The 5 Absolute Best Natural Sunscreens to Try Right Now

Stocksy

If you’re here looking for a natural sunscreen, you probably already know what a natural sunscreen is. But as a quick refresher, sunscreens are divided into two categories: chemical (which use various active chemicals to absorb and disperse UV rays across your skin) and natural (which use active minerals, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, to reflect rays off your skin).

Both are equally safe and effective, but if your skin is sensitive, natural formulas are the way to go. And because I know you don't want to be a skin-cancer statistic (sorry to be a Debbie Downer, but one person dies of melanoma every hour), I’ve rounded up the very best natural formulas you'll WANT to slather on a dozen times a day. Stock up ASAP.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

1 This Ultra-Gentle Formula

Courtesy of Brand

MDSolar Sciences Mineral Crème Broad Spectrum SP50 UVA Sunscreen, $30

SHOP IT

This lightweight sunscreen is formulated with brightening vitamin C and soothing green tea extracts, making it gentle enough for even the most sensitive of skin types.

2 This Wrinkle-Preventing Formula

<p>Lurelux's organic formula is enhanced by an extra dose of Vitamin D: perfect for sun-deprived city dwellers. This one's super moisturizing and can double as a base under your foundation when you need some extra sun coverage. </p><p><em>Lurelux Organic Sunscreen SPF 25, $20; <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sunscreen-Minerals-Moisturizing-Essential-Nutrients/dp/B00VXQEIE4#Ask">amazon.com</a>. </em></p>

Lurelux Organic Sunscreen SPF 25, $20

SHOP IT

Technically, all sunscreens help prevent the wrinkles caused by sun damage, but this creamy formula is also filled with vitamin D, an antioxidant that hardcore protects against fine lines and inflammation.

3 This Rich, Hydrating Formula

<p>With a creamy finish and a zinc base, a little of this sunblock goes a <em>looong</em> way. Dab a quarter-sized amount into your hand and rub the lotion into your skin until the whiteness disappears. It's guaranteed to last a while if you apply before taking a dip. </p><p><em>Sunology Natural Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50, $15; <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sunology-Sunscreen-Ingredients-Moisturizing-Water-resistant/dp/B00HZRE16U" target="_blank">amazon.com</a></em><em>. </em><br></p>

Sunology Natural Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50, $15

SHOP IT

A little dab of this moisturizing sunblock goes a long way, thanks to its moringa-oil base, which lightly hydrates your skin without feeling greasy or sticky.

4 This Quick-Dry Formula

<p>The ingredients in this Andre Lorent sunscreen form a special hydrating cocktail of vitamins and seaweed extract—the formula is actually so light and replenishing that you can use it as your daily moisturizer. Plus, it comes with an extra boost of anti-aging properties to prevent wrinkles from sun damage. </p><p><em>Andre Lorent Daily Rehydrating Sunscreen</em><em> SPF 30+, $25; <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Daily-Rehydrating-Sunscreen-Protection-Fragarance/dp/B00YI1FBJM" target="_blank">amazon.com</a>.</em><br></p>

Andre Lorent Daily Rehydrating Sunscreen SPF 30+, $25

SHOP IT

Sunblock has a bad rap for being thick and heavy, but this sheer formula is so lightweight, it absorbs into skin almost immediately after massaging it on.

5 This Soothing Formula

<p>MyChelle's Sun Shield comes packed with soothing aloe and Vitamin E, so it's made for easing unexpected burns when you need an extra layer midday. </p><p><em>MyChelle Sun Shield Unscented SPF 28, $20; <a href="http://www.lovelyskin.com/o/mychelle-sun-shield-unscented-spf-28?ref=gbase&gclid=Cj0KEQjwz-i3BRDtn53Z5Z7t4PUBEiQA23q2AORtrfUPaEtW6CWz5t5NfBe_acQHI_IC47BIdnRuyuoaAoYq8P8HAQ">lovelyskin.com</a>.</em></p>

MyChelle Sun Shield Unscented SPF 28, $20

SHOP IT

MyChelle's unscented formula is packed with calming aloe vera and vitamin E, so it's like an extra-soothing (and surprisingly moisturizing) hug for sun-irritated skin.