12 Vegan Sunscreens for a Guilt-Free Summer Glow

Picture this – you’re lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and enjoying a gorgeous summer day. But what if you could make your sunbathing experience even better by using a sunscreen that’s not only kind to your skin but also to the environment and animals? Enter vegan sunscreen!

Vegan sunscreens have been making waves in the skincare world in recent years. With their eco-friendly ingredients, cruelty-free ethos, and numerous health benefits, it’s no wonder that more people are switching to plant-based sun protection. But with so many options on the market, how do you find the perfect vegan sunscreen for your needs?

Before you head out to catch some rays, read on to discover the ultimate list of vegan sunscreens that will keep your skin radiant and healthy all summer. So, say goodbye to sunburns and hello to a sun-kissed glow with a clear conscience!

 In this article, we’ll explore:

• What is vegan sunscreen, and what are its benefits and features
• Twelve of the best vegan and cruelty-free sunscreens and their different pros and cons
• Additional tips when it comes to applying vegan sunscreen.

Ready? Let’s dive right in!

What Is Vegan Sunscreen?

Vegan sunscreen is a type of sunscreen that opts to use renewable, plant-based ingredients instead of animal-based ones. 

A true vegan sunscreen also doesn’t use byproducts derived from animals, resulting in an ethically manufactured product that causes no harm to animal populations.

Why Choose Vegan Sunscreen?

Although many choose vegan sunscreen and cosmetics from an ethical standpoint, there’s also a range of other benefits that might influence your decision. 

Many vegan sunscreens provide the following guarantees:

• Environmentally friendly. Most vegan products utilize natural ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, which are kinder to your skin and the environment.
• Cruelty-free. When you choose a vegan and cruelty-free option, you’re using a product that ensures no animals were harmed during the production or testing phases of the manufacturing process.
• Health benefits. Since most vegan products use natural extracts rather than harsh chemicals, you aren’t just making a more environmentally conscious choice, but one that’s ultimately better for your health too. 

Features to Consider in a Vegan Sunscreen

Thanks to growing awareness, many more vegan sunscreens have made their way to the market in recent years.

If you’re stuck on what to get, analyzing your choices based on the following features will help narrow down your options:

SPF Level

SPF, which stands for Sun Protection Factor, is the primary metric you’ll consider when looking for sunscreen. Essentially, it tells you how well a sunscreen will protect you from the sun’s harsh UVB rays. 

The American Academy of Dermatology suggests using sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. However, if you live in exposed climates, go for sunscreens with higher SPF.

Broad-Spectrum Protection 

Until recently, it was thought that only UVB rays could damage the skin. But, unfortunately, this turned out to be incorrect! As our knowledge about UV radiation grew, we eventually learned that UVA rays also harm the skin. 

In response, manufacturers started making broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect against UVA and UVB rays. By choosing this version, you’re ensuring that your skin has the best possible protection against the sun.

Water-Resistance

If you intend to take a dip or get sweaty, look for a sunscreen that’s up to the job by being water resistant. This means it won’t wash off and will remain effective whether you’re in the water or not!

Skin Type Suitability

Not every sunscreen is suitable for all skin types. 

From oil-based sunscreens that may aggravate acne-prone skin to zinc-laden formulas that can trigger skin sensitivities, ensuring that you’re familiar with the ingredients and potential risks is crucial when selecting your next sun protection product. 

Texture and Application

Sunscreens come in a variety of textures that carry their own application instructions. For instance, a lotion sunscreen may have different application methods than sprays (and may have distinct limitations or advantages). 

Best Vegan & Cruelty-Free Sunscreens for Face & Body

Now that you know both the upsides of vegan sunscreen and how to choose one, we’ll give you a rundown of the 12 best vegan and cruelty-free sunscreens to try!

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion

This hypoallergenic and cruelty-free sunscreen is both lightweight and skin-nourishing. It’s also packed full of vitamin E – nature’s skin superfood – and smells fantastic!

This Sun Bum vegan sunscreen is reef-friendly and packed with Vitamin E!

Pros

• Lightweight and non-greasy formula that dries and applies seamlessly
• High SPF 50 rating
• Oxybenzone & octinoxate free
• Reef-friendly

Cons

• The scented version may not be suitable for individuals with sensitive skin
• Less cost-effective than other brands

Alba Botanica Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Quick absorption and natural ingredients are the names of the game for Alba Botanica’s vegan sunscreen. The paraben-free guarantee means your skin is protected without the tradeoff of harsh chemicals.

This fragrance-free Alba Botanica sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Pros

• Free from skin-irritating synthetic fragrances, oxybenzone, and octinoxate 
• Hypoallergenic
• Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Cons

• Its thick formula may be more challenging to reapply
• More expensive than other brands.

Pacifica Beauty Sea & C Mineral Combo Sunscreen SPF 30

Pacifica’s poppy pastel packaging seamlessly aligns with this product’s quick-acting formula! It’s suitable for numerous skin types, making for a fuss-free sunscreen filled with vitamin C and marine collagen extracts.

This SPF 30 sunscreen by Pacifica is filled with vitamin C and marine collagen extracts.

Pros

• Sheer application, making it suitable for use under makeup
• Free of silicones, parabens, retinyl palmitate, and phthalates
• Sweat- and water-resistant.

Cons:

• Lower SPF level
• Its mineral base may not be suitable for individuals with darker skin tones. 
• Heavily scented with floral notes, which may not be ideal for individuals with fragrance sensitivities.

Suntegrity Mineral Body Sunscreen

Created in honor of those who have lost their lives to skin cancer, Suntegrity’s offering is a thoughtful, zinc oxide sunscreen wrapped nicely in bright orange packaging. The mineral-based formula is non-greasy, cruelty-free, and plays well with all skin types.

Suntegrity’s vegan sunscreen is created in honor of those who have lost their lives to skin cancer.

Pros

• Enriched with naturally beneficial ingredients like green tea, pomegranate seed oil, and cucumber extract
• Non-greasy application
• Reef-friendly formula.
• Zinc oxide-based Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Cons

• The thick, zinc oxide formula may not spread easily
• May not be suitable for individuals with skin sensitivities.

Colorescience Brush-On Sunscreen Mineral Powder 

Designed for sensitive and acne-prone skin, Colorescience’s broad-spectrum, mineral-based sunscreen is one of the more unique ones on our list – thanks to its ability to double as lightweight makeup.  As a plus, there are also a variety of options to match different skin tones!

Colorscience’s Brush-On Sunscreen doubles as lightweight makeup!

Pros

• Dermatologist-recommended, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic formula
• Sweat and water resistance for up to 80 minutes 
• Antioxidant-infused powder with the added skin-firming benefit of hyaluronic acid.
• Broad Spectrum SPF 30 to 50 (depending on the product)

Cons

• Its powdered formula may not offer the same level of coverage as a traditional cream-based sunscreen.
• Only comes in four shades. 
• Those with sensitive skin might find some of the mineral ingredients incompatible with their skin type.

Kokua Sun Care SPF 50 Sunscreen for Face & Body

Befitting of its Hawaii-grown ingredients, Kokua Sun Care is a reef and environmentally-friendly sunscreen with a non-toxic and vegan formula. The high SPF rating is further complemented by nourishing and moisturizing properties.

Kokua Sun Care is a reef and environmentally-friendly vegan sunscreen made with antioxidants.

Pros

• Formulated with the highest-quality, Australian non-nano zinc oxide packed full of sun-protecting and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Natural coconut-vanilla scent derived from plant extracts
• Non-sticky, non-greasy, and has a soothing application, perfect for all skin types.

Cons

• Contains coconut oil which may make sensitive skin prone to breakouts
• Expensive in comparison to other sunscreens 
• Zinc oxide may not be suitable for some skin types.

Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc Spray Sunscreen SPF 30

Fast-absorbing and family-friendly, this botanically-infused, mineral-based sunscreen comes with a number-one backing from the Environment Working Group for its allergen safety. This sunscreen is specially formulated for people with sensitive skin, making it an effective product for most skin types.

This family-friendly sunscreen by Babo Botanicals is perfect for sensitive skin.

Pros

• Dermatologically tested to be safe for children, including babies
• Sweat- and water-resistant 
• Enriched with sunflower oil and aloe vera.

Cons

• Lower SPF rating 
• Contains zinc oxide, which may not be suitable for individuals with zinc sensitivity.

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen for Face SPF 40

If you’re looking for a lightweight and non-greasy vegan sunscreen that walks the talk, Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen is perfect for you! It’s packed with antioxidants and even doubles as a shine-reducing primer for makeup!

Supergoop!’s Unseen vegan-friendly sunscreen is so lightweight it can double as a primer.

Pros

• Suitable for most skin types
• Broad-spectrum formula enriched with natural ingredients 
• Clear gel texture that doesn’t leave any residue on the skin.

Cons

• Water-resistant for only 40 minutes
• Lower SPF level than other comparable brands
• Only available in a small size

Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Mineral SPF 45 Body Butter 

Enriched with argan oil and other eco-friendly ingredients, this skin-nourishing sunscreen provides all the benefits of body butter and moisturizer in one convenient package. It’s also fast-acting, lightweight, and free of harsh chemicals that could harm the ocean.

This Josie Maran SPF 45 sunscreen/body butter hybrid is as indulgent as it is protective.

Pros

• Cruelty-free and contains no oxybenzone or octinoxate, which are both harmful to marine life
• Non-sticky and fast-absorbing.

Cons

• An oil-based formula that may not be suitable for skin types
• Some of its antibacterial and cleansing ingredients may cause skin irritation. 

COOLA Organic Classic Body Sunscreen SPF 50

With 70%+ organic ingredients and an antioxidant-packed formula, the COOLA Organic Classic Body Sunscreen offers excellent everyday protection for those looking for an eco-friendly and high-quality option. 80 minutes of water resistance and a high SPF rating means this sunscreen is perfect for a day at the beach!

This COOLA vegan sunscreen boasts over 70% organic ingredients while providing nourishing broad-spectrum protection.

Pros

• Non-greasy and water-resistant formula
• Environmentally-friendly packaging 
• Free from harsh chemicals and parabens.

Cons

• The essential oils and plant extracts in its formula may not be suitable for sensitive skin types
• More expensive than other brands on the market.

Unsun Everyday Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF 30

Sunscreen and makeup in just one application — this moisturizing and cruelty-free formula helps reduce the look of pores and provides a sheer, luminous finish without any harsh chemicals or parabens. Powerful, all-natural ingredients like green tea, aloe vera, and lavender ensure your skin remains supple and healthy.

Unsun’s tinted face sunscreen contains all-natural ingredients like green tea, aloe vera, and lavender.

Pros

• Lightweight and easily blendable, making it suitable for makeup application
• Broad-spectrum protection for all skin types.

Cons

• Limited shade range 
• Contains zinc oxide, which may cause dryness and sensitivity
• Lower SPF rating

Cocokind Silk SPF 30 Hybrid Sunscreen for Face

With easy blending and a silky feel, the Cocokind Silk Hybrid Sunscreen works smoothly with all skin types — even if you’re prone to blemishes — to protect you from UVA and UVB rays.

Cocokind’s cruelty-free SPF 30 sunscreen is formulated for sensitive skin.

Pros

• Blends well and hydrates skin
• Contains banana blossom that helps skin retain its moisture
• Works for a variety of skin types.

Cons

• Not waterproof or sweatproof 
• It uses homosalate to protect against UVB rays, making it unsuitable for those who want a completely chemical-free sunscreen.

Tips for Vegan Sunscreen Application

Hopefully, you’ve been able to find the perfect vegan sunscreen from the options above. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of the product!

How Much to Apply

Like all sunscreens, you should apply enough to give yourself adequate coverage. Ensure that you apply to all exposed areas and pay special attention to your face, neck, and ears. For best results, wait 30 minutes after applying the product before going out into the sun.

When to Reapply

Check your brand’s specific application instructions, but it’s a good idea to reapply once every two hours as a general rule. 

If you’ve been in the water, reapplication is a must — in this case, a good frequency would be to reapply after every swim session.

Importance of Regular Use

Using sunscreen regularly protects your skin against premature aging. In addition, it provides a range of preventive skin cancer measures and additional skin health benefits. So avoid going out without applying sunscreen, even when it’s cloudy!

The Recap

It’s essential to use sunscreen regularly to protect our skin from premature aging and the risks of skin cancer. By choosing vegan sunscreen, you’re protecting your skin from harsh chemicals and taking a responsible step towards safeguarding the environment and animals. Share this list with your friends and family to help them make the switch to vegan sunscreens, and let’s work together towards a brighter, kinder future for all 🌞.