Is there sunscreen without chemicals?

What should you look for on the bottle?

Read the section marked "Active Ingredients," rather than relying on the product name. Mineral sunscreen is also called physical sunscreen. Chemical sunscreen uses other UV filters, such as avobenzone, oxybenzone or octocrylene. Hybrid sunscreen combines mineral and chemical filters, so finding zinc oxide on the label is not enough if your goal is to avoid chemical filters entirely.123

Choose broad spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistance. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB rays; SPF describes protection against sunburn. SPF and broad spectrum have defined meanings, which is more than can be said for every adjective auditioning for the front of the bottle.3

Does mineral sunscreen work as well?

Mineral, chemical and hybrid sunscreens can all protect you effectively when they meet those protection criteria. All three absorb the sun's rays; mineral sunscreen also reflects them. Mineral does not mean a sunscreen works only by sitting on your skin like a mirror.2

Mineral formulas tend to feel thicker and can look whiter on the skin. A tint can reduce the white cast some sunscreens leave, so sun protection does not have to double as stage makeup. Choose a tint that matches your skin tone.12

Are chemical sunscreen filters harmful?

Some chemical sunscreen filters can enter the bloodstream, but the health implications remain uncertain. The FDA has requested additional safety data for several filters. Its proposed updated safety framework identifies zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as generally recognized as safe and effective.45

Benzene found in some recalled sunscreens was a contaminant, not a sunscreen filter. Those recalls are a separate issue from choosing mineral versus chemical protection. If these concerns are why you are shopping, a mineral lotion is an option without abandoning sunscreen, which helps reduce sunburn and skin cancer risk.4

What if sunscreen irritates your skin?

Mineral sunscreen is a good choice for sensitive skin because zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are less likely to cause irritation. Choose a fragrance free formula too: fragrance can trigger reactions even when the UV filters are mineral. A reaction to one sunscreen does not mean every sunscreen will cause the same problem.6

Reactions can start within minutes or be delayed for up to a day. Symptoms include a rash, itching, swelling, blisters or hives. Stop using a product that repeatedly causes a reaction. If several sunscreens cause problems, a healthcare provider can arrange allergy or skin sensitivity testing. Difficulty breathing or feeling faint requires immediate emergency help.6

How do you use mineral sunscreen?

1. 1Apply sunscreen every day you will be outdoors, including cloudy days and winter.
2. 2Apply to dry skin 15 to 30 minutes before going outside, following the label.
3. 3Cover all skin not covered by clothing. Most adults need about an ounce for exposed skin; use at least a teaspoon for the face.
4. 4Include your ears, neck, tops of your feet and exposed scalp. Protect your lips with an SPF 30 or higher lip product.
5. 5Reapply approximately every two hours outdoors, after toweling off, and after swimming or sweating as directed on the bottle.

Sunscreen does not replace shade, protective clothing, a wide brimmed hat or UV protective sunglasses. For babies younger than six months, prioritize shade and clothing, and speak to a pediatrician before using sunscreen.7