Best organic sunscreen

Which organic sunscreen is best?

Regular use of SPF 15 sunscreen (or higher) significantly reduces the risk of developing multiple types of . While working to prevent skin cancer, some individuals prefer to avoid chemical sunscreens. Alternatively, they opt for formulas that are designed with organic ingredients. Due to its rising popularity, organic sunscreen can now be found at some of today’s largest retailers.

Read more How to safely clear wildfire smoke from your home

One of the best organic sunscreens is COOLA Organic Sunscreen & Sunblock Spray SPF 30. This brand stays on while swimming or playing sports, is made with plant-based ingredients and is over 70% organic.

What to know before you buy organic sunscreen

Type of sunscreen

Depending on personal preference, you can purchase organic sunscreen in lotion, spray or stick formats. Every variety is effective, and no one kind is superior to the other.

Before buying organic sunscreen, decide what type works best for you. Some individuals prefer sprays to lotions to avoid the mess, while others enjoy the control that a stick provides. Deciding what format you most prefer will ultimately help narrow down your choices and ensure that you get what you want.

Plant-based ingredient allergies

If you have specific allergies, it is important to check ingredient labels before putting anything on your skin. As with all skincare products, organic sunscreen can cause irritation and allergic reactions. Because many organic sunscreens are made from plant-based ingredients — for example, raspberry oil or prickly pear extract — those who have fruit, essential oil or any other allergies should be extra cautious.

In the vast majority of cases, these products are safe for even the most sensitive skin. However, for those with allergies, it is crucial to read the ingredients label thoroughly before committing to a new sunscreen.

SPF

The EPA recommends using sunscreen with a bare minimum rating of SPF 15. For optimal protection, many people need to use SPF 30, SPF 50 or higher. Although there isn’t a large jump in protection percentage-wise between each rating, it may be best to use a higher level in certain circumstances.

When selecting your next organic sunscreen lotion, spray or stick, select the SPF rating that is most appropriate for your situation. If you tend to burn easily, or if you plan on spending a significant amount of time outdoors when the UV rating is high, you may want to opt for at least SPF 30.

What to look for in a quality organic sunscreen

Size

Sunscreen containers come in almost every imaginable size. Individuals who are choosing an organic sunscreen for the first time should ensure that the container size they select is convenient and practical for their needs. For example, if you are going on vacation, smaller sizes are almost always preferred. However, if the entire family will be using it on a regular basis, larger containers may be more cost-efficient.

Scent

Scent is one of the most personal aspects of selecting a new personal care product. Everyone has varying opinions on what smells are pleasing. Sunscreen is no exception. Although many sunscreen brands have a similar smell, the plant-based ingredients in organic varieties can create a slightly different aroma. Nearly all quality organic sunscreen brands have a light, natural coconut scent that is fragrant yet not overwhelming.

Residual texture

Among all of the factors in selecting a new sunscreen, the residual texture left behind is easily a top consideration. Quality organic sunscreens — sprays, lotions and sticks — do not leave the skin feeling greasy or sticky. Additionally, they are easy to blend into the skin and feel almost weightless.

Water resistance

Another critical reason to buy a high-quality organic sunscreen is for lasting water resistance. Some of the best brands on the market offer effective protection against water and sweat for at least two hours. Having this feature is key in preventing sunburns during a beach day or when playing sports outside.

Blocks UVA and UVB rays

UVA and UVB are two harmful forms of ultraviolet rays. They can elevate one’s chances of developing skin cancer. While UVB rays are most associated with sunburns and skin cancer risk, they are both dangerous. Organic sunscreens must protect against both UVA and UVB to be considered effective.

How much you can expect to spend on organic sunscreen

Depending on the size and SPF level, quality organic sunscreen costs $10-$25.

Organic sunscreen FAQ

Why is it important to use organic sunscreen?

A. Organic sunscreen is both effective and made from natural, plant-derived ingredients, so it means less chemicals are absorbed into your skin and washed into whichever body of water you’re swimming in.

Read more How to keep summer bugs off your patio

Is organic sunscreen as effective as conventional brands?

A. Yes. Organic brands are tested in the same way that conventional brands of sunscreen are tested. Chemical varieties offer no added protection because of their ingredients. Instead, the SPF rating determines the percentage of harmful ultraviolet rays that are blocked.

What does “reef safe” mean?

A. When purchasing organic sunscreen for the first time, you are likely to see the term “reef safe” on the bottle. This means that the sunscreen is made using mineral UV-blocking ingredients, which do not harm reefs and ocean life.

What’s the best organic sunscreen to buy?

Top organic sunscreen

COOLA Organic Sunscreen & Sunblock Spray SPF 30

What you need to know: COOLA Organic Sunscreen & Sunblock Spray resists water for 80 minutes, contains antioxidants and 70% organic ingredients.

What you’ll love: Featuring a light coconut scent, this organic sunscreen sprays on easily and doesn’t leave a greasy feel. It is 70% organic, non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free and cruelty-free. This sunscreen is enriched with antioxidants, and it protects against UVA and UVB rays.

What you should consider: This is one of the more expensive sunscreen sprays available.

Top organic sunscreen for the money

Two Peas Organics Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Lotion

What you need to know: This sunscreen is excellent for babies and children, and it is certified organic as well as coral reef safe.

What you’ll love: Two Peas Organics Sunscreen Lotion provides exceptional protection at a great price point. It is reef safe, certified organic and uses zinc oxide as one of its main ingredients. This variety is also unscented and 100% chemical-free.

What you should consider: The oils and other ingredients can separate.

Worth checking out

Babo Botanicals Super Shield Zinc Sport Stick Sunscreen SPF 50

What you need to know: The easy-to-apply sports sunscreen stick resists water for 80 minutes, uses 100% zinc oxide and is hypoallergenic.

What you’ll love: Made from organic ingredients, the Babo Botanicals Super Shield Zinc Sports Stick provides lasting protection from UVA and UVB rays. It is reef-friendly and contains no chemicals. This blend is also fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, which is ideal for those with sensitive skin.

What you should consider: Sticks can take a long time to apply, especially when looking for full-body coverage.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Read more World Cup what to know: U.S. back in action vs. Australia, Brazil works to rebound

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.