The 10 Best Biodegradable Sunscreens

Editor's Notes

March 27, 2019:

When applied to sunscreens, the term "biodegradable" tends to be synonymous with reef safe, meaning they don't contain the toxic chemicals used in typical sunblock formulas that are known to harm marine life and are banned in many destination spots, like Hawaii, Mexico, and Key West. We chose to favor sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide as the main active ingredient - non-nano meaning that its particles are actually big enough to NOT biodegrade - which is important for small creatures, like brine shrimp (and the animals that eat brine shrimp), that might ingest it if it did break down. It usually settles over the ocean floor as a silt-like material.

After that, we looked to selections that used food-safe and organic ingredients, were cruelty-free, and devoid of parabens, synthetic fragrances and dyes, and other additions that might linger and adversely affect the environment. We also opted to avoid products that used titanium dioxide, which reacts in warm seawater to form hydrogen peroxide. To create our list, we consulted an array of authorities, including marine ecologists, scientists, tour guides, and the EWG (environmental working group).

Of course, protecting yourself from the Sun is still the main priority, which is why our top three choices have an SPF of 50 and outstanding water resistance. We also incorporated options for the very active (Manda Organic, Thinksport Plus), beach and pool loungers (Suntegrity Unscented, Raw Love Safe), and children (TotLogic Non-Nano). Bear in mind that sunscreen alone can only do so much, even when you apply and reapply it perfectly. Be sure to cover yourself and your kids with protective clothing, hats, and umbrellas, too.