you’ll surely be pleased to know that the Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen is water and sweat resistant. Just make sure to reapply every 40 minutes.

Sunscreen with zero active chemical content.

• Oxybenzone and Octinoxate free, reef-friendly
• Zero active chemical content
• Broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB
• Parabens and fragrance-free
• It’s thick and quite difficult to spread

COOLA Classic Face Sunscreen

This fragrance-free sunscreen comes with SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection. It should protect you from both UVA and UVB, while also hydrating your skin. The formula has rich anti-oxidants and feels gentle on the skin.

For those who frequently do outdoor activities or travel, COOLA Classic Face Sunscreen is the best option. It’s resistant to water and sweat for up to 80 minutes. Not only that, but the packaging is also TSA approved, making it travel-friendly. It’s safe to say that this is our best sunscreen, travel size.

Fragrance-free and feels gentle on the skin

• Organic sunscreen
• SPF 50 broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB
• Fragrance-free
• Some of you may find it greasy

Author:  Craig Connors

As a travel enthusiast and experienced adventurer, I have spent years exploring the world and discovering hidden gems in every corner of the globe. From backpacking through Europe to trekking in the Himalayas, I have chased my passion for travel and embraced every opportunity to learn about different cultures and ways of life. Now, as a travel writer and website author, I channel my love of exploration into creating informative and inspiring content for fellow travelers. Whether you're planning a solo trip to a remote destination or seeking family-friendly activities in a bustling city, I am dedicated to providing you with the tools and knowledge you need to make the most of your journey. With a keen eye for detail and a love of storytelling, I bring each destination to life through vivid descriptions and engaging narratives, highlighting the unique experiences and attractions that make each place so special. So join me on this journey of discovery, and let's explore the world together!

The Best Face Sunscreens, Tested & Reviewed By Our Editors

By Meaghan Kenny

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The most important step in every skincare routine: face sunscreen. Wearing and reapplying a daily sunscreen can help protect your skin from sun damage and prevent premature aging. Whether you're headed out for a day swimming at the beach or dodging puddles in the rain , sun exposure of any kind can be damaging, so finding a solid sunscreen routine is crucial. As important as wearing a facial sunscreen is, the greasy feeling, clogged pores, and oily shine some leave behind can make you want to skip that step altogether. That’s why it’s important to find a product you actually want to wear every day.

To help you discover your new favorite face SPF, our editors tested dozens of top-selling sunscreens on the market, wearing them on planes, to the park, the beach, the gym, and everywhere in between to see which performed the best. We tested a mix of both chemical and mineral sunscreens, as well as varying formulas—from invisible gels and sticks to tinted moisturizers. We also consulted an expert dermatologist to help guide our search, keeping key ingredients and SPF protection levels in mind. And we made sure to find options for every skin type—whether your skin is more dry, oily, sensitive, or requires a mineral formula, we've got you covered. Below, the 11 best face sunscreens to throw in your Dopp kit or beach bag this summer and beyond.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

What should I look for in a face sunscreen?

I asked Dr. Cybele Fishman , an aesthetic and medical dermatologist, for guidance on what to look for when shopping for a new face sunscreen. “SPF only measures protection to UVB, not UVA, and UVA is a risk factor for melanoma, as well as aging of the skin,” Dr. Fishman says. “So it's important to look for a sunscreen that says broad spectrum and is above SPF 30.”

How much sunscreen should I apply?

When it comes to how much sunscreen you should be using, Dr. Fishman recommends more than you might think—about a shot glass worth, or two tablespoons, every two hours to be most effective.

Are mineral sunscreens better for you?

Dr. Fishman prefers a mineral sunscreen for all skin types: “No one is allergic to zinc and titanium—they are inert. Oxybenzone is a common cause of contact allergy and is bad for coral reefs. Plus, mineral sunscreen blocks both UVA and UBV,” she says. But if your favorite sunscreen is made with chemical ingredients, don't worry: “The best sunscreen is the one you will actually use,” Dr. Fishman says. “So for me, the important thing is that you find something you like that has broad spectrum coverage (UVA and UVB) and is above SPF 30.”

More sun care recommendations:

Don't forget to put sunscreen on any exposed skin (face, neck, and hands) when you're in a car. Dr. Fishman warns that UVA gets through windows, meaning you need sun protection whether you're in the passenger seat on a cross-country road trip or driving to the grocery store.

Our top picks:

• Best everyday face sunscreen: Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen
• Best tinted sunscreen: Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Field Flex
• Best mineral sunscreen: Supergoop Mineral Unseen Sunscreen
• Best sunscreen stick: Mustela Mineral Sunscreen Stick
• Best sporty sunscreen: Kinfield Daily Dew

Tested by : Meaghan Kenny , associate commerce editor

Type of protection : Chemical

Strength : Broad spectrum SPF 40

Stand-out features : Completely invisible, feels weightless, and performs well for all skin types and tones

Why we recommend it: Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen is a long-time cult favorite among Condé Nast Traveler editors . It lives up to its name, going on as a completely invisible, smooth gel, no matter your skin tone. Designed for all skin types, this Supergoop classic works for anyone looking for a new daily sunscreen, and is both reef-safe and oil-free. It feels similar to a makeup primer on your skin and provides waterproof SFP 40 coverage. I've tested out dozens of face sunscreens over the years, and while there's lots of great ones on the market, I always come back to this reliable old friend. Bonus: It layers well underneath makeup, too.

Tested by : Megan Spurrell , senior editor

Type of protection : Mineral

Strength : Broad spectrum SPF 50

Stand-out features : Tone-adapting color coverage, protects against blue light and pollution, oil-free

Why we recommend it : You might have seen one of the several viral TikTok videos about the somewhat magical color-changing abilities of Colorescience's Sunforgettable mineral sunscreen. We decided to put it to the test ourselves and see what all the hype was about. At first, Traveler's senior editor, Megan Spurrel l, was a little skeptical of how liquidy the formula is (you need to pour it into the center of our hand as opposed to onto a fingertip.) She was pleasantly surprised, though, noting that this makes it easy to blend in and soak into the skin smoothly. “The color-changing feature, though, is sort of miraculous. It appears speckled white in my hand, but changes to my skin tone once on my face. There's no white cast, but subtle coverage, and my skin feels hydrated without being greasy. It's kind of amazing,” says Spurrell. It layers well under makeup, but it shines all on its own, making it a great face makeup replacement if a tinted moisturizer is more your thing. It's available in four shades—fair, medium, tan, and deep—which may not sound like an impressive range, but given its ability to perfectly adapt to your skin tone, it works for everyone.

Tested by : Mercedes Bleth , global associate director of social

Strength : SPF 40

Stand-out features : Leaves no white cast, feels so lightweight, and blends in effortlessly

Why we recommend it: If you're on team mineral sunscreen, you may have envied your friends who have been wearing and swearing by Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen for years—Mercedes Bleth, our global associate director of social, sure did. At last, her prayers have been answered. The SPF brand recently launched a 100 percent mineral version of its best-selling chemical formula. The texture is a little different than the original Unseen, which is a gel. The mineral version is more like a mousse (and has a very similar texture to Supergoop's Mineral Mattescreen ). With a velvety smooth texture, it blends in effortlessly (even underneath makeup) and leaves absolutely no white cast behind, a stand-out feature mineral sunscreen-wearers must see to believe. It's not one bit oily, so if "dew" is something you're looking for, you won't get it with this sunscreen. “It is truly, the perfect every day mineral sunscreen,” says Bleth.

Tested by : Hannah Towey , associate editor, transportation and travel news

Stand-out features : Gentle enough for babies and kids, can be used on the face and body, fragrance-free

Why we recommend it : If you're looking for a compact face stick to throw in a small beach bag or fanny pack, consider this small-but-mighty gem from Mustela. A sunscreen stick is great option for on-the-go travelers or busy parents—your hands stay clean and you can easily re-apply it. This has become a go-to for Traveler's associate editor of transportation and travel news, Hannah Towey : “For a mineral Zinc sunscreen made with 70 percent natural ingredients, this is about as sheer and lightweight as you can get. It does leave a faint white cast (hard to avoid when it comes to mineral sunscreens), but is quite easy to blend in.” We especially love that its safe to use on babies, children, and anyone with sensitive-skin, making it a packing list staple for family vacations. “If you're someone who, like me, has been wanting to make the jump from chemical to mineral sunscreens but would prefer to avoid that cakey white cast, this sheer formula makes the transition less daunting," says Towey. She even wore it while surging at Rockaway Beach this spring (its water-resistant for up to 80 minutes). Towey did note that its not a sunscreen she would layer under makeup—it’s much better suited for outdoor activities and beach days instead.

Tested by : Mercedes Bleth, global associate director of social

Strength : Broad spectrum SPF 30

Stand-out features : It smells amazing, is super hydrating, and leaves no white cast

Why we recommend it : A favorite of Bleth's for years , the Kinfield Daily Dew continues to earn a place among our top face sunscreens. If you're acne-prone, have sensitive skin, or are allergic to chemical sunscreen, this reef-safe, 100 percent mineral formula is for you. Its sweat- and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and feels a little bit thicker than your everyday sunscreen, making it an ideal choice for your most active days—swimming, surfing, or hiking. The hydrating, sport-ready sunscreen leaves your skin feeling hydrating and dewy without any streaks in sight. Oh, and it smells so so good.

Tested by : Matt Ortile , associate editor

Stand-out features : Neutralizes redness, helps reduce fine line and wrinkles, non-pilling

Why we recommend it : Here's an SPF that acts a whole lot like a moisturizer. Associate editor Matt Ortile appreciates how quickly and evenly this skincare-forward sunscreen from Dune dries down—and without feeling greasy, oily, or leaving a white cast. “The texture feels like any other great face moisturizer: lightweight and a tiny bit refreshing. Makes sense, since the bottle touts ‘72-hour hydration,'” he says. There's also a green tint to the sunscreen itself, which helps neutralize any redness on your skin. “Given its lightweight feeling and easy-to-apply consistency, this invisible gel sunscreen is great for everyday use,” says Ortile.

Tested by : Jessica Chapel , editorial assistant

Stand-out features : Packed with hyaluronic acid and Vitamin E, layers well underneath makeup, and features an easy-to-open, leakproof bottle

Why we recommend it : If you're searching for a daily sunscreen packed with key skincare ingredients for extra hydration, this might just be your new favorite. “The formula feels different from other sunscreens I’ve used, probably due to the inclusion of hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. It provides immediate moisture and takes a bit longer to dry down, but this can be a positive for anyone wanting to achieve a dewy look,” says editorial assistant Jessica Chapel . Hyaluronic acid helps leave the skin looking plump and glowy, making it a great ingredient for our friends with dry skin. La Roche Posay designed this formula with all skin types and tones in mind, all while providing SPF 50 protection. “My face was completely burn-free after spending all day in the park for one of the first warmer days in NYC of the season,” says Chapel.

Tested by : Meaghan Kenny, associate commerce editor

Type of protection : Hybrid of chemical and mineral

Stand-out features : Safe for sensitive, dry, and acne-prone skin; designed for the face and body

Why we recommend it : I've been a trusted devotee to CeraVe for years; the brand continues to win me over with its gentle everyday skincare products that keep sensitive skin top of mind (especially its Moisturizing Cream and Resurfacing Retinol Serum ). I had high hopes that its Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen would perform just as well—and it certainly didn't disappoint. Its made with a smart hybrid formula, blending both chemical and mineral sunscreen ingredients, to deliver great protection while still looking almost invisible on the skin. Its contains essential ceramides and niacinamide, meaning its treating my skin well while providing SPF 30 protection. The formula is liquidy and leaves a very slight white cast, but it blends in seamlessly and dries down pretty quick. It doesn't feel greasy and I've worn it both on its own and underneath makeup. Its water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so I'll be throwing it in my beach bag for trips down the shore all summer long. What I love most is that its designed for both the face and body. I usually don't like to use the same type of sunscreen on my face that I use on my body, as it typically will clog my pores or cause irritation, but here's my all-in-one exception to the rule.

Tested by : Rebecca Misner , senior features editor

Strength : Broad spectrum SPF 46

Stand-out features : Fragrance- and oil-free, pump dispenser, packed with niacinamide

Why we recommend it : Senior features editor Rebecca Misner raves about the EltaMD UV Clear sunscreen; its a crucial first step in her daily skincare routine rain or shine, with or without makeup. The lightweight, oil-free formula glides on easily and blends it quickly—without a white cast left behind. It has a very sheet tint—which helps even out your skin tone without covering it up and leaves a subtle glow behind. “It's sheer enough that my husband and teenage son both use it and don't feel like they're putting on makeup,” says Misner. She also likes that the 1.7-ounce bottle with a pump dispenser is great for travel—it doesn't leak and you can toss it right in your carry-on. Safe for acne-prone and sensitive skin, this EltaMD favorite contains high-purity niacinamide that helps reduce the appearance of discoloration and smooths the skin. “I notice I don't need to wear as much makeup when I use this. It’s the rare product that I find myself telling friends about!” she says.

Tested by : Hannah Towey, associate editor, transportation and travel news

Strength : Broad spectrum SPF 60

Stand-out features : Oxybenzone-free, water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, affordable price point

Why we recommend it : This weightless formula with prebiotic oat from Aveeno is moisturizing and refreshing, leaving you feeling glowy and hydrated. “It dries clear, doesn’t leave a white cast, and isn’t greasy or oily. I actually enjoy the feeling of putting it on,” says Hannah Towey. It's also oxybenzone-free, another bonus for Towey. It's water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a great choice for the beach and outdoor activities—just be sure to re-apply throughout the day. It dries clear and truly hydrates the skin, so you can layer it underneath makeup without any pilling. “I’ve tried much more expensive sunscreens and consistently find myself going back to this Aveeno lotion every summer. I have sensitive, acne-prone skin and it doesn’t make me break out,” says Towey.

Tested by : Charlie Hobbs , associate editor

Stand-out features : Hydrating, oil-free, lightweight enough for daily wear

Why we recommend it : Rounding out our list of the best face sunscreens is another favorite of ours from La Roche-Posay. This daily moisturizer is ideal for anyone with dry or acne-prone skin—which has made it a favorite of associate editor Charlie Hobbs . “I have delicate, acne-prone skin (and have been on Accutane twice!) so it's important to me that what goes on my face is gentle and moisturizing—to have a morning moisturizer that's full of SPF is just wonderful. The skincare-first sunscreen boosts lots of key ingredients: essential ceramides, niacinamide, and glycerin. Its designed to help protect and restore your skin's nature barrier, all while offering SPF 30 coverage. ”I love La Roche-Posay in part because it's always in my mother's medicine cabinet—sentimental—but it's also just plain old good and reliable," says Hobbs.

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9 Best Powder Sunscreens for Reapplication, Approved by Dermatologists

By Brigitt Earley

Chances are you’re pretty familiar with sunscreen lotions and sprays. Maybe you’ve tried alternatives like sticks or makeup products that pull double duty— primers with SPF or tinted moisturizers with SPF , for example. But what about the best powder sunscreens?

Powder sunscreens are increasingly popular because of how convenient and portable they are. Not to mention, they can be used as scalp sunscreen , since they don’t leave a greasy residue behind. But what exactly are they, and do they really work?

Powder sunscreens are sunscreens that come in, well, a powdered form. They’re typically made of finely milled minerals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Most have an attached brush that you use to apply the SPF to the skin. But keep in mind that since they’re a powder, they need to be applied copiously to be as effective and there’s the potential to miss some areas during application, says Rosanne Paul, DO , an assistant professor of dermatology at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, though she’s quick to note that the same can occur with lotions and sprays. Basically, no matter what kind of SPF you gravitate toward (as long as it’s a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30, according to the American Academy of Dermatology ) and you reapply every two hours, it’s up to you to get the job done, and to do it right.

To help you find the best powder sunscreen—the ones that meet these SPF requirements, are easy to use, and feel great on the skin—we’ve spent months researching top-rated formulas. We polled dermatologists for their favorites and tapped Glamour editors to find out what they use themselves.

The best powder sunscreens, at a glance

• Best Overall Powder Sunscreen : Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder Foundation (SPF 35) , $35
• Best Drugstore Powder Sunscreen : Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Sunscreen Brush (SPF 30) , $20
• Best Powder Sunscreen for Oily Skin : Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Sunscreen SPF 50 , $69
• Best Refillable Powder Sunscreen : Brush On Block Mineral Powder Sunscreen (SPF 30) , $20
• Best Powder Sunscreen for Sensitive Ski n : Mineral Fusion Brush-On Sun Defense (SPF 30) , $1

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best Overall Powder Sunscreen: Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder Foundation (SPF 35)

Original photo courtesy of Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley

If you avoid traditional face sunscreen because of the greasy residue and pilling caused by some formulas, Allure shopping director Shanna Shipin recommends giving this product a whirl. The cruelty-free powder comes in three shades—light, medium, and deep—as well as one translucent option that Shipin calls “supremely versatile.” None of the four options leave a white cast, and they’re all dry-skin-friendly, she says.

“There are so many ways to use this mineral powder: on your bare skin; over or under a full face of makeup ; along your hairline, ears, and even your scalp. But I think it's best for reapplication and touch-ups throughout the day,” says Shippin. It takes mere seconds to reapply, but even more importantly, you won’t need to find a mirror, get your hands dirty, or worry about ruining your makeup. “You won’t catch me, or any of my bags, without it,” says Shipin.

Size: 0.15 oz. / SPF: 35 / Active ingredients: Zinc oxide

• What we love: Comes in a variety of shades; noncomedogenic; suitable for dry skin
• What could improve: Can be hard to put the cap back on without squishing the brush

Best Powder Sunscreen for Oily Skin : Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Sunscreen (SPF 50)

Original photo courtesy of Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle

Dermatologists and editors alike seem to overwhelmingly gravitate to this brand’s powder sunscreen, because it’s lightweight and easy to use, says Melanie Palm, MD , a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon at Art of Skin MD in the San Diego area. Use it on your scalp—or the rest of your body—just as you would any other mineral sunscreen , she suggests. It’s a great sunscreen for oily skin , too, because it can help tame excess oil—almost like a dry shampoo powder does for hair.

“I like that this powder sunscreen is easy to fold back up without the bristles bunching up, thanks to the sleeve that comes up and down,” says Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle . “You do have to tap quite a few times to get enough mineral sunscreen, but I like that I can use this almost like a setting powder . It protects my skin and removes shine from my oily skin all at once.”

Size: 0.21 oz. / SPF: 50 / Active ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide

• What we love: High SPF; comes in a variety of shades
• What could improve: Expensive, especially given the size

Best Drugstore Powder Sunscreen: Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Sunscreen Brush (SPF 30)

This brush-on formula, available at your local drugstore, is a great dupe for more luxe brands that come at a much steeper price tag. It’s just as versatile, too—use it on your scalp, face, or any other part of your body where you want sun protection with a matte finish. It’s tiny enough to slip in your purse or keep in the car’s glove compartment for on-the-go application.

“It has the same nostalgic smell as the brand’s other products,” says Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley , who is drawn to this product for its silky finish. “I’m very sensitive to that chalky feeling some powdered products can leave behind. This one doesn’t give me that ick factor, because what it leaves behind is actually quite smooth,” she says.

Size: 0.15 oz. / SPF: 30 / Active ingredients: Zinc oxide

• What we love: Budget-friendly; great scent; doesn’t feel chalky What could improve: Only one shade available

Best Refillable Powder Sunscreen: Brush On Block Mineral Powder Sunscreen (SPF 30)

Keira Barr, MD , a board-certified dermatologist in Gig Harbor, Washington, recommends powders like Brush On Block, since it’s powered by zinc oxide and offers SPF 30 protection. It’s easy to apply directly to the scalp (or other areas of the skin) with the applicator brush and can even work overtime as a dry shampoo or a setting powder for makeup, she says. Powders can also help protect other areas you might not think to cover, like your eyelids and the backs of your hands, Dr. Barr adds.

Don’t just take dermatologists’ word for it, though. This powder SPF has upwards of 3,000 glowing reviews on Amazon. Users like how quickly and easily this formula goes on. Our testers pointed out another big draw: You can buy refill cartridges for the brush, so you don’t have to spring for an entirely new product each time.

Size: 0.12 oz. / SPF: 30 / Active ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide

• What we love: Refillable; easy to apply; water-resistant for 80 minutes
• What could improve: Some users say it can be hard to get enough product out at once.

By Sophia Bush

By Nuala Phillips

By Jenny McCoy

Best Powder Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin: Mineral Fusion Brush-On Sun Defense (SPF 30)

Another Amazon-favorite recommended by Dr. Barr, this translucent pick is suitable for all skin tones. It’s also 100% vegan, gluten-free, and fragrance-free, making it a top choice for all skin types, including individuals with sensitive skin .

Users say it’s weightless on skin and offers the perfect finish to a face of makeup. And if you prefer to go makeup-free? The powder has light-reflecting properties that help diffuse skin and blur any imperfections. It also contains sea kelp to help lock in moisture, making this a great powder for dry skin.

Size: 0.14 oz. / SPF: 30 / Active ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide

• What we love: Vegan and cruelty-free; suitable for dry skin
• What could improve: Only comes in one shade

Best Powder Sunscreen to Wear Over Makeup: BareMinerals Original Mineral Veil​ Set + Protect Talc-Free ​Setting Powder ​Mineral SPF 25 PA++​

BareMinerals makes a popular setting powder that contains mineral-based SPF, though Dr. Paul notes dermatologists generally recommend products with SPF 30 or higher. But if you’re already wearing sunscreen under your makeup , this can still be a great option for easy reapplication.

Users love that the brush is retractable, so it won’t get all bent out of shape while opening and closing the product. Even more importantly, the loose mineral powder contains silica to expertly mattify, blurring pores and fine lines for a smooth, natural finish.

Size: 0.18 oz. / SPF: 25 / Active ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide

• What we love: Vegan; made of recyclable plastic; blurs pores and fine lines
• What could improve: Low SPF

Best Powder Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin: Jane Iredale Powder-Me Dry Sunscreen (SPF 30)

If you want your SPF to double as a skin care product, Paul says this powder will help get the job done. “Iron oxides and titanium oxide are ingredients here, making this great product for prevention of hyperpigmentation ,” she tells Glamour. It’s also water-resistant for up to 40 minutes—a feature not many other powder sunscreens have.

Our editors like the soft brush, plus the refillable design of the product. “The price is higher than some other powder sunscreens I’ve tried, but this one also feels like more of a luxury product,” says Earley. “You can also take the brush head off for cleaning—key for everyone, but especially those with oily or acne-prone skin.”

Size: 0.17 oz. / SPF: 30 / Active ingredients: Titanium dioxide

• What we love: Refillable design; brush head comes off for cleaning; water-resistant for 40 minutes; comes in four shades
• What could improve: On the more expensive side

Best Powder Sunscreen With High SPF: ISDIN Mineral Brush Powder (SPF 50)

Another favorite of Dr. Palm, both for convenience and sun protection, thanks to a higher SPF 40. It’s suitable for those with any skin sensitivities, too, since it’s a mineral-based formula that’s free from fragrances, parabens, and talc, she says.

Our testers told us the fine powder wasn’t quite as chalky as some others in the mix. “It layers so well over makeup,” said one user. “It’s almost like a setting powder with the added benefit of sun protection.”

Size: 0.14 oz. / SPF: 50 / Active ingredients: Zinc oxide

• What we love: High SPF; suitable for sensitive skin

Best Splurge: iS Clinical PerfecTint Powder SPF 40

Pricey? You betcha, especially considering its size. But this mineral sunscreen powder does have a lot to offer. For starters, it has a higher SPF than most—40 rather than 30 or 35. It also boasts an ingredient list packed with good-for-skin ingredients. Zinc oxide blocks UVA/UVB rays, glycerin helps rejuvenate the skin barrier, lycopodium clavatum works to keep skin hydrated, imperata cylindrica root extract brightens, and hydroxyapatite combats wrinkles and photoaging.

Testers love how fine and light the powder is, plus the fact that there are four shades to choose from. The key takeaway? It’s an excellent setting powder with the added benefit of SPF protection, say wearers.

Size: 0.12 oz. / SPF: 40 / Active ingredients: Zinc oxide

• What we love: Fine and lightweight; contains tons of skin-nourishing ingredients; comes in four shades

By Kristine Thomason

By Deanna Pai

By Jake Henry Smith

By Andrea Navarro

• Beauty & Personal Care
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Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF 50 (2 Pack) - Natural, Travel Size, Water Resistant, Moisturizing, Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Coral Friendly Mineral Suncream from Reef Repair (2 x 1.7 fl.Oz)

( $5.28 / Fl Oz )

( $5.87 / Fl Oz )

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About this item.

• Revolutionary Sun Cream :: Moisturizing SPF 50 reef safe sunscreen, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes whether in the sand, sun, sea or surf. Strong broad spectrum protection from both UVA / UVB rays to help protect against sun burn and DNA damage. PA+++
• Coral Reef Safety :: Reef Repair sun cream is a (non nano) Zinc Oxide based reef safe sunscreen that is 100% Oxybenzone free, Octinoxate free & completely chemical free. Safe for marine and aquatic life including our delicate coral reefs, designed to protect!
• Ingredient Safety :: Reef Repair sunscreens are 100% Paraben free, Silicone free & Titanium Dioxide free, providing proven sun & skin safety for you and your family. Our A+ grade Zinc Oxide mineral sun-cream gives you the strongest UV protection available. Daily application is now fun and easy.
• No White Cast :: A Non Sticky, Non Oily mineral sunscreen that applies easy with almost no rubbing, spreads evenly on your skin and no white cast or ghosting effect like many other natural sun creams. Won't leave sticky or greasy feeling on your skin and does not cause excess sweating.
• Other Benefits :: Our natural reef safe sunscreen is a revolutionary layer of sun protection and moisturization for new, sensitive or damaged skin. Natural organic and reef safe formula with bonus ingredients like red raspberry seed and coconut oil for extra sun care protection.

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Product Description

Reef Repair reef safe sunscreen (2 pack) is a revolution in physical sun protection and one of the safest sun creams that you will find anywhere in the world for sensitive skin types. All Reef Repair sun care products are 100% Oxybenzone free, Octinoxate free, Silicone Free, Titanium Dioxide free and best of all made from natural ingredients for a healthier Ocean & vibrant coral reefs.

Travel Size / TSA Compliant – Guaranteed travel friendly sunscreen, just 50ml in size. Completely 100% TSA approved, can be taken with you in your carry on flight luggage.

Amazing Sun Protection – Broad spectrum UVA / UVB SPF 50 mineral suncream. Non-Nano Zinc Oxide & Red Raspberry Seed formula for the ultimate in natural sun-care & sun safety PA+++.

Coral Reef Safe - Hawaii, Mexico, Maldives, Belize, Florida and The Great Barrier Reef all require reef safe sun-cream when scuba diving, swimming or snorkeling. Reef Repair SPF 50 mineral sunscreen is completely reef safe and will not let you down!

Family Safe - Keep your family safe from sun burn and skin damage with our 100% family safe sun cream. No harmful chemicals, parabens, dyes, dioxins or silicone. Just truly natural sun protection for you and your loved ones.

Non Oily Formula - Reef Repair is a non-greasy, non-oily reef safe sunscreen that won't separate or leave your skin feeling oily.

No White Cast - Will not paint your skin white or leave you with an un-natural ghostly white cast. Completely transparent when applied correctly.

Water Resistant - 80 minutes of water-resistant sun protection. 100% Ocean friendly mineral sunscreen formula.

Moisturizing - Throw away your other moisturizers and use a natural, moisturizing, daily use reef safe sunscreen to help protect your skin from premature aging, wrinkles and DNA damage.

Join the sun care revolution today with Reef Repair coral friendly skin-care products!

Product details

• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 2.17 x 2.17 x 5.12 inches; 5.29 ounces
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ rr-cream-50-spf50
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Alive 2 Dive
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0995CN5JL
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ Thailand
• #193 in Sunscreens

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Important information

Safety information.

For external use only. Do not use on damaged or broken skin. Avoid contact with the eyes. If contact occurs rinse with clean water. Stop use and ask a doctor if rash or irritation develops. For children aged 6 months and below, please consult your doctor before use. May contain traces of nuts.

Ingredients

Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 25% (Non Nano) Other Ingredients: Aqua, Cocos nucifera (Coconut oil), Persea gratissima (Avocado oil), Cetearyl alcohol / Polysorbate 60 (Vegetable emulsifying wax NF),Butyrospernum parkii (Shea butter), Rubus idaeus (Red Raspberry seed oil), Glyceryl Oleate Citrate & Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Cera alba (Beeswax), Ethylhexylglycerin & Propanediol, Polyhydroxystearic acid, Sodium Gluconate, Cocos nucifera (Coconut essential oil), Vanilla plantifolia (Vanilla essential oil)

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WEATHER ALERT

A warning, 2 watches and 4 advisories in effect for 21 regions in the area

Entertainment, 5 family friendly travel destinations in texas to visit this spring, a mom’s guide to exploring the outdoors in the lone star state.

Krisna Menier , Membership Director

HOUSTON – Hey there, fellow adventurers! As winter fades away and the flowers begin to bloom, spring in Texas is the perfect time for families to venture out and explore. As a mom on a mission to ensure maximum fun during our travels, here’s my round-up of the coolest spring nature destinations in the Lone Star State.

Santa Ana National Refuge

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Lush trails, chasing after colorful birds, and crossing a tree bridge for the ultimate bird’s eye view awaits you at the Santa Ana National Refuge ! It’s like stepping into a real-life nature documentary, and trust me, your little adventurers will be buzzing with excitement.

• Distance from Houston: 5 hours
• Admission: Daily passes are $5 per vehicle and yearly passes are $10 per vehicle. The first Sunday of every month is FREE!

Llano River State Park

Who’s up for a splash-tastic adventure? Head on over to the Llano River , where the water’s cool and the vibes are even cooler! Head to the visitor center and pick your kids up a FREE junior ranger explorer pack, packed with goodies to conquer the great outdoors. From floating down the river to casting a line for the catch of the day, there’s no shortage of fun to be had.

• Admission: Adults are $5 daily. Children 12 years and under are free. Camping is between $10 - $20.

Rockport Beach

Rockport Beach is your ticket to sun-soaked bliss and sandy shenanigans. Managed by Blue Wave Beaches, this slice of paradise boasts squeaky-clean sands and low tide waters for every swimmer to enjoy.

• Distance from Houston: 3 hours
• Admission: $10 daily or $40 annual vehicle parking fee.

Comal River

Grab your tubes , slap on some sunscreen, and prepare for a tubing adventure like no other. With gentle currents and heart-pounding tube chutes, it’s the perfect blend of chill vibes and adrenaline rushes. The Comal River is known for its shorter float and calmer waters making it perfect for families.

• Admission: Expect to spend $15-22 per person, including shuttle, tube rental, and parking fees.

RELATED: Play in New Braunfels: Grab your inner tube, sunblock and beach towels!

Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center

Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center is a haven of adventure and tranquility. Surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery, you are transported to a world where time slows down and nature takes center stage. Through hands-on activities like nature walks, guided photography grotto hikes and star gazing , there is something for everyone to relax and enjoy the serenity of the environment.

• Admission: Varies based on tours between $5 - $50.

So, grab your crew, pack your sense of adventure (and some sunscreen), and get ready to make memories that’ll last a lifetime. When it comes to family fun in Texas, the sky’s the limit!

Have other spots your family loves to visit in the spring in Texas? Share your favorites in the comments section below!

Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Krisna menier.

THE 10 BEST Motels near Quest Room, Stavropol

Motels near quest room, property types, distance from, traveler rating, hotel class.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
• Distance from Quest Room See properties located closest to the place of interest first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners.

Cost of living and prices in Stavropol, prices of food, rent, shopping, etc. 🇷🇺 Updated Jul 2023

Discover the cost of living in Stavropol, Russia's city located in Eastern Europe. With a population of over 433,000 people, this city offers a unique blend of history and modernity, making it an attractive destination for expats.

The city's location at an elevation of 575 meters above sea level offers a comfortable climate with hot summers and mild winters. Stavropol is the administrative center of the Stavropol Krai region and operates on the Europe/Moscow time zone, GMT: 3.0. The city's convenient location offers easy access to nearby attractions like the Caucasian Mineral Waters, making it an ideal location for those looking for a high-quality of life without breaking the bank.

If you're considering moving to Stavropol, Russia, understanding the cost of living in this beautiful city is essential. The city offers affordable housing, utilities, and transportation costs, making it an ideal destination for both students and families. With an average monthly salary of $400, expats can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without sacrificing quality.

If you're looking for a culturally rich and affordable destination, Stavropol should be at the top of your list. Discover all the city has to offer by planning your next move to this delightful city in Eastern Europe today.

Cost of Living Estimate in Stavropol

Total cost of living in Stavropol for two person with average consumption for one month will be 559.89 USD , no rent price included. Click here to calculate cost-of-living estimate in Stavropol

You can calculate cost of living in Stavropol by changing quantity using input near each good or service. Resulting total will appear in a floating box in the bottom of your screen.

Restaurants prices

Stavropol is an incredible destination for anyone who loves to eat. With a wide variety of restaurants and cuisines from around the world, there is truly something for everyone in this charming city. Whether you're looking for a casual spot to grab a quick bite or a fancy restaurant to celebrate a special occasion, you will find it all in Stavropol.

One of the most popular dining options in Stavropol is the traditional Russian cuisine. Try the famous borsch, pirozhki, or shchi, which are hearty and delicious dishes that will leave you feeling satisfied. There are also plenty of options for those who love international flavors, including Italian, Chinese, Georgian, and many more. No matter what type of food you're in the mood for, you'll be able to find it in Stavropol. So if you're planning a trip to this beautiful city, come hungry and ready to explore all the tasty options it has to offer.

Markets prices

Market prices in Stavropol, Russia are highly influenced by various factors such as demand and supply, availability of products, government regulations, and competition among sellers. The market is volatile, and prices for various goods and services can fluctuate depending on multiple factors.

Furthermore, the prices of goods and services in Stavropol tend to be lower compared to other developed cities in Russia. Despite this, consumers are becoming more cautious in spending due to the current economic situation in the country. As a result, there is a growing need for businesses to offer quality products at affordable prices to remain competitive in the market and maintain customer loyalty.

Transportation prices

Stavropol offers several transportation options that make getting around the city convenient for travelers. The most popular means of transport in the city are buses, trams, and trolleybuses. These public transportation options are affordable and cover most areas of the city. Travelers can easily purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the driver. A unique and interesting transportation option in Stavropol is the marshrutkas, which are minibusses that operate like shared taxis. These vehicles have specific routes and fares and can be flagged down from the side of the road.

For those who prefer a faster and more private mode of transportation, taxis and car rentals are also available in Stavropol. Taxis can be hailed on the street or via ride-hailing apps. It is advisable to negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand. Car rentals are also an option but may require an international driving permit. The city has well-maintained roads, and driving can be a great way to explore attractions outside of the city. Overall, Stavropol offers several transportation options that are suitable for all types of travelers.

Utilities Per Month prices

When visiting Stavropol, Russia, it's important to keep in mind that living expenses can vary greatly from what you might be accustomed to. One area of expense that can add up quickly is utilities. Depending on the time of year, heating costs can be quite high, as the winter weather in Stavropol can be bitterly cold. Additionally, you may find that water and electricity costs are more expensive than you anticipated, especially if you're used to living in a place where those expenses are included in your rent or entirely covered by your landlord.

On the flip side, it's worth noting that there are ways to keep your utilities costs down while traveling in Stavropol. If you're staying in a hotel or rental property, be sure to inquire about any energy-saving features or practices that are in place. For example, some hotels may use energy-efficient lighting or encourage guests to conserve water by only washing towels and linens every few days. Additionally, you can make efforts to conserve energy yourself by turning off lights and electronics when not in use, taking shorter showers, and keeping doors and windows closed in order to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the building.

Sports And Leisure prices

Stavropol, Russia is a destination that offers a wide variety of sports and leisure activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular options is skiing, with several resorts located just a short distance from the city. These resorts offer runs for skiers of all skill levels, as well as other winter activities like snowboarding and ice skating. For those who prefer warmer weather, Stavropol also has several parks and lakes where visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and hiking. Additionally, the city is home to several sports clubs, including soccer and basketball teams, that offer opportunities to watch and participate in organized games.

For those looking for a more relaxing way to spend their time in Stavropol, there are several spa and wellness centers located throughout the city. These centers offer a wide range of services, including massages, saunas, and body treatments, that are designed to help visitors unwind and de-stress. Some centers also offer yoga and meditation classes for those who want to focus on their mental and emotional well-being. Overall, whether you are looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure or a peaceful retreat, Stavropol has something to offer everyone.

Salaries And Financing prices

Stavropol, Russia is a city with a diverse range of salaries and financing options. The average salary in Stavropol is relatively low compared to other large cities in Russia, but it is important to note that the cost of living is also lower. With this in mind, visitors to Stavropol can enjoy a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. The city also has a variety of hotels, restaurants, and attractions that cater to all budgets. Whether you are looking to splurge or save, Stavropol has something to offer.

Financing options in Stavropol are plentiful, with banks and ATMs located throughout the city. The Russian ruble is the main currency used in Stavropol, and it is recommended that visitors have some cash on hand for transactions. Credit cards are also widely accepted in the city, but it is important to check with your bank for compatibility and any foreign transaction fees that may apply. Additionally, there are currency exchange offices located throughout the city for those who need to exchange foreign currency. With these options available, visitors to Stavropol can easily manage their finances during their stay.

Childcare prices

Childcare prices in Stavropol, Russia vary depending on the type of facility. Schools tend to be the priciest option, with private schools often charging more than public ones. However, schools offer programs for students of all ages and are staffed by trained teachers. Kindergartens are typically more affordable, but may have limited hours and less specialized staff. Many parents in Stavropol choose Kindergartens for their young children, especially if the parents work and need reliable daytime care.

Choosing the right childcare facility can be a difficult decision for parents in Stavropol. Some parents may prefer the structure and academic focus of a school, while others want a more flexible, nurturing environment for their young children. Regardless of the choice made, the cost of childcare can be a significant factor for parents. Many families in Stavropol choose to budget for childcare costs or rely on government subsidies to offset the expense.

Clothing And Shoes prices

If you're looking for stylish clothing and shoes without breaking the bank, Stavropol has plenty of options. You'll find a wide range of stores, from budget-friendly chains to high-end boutiques, all offering fashionable garments and footwear at various price points. From casual wear to formal attire, the city has something for everyone. Whether you're after a trendy outfit or a classic wardrobe staple, you can find it in Stavropol.

For a more unique shopping experience, consider checking out some of Stavropol's local markets. Here, you can browse through a variety of stalls selling handmade items, vintage clothing, and one-of-a-kind finds. Additionally, these markets often feature local artisans and designers, giving you the opportunity to purchase goods directly from the source. Alternatively, if you prefer the convenience of a shopping mall, Stavropol has several large complexes with a mix of popular international stores and local brands.

Rent Per Month prices

If you're looking for a short-term stay in Stavropol, Russia, there are many options to choose from. From hotels to apartments, there's something to fit every budget and style. Some apartments offer basic amenities while others provide luxury furnishings and top-of-the-line appliances. Keep in mind that the cost of short-term rentals in Stavropol can vary depending on the location, length of stay, and the amenities you require.

Hotels are a popular option for short-term stays in Stavropol, especially for travelers who want convenience and comfort. Many hotels in the city offer excellent service, modern amenities, and proximity to popular attractions. In addition to traditional hotels, there are also boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts that provide a more personal experience. Depending on your budget, you can find hotels with different price ranges in Stavropol.

Buy Apartment prices

Stavropol, Russia is a great place to invest in real estate due to its growing economy and rich cultural heritage. Whether you are looking for a spacious house in the suburbs or a cozy apartment in the city center, Stavropol has a variety of options to choose from. The city offers both newly built and old-fashioned buildings, which cater to the different preferences of buyers. Properties in the prime areas of the city may be higher priced, but they offer good value for money as they are located near the main attractions and essential amenities.

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are many affordable properties available in less popular areas of the city. These properties provide a great chance for buyers to own a home without breaking the bank. Furthermore, real estate prices in Stavropol are expected to appreciate in the coming years due to an increase in local development and infrastructure. If you are considering investing in Russian real estate, Stavropol is a great city to consider. The city's rich history, cultural significance, and economic growth potential make it an ideal location for your next real estate investment venture.

Cost of living in the cities nearby

• Nevinnomyssk, Russia
• Pyatigorsk, Russia
• Kislovodsk, Russia
• Maykop, Russia
• Nalchik, Russia
• Goryachy Klyuch, Russia
• Elista, Russia
• Mestia, Georgia
• Krasnodar, Russia
• Gagra, Georgia

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