Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it also brings with it the risk of skin cancer. Millions of beach-goers use sunscreen to protect themselves, but this has led to a concerning amount of waste. Every year, between 4,000 to 6,000 tons of sunscreen end up in the ocean, causing harm to marine life and coral reefs, as well as negative health impacts on humans.
Thankfully, there are zero waste sunscreen brands that are also reef-safe. Sustainable Jungle has independently researched and recommended these brands, while also confirming their claims. The website tests products on an as-needed basis to avoid waste and may earn a small commission from affiliate links.
Plastic-Free & Zero Waste Sunscreens For Safe, Sustainable Summer Fun
As more people become aware of the environmental and health risks associated with conventional sunscreens, the demand for plastic-free and zero waste alternatives is growing. Fortunately, there are many brands that are rising to the challenge and offering eco-friendly sunscreens that are safe for both humans and the environment.
Below are some of the best plastic-free and zero waste sunscreens available on the market.
1. SurfDurt
SurfDurt is a California-based company that specializes in plastic-free sunscreen alternatives, with refill options available to further reduce the impact of their packaging. Their sunscreen is made with surfers in mind, who spend more time in the sun and ocean than most, so it better do its part for both.
Their refillable zero waste sunscreen is a chemical and toxin-free formula that’s effective for 80 minutes of use in the water and has an SPF 30 broad-spectrum sun protection. It contains cocoa butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, carrot seed oil, and raspberry seed oil, which are mostly certified organic. The sunscreen also contains non-nano zinc and iron oxide pigment, and sustainable sourced beeswax.
SurfDurt’s aluminum-lined reusable bamboo pots are highly reusable, as are the slimmer, metal tins of their travel sizes. In case you’re up to your ears in reusable containers, you can send back your old container via their refill program to receive 25% off your next order.
2. ATTITUDE
ATTITUDE is a Canadian brand that offers a range of environmentally friendly sunscreens for different purposes, all of which replace harmful “benzone” chemicals with mineral non-nano zinc. Their vegan zero waste sunscreens are mostly formulated without palm oil or derivatives, otherwise they use RSPO’s Mass Balanced certified sustainable palm oil.
Their sunscreens are Ecologo Certified™ biodegradable options that block harmful UVA and UVB rays while olive oil and cocoa and shea butters ensure your skin stays hydrated. They offer a variety of plastic-free sunscreen sticks (for sensitive skin, babies and kids, and the like) that come in a compostable cardboard tube. All of their sunscreens are SPF 30, unscented, hypoallergenic, and free of parabens, endocrine disruptors, PEGs, oxybenzone, and other reef bleaching chemicals.
3. Butter Me Up Organics
Butter Me Up Organics is a brand that offers a reef safe and totally plastic-free sunscreen that’s suitable for everyone: zero waste babies, kids, and adults. Their mineral sunscreen is made of coconut oil, shea butter, mango butter, non-nano zinc oxide, grapeseed oil, vitamin E, and beeswax. It’s guaranteed to give nourishing, water-resistant sun protection for those long summer days.
Their sunscreen comes in reusable glass jars or compostable cardboard sticks. They also have a thinner sunscreen that comes in a BPA-free plastic squeeze bottle which, while recyclable, is best avoided. While all packaging is zero waste, their most sustainable sunscreen packaging is their cardboard push tubes.
4. FORAH
FORAH creates an almost entirely organic certified sunscreen in fully recyclable aluminum containers. Their sunscreen has been tested and approved by SJ, and it’s cruelty-free. It’s a great option for those looking for a sustainable and safe sunscreen.
5. EmpireSquid Organics
EmpireSquid Organics offers a range of reef-safe sunscreens that are made with 100% natural and organic ingredients. Their sunscreens are water-resistant and provide SPF 30 and SPF 50 protection. They come in plastic-free packaging and are a great choice for those looking for a sustainable and effective sunscreen.
6. Badger
Badger is a brand that offers a range of reef-safe sunscreens that are made with natural and organic ingredients. Their sunscreens are water-resistant and provide broad-spectrum protection. They come in plastic-free packaging and are a great choice for those looking for a sustainable and effective sunscreen.
7. Palm & Pine
Palm & Pine is a brand that offers a range of reef-safe sunscreens that are made with natural and organic ingredients. Their sunscreens are water-resistant and provide SPF 30 protection. They come in plastic-free packaging and are a great choice for those looking for a sustainable and effective sunscreen.
8. All Good
All Good is a brand that offers a range of reef-safe sunscreens that are made with natural and organic ingredients. Their sunscreens are water-resistant and provide broad-spectrum protection. They come in plastic-free packaging and are a great choice for those looking for a sustainable and effective sunscreen.
9. Herbal Chest
Herbal Chest is a brand that offers a range of reef-safe sunscreens that are made with natural
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Why Choose Sustainable Sunscreen?
Sustainable sunscreen is becoming increasingly popular as people become more aware of the harmful effects of traditional sunscreens on both their bodies and the planet. Here are some reasons why choosing sustainable sunscreen is a smart choice:
Organic and Natural Ingredients
Sustainable sunscreens are often made with organic and natural ingredients, such as jojoba oil, organic beeswax, and organic coconut oil. These ingredients are gentle on the skin and provide nourishment and hydration while protecting it from the sun.
Reef-Safe and Eco-Friendly
Many traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that are harmful to coral reefs and other marine life. Sustainable sunscreens, on the other hand, are often biodegradable and reef-safe, meaning they don’t contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, two chemicals known to cause coral bleaching. They are also eco-friendly and do not contribute to plastic waste.
Non-Nano Zinc Oxide
Non-nano zinc oxide is the most common active ingredient in sustainable sunscreen. It is a mineral-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Unlike traditional sunscreens, it does not contain nanoparticles, which can be harmful to the skin and the environment.
Hypoallergenic and Fragrance-Free
Sustainable sunscreens are often hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making them ideal for people with sensitive skin or allergies. They are also free of harsh chemicals, such as methylisothiazolinone, which can cause allergic reactions and disrupt the body’s hormone and endocrine systems.
Certifications
Many sustainable sunscreens are certified by organizations such as the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and the Natural Products Association (NPA). These certifications ensure that the sunscreen meets certain standards for safety and sustainability.
In conclusion, choosing sustainable sunscreen is a smart choice for both your body and the planet. With organic and natural ingredients, reef-safe and eco-friendly formulations, non-nano zinc oxide, and hypoallergenic and fragrance-free options, there is a sustainable sunscreen for everyone.
How We Found The Best Zero Waste Sunscreen Alternatives
When it comes to finding the best zero waste sunscreen alternatives, Sustainable Jungle uses a set of criteria to ensure that the products meet their eco-friendly standards. The criteria include non-toxic ingredients, vegan and cruelty-free formulations, ethical ingredient sourcing, and thoughtful packaging.
Final Thoughts On Plastic-Free Sunscreen
Sustainable Jungle defines zero waste sunscreen packaging as anything compostable or reusable, such as glass or aluminum. While there is no such thing as completely package-free sunscreen yet, the use of compostable tubes, aluminum tins, and bamboo containers is encouraged.
By opting for plastic-free sunscreen, individuals can have peace of mind knowing that they are protecting their skin and the environment. These sunscreen alternatives are also infinitely recyclable or compostable, making them a sustainable choice for those who are conscious of their impact on the planet.
While completely covering up is an effective way to escape UV rays, Sustainable Jungle encourages individuals to enjoy the summer sun responsibly by using zero waste sunscreen and sustainable swimwear. By sharing this article with others, individuals can help spread awareness of sustainable sunscreen alternatives and promote a more eco-conscious lifestyle.
