The 18 Best Natural Sunscreens
Better for the planet, safe for your skin—and won't leave you with a white cast.

If you're here looking for a natural and organic sunscreen—nay, the best natural sunscreen—you probably already know what a "natural" sunscreen is. But as a quick refresher, sunscreen is divided into two categories: chemical sunscreen (which use various active chemicals to absorb and disperse UV rays across your skin) and natural sunscreen (which use active minerals, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, to reflect rays off your skin). Both are effective in protecting your skin from sun damage, but if your skin is sensitive or you're not into chemicals, natural and organic sunscreen formulas—often described as "mineral" sunscreens—are the way to go.
How does a natural sunscreen work?
According to Dr. Gretchen Frieling: "A physical or mineral sunscreen contains ingredients such as titanium dioxide and/or iron oxide and works by sitting on the skin surface and physically blocking UV light, either by reflecting or absorbing the light. For this reason, mineral sunscreens tend to cause less skin irritation and adverse reactions. They have less reports of allergic reactions and tend to be more tolerable."
The flip side: Natural sunscreens are notorious for leaving white casts or not blending properly. So, to save you the trouble, we rounded up the top-rated natural sunscreens that are safe and won't leave chalky casts on your skin.
You've undoubtedly seen this cult brand splashed across your social media feed, and for a good reason. The 20 percent zinc oxide formula protects skin with the nourishing benefits of niacinamide and shea butter that sinks in fast while hydrating skin for the ultimate in protection.
Come for the label's cult-loved C E Ferulic and stay for this water-resistant, broad-spectrum SPF with a universal tint that enhances your skin tone and boosts radiance.
There's a lot to love about Salt & Stone's SPF 50 natural sunscreen. First, it's fragrance-free and formulated to be water and sweat-resistant with a non-greasy, reef-safe feel that sinks into the skin fast, sans a white residue. It also contains rosehip seed and avocado oil to soothe and moisturize skin, and features sustainable packaging made from sugar cane. We told you, lots to love.
Supergoop! is famous for its sunscreens, and we love this formula for its undetectable finish. In addition, it's lightweight for acne-prone skin and boasts winter cherry and blueberry extract for added environmental protection.
This oil-free formula dries quickly with a slight matte finish—the perfect substitute from primer, or even foundation, all summer long. To add a flattering tint, we like to add a few drops of our favorite foundation before applying.
A little dab of this moisturizing sunblock goes a long way, thanks to jojoba and sunflower seed oils, aloe, and grape extract. Your skin will feel lightly hydrated but never greasy or sticky. Use it on your face and neck, and apply the excess on the back of your hands.
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Laura Lajiness Kaupke is a freelance writer and editor covering fashion, accessories, fine jewelry, and lifestyle topics, including beauty, home, fitness, and travel. You can see her work across various outlets, including VOGUE, Harper’s BAZAAR, ELLE, Glamour, Town&Country, InStyle, Esquire, Women’s Health, Brides, Refinery 29, Coveteur, The Zoe Report, Popsugar, Byrdie, WWD, Footwear News, Well+Good, The Editorialist, among other titles and brands. Laura has worked in the fashion industry for over 11 years and held senior fashion editor positions at Popsugar and The Zoe Report, with additional experience as a copywriter and fashion publicist.