I used to be a freak about avoiding the sun. I fell for all the uninformed, but well-meaning medical scares about the sun causing skin cancer, from which you must protect yourself at all times. Read this article to discover my top non-toxic sunscreen recommendations!
I wore driving gloves and used an umbrella when I walked outside. In other words, I was a freak. It’s up for debate as to whether I still am. And I never left the house without a generous coating of toxic sunscreen.
Today, I actively seek out daily sun exposure without sunscreen for its numerous health benefits, including Vitamin D production. The truth is you do not need, nor want sunscreen for sensible sun exposure.
But if you’re sunning your buns for longer than your individual burn time, you’re going to need a natural sunscreen. Like everything in life, too much of a good thing is harmful.
I wanted to give you a list of my favorite nontoxic natural sunscreens for a few reasons.
One, there are a lot of ‘natural’ sunscreens out there that have harmful ingredients.
Two, some natural sunscreens make you look like a ghost (they aren’t formulated well) and I assume you’d prefer to not look white as a sheet on the beach.
Three, I want you to avoid chemical sunscreens because they are toxic to you and your hormones (and let’s not forget the fish and coral reefs).
Let me help you avoid and sort through all this nonsense.
The alternative to chemical UV-filter sunscreens are mineral sunscreens, namely zinc and titanium dioxide. These are the products you see on white-faced surfers and beach-goers. You might have just thought they were really, really bad at rubbing in their sunblock, but they were just avoiding oxybenzone and other chemical sunscreens by using mineral sunscreens.
Zinc oxide is the most effective and safest mineral UV-filter. Zinc sits on top of your skin and prevents UV damage, acting as a physical barrier. It’s just as effective as a chemical filter like oxybenzone without the toxic side effects.
If you’ve already got enough unfiltered sunlight for the day’s vitamin D needs and want some UV protection, zinc oxide is your best, safest bet.
Mark Sisson thinks that nanoparticle zinc is safe. “If you’re worried about looking silly with white streaks all over your face and body you can opt for safe nanoparticle zinc oxide that disappears on your skin (1). There is some concern that these nanoparticles of zinc oxide can cause health problems, but the evidence seems to weigh heavily toward the ‘all safe’ side (2).
One study found that while zinc oxide does penetrate some of the outer layers of the epidermis (more so when the skin is sunburnt), it does not achieve transdermal penetration for systemic distribution.” (3)
Titanium Dioxide in Sunscreens: Why You Should Be Cautious
Titanium dioxide is a common ingredient in many sunscreens, especially those labeled as “natural.” However, its safety is increasingly under scrutiny. Let’s look at the research:
1. Health concerns primarily arise from inhalation, not skin contact. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) identifies titanium dioxide as a possible human carcinogen, but only when inhaled in airborne forms like powders or sprays. It shows low absorption through intact skin, which lowers risk from topical use—but inhaling it remains a concern.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) also classifies titanium dioxide as a possible carcinogenbased on animal studies. These studies link inhaling fine particles of titanium dioxide to lung cancer in rodents, raising alarms about respiratory exposure. (4, 5)
2. The real issue is with nanoparticle or micronized titanium dioxide, commonly used in modern sunscreens because these tiny particles are clear on the skin but still block UV rays effectively. While this technology sounds promising, research reveals potential risks:
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Ultrafine titanium dioxide particles, especially in the anatase crystal form, have been shown to cause harmful biological effects in animal studies. For example, a 1999 University of British Columbia study found these particles trigger fibrogenic (disease-causing) responses in lung tissue. (6)
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Smaller particle sizes penetrate cells more easily and have been linked to DNA damage following sunlight exposure, raising concerns about their potential to increase skin cancer risk. (7)
In contrast, larger, non-nanoparticle titanium dioxide particles are generally regarded as safe and effective UV blockers, as they do not penetrate skin cells or cause the same cellular damage.
Given the emerging evidence, I think it’s wise to avoid sunscreens containing nanoparticle or micronized titanium dioxide. While the research is ongoing, why take unnecessary risks with your health when safer, non-nano alternatives are available?
I recommend steering clear of titanium dioxide—especially in its nanoparticle form—and choosing mineral sunscreens that rely on safer ingredients to protect your skin naturally and effectively.
My Top Non-Toxic Sunscreen Recommendations
Annmarie Skin Care’s Sun Love Everyday Sheer Sunscreen – All of Annmarie’s products are fantastic and their sunscreen is no different. I like this sunscreen because it has a subtle tint that helps mask the usual white cast from zinc oxide, so it blends in much more easily. It’s a clean, non-toxic formula that protects your skin while also giving it a bit of a healthy glow.
Badger Reef Safe Mineral Sunscreen – If you’re looking for a super clean, reef-safe sunscreen, Badger’s my top pick! I love that it’s made with just four simple ingredients (and 98% organic!), so you’re not slathering on any toxins. Plus, their zinc oxide formula is well-researched, thoroughly tested, and rubs in surprisingly clear without compromising safety—perfect for beach days, hikes, or just everyday wear.
MyChelle Dermaceuticals Sun Shield Liquid Zinc Tinted Sunscreen with Bentonite Clay – I love this tinted mineral sunscreen from MyChelle—it’s clean, lightweight, and doesn’t mess with your hormones like conventional sunscreens can. It gives you great protection with zinc oxide, plus bentonite clay helps keep your skin looking fresh and matte all day. I use it daily as a primer under my makeup, and I recommend it to anyone looking to reduce their toxic load.
Raw Elements Eco Formula – Raw Elements is one of my go-to sunscreens when I need something that really stays put—whether I’m swimming, sweating, or out in the sun for hours. It’s thick (you’ll definitely notice!), but that’s what makes it so reliable. Surprisingly, it’s not too whitening once you rub it in! With non-nano zinc oxide as the active ingredient and no toxic chemicals, it’s a solid, clean option for serious sun protection.
Earth Harbor ECLIPSE Sheer Mineral Sunscreen – This is a beautiful option if you want lightweight, non-toxic sun protection that also doubles as skincare. I recommend it because it not only shields against UVA/UVB rays, but also helps defend your skin from blue light and pollution—two major contributors to premature aging. It’s packed with nourishing botanicals (like Macroalgae and Green Tea Extract), works for all skin tones, and doesn’t clog pores!
LASPA Naturals Moisturizing Mineral Sunscreen – I really like this one because it offers broad-spectrum protection with clean, non-toxic ingredients; and it’s incredibly gentle on sensitive skin! It’s hydrating without being greasy, thanks to nourishing botanicals like jojoba and coconut oil, which makes it great for daily use. If you’re trying to avoid hormone-disrupting chemicals but still want effective sun protection plus skin hydration, this one’s a solid choice.
Sunscreens Forms to Avoid
When it comes to sunscreen you’re going to have to get your hands dirty – or ask your friend or a hot lifeguard to apply your sunscreen. These sunscreen forms should never make it into your beach bag. They contain nasty chemicals to get them into the following forms:
- No Loose Powder Sunscreens
- No Sunscreen Towelettes
- No Tanning Oils
Picking Your Non-Toxic Sunscreen
How Toxic Are You? Consider a Hair Mineral Analysis
If you’ve been using toxic sunscreens for a long time or “natural” sunscreens with nanonized titanium dioxide, you may have titanium toxicity. This can be detected with a Hair Mineral Analysis (HTMA).
A Hair Mineral Analysis is the easiest way to determine if you have heavy metal toxicity and mineral deficiency — so you can get on the fast track to optimal energy, vitality, and health.
>> Go here to learn more about the Hair Mineral Analysis I use and recommend to clients.
The reason a Hair Mineral Analysis is a good idea (and something I do at least three times a year) is because we live in a highly toxic world.
Toxic sunscreen is just a tiny part of the bigger picture. It’s just one thing in your bathroom you need to detox!
I hope this article has given you some helpful information and suggestions for the best types of sunscreen for your skin – an your health!
Please let me know what you think in the comments below. And share your favorite sunscreens as well!
