10 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens 2025 in the United States

The Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is designed especially for oily and acne-prone skin, making it a solid choice if you want facial sun protection without clogging pores or causing breakouts. It uses Helioplex technology for broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and is free from oxybenzone, an ingredient often avoided in reef-safe sunscreens. The lotion is lightweight and leaves a matte finish, which helps skin feel breathable and less greasy throughout the day. It’s also fragrance-free and oil-free, which is great if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin.

This sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so it holds up well during outdoor activities like hiking or biking. The travel-size 3 fl. oz bottle is convenient for carrying around, although it’s a bit small if you need sunscreen for longer outdoor use.

For those looking for a facial sunscreen that protects well with SPF 50, suits oily or acne-prone skin, and avoids common irritants like fragrance and oxybenzone, this product meets those needs effectively. If you require a strictly reef-safe sunscreen, you may want to verify additional certifications separately.

The Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion is a reef-safe option that adheres to the Hawaii 104 Act by being free of Octinoxate and Oxybenzone, which are harmful to coral reefs. Its primary strength lies in its broad-spectrum protection, effectively shielding against both UVA and UVB rays, making it suitable for those looking for high SPF coverage. The sunscreen is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which is beneficial for swimmers or those engaging in outdoor activities.

Moreover, it contains Vitamin E, providing additional moisturizing benefits and is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores, which is great for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Another notable feature is its pleasant 'summer' scent, which many users appreciate. However, the scent might not be appealing to everyone, and those with fragrance sensitivities might want to consider this aspect. Additionally, the lotion form may require more effort to apply evenly compared to sprays or sticks.

Its dermatologically approved formula, free from gluten, parabens, and cruelty, makes it a conscientious choice for consumers. Trusted by beachgoers and designed by people who understand sun exposure, this product stands out for its practical and protective qualities. Frequent reapplication every 2 hours as recommended can be seen as a drawback for those looking for more prolonged, hassle-free protection.

Sun Bum Original SPF 70 Sunscreen Body Spray offers high sun protection with a broad spectrum SPF of 70, which is excellent for those who spend extended time outdoors or in intense sun conditions. It’s a spray, making it easy to apply evenly, especially on hard-to-reach spots like the back. The sunscreen is moisturizing and contains Vitamin E, which helps nourish the skin while protecting it. It’s oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it’s unlikely to clog pores, making it suitable for most skin types.

This product is also water-resistant, holding up well through swimming and sweating, which is important for beach or active use. A key advantage for environmentally conscious users is that it is free of harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are known to damage coral reefs, and it complies with Hawaii's strict reef protection law. Plus, it’s free from gluten, parabens, and cruelty, appealing to those seeking clean skincare options. The scent is described as a pleasant 'summer' smell, which many users like, though scent preferences can vary.

Because it's a spray, it might be easy to miss spots or inhale the product accidentally if not applied carefully. Also, while the high SPF is protective, it’s still important to reapply every two hours, as recommended, to maintain effectiveness. This sunscreen is a solid choice for daily use and outdoor activities, especially for anyone wanting a reef-safe option that moisturizes while protecting at a high SPF level.