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10 Best Non-Toxic Sunscreens 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46, Oil Free for Face with Zinc Oxide, Dermatologist Recommended Sunscreen Lotion, For Acne-Prone Sensitive Skin, 1.7 oz Pump (Pack of 2)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,332
Active Ingredients
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Formulation

Most important from
47279 reviews

Active Ingredients
The formula calms redness and evens out skin tone over time thanks to soothing ingredients like niacinamide.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
It provides strong, broad-spectrum sun protection with zinc oxide while being gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Formulation
Lightweight and oil-free, this sunscreen absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy or sticky residue.
Additional Ingredients
The formula calms redness and evens out skin tone over time thanks to soothing ingredients like niacinamide.

The EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46 is designed especially for sensitive and acne-prone skin, making it a strong choice if you want a gentle, non-greasy sunscreen. It uses zinc oxide, a mineral ingredient known for safe and effective broad-spectrum protection, which is great if you’re looking for non-toxic options. The SPF 46 rating offers solid defense against UVB rays, and the formula is lightweight and clear, so it won’t leave a white cast or feel heavy on your face.

Its oil-free, non-comedogenic nature means it won’t clog pores or worsen acne, and it includes niacinamide, which can help calm irritation and even out skin tone—perfect if you have hyperpigmentation or rosacea. Another plus is that it can be worn comfortably under makeup or on its own. The product does not highlight water resistance, which might be important to consider if you plan to swim or sweat a lot.

The travel-size pump bottles are convenient but relatively small, so you may need to reapply frequently or purchase multiple packs. If your main concern is a gentle, effective daily sunscreen that won’t irritate sensitive or oily skin, EltaMD UV Clear is a reliable option. However, if you want strong water resistance or a larger volume, you might want to consider other sunscreens.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,332
Active Ingredients
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Formulation

Most important from
47279 reviews

Active Ingredients
The formula calms redness and evens out skin tone over time thanks to soothing ingredients like niacinamide.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
It provides strong, broad-spectrum sun protection with zinc oxide while being gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Formulation
Lightweight and oil-free, this sunscreen absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy or sticky residue.
Additional Ingredients
The formula calms redness and evens out skin tone over time thanks to soothing ingredients like niacinamide.
#2

EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Face Sunscreen Moisturizer with Zinc Oxide, Daily Face Moisturizer with SPF, Sunscreen, 0.5 oz Pump

Rating
8.5
Active Ingredients
SPF Rating
Broad-Spectrum Protection

Most important from
42418 reviews

Active Ingredients
This mineral-based sunscreen blends effortlessly and avoids the typical white cast, thanks to its subtle tint that suits various skin tones.
SPF Rating
Dermatologists recommend this sunscreen for its strong SPF protection and moisturizing benefits, especially for facial use.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
It delivers reliable, long-lasting sun protection, even during extended outdoor activities, without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin.
Formulation
It layers seamlessly under makeup, maintaining a natural, even skin tone without clogging pores or causing irritation.
Additional Ingredients
The formula hydrates effectively with hyaluronic acid, keeping skin moisturized and comfortable throughout the day.

EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Face Sunscreen Moisturizer is a lightweight, mineral-based sunscreen that uses zinc oxide as its active ingredient, offering reliable protection against both UVA and UVB rays. With an SPF rating of 46, it provides strong sun defense suitable for everyday use. The formula is broad-spectrum, meaning it shields your skin from a wide range of harmful sun rays, which is essential for preventing sun damage and premature aging.

It also contains hyaluronic acid, which helps keep your skin hydrated without feeling greasy or leaving a white cast, making it easy to wear alone or under makeup. This sunscreen is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and noncomedogenic, so it’s less likely to irritate sensitive skin or clog pores. Its small, TSA-approved size makes it convenient for travel or quick touch-ups throughout the day.

This sunscreen is a good choice for anyone looking for a gentle, daily facial sunscreen that moisturizes while protecting the skin without harsh chemicals.

Rating
8.5
Active Ingredients
SPF Rating
Broad-Spectrum Protection

Most important from
42418 reviews

Active Ingredients
This mineral-based sunscreen blends effortlessly and avoids the typical white cast, thanks to its subtle tint that suits various skin tones.
SPF Rating
Dermatologists recommend this sunscreen for its strong SPF protection and moisturizing benefits, especially for facial use.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
It delivers reliable, long-lasting sun protection, even during extended outdoor activities, without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin.
Formulation
It layers seamlessly under makeup, maintaining a natural, even skin tone without clogging pores or causing irritation.
Additional Ingredients
The formula hydrates effectively with hyaluronic acid, keeping skin moisturized and comfortable throughout the day.
#3

EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Sunscreen for Face, SPF 46 with Zinc Oxide, Oil-Free, Dermatologist Recommended, For Acne-Prone Sensitive Skin, 1.7 oz

Rating
8.2
Active Ingredients
SPF Rating
Broad-Spectrum Protection

Most important from
20446 reviews

Active Ingredients
Gentle enough for sensitive or acne-prone skin, it soothes and balances without causing irritation or breakouts.
SPF Rating
Unlike some higher SPF versions, this specific SPF 46 formula spreads well and doesn’t leave a residue or uneven finish.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Effectively blocks blue light, which helps prevent melasma and other pigmentation issues caused by sun exposure.
Formulation
Offers a smooth, lightweight feel that feels like nothing on the skin, avoiding the heaviness or mask-like sensation common with other sunscreens.

The EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Sunscreen offers strong sun protection with an SPF of 46, effectively shielding your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Its active ingredient, transparent Zinc Oxide, provides broad-spectrum protection and is recognized as a safe, non-toxic mineral sunscreen component. This sunscreen is especially well-suited for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin because it is oil-free, lightweight, and non-greasy, so it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. The tinted formula also helps avoid the common white cast seen with some mineral sunscreens, making it suitable to wear under makeup or on its own.

Additionally, the lotion includes skin-friendly ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid that can soothe and improve skin texture, while antioxidants help protect against daily environmental damage. The product does not specifically mention water resistance, which is something to consider if you plan to use it while swimming or sweating. Its travel-friendly 1.7-ounce pump bottle is convenient for reapplying on the go.

This sunscreen is an excellent choice for people seeking a gentle, effective, and cosmetic-friendly option for daily facial sun protection, particularly for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. However, if you need a water-resistant sunscreen, exploring other options might be advisable.

Rating
8.2
Active Ingredients
SPF Rating
Broad-Spectrum Protection

Most important from
20446 reviews

Active Ingredients
Gentle enough for sensitive or acne-prone skin, it soothes and balances without causing irritation or breakouts.
SPF Rating
Unlike some higher SPF versions, this specific SPF 46 formula spreads well and doesn’t leave a residue or uneven finish.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Effectively blocks blue light, which helps prevent melasma and other pigmentation issues caused by sun exposure.
Formulation
Offers a smooth, lightweight feel that feels like nothing on the skin, avoiding the heaviness or mask-like sensation common with other sunscreens.

Buying Guide for the Best Non-Toxic Sunscreens

Choosing the right non-toxic sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays while avoiding potentially harmful chemicals. Non-toxic sunscreens are formulated with safer ingredients that are less likely to cause irritation or harm to your health and the environment. When selecting a non-toxic sunscreen, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best product for your needs.
Active IngredientsActive ingredients in sunscreens are the components that provide UV protection. Non-toxic sunscreens typically use mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays. These ingredients are considered safer than chemical filters, which can be absorbed into the skin and potentially cause health issues. When choosing a sunscreen, look for products that list zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients to ensure you are getting a non-toxic option.
SPF RatingSPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn. The higher the SPF number, the greater the level of protection. For everyday use, an SPF of 30 is generally sufficient, providing about 97% protection from UVB rays. For extended outdoor activities, you might want to opt for a higher SPF, such as 50, which offers slightly more protection. Consider your daily activities and exposure to the sun when choosing the right SPF for you.
Broad-Spectrum ProtectionBroad-spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can prematurely age the skin, causing wrinkles and age spots, while UVB rays can burn the skin. Both types of rays can contribute to skin cancer. It's important to choose a sunscreen labeled as 'broad-spectrum' to ensure comprehensive protection. This is especially crucial if you spend a lot of time outdoors or have a history of skin issues.
Water ResistanceWater resistance indicates how well a sunscreen stays effective when exposed to water or sweat. Sunscreens can be labeled as water-resistant for either 40 or 80 minutes. If you plan to swim or engage in activities that cause sweating, a water-resistant sunscreen is essential to maintain protection. Choose a product based on the duration of your activity and reapply as needed to ensure continuous protection.
FormulationNon-toxic sunscreens come in various formulations, including lotions, creams, sticks, and sprays. Lotions and creams are generally more moisturizing and suitable for dry skin, while sticks and sprays offer convenience and ease of application, especially for on-the-go use. Consider your skin type and personal preferences when selecting a formulation. For example, if you have sensitive skin, a cream with added soothing ingredients might be the best choice.
Additional IngredientsMany non-toxic sunscreens include additional ingredients that provide extra benefits, such as antioxidants, vitamins, and natural extracts. These ingredients can help nourish and protect the skin from environmental damage. Look for sunscreens with added ingredients that cater to your specific skin needs, such as aloe vera for soothing or green tea extract for its antioxidant properties. This can enhance the overall effectiveness and experience of using the sunscreen.

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