Sunscreen is one of those must-have things when you’re outside. But with so many options it’s hard to know which one to choose. So, I created this list filled with the best cruelty-free sunscreens to make your search a breeze.
Here are our top picks!
Babo Botanicals SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen
Suntegrity Fragrance-Free Mineral Sunscreen
Juice Beauty Reef Friendly Mineral Sunscreen
Supergoop! Kids Mineral Sunscreen
Which Cruelty-Free Sunscreens are the Best?
- Babo Botanicals Clear Sunscreen Lotion
- Suntegrity Mineral Body Sunscreen
- 100% Pure Sunscreen Body Stick
- Pacifica Mineral Face Vegan Sunscreen
- Derma E Mineral Vegan Sunscreen
- Juice Beauty Sport Sunscreen
- Supergoop! Kids Sunscreen
List of Cruelty-Free Sunscreens
All the sunscreens on this list or of course cruelty-free but are also EWG rated 1 or 2. Many are also vegan and reef-friendly.
1. Babo Botanicals Clear Sunscreen Lotion
Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc is a mineral-based, reef-friendly, SPF 30 sunscreen that is perfect for the whole family. It contains 16% zinc oxide and organic oils that will moisturize while protecting your skin from UVA/UVB rays. I love that it is fragrance-free and can be used for the entire family. So there is no need to buy two separate sunscreens.
Eco Info:
- Leaping Bunny and PETA certified cruelty-free
- EWG Rating: 1
- 100% Vegan (contains no animal-derived ingredients)
- Does not contain: SLS, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, dyes, sodium chloride, formaldehyde, MEA, DEA, TEA, gluten, dairy, soy, peanuts, almonds, or walnuts
Ingredients:
Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 16%
Ingredients: Arachidyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Behenyl Alcohol, Bisabolol*, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract*, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Cellulose Gum, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract*, Citric Acid, Coco-Glucoside, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Glycerin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Methyl Dihydroabietate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Nasturtium Officinale Flower/Leaf Extract*, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract*, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Spiraea Ulmaria Flower Extract*, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter*, Tocopherol, Water (Aqua).
* Certified Organic Ingredients
Pros
- Absorbs quickly
- Rubs in better than most mineral sunscreens
- Smells fresh
- Safe to use on kids
Cons
- Leaves barely noticeable whitish cast
2. Suntegrity Mineral Body Sunscreen
Suntegrity Natural is an unscented, vegan, and reef-friendly sunscreen lotion. It contains 20% non-nano zinc oxide, antioxidants, and organic ingredients that provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection year-round. This is the perfect sunscreen for adults that are sensitive to scents and children.
Eco Info:
- Leaping Bunny and PETA certified cruelty-free
- EWG Rating: 1
- Vegan (contains no animal-derived ingredients)
- Does not contain: parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol, mineral oil, synthetic dyes, sulfates, nanoparticles, or chemical UV absorbers
Ingredients:
Active Ingredients: 20% Zinc-Oxide (non-nano)
Inactive Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice*, Capric/Caprylic Triglyceride+, Water (Aqua), Glycerin+, Hydrogenated Castor Oil+, Sorbitan Sesquioleate+, Magnesium Sulfate+, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate+, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract*, Hyaluronic Acid+, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Extract*, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Seed Oil*, Dimethicone, Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange) Essential Oil*, Citrus Reticulata Blanco (Tangerine) Essential Oil*, Polyaminopropyl Biguanide, Ethylhexylglycerin *Certified Organic + Natural or Naturally-derived ingredients
Pros
- Rubs on smooth and easy
- Thick and stays in place
- Don’t get burnt even during intense heat
- Refreshing scent
Cons
- Makes skin a bit white
- Hard to reapply
3. 100% Pure Everywhere Body Stick-
100% Pure Everywhere Body is a natural and reef-safe sunscreen stick. It contains 2.5% mineral zinc oxide and skin-loving Vitamin E that will nourish and give your skin broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. This is the perfect option for those that prefer using a stick over lotion. I love the size of Everywhere Body Stick because it can fit nicely in my purse.
Eco Info:
- Leaping Bunny and PETA certified cruelty-free
- EWG Rating: 2
- 100% Vegan (contains no animal-derived ingredients)
- Does not contain:
Ingredients:
Active ingredients: 2.5 % Zinc Oxide 8 % Titanium Dioxide other ingredients; Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Organic Cera Alba (Beeswax), Organic Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Organic Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Organic Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil*, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Argania Spinosa Kernel (Argan) Oil*, Organic Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract* * Certified Organic
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Goes on smooth and stays clear
- No weird smell
- Great size to put in bag on purse
Cons
- Expensive
4. Pacifica Vegan Face Sunscreen
Pacifica Sun + Skincare is a vegan, water-resistant, and mineral-based sunscreen face lotion. It is designed to be more transparent and is perfect for putting on under makeup. This sunscreen contains 3.1% zinc oxide, caffeine, coconut probiotic, and is free from chemical UV absorbers while still providing SPF 30, broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Pacifica Sun + Shade is perfect for any vegan that is looking for a daily sunscreen for their face.
Eco Info:
- PETA certified cruelty-free
- EWG Rating: 2
- 100% Vegan (contains no animal-derived ingredients)
- Does not contain: Oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, PABA, or chemical UV absorbers.
Ingredients:
Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide 4.8%, Zinc Oxide 3.1%
Inactive Ingredients: Aleurites Moluccana Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf, Bentonite, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Caffeine, Camellia Oleifera (Tea) Seed Oil, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Water, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Glycerin, Jojoba Esters, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Methyl Dihydroabietate, Parfum (Natural), Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Silica, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Gluconate, Tocopherol, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Water, Xanthan Gum, Yucca Glauca Root Extract.
Pros
- Goes on smoothly
- Doesn’t run in hot weather
- Smells nice
- Blends in and gives matte finish
Cons
- Can leave whitish cast to face
5. Derma E Mineral Vegan Sunscreen
Derma E Sun Defense is a mineral-based, vegan sunscreen lotion that is perfect for your body. It contains 20% zinc oxide, green tea, Vitamin C, and antioxidants that provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection while reducing the signs of aging. This is the perfect option for those looking to have more vibrant skin. I love that Derma E is absorbed quickly in the skin and is very lightweight.
Eco Info:
- Leaping Bunny and PETA certified cruelty-free
- EWG Rating: 2
- 100% Vegan (contains no animal derived ingredients)
- Does not contain: paraben, gluten, fragrance, or GMO ingredients
Ingredients:
Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 20%
Inactive Ingredients: Purified Water, Coco-Caprylate (Coconut Derived), Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Lauryl Glucoside (Plant Derived), Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Glycerin (Vegetable Derived), Microcrystalline Cellulose (Plant Derived), Cellulose Gum (Plant Derived), Organic Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Panthenol (Provitamin B5), Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Phytic Acid, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Benzyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol
Pros
- Lightweight and fragrance free
- Works well under makeup
- Very easy to spread
- Good for sensitive skin
Cons
- Leaves a slight white cast
6. Juice Beauty Sport Sunscreen Lotion
Juice Beauty Sport is a reef-safe, water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen that is perfect for anyone with an active lifestyle. It contains 20% zinc oxide, Vitamins C & E, antioxidants, and organic oils that hydrate, nourish, and protect your skin from UVA/UVB rays. I love that Juice Beauty is safe to use for my entire family no matter what outdoor activity we’re doing.
Eco Info:
- Leaping Bunny and PETA certified cruelty-free
- EWG Rating: 2
- 100% Vegan (contains no animal-derived ingredients)
- Does not contain: Synthetic fragrances, parabens, petroleum, propylene, butylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfates, pesticides, phthalates, or artificial dyes.
Ingredients:
Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 20%
Inactive Ingredients: Aloe barbadensis (organic aloe juice/jus d’aloès bio)*, cocos nucifera (organic coconut oil/huile de noix de coco bio)*, pyrus malus (organic apple juice/jus de pomme bio)*, vitis vinifera (organic white grape juice/jus de raisin blanc bio)*, caprylic/capric triglyceride†, sorbitan stearate, ricinus communis (castor seed oil /huile de graines de ricin), hydrogenated methyl abietate, polyglyceryl-10 laurate, magnesium sulfate, helianthus annuus (organic sunflower seed oil/huile de graines de tournesol bio)*, simmondsia chinensis (organic jojoba seed oil/huile de graines de jojoba bio)*, tocopherol (Vitamin E/vitamine E), magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (Vitamin C/vitamine C), citrus limon (lemon extract/extrait de citron), iron oxides, phenethyl alcohol, ethylhexylglycerin†, citrus reticulata (mandarin oil/huile de mandarine), citrus aurantium (petitgrain oil/huile de petit grain).
* = Certified organic ingredient
† = plant derived / origine végétale
Pros
- Goes on smoothly
- Last even with heavy perspiration
- Rubs in really easily
- Moisturizes skin
- Does not make skin breakout
Cons
- Smells a bit like bug spray
- Too thick to use on face
7. Supergoop! Kids Sunscreen
Supergoop! Sunnyscreen is a mineral-based sunscreen that is formulated specifically for children’s delicate skin. It contains 23.8% non-nano mineral zinc oxide and oils and butters like, Sunflower Seed Oil and Shea Butter, that help nourish and protect your little ones’ skin. Supergoop’s non-stick, water-resistant formula is perfect for parents of kids at any age.
Eco Info:
- Leaping Bunny and PETA certified cruelty-free
- EWG Rating: 2
- Does not contain: Oxybenzone, PABA, anatase titanium dioxide, octinoxate, octocrylene, or other harsh chemicals
Ingredients:
Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 23.8%, Titanium Dioxide 3.4%
Inactive Ingredients: Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, C9-12 Alkane, Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycerin, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glyceryl Stearate, Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Jojoba Esters, Methyl Dihydroabietate, Myrciaria Dubia Fruit Extract, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Propanediol, Sea Water, Silica, Sodium Phytate, Sorbitan Stearate, Sorbityl Laurate, Stearic Acid, Water
Pros
- Goes on smoothly and is not oily
- Doesn’t irritate kid’s eyes
- Gentle on sensitive skin
Cons
- Sticky consistency
- Has a white cast
Cruelty-Free Sunscreen FAQ
Here are a few of the most asked questions concerning cruelty-free sunscreen. If you have any questions that haven’t been addressed then please leave them in the comments at the end of the post.
1. Which Sunscreen Brands Test on Animals?
Many of the most popular sunscreen brands should be avoided. They either test their products or ingredients on animals, allow third parties to test on their behalf, or sell in a country where animal testing is required.
For that reason, you should avoid the following brands.
- Aveeno (owned by Johnson & Johnson)
- Banana Boat (owned by Edgewell)
- Coppertone (owned by Bayer)
- Neutrogena (owned by Johnson & Johnson)
- Piz Buin (owned by Johnson & Johnson)
2. What is Sunscreen?
Sunscreen is basically a combination of ingredients that protect your skin from UV radiation from the sun.
The sun gives off two different types of rays, UVA and UVB.
- UVA rays can cause skin damage, show signs of aging and wrinkles, but leads to that wonderful tan.
- UVB rays give you that horrible sunburn and have a significant role in the development of skin cancer.
3. What is SPF?
Sun protection factor, or SPF, is a measurement used to tell you how long you are protected from UVB rays. Generally, the higher the SPF number the longer you are protected.
4. How do you protect against UVA rays?
To be fully protected from both UVA and UVB rays, dermatologist suggests the following when buying sunscreen:
- Minimum SPF of 30
- Water-resistant
- Broad or Full spectrum which prevents UVA rays from affecting the skin
5. Is spray or lotion sunscreen better?
Nowadays, cruelty-free sunscreen comes in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions to help you pick out the best option for you and your family.
- Cream: good for your face or if you have dry skin
- Lotions: best for full-body application. It’s thinner and less greasy than a cream
- Gels: good for hairy areas like the head
- Stick: wonderful for applying sunscreen around the eyes
- Spray: The most preferred method because it’s easy to apply.
I know the majority of us moms prefer sprays. However, it’s recommended to apply sunscreen using lotion first. Then reapplying using a spray. This way you know that you’ve got your whole body protected.
Best Cruelty-Free & Non-Toxic Sunscreens
Sunscreen comes in many different varieties. You can find options for your face, lips, sprays, lotions, etc. So I wanted to give you the best cruelty-free sunscreen options of each.
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen for Face
- Attitude 100% Mineral Face Stick, SPF 30
- Badger Clear Sport Face Stick, SPF 35
- Raw Elements Face + Body Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
- Pacifica Sun + Skincare Mineral Bronzing Face Shade Lotion
- Suntegrity Impeccable Skin Moisturizing
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen for Makeup
- Suntegrity 5 in 1 Natural Moisturizing Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF 30
- 100% Pure Tomato Lycopene Moisturizer SPF 20
- Drunk Elephant Umbra Tinte Physical Daily Defense
- Supergoop! Daily Correct CC Cream Lotion SPF 35
- Juice Beauty Stem Cellular CC Cream SPF 30
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen for Lips
- Badger Clear Zinc Lip Balm SPF 15
- Burt’s Bees All-Weather Moisturizing Lip Balm SPF 15
- COOLA Classic Liplux SPF 30
- Kiss My Face Sport Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30
- Loving Naturals Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30
- Raw Elements Lip Rescue SPF 30
- All Good Lip Balm SPF 15
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen for Kids
- Adorable Baby Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
- All Good Kids Sunscreen Butter Stick SPF 50
- Badger Baby Active Sunscreen Cream SPF 30
- Raw Elements Baby + Kids Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
- Thinkbaby Body & Face Sunscreen SPF 30
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen Spray
- Alba Botanica Hawaiian Sunscreen Clear Spray SPF 50
- Alba Botanica Kids Sunscreen Spray Lotion Tropical Fruit SPF 40
- COOLA Classic Body Sunscreen Spray, Fragrance-Free SPF 30
- Kiss My Face Sport Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
- Supergoop! Play Antioxidant-Infused Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen Lotion
- Attitude Mineral Sunscreen Lotion Fragrance-Free SPF 30
- Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Fragrance-Free SPF 30
- Raw Elements Daily Lifestyle Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
- Suntegrity Natural Mineral Sunscreen Lotion Sport SPF 30
- Two Peas Organics Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen for Sports
- All Good Sport Sunscreen Butter Stick SPF 50
- Badger Sport Sunscreen Cream Unscented SPF 35
- Suntegrity Natural Mineral Lotion SPF 30
- Thinksport Body & Face Sunscreen Stick SPF 30
- Juice Beauty Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Best Cruelty-Free After Sun Care
- Alba Botanica Very Emollient After Sun Lotion
- Goddess Garden Organics Cooling Aloe Gel
- Pacifica Beauty Sun + Skincare After Sun
- Badger Balm After Sun Balm
- Babo Botanicals After Sun Soothing Hydrating Aloe Gel
- Herbivore After Sun Soothing Aloe Mist
- Coola Radical Recovery After-Sun Lotion
Wrap Up: Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen
There are so many brands of sunscreen on the market. But the most popular ones test on animals or contain harsh chemicals. I’m happy to see that the best cruelty-sunscreens are also top rated at EWG and many are reef-safe. I hope you were able to find a sunscreen option for your needs.
Want more best cruelty-free lists? Check out these posts:
Now I’d like to hear from you. Have you tried any of the best cruelty-free sunscreens before? Please leave a comment below.
📌 Share this list of the best cruelty-free sunscreens
