The 31 Safest Sunscreens and 3 to Avoid
Think your sunscreen is safe? Probably not. The good news is that there are dozens sunscreens that ARE safe and effective. Check out our annual sunscreen guide for more.
Overview
Think your sunscreen is safe? Probably not. Nearly two thirds of the more than 650 products tested in the Environmental Working Group's "2018 Sunscreen Guide" were found unsafe, ineffective or both. As scary as those numbers seem, the good news is that dozens of approved products made the list.
We've sifted through EWG's top picks to help make it easier to find the one that's right for your needs, whether you're looking for the best kids' sunscreen, the best anti-aging moisturizer with SPF or simply the biggest sunblock bang for your buck. And at the end of the slideshow, we've also listed the three types of sunscreen you'll definitely want to avoid.
1. BEST ALL-PURPOSE SUNSCREEN
According to Wendy Roberts, MD, a dermatologist in Rancho Mirage, CA, Jersey Kids Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 has a high percentage of zinc oxide and a simple ingredient list that make the product very safe. A smooth base, including olive oil, jojoba oil and shea butter, helps ensure it goes on evenly. It's made in the U.S., and it is biodegradable and safe enough to use on the whole family, including babies.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $20.00 for 2 oz. ($10.00/oz.)
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2. BEST SPORT SUNSCREEN
This zinc oxide formulation of All Good SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen Lotion, Water Resistant leaves little residue, which is especially beneficial for darker skin tones, says dermatologist Dr. Wendy Roberts. Certified organic green tea and rose hip act as antioxidants, while jojoba and extra-virgin olive oils moisturize the skin. Plus it's eco-friendly and safe for kids.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $15.99 for 3 oz. ($5.33/oz.)
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3. BEST WATER-RESISTANT SUNSCREEN
With sun protection from both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, Sunology Natural Sunscreen for Body SPF 50 is a very high SPF sunscreen that's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a great choice for extended time in the water, says dermatologist Dr. Wendy Roberts. Bonus: It's noncomedogenic, which means that it won't clog your pores. And it's rich in antioxidants.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $14.99 for 2 oz. ($7.50/oz.)
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4. BEST KIDS’ SUNSCREEN
"With its high concentration of zinc oxide, this is a great physical sunscreen," dermatologist Debra Jaliman, MD, says of Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream SPF 30. Water- and sweat-resistant for up to 40 minutes, it contains "sunflower oil and organic beeswax to moisturize the skin, and chamomile to soothe it." And the chamomile and calendula ingredients infuse it with a mild scent, no chemical fragrances are necessary.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $15.99 for 2.9 oz. ($5.51/oz.)
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5. BEST KIDS’ SPORT SUNSCREEN (Tie for #1)
Tied for #1 for Best Kids' Sport Sunscreen and featuring sun protection from zinc oxide is BurnOut Kids Physical Sunscreen SPF 35. This sunscreen is also water-resistant, biodegradable, noncomedogenic and suitable for sensitive skin. Plus, as dermatologist Dr. Debra Jaliman points out, "It includes the antioxidant vitamin C and moisturizes with glycerin."
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $17.99 for 3.4 oz. ($5.29/oz.)
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6. BEST KIDS’ SPORT SUNSCREEN (Tie for #1)
"Another water-resistant, zinc-oxide sunscreen, this one can be used for 40 minutes in the water before reapplying," says dermatologist Dr. Debra Jaliman of TruKid Sunny Days Sport SPF30+ Water Resistant Lotion, which happens to be our other #1 pick for Best Kids' Sport Sunscreen. "It also contains moisturizing sunflower oil and castor oil, and a variety of antioxidants, including green tea oil, vitamin E and pomegranate juice." Plus, dermatologist Dr. Wendy Roberts points out that it's geared toward kids with sensitive skin, since it's unscented.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $18.99 for 3.5 oz. ($5.43/oz.)
BUY IT: Get more info and find out where purchase this sunscreen.
7. BEST BABY SUNSCREEN
"A long list of organic botanical ingredients and UVA coverage help protect baby's skin," says dermatologist Dr. Wendy Roberts, explaining that this makes Goddess Garden Baby Natural Sunscreen SPF 30 a top choice for your little one. This zinc oxide-based sunscreen is even water-resistant for up to 40 minutes.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $12.99 for 3.4 oz ($3.82/oz.)
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8. BEST SENSITIVE SKIN BABY SUNSCREEN
Vetted not only by EWG, California Baby Super Sensitive Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30+ has also been recognized by WebMD and SheKnows Parenting Awards. Its water-resistant formula contains no fragrances or scent-masking agents and can be used on babies under six months if sun exposure is unavoidable. Moms can even use it under their make-up or as stand-alone skin protection.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $19.99 for 2.9 oz ($6.89/oz.)
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9. BEST SUNSCREEN DEAL
The Butterbean Organics Original Formula Sunscreen SPF 30 is a whipped, creamy sunscreen whose primary ingredient is coconut oil, giving it a slightly tropical scent without any added fragrance. And thanks to the zinc oxide in this product, dermatologist Dr. Wendy Roberts says you get "immediate sun protection with no need to wait to let the sunscreen soak in before getting in the water." Founded by a mom in Georgia, the company is committed to using fair-trade, organic ingredients. And at just over $3 an ounce, the price is unbeatable.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $22.00 for 7 oz. ($3.14/oz.)
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10. BEST SCENTED SUNSCREEN
"Broad-spectrum coverage and water resistance combined with eco-friendly packaging and biodegradable ingredients safe for coral reefs" set Badger Sunscreen Cream SPF 30 Lavender apart, says dermatologist Dr. Wendy Roberts. Badger has the second most products on the Environmental Working Group's top rated list (second to Goddess Garden), and this is their original sunscreen formula, lightly scented with lavender.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $15.99 for 2.9 oz. ($5.51/oz.)
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11. BEST CANCER-FIGHTING SUNSCREEN
"With water resistance for up to 80 minutes, this sunscreen is an excellent choice for water activities or outdoor sports that make you perspire," says dermatologist Dr. Wendy Roberts. And Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+ provides some protection against skin cancer thanks to zinc oxide's broad-spectrum protection.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $12.99 for 3 oz. ($4.33/oz.)
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12. BEST MOISTURIZING SUNSCREEN
A great biodegradable, coral reef-friendly option, Badger Sunscreen Cream SPF 30 Unscented contains only five ingredients, including zinc oxide for sun protection, vitamin E and other emollients, says dermatologist Dr. Wendy Roberts. It's unscented, provides water and sweat resistance for up to 40 minutes, and even comes in eco-friendly packaging.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $15.99 for 2.9 oz. ($5.51/oz.)
BUY IT: Get more info and find out where purchase this sunscreen.
13. BEST LONG-TERM SUN EXPOSURE SUNSCREEN
If you need a sunscreen for very intense sun exposure, dermatologist Dr. Wendy Roberts says that Tropical Sands Sunscreen SPF 50 offers broad-spectrum UV coverage thanks to two physical sun filters: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. It also contains the antioxidant green tea and promises a long shelf life. Bonus: It's coral reef-friendly and biodegradable.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $19.95 for 5.4 oz. ($3.69/oz.)
BUY IT: Get more info and find out where purchase this sunscreen.
14. BEST ANTI-AGING SUNSCREEN
Take your sun protection one step further with True Natural's Ultra Protect SPF 50 Antioxidant Sunscreen. It's vegan, and gluten-, paraben- and fragrance-free, formulated specifically for sensitive skin or allergen-prone skin. All ingredients range from a 0 to 2 on EWG's scale, meaning they have little to no negative health concerns associated with them.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $19.99 for 2.5 oz. ($7.99/oz.)
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15. BEST TINTED SUNSCREEN
The Waxhead Sun Defense Tinted Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 31 is a mineral-based sunscreen that blends with most skin tones and has a sheer to light tint. You can use it as a make-up primer or a stand-alone face sunscreen. Based on EWG's data, this sunscreen provides excellent broad-spectrum protection, including a good balance of UVA protection in relation to the SPF.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $23.99 for two 1-oz. tubes ($11.99/oz.)
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16. BEST FACE STICK SUNSCREEN
Take your sun protection with you wherever you go with Tropical Sands Face Stick SPF 30, an easy-to-pack sunscreen stick. Apply to your face, nose, ears or even lips when you don't have lip balm with you. It's even biodegradable, eco- and reef-friendly, and safe for kids.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $8.99 for 0.5 oz. ($18/oz.)
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17. BEST SENSITIVE SKIN SUNSCREEN
Formulated specifically for sensitive skin, True Natural SPF 50 Sunscreen, NEUTRAL & Unscented is vegan, gluten-free and biodegradable. And the mineral-based formula is well-suited for those with allergies or sensitivities. EWG found the health concerns low and the UVA protection excellent.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $23.99 for 3.4 oz. ($7.35/oz.)
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18. BEST SUNSCREEN FOR OUTDOOR SPORTS
Whether you're hiking, camping, kayaking or rock climbing — or wherever else your adventures take you — Sunumbra Sport Natural Sunscreen SPF 40+ provides long-lasting, sweat-proof protection from UVA and UVB rays for up to 40 minutes. EWG found it had a good balance between UVA protection and SPF, though they do always recommend protective hats and clothing in addition to sunscreen for any outdoor activities.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $29.90 for 3.5 oz. ($8.54/oz.)
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19. BEST ORGANIC SUNSCREEN
Kabana Organic Skincare Green Screen D Organic Sunscreen SPF 35 contains only USDA-certified organic ingredients, including sunflower oil, beeswax, extra virgin olive oil, and vital D3. According to EWG's report, "Based on our modeling this product provides EXCELLENT UVA protection and a GOOD balance of UVA protection in relation to the SPF."
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $19.79/4 oz. ($4.95/oz.)
BUY IT: Get more info and find out where purchase this sunscreen.
20. BEST TINTED MOISTURIZER WITH SPF
The Juice Beauty SPF 30 Tinted Mineral Moisturizer takes the prize on this one. This four-in-one BB cream blends broad spectrum sun protection with minerals and antioxidants, making it your go-to, daily SPF product, primer, antioxidant serum and toner. All skin types can benefit from this product, which comes in several tints and leaves you with a well-protected, radiant and toned complexion. The EWG says this product provides "EXCELLENT UVA protection and a GOOD balance of UVA protection in relation to the SPF."
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $32.00/2 oz. ($15.00/oz.)
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21. BEST SCENTED MOISTURIZER WITH SPF
Offering broad-spectrum protection from zinc oxide, yet almost invisible once applied, Badger Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 25 Damascus Rose is a light moisturizer that features a natural rose oil scent. "It also contains lemon extract to brighten the skin," according to Jessica Krant, MD, dermatologist and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center. That said, those with sensitive skin may wish to do a patch test first, since citrus mixed with sun can occasionally cause skin irritation and discoloration.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $19.99 for 1.6 oz. ($15.61/oz.)
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22. BEST SENSITIVE-SKIN MOISTURIZER WITH SPF
The Cetaphil Pro Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 20 is specifically formulated for redness-prone skin. A neutral-tinted moisturizer, this product neutralizes the appearance of redness and evens skin tone while providing hydration, leaving the skin soothed and balanced. It's mineral-based, non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic and fragrance free.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $11.22 for 1.7 oz. ($6.60/oz.)
BUY IT: Get more info and find out where purchase this sunscreen
23. BEST OIL-FREE MOISTURIZER WITH SPF
For shine-free protection, go with Juice Beauty Oil-Free Moisturizer SPF 30. "This chemical-free moisturizer with sunscreen absorbs quickly and is oil free, so it feels light even on oily skin and will not clog pores," says dermatologist Dr. Jessica Krant. Zinc oxide provides the sun protection, while aloe and grape seed add anti-inflammatory and antioxidant power.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $30 for 2 oz. ($15.00/oz.)
BUY IT: Get more info and find out where purchase this sunscreen.
24. BEST ANTI-AGING MOISTURIZER WITH SPF (Tie for #1)
The Goddess Garden Organics Face the Day Daily SPF 30 Moisturizer & Firming Primer tied for #1 for Best Anti-Aging Moisturizer with SPF. This three-in-one facial moisturizer, firming primer and sunscreen features a lightweight formula that hydrates, reduces the appearance of wrinkles and offers protection from sun-developed dark spots and roughness. Plant-based ingredients lessen the appearance of sun damage, and chicory root firms the skin. According to the EWG, "The ingredients in this product pose a LOW health concern."
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $18.99 for 1 oz. ($18.99/oz.)
BUY IT: Get more info and find out where purchase this sunscreen.
25. BEST ANTI-AGING MOISTURIZER WITH SPF (Tie for #1)
Our other #1 for Best Anti-Aging Moisturizer with SPF is the MDSolarSciences Daily Anti-Aging Moisturizer SPF 30. This daily moisturizer helps protect and repair your skin. As for its anti-aging properties, a blend of peptides, antioxidants, caffeine and niacinamide helps reduce signs of UV-induced damage. And as you likely know, the SPF factor definitely helps fight the signs of skin damage and aging. Additionally, it's cruelty-, gluten- and paraben-free.
EWG RATING: 2, low hazard
PRICE: $68 for 1.7 oz. ($40/oz.)
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26. BEST DEAL MOISTURIZER WITH SPF
You can use SanRe Organic Skinfood Vanilla Sensation Solar Protective Body Moisturizer SPF 30 daily to protect against skin damage, and keep your skin smooth and calm. And at less than $7 per ounce, you won't have to put a huge dent in your wallet, either. Given the highest rating by EWG, all ingredients were ranked from 0 to 2, meaning they were associated with little to no health concerns.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $26.99 for 4 oz. ($6.75/oz.)
BUY IT: Get more info and find out where purchase this sunscreen.
27. BEST CALMING MOISTURIZER WITH SPF
Another one on the list for SanRe Organic Skinfood — SanRe Organic Skinfood Shaded Rose Solar Calming Facial Cream SPF 30. This product moisturizes and helps soothe irritated skin, along with decreasing inflammation and brown spots. It assists in repairing skin imperfections and promotes skin cell growth. The SPF 30 is considered by the EWG to be a good balance of UVA protection in relation to the SPF.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $29.99 for 1.1 oz. ($27.26/oz.)
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28. BEST MOISTURIZER FOR FACE AND BODY
When you need a moisturizer with SPF that pulls double duty for your face and body, try Block Island Organics Natural Face Moisturizer SPF 30. According to EWG, all but one ingredient scored 1 or 2 on the health concerns. It's a 100-percent natural mineral sunscreen that absorbs quickly and won't leave your skin feeling greasy. The formulation is vegan, paraben-free and reef-friendly.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $27.99 for 3.4 oz. ($8.23/oz.)
BUY IT: Get more info and find out where purchase this sunscreen.
29. BEST HYDRATING MOISTURIZER WITH SPF
Wendy Steele, a Melanoma survivor, created Keys Solar Rx Moisturizer with Sunscreen SPF 30+ to protect people with sensitive skin against UVA and UVB radiation in everyday environments. "We use no chemical sunscreens, only pure uncoated zinc oxide in a natural lotion base," she says. Just apply 20 minutes before heading out and reapply as needed, especially after prolonged sun exposure.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $26.95 for 3.4 oz. ($7.93/oz.)
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30. BEST SUNSCREEN FOR PROBLEM SKIN
If your skin is easily irritated or you deal with skin issues like acne, rosacea or psoriasis, give this sunscreen a shot. ATTITUDE Family Sensitive Skin Care Sunscreen SPF 30 uses a mineral formula to deflect the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays while helping to prevent heat build-up in the skin. And yes, it's 100-percent free of oils, chemical sunscreens, fragrances, preservatives, PABA, gluten and phthalates.
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $24.95 for 5.2 oz. ($4.80/oz.)
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31. BEST MINERAL SUNSCREEN
The Suntegrity Skincare Natural Mineral Sunscreen For Body SPF 30 is a vegan, mineral sunscreen that's also non-greasy and non-toxic. Safe for the whole family, it's unscented and perfect for those with sensitive skin. And if you plan on traveling to a sunny locale, be sure to take this TSA-friendly sized lotion with you. It contains organic ingredients like green tea, cucumber extracts and pomegranate seed oil for added protection (along with zinc oxide).
EWG RATING: 1, lowest hazard
PRICE: $24.00 for 3 oz. ($8.00/oz.)
BUY IT: Get more info and find out where purchase this sunscreen.
32. SUNSCREENS TO AVOID: Sprays and Aerosols
EWG recommends you avoid all sunscreen sprays and aersols containing SPF, since it's too easy to accidentally inhale them and/or miss a spot. "People can potentially inhale ingredients in sunscreen sprays and ingest some of the ingredients they apply to their lips, so ingredients must not be harmful to lungs or internal organs," the report says. Some of the brands to make it into their "Hall of Shame" in previous years include Banana Boat, Coppertone and CVS.
33. SUNSCREENS TO AVOID: Super High SPF
You'll also want to steer clear of products with SPFs above 50+. The reason is that a sunscreen's SPF only refers to its ability to filter the UVB rays that cause sunburn, and it does not guarantee anything about its ability to block UVA rays, which can cause skin damage and/or cancer — especially if you stay outside all day because you think you can.
In addition, their report states, "High-SPF products require higher concentrations of sun-filtering chemicals [like oxybenzone] than low-SPF sunscreens. Some of these ingredients may pose health risks when they penetrate the skin, and have been linked to tissue damage and potential hormone disruption."
Read more: 8 Natural Ways to Protect Your Skin From Sun and Bugs
34. SUNSCREENS TO AVOID: Chemical Sun Protection
Finally, EWG recommends that you skip the chemical sun protection. According to Matthew Miller, MD, a dermatologist in Greenville, SC, "Some chemical sunscreens could interfere with the normal function of hormones." In fact, 80 percent of chemical sunscreens contain oxybenzone, which gets into the bloodstream, may cause allergic reactions and can mimic estrogen in the body.
Instead, put on a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and a long-sleeved shirt and pants, or opt for EWG's top-rated products: sunscreens containing zinc and/or titanium. "These minerals are physical blocks that sit on the surface of the skin, preventing UV light from penetrating it," says Dr. Miller.
What Do YOU Think?
Do you plan to spend time out in the sun this summer? Which sunscreen do you wear? Does it work well for you? Would you try any on this list? Leave a comment below and let us know!
Read more: Crucial Tips to Safeguard Against Skin Cancer