This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure policy.
It is really important for me to take care of my skin and the skin of my loved ones in the summer–my non tox sunscreen tips do just that!
If you are looking for more non tox sunscreen tips, be sure to check out my Instagram!
❤️ Why You’ll Love My Non Tox Sunscreen Tips
I love non-toxic sunscreen because it provides safe, effective sun protection without harmful chemicals. I find it is gentle on my skin and is environmentally friendly. It is a perfect choice for my health and the planet.
🧽 Materials: Non Tox Sunscreen Tips
I like to make sure my non tox sunscreen is properly applied and distributed.
Here are my tips for that:
Start with Clean Skin: Make sure your skin is clean and dry before applying sunscreen to help it absorb better.
Use the Right Amount: Apply about a nickel-sized amount for your face and more for larger body areas. Don’t skimp on the product, as proper coverage is key to protection.
Warm it Up: Rub the sunscreen between your palms to warm it up, making it easier to spread.
Apply in Sections: Work in small sections, applying the sunscreen to one area at a time (e.g., face, arms, legs) to ensure even coverage.
Rub in Circular Motions: Use gentle, circular motions to rub the sunscreen into your skin until it is fully absorbed. Pay extra attention to areas that are often missed, like the ears, neck, and the back of your hands.
Blend Thoroughly: Keep blending until the sunscreen disappears or becomes less visible, especially with mineral sunscreens, which may leave a white cast if not fully rubbed in.
Reapply as Needed: Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming, to maintain protection.
🧼 How to Do
I always recommend lotion sunscreen without a spray too, but you’ve asked for the best option I can find that is spray and not the pump spray kind. This is my choice. This isn’t an ad just my rabbit hole deep dive. In order.
Lotion
Manual pump
Aresol spray
However, you do you! Whatever works best for you family do that. I’m just here to help you make the right choice for your family.
🪄 Tips and Tricks
Don’t just check the SPF—read the fine print! 🌞 While active ingredients protect your skin from the sun, inactive ingredients can sneak in harmful chemicals or irritants.
Also, the inactive ingredients don’t directly offer sun protection, they do affect how easily the sunscreen spreads onto your skin and how long it stays on too.
Make sure your sunscreen is a true friend to your skin by double-checking all the ingredients. Your future self will thank you!
Make sure your sunscreen doesn’t contain:
1. Oxybenzone
2. Octinoxate
3. Homosalate
4. Octocrylene
5. Parabens
6. Fragrance (synthetic)
7. Retinyl Palmitate
8. Benzophenone
9. Avobenzone
10. PABA (Para-Aminobenzoic Acid)
🫙 How to Store
Keep It Cool: Store sunscreen in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and light can break down the active ingredients, making it less effective.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Don’t leave sunscreen in a hot car or in direct sunlight for long periods. Extreme heat can cause the sunscreen to degrade.
Seal the Container: Always make sure the lid is tightly closed after each use to prevent air and moisture from getting in, which can cause the product to deteriorate.
Check Expiration Dates: Sunscreens have an expiration date. After this date, the active ingredients may not work as well. If your sunscreen doesn’t have an expiration date, it’s generally safe to assume it’s effective for up to three years from the purchase date.
Refrigeration (Optional): Some people prefer to store sunscreen in the refrigerator, especially in hot climates. This can extend its shelf life and provide a cooling sensation when applied.
🤔 Common Questions
Non-toxic sunscreen refers to products that use natural or mineral-based ingredients, avoiding harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. These sunscreens typically use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients for sun protection.
Non-toxic sunscreens are considered safer for both human health and the environment. Chemical sunscreens can cause skin irritation, hormone disruption, and are harmful to marine life, particularly coral reefs. Non-toxic options are free from these harmful effects.
Yes, when applied correctly, non-toxic sunscreens are just as effective as chemical sunscreens. They provide broad-spectrum protection (against both UVA and UVB rays) and are often recommended for people with sensitive skin.
Non Tox Sunscreen Tips
Instructions
Check the Active Ingredients
- Look for Mineral-Based Ingredients: Opt for sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients. These minerals provide broad-spectrum protection and are safer for your skin and the environment.
Avoid Harmful Chemicals
- Steer Clear of Oxybenzone and Octinoxate: These chemicals are linked to hormone disruption and environmental damage, particularly to coral reefs. Avoid sunscreens containing these or similar harmful chemicals.
- Avoid Parabens and Synthetic Fragrances: These can cause skin irritation and may have potential health risks.
Look for Broad-Spectrum Protection
- Ensure UVA and UVB Coverage: Choose a sunscreen labeled as “broad-spectrum,” which protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
Consider Water Resistance
- Check for Water Resistance: If you’ll be swimming or sweating, select a sunscreen that is water-resistant. This will help it stay effective during outdoor activities.
Select the Right SPF
- Choose an SPF of 30 or Higher: SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, which is sufficient for most people. Higher SPF offers slightly more protection but should be reapplied just as frequently.
Check for Certification
- Look for Certifications: Consider sunscreens that are EWG (Environmental Working Group) certified or have other reputable certifications indicating they are non-toxic and environmentally safe.
Test for Skin Sensitivity
- Patch Test If Possible: If you have sensitive skin, test the sunscreen on a small area of your skin first to ensure it doesn’t cause irritation or breakouts.
Read Reviews
- Consider User Feedback: Look for reviews from other users, especially those with similar skin types or needs, to get a sense of how the product performs in real-world conditions.
Evaluate the Texture
- Choose a Texture That Suits Your Needs: Whether you prefer a lotion, cream, spray, or stick, make sure the texture is easy to apply and comfortable for you to wear.
Check for Reef-Safe Label
- Ensure It’s Reef-Safe: If you plan to swim in the ocean, choose a sunscreen labeled as “reef-safe” to minimize environmental impact.