“Clean sunscreens” is a bit of a misnomer, and also complicated to identify. Not unlike clean beauty, it can be tricky to ascertain what makes a sunscreen (or makeup) “clean,” but to me I keep it to a simple rule: Clean sunscreens are free of common chemicals, toxins, and fragrances that have been known to irritate the skin. Chemical sunscreens can be irritating and allergenic for some people, so if you find your sunscreen is leaving your skin inflamed or itchy, it might be time to try a cleaner version.
We know sunscreen is essential, and we need to apply it every, single day (including in the wintertime!) if we want to protect our skin from sun damage and skin cancer. When looking for a chemical-free sunscreen, make sure their active ingredients are only zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or a combination of both, and look out for red flags—anything ending in paraben, phthalates, sodium laureth sulfate, and fragrance. Also ensure the product says broad-spectrum. This is important as it means that the sunscreen blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Read the
Here are 5 clean sunscreens l love, which don’t leave that dreaded white cast.
REN Skincare
Clean Screen Mineral SPF 30 Mattifying Sunscreen Broad Spectrum
($48, Sephora.com)
A mattifying all-clean mineral sunscreen perfect for oily skin that provides a physical barrier to help reflect the sun’s rays.
The Organic Pharmacy Cellular Protection Sun Cream SPF 30
($87, goop.com)
This light, hydrating SPF 30 cream smooths right into skin, and it’s wonderful for face or body. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide block both UVA and UVB rays, while shea butter, aloe, rose hip, and calendula nourish skin.
Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunsscreen Lotion SPF 30
($49, Beautycounter.com)
Guard against sun’s damaging rays with this award-winning, lightweight water-resistant mineral sunscreen lotion. Formulated with non-nano zinc and California Poppy, this physical SPF 30 formulation provides an effective shield from UVA and UVB, while being gentle and pleasant feeling on the skin. Smooth, nourishing formula blends evenly onto skin with limited white residue.
EleVen by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35
($50, ultabeauty.com)
This is very much worthy of the hype. Venus Williams formulated this SPF with every skin type in mind, and as the mineral sunscreen dries down completely, it remains clear without any residual white cast. She also added in extra ingredients to keep skin hydrated while it’s being protected (like prickly pear and coconut) which is a game-changer.
Chanel UV Essentiel Multi Protection SPS 50
($70, thebay.com)
A shield against all harmful UV rays, this formula combines two natural ingredients: Life Plant PFA and Desert Yeast Extract to intensify skin’s all-round daily self-defense and maintain optimal hydration. Skin feels hydrated and is as comforted as it is protected from external aggressors.