Sometimes it seems like we need an encyclopedia to explain what everything is when shopping for beauty products. Ampoule, tincture, pressed serum, efficacy, what? Different ingredients and slang terms can leave us scratching our heads but sometimes seemingly simple things can leave us perplexed. Take natural and nontoxic sunscreens.
Have you ever considered the different kinds…
What Exactly is a Natural, Non-Toxic Sunscreen?
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Drunk Elephant
Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense SPF 30, $34 at Drunk Elephant
Drunk Elephant is known for its clean, effective beauty products. This physical sunscreen is a favorite thanks to its sheer formula with broad spectrum SPF 30 protection. It's formulated without any chemical sunscreens, fragrance, essential oils or silicone. Instead, the nonsensitizing, nonirritating product contains naturally derived zinc oxide and a host of antioxidants. The moisturizing formula is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive. FYI: There's also a tinted version.
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Farmacy
Green Screen Daily Environmental Protector Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $36 at Farmacy
Go green with the Green Screen sunscreen. The mineral sunscreen offers broad spectrum SPF 30 protection courtesy of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Those who aren't convinced about mineral sunscreens will like this one. It's nongreasy and won't leave a ghoulish white cast on skin, no matter your skin tone. Selfie lovers will be pleased to hear it's also photo flash-friendly.
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Eir
Surf Mud Pro Stick, $30 at Follain
This easy-to-apply stick has just five ingredients: zinc oxide, beeswax, coconut oil, cocoa butter and cacao. It has a subtle tint that counteracts any whitish haze plus the formula moisturizes while providing SPF 50 protection. It also has a delectable chocolate scent that's nothing like the artificial tropical smell we often associate with sunscreens.
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Neutrogena
Dry-Touch Sheer Zinc SPF 50 Lotion, $12.99 at Walgreens
There are some great zinc oxide sunscreens available at the drugstore. Take this broad spectrum SPF 50 formula made with naturally sourced 100 percent zinc oxide. It's free of fragrance, dyes, parabens, phthalates and irritating chemicals so it's suitable for sensitive skin. It even boasts the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. People who don't like sunscreen will genuinely like the dry-touch formula. It's lightweight, not greasy, dermatologist tested and sweat- and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
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Promise Organic
SPF 30 Coconut Sunscreen Lotion, $12.99 at CVS
Don't assume that the coconut in this sunscreen means it has an artificial coconut fragrance. The natural, full spectrum UVA and UVB sunscreen is made with zinc oxide and a blend of nourishing oils, including coconut, castor and jojoba for a creamy formula that nourishes as it protects. The nontoxic product is also pH-balanced, dermatologist tested and safe for sensitive skin.
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Mad Hippie
Facial SPF, $24.99 at Mad Hippie
Searching for a natural sunscreen specifically meant for your delicate face? Enter Mad Hippie. This chemical-free sunscreen is made without parabens, nanoparticles, PABA, petroleum, avobenzone, oxybenzone or UV chemical absorbers. What it uses instead is zinc oxide. It's combined with naturally photoprotective oils, ferulic acid, vitamin C and vitamin E for broad-range antioxidant protection from photoaging. The packaging is also adorable.
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Suntegrity
Mineral Sunscreen Unscented SPF 30, $24 at Follain
Suntegrity was developed by a daughter who lost her mom to skin cancer and is focused on creating a holistic, mineral sun care line. This is a non-nano zinc oxide broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen that's designed for those who are sensitive to scent. It's even safe for babies and kids. The formula is vegan, cruelty-free and not greasy. Want more reasons to love it? It's rich in antioxidants, including green tea extract, aloe and pomegranate.
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Goddess Garden Organics
Sport Natural Sunscreen, $12.99 at Goddess Garden Organics
Those who are active need a sunscreen that can stand up through a little, OK, a lot of sweating. This broad spectrum SPF 30 natural sunscreen has been specifically designed for outdoor use. It's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and uses zinc oxide and titanium oxide. It comes in a convenient airline size and is reef-safe and biodegradable.
