20 Best Sunscreens Without Oxybenzone And Octinoxate

In the quest for sun safety, it’s important to choose products that not only protect your skin and health but are also kind to the environment.

However, with two popular and rather controversial UV factors being present in over 60% of chemical sunscreens, how do you decide which one is best for you?

In this article, I will explain what are oxybenzone and octinoxate, why the two ingredients are considered harmful and are banned in multiple countries in the world, as well as suggest 20 sunscreens without oxybenzone and octinoxate for each skin type and concern.

From high-protection SPF lotions to formulas designed for sensitive skin, below, you’ll discover a range of sunscreens that have opted for safer, more sustainable ingredients without compromising on efficacy.

What is Oxybenzone?

Oxybenzone, also known as benzophenone-3, is a synthetic organic compound that’s widely used in sunscreens due to its ability to absorb harmful UV rays.

As an effective UVB and short-wave UVA filter, it protects the skin from the damaging effects of the sun.

However, it’s been linked to potential health and environmental impacts due to its high absorbency through the skin and association with photoallergic reactions.

The Side Effects of Oxybenzone

Here are some potential side effects of oxybenzone:

• Skin reactions: Oxybenzone can cause skin reactions such as rashes, itching, and swelling.
• Eye irritation: Oxybenzone is considered a hazardous eye irritant and is known to cause allergic reactions.
• Endocrine disruption: Some studies suggest that oxybenzone behaves like an endocrine disruptor due to having antiestrogenic and antiandrogenic properties, which means it might interfere with hormone regulation in the body.
• Environmental impact: Environmentally, oxybenzone has been shown to produce toxic reactions in coral and fish, causing reef bleaching and mortality. It can also damage sea urchins, cause reproductive issues in fish, and accumulate in the tissues of dolphins. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has stated that oxybenzone and other chemical filters in sunscreen can damage coral.

What is Octinoxate?

Octinoxate is an oil-soluble component used as a UV filter to protect products from degrading when exposed to the sun. It is most often found in chemical sunscreens. 

It is formulated by combining Methoxycinnamic acid and 2-Ethylhexanol compounds that, when mixed, form a clear liquid that does not dissolve in water.

The Side Effects of Octinoxate

Here are some potential side effects of octinoxate:

• Skin reactions: Octinoxate can cause allergic reactions after exposure to ultraviolet light.
• Skin aging: Octinoxate has been shown to generate free radicals in the skin when exposed to UV rays, potentially causing premature skin aging.
• Endocrine disruption: Octinoxate may increase cell proliferation in cells that grow in response to estrogen exposure, which may lead to biochemical or cellular level changes, potentially causing endocrine disruption.
• Developmental and reproductive toxicity: Some studies have reported that octinoxate exhibits antiandrogenic activity, which can potentially impact reproductive health by leading to reduced egg formation and decreased brood size
• Environmental impact: Octinoxate has been linked to aquatic toxicity, with the potential to harm coral health.

The 20 Best Sunscreens Without Oxybenzone and Octinoxate

Paula’s Choice – RESIST Wrinkle Defense SPF 30

Best for oily skin.

The Paula’s Choice RESIST Wrinkle Defense SPF 30 is a multi-tasking, oxybenzone and octinoxate-free sunscreen infused with potent antioxidants such as resveratrol, which helps protect your skin from sun damage while fighting signs of aging. 

It has a lightweight, non-greasy consistency and a matte finish that glides smoothly onto the skin while the tinted formula evens out the skin tone and reduces the appearance of redness.

Paula’s Choice – DEFENSE Essential Glow Mineral Moisturizer SPF 30

Best for normal to dry skin.

The Paula’s Choice DEFENSE Essential Glow Mineral Moisturizer SPF 30 is a mineral-based sunscreen without oxybenzone and octinoxate, which is loaded with antioxidants and skin-restoring ingredients.

It has a dewy, radiant finish, and it’s fragrance-free, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

This product is suitable for normal to dry skin; however, since it’s completely mineral-based, it does leave a slight whitecast that may not work for all skin tones unless followed up with makeup.

Elta MD – Physical Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF 41

Best for sensitive, rosacea-prone skin.

The Elta MD Physical Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF 41 is the best sunscreen without oxybenzone and octinoxate for sensitive skin.

It’s a lightly tinted, mineral-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide and has an oil-free consistency that blends seamlessly into the skin and covers up redness for a more even and unified complexion.

The sunscreen is also fragrance-free, which makes it suitable for sensitive and reactive skin; however, it is loaded with potentially comedogenic emollients, so it’s not the best option for anyone dealing with active acne.

Supergoop – Glowscreen SPF 40

Best for normal, dry, mature skin.

The Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 is a hydrating, makeup-gripping primer with high SPF and blue-light protection that has a pearlescent finish to leave skin luminous with an instant glow.

It is powered by hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 to boost moisture and refine skin texture, as well as sea lavender, a marine extract that provides antioxidant protection against blue light and other environmental stressors.

With no white cast, its lightweight, dewy texture makes it suitable for all skin types in need of a radiant boost.

TiZo – Mineral Sun Defense Tinted SPF 50

Best for acne-prone skin.

The TiZo Mineral Sun Defense Tinted SPF 50 is a mineral-based, tinted sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection using a blend of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

This sheer, fragrance-free formula has a velvety matte finish and a lightly tinted texture that blends well into all skin tones without leaving a white cast.

Ideal for all skin types, but especially acne-prone skin, the product will keep excess oil at bay without clogging the pores and exacerbating this inflammatory condition.

Colorescience – Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50

Best for all skin types.

The Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50 is a mineral-based sunscreen without octinoxate and oxybenzone that offers comprehensive protection from UVA/UVB, pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation.

It has a unique tinted formula that adapts to all skin types and is enriched with antioxidants, such as niacinamide, bisabolol, and mushroom extract, that help even out the complexion and improve skin health.

Additionally, the lightweight formula is also non-comedogenic and free of irritants such as fragrance, which makes it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Colorescience – Sheer Matte Sunscreen Brush SPF 30

Best for combination, oily, and acne-prone skin.

The Colorescience Sheer Matte Sunscreen SPF 30 is a convenient, brush-on sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection with a blend of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

Its sheer, lightweight formula applies smoothly without leaving a white cast, and it’s fragrance-free, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin or who prefer scentless skincare products.

Doubling up as a setting powder, the matte finish of the sunscreen makes it particularly suitable for those with oily and combination skin that need extra oil control throughout the day.

Blue Lizard – Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Best for sensitive, reactive skin.

The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is the best mineral sunscreen without oxybenzone and octinoxate, formulated specifically for sensitive and children’s skin as well as those who spend a lot of time outdoors.

It provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with active ingredients zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and it has a water-resistant formula that’s super useful for those who engage in water sports or sweaty activities.

However, the consistency of the sunscreen is quite thick, and it leaves a noticeable white cast that may not be suitable for all skin tones.

SkinCeuticals – Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50

Best for all skin types.

The SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50 is a chemical-free sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

This ultra-sheer, lightweight formula is comfortable to wear and leaves no white residue after application, as the tinted formula blends seamlessly into the skin to even out imperfections.

Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, it is suitable for all skin types, and is cosmetically elegant for wearing on its own or under makeup.

Vichy – Capital Soleil Tinted 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 60

Best for normal, combination, dry, and mature skin.

The Vichy Capital Soleil Tinted 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 60 is a pure mineral-based sunscreen that offers robust SPF 60 protection using titanium dioxide.

The tinted, lightweight formula also blends smoothly into the skin and evens out the skin tone, hiding redness and pigmentary imperfections seamlessly and leaving a glowy finish.

The sunscreen is also unscented, making it suitable for sensitive and reactive skin, however, it does contain nourishing emollients that could potentially be problematic for acne-prone skin, so it’s best suited for those with combination, dry or mature skin types.

La Roche-Posay – Anthelios Light Fluid Broad Spectrum SPF 60

Best for normal, dry, combination, and mature skin.

The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Light Fluid Broad Spectrum SPF 60 is a lightweight, fluid sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum SPF 60 protection with a blend of cosmetically elegant chemical filters while being free of oxybenzone and octinoxate.

Boosted with various emollients and barrier-strengthening silicones, this sunscreen is very nourishing for dry and mature skin in need of extra hydration while not leaving a white cast or an overly greasy layer behind.

However, while generally well tolerated by all skin types, the Anthelios Light Fluid Broad Spectrum SPF 60 does contain alcohol that helps improve the consistency and make the product more easily spreadable but may be problematic for those with very sensitive or reactive skin.

Murad – City Skin Broad Spectrum SPF 50

Best for dry skin.

The Murad City Skin Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is a high-performing, nourishing sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA/UVB rays.

The formula is enriched with potent antioxidants, vitamins, and emollients that help protect the skin barrier from damage caused by environmental factors such as UV rays and extremes of weather.

The consistency leans towards the thicker side, which makes it more suitable for dry skin, but it absorbs well without leaving a greasy residue or white cast behind, thanks to the subtle peachy tint that helps even out skin tone.

This product is also particularly beneficial for those exposed to urban environmental stressors, such as pollution.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+

Best for dry skin.

The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ is the best Korean sunscreen without oxybenzone and octinoxate.

It has a thicker consistency thanks to the plethora of skin-nourishing emollients it contains and is fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive and reactive skin.

SkinMedica – Essential Defense Mineral Shield SPF 35

Best for all skin types.

The SkinMedica Essential Defense Mineral Shield SPF 35 is a mineral sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

The formula, which is fragrance-free and lightweight, provides comfortable wear without leaving any white residue on application.

Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, the sunscreen also contains antioxidant and soothing components such as green tea extract to protect against environmental damage, reduce redness, and promote overall skin health.

ISDIN – Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50+

Best for dry, combination, and oily skin.

The ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50+ is a lightweight, oxybenzone and octinoxate-free sunscreen with high UV protection to reduce the risk of skin damage.

Utilizing zinc oxide as its active ingredient, the formula is boosted by various antioxidant and skin-soothing components, including brightening bisabolol, calming panthenol, and lecithin, an ingredient known for its barrier-restoring properties.

The ultra-light consistency and sheer finish make it suitable for most skin types, including dry, combination, and oily skin.

However, the product does contain trace amounts of fragrance, which may be problematic to those allergic to fragrances or with very sensitive skin.

Skinbetter – Science Sunbetter Sheer SPF 70 Lotion

Best for all skin types.

A favorite among estheticians and dermatologists alike, the Skinbetter Science Sunbetter Sheer SPF 70 Lotion is a high-protection sunscreen that utilizes an effective blend of organic and inorganic UV filters.

Its lightweight, sheer formula absorbs quickly, leaving no white cast behind, and is unscented and non-comedogenic, making it a perfect choice for those with sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Neutrogena – Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 50

Best for all skin types.

The Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 50 is a reliable, mineral-based sunscreen that harnesses the power of zinc oxide to provide broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection.

This sunscreen offers a dry-touch, non-greasy formulation that absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a noticeable white cast.

With its fragrance-free formula, this product is an excellent choice for all skin types, notably individuals with sensitive skin.

Pipette – Mineral Sunscreen – SPF 50

Best for dry skin.

The Pipette Mineral Sunscreen – SPF 50 is a mineral-based sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection using zinc oxide as the active ingredient.

The fragrance-free formula is boosted with skin-protecting antioxidants as well as barrier-strengthening emollients, such as squalane, a component found in our natural skin oil that helps lock in moisture and prevent skin damage caused by external aggressors.

The Pipette Mineral Sunscreen is lightweight enough for those with dry skin and absorbs quickly without leaving a white residue; however, if your skin is oily, you may find it slightly too rich.

Juice Beauty – SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen

Best for dry skin.

The Juice Beauty SPF Sport Sunscreen is specifically designed for those who lead an active lifestyle and spend a lot of time outdoors.

With broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, this sunscreen is water-resistant and provides long-lasting coverage without leaving a white cast on the skin.

The formula is also enriched with soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, along with antioxidants from organic grape and pomegranate extracts, making it an excellent choice for dry and sensitive skin.

Additionally, the sunscreen is cruelty-free and vegan, using mineral-based UV filters to provide protection without harming the environment.

However, if you have acne-prone skin, it’s definitely best to avoid the Juice Beauty SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen, as it has many comedogenic ingredients, including coconut and other oils, as well as emollients that can clog pores.

COOLA – Mineral Body Organic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Best body acne-safe sunscreen.

The COOLA Mineral Body Organic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is an organic, mineral-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection with the use of titanium dioxide.

The formula is lightweight and non-greasy, absorbing quickly into the skin without leaving a white cast.

It is also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it perfect for sensitive skin and those dealing with body acne who want to make sure their sunscreen is protecting their skin without clogging pores and exacerbating this inflammatory condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Oxybenzone in Sunscreen Dangerous?

According to in vitro studies on cells and rats, oxybenzone happens to be the one that has the most substantial effect on hormones out of all questionable ingredients found in sunscreens. 

However, as Michelle from LabMuffin pointed out, there is a dermatology paper that calculated you’d probably need to use 6% oxybenzone sunscreen (which is the maximum concentration allowed in Europe) continuously for 277 years to have the same hormonal effect the substance had on rats; therefore, it is considered to be safe. 

Is Octinoxate in Sunscreen Dangerous?

Octinoxate seems to be the most problematic ingredient that makes many people opposed to using chemical sunscreens. It has been linked to skin sensitivity, allergic reactions, and even more severe concerns. 

It can be absorbed rapidly through the skin, and as a result of this, it can be found in human urine, blood, and even breast milk.

This also indicates that we are systemically exposed to this compound even if we are not using a chemical sunscreen, as octinoxate is found in cosmetic products such as shampoos, lipstick, nail polish, and even creams under different names.

This ingredient’s primary health concerns are thought to be endocrine disruption, reproductive and developmental toxicity, and organ system toxicity.

However, this ingredient is, for now, approved for use in cosmetics worldwide, and further studies are still to be made to determine if it’s really toxic for us to use.

But if you are looking to eliminate this ingredient from your cosmetics, read the ingredient list on the label and search for Octinoxate, o Methoxycinnamate (OMC), Parsol, Parsol MCX, Parsol MOX, Escalol, 2-Ethylhexyl P-Methoxycinnamate.

Are Oxybenzone and Octinoxate More Harmful Than Protective?

Some studies have shown that oxybenzone and octinoxate, found in 65% of chemical sunscreens, can be harmful to our skin, eyes, and health.

However, other studies deem the amount of oxybenzone and octinoxate used in sunscreens to be safe for long-term use.

Therefore, it’s entirely up to the individual whether they choose to avoid these ingredients or not.

Are ‘Reef Safe’ Sunscreens Better for the Environment?

Some research suggests that oxybenzone and octinoxate may threaten coral in ocean reefs.

Therefore, even if a sunscreen is labeled as ‘reef-safe,’ you should still check the ingredient list to make sure the formula doesn’t contain these ingredients.