Natural Sunscreen: What Is It, How Does It Work, and Which One Should You Choose

Sun protection is more important than ever. Not only because of the rise in skin cancer, but also because of growing environmental awareness. Natural sunscreen is therefore gaining popularity. But what exactly is natural sunscreen? How does it differ from synthetic (also called chemical) sunscreen? And is it safe for children, people with sensitive skin, or eczema? In short: Are you looking for a sunscreen that's good for your skin and the environment? Then you're in the right place. In this comprehensive article we give clear answers to all questions about natural sunscreen, with facts, figures, experiences, and independent sources.

In this article we cover:

• What is a natural sunscreen?

• Is it a chemical or synthetic filter?

• Differences between natural and synthetic sunscreen

• Nano versus non-nano

• What makes natural sunscreen unique?

• Is sunscreen harmful to coral?

• Are all natural sunscreens safe and effective?

• Which ingredients should you avoid in "regular" sunscreens?

• Which brands offer sustainable sunscreen?
  

• Natural sunscreen for children and sensitive skin (such as eczema)

• Environmental friendliness of natural sunscreen

• What does water resistant mean for sunscreen?

• How do you choose the right SPF for natural sunscreen?

• Practical tips for safe use of natural sunscreen

What is natural sunscreen?

Natural sunscreen is a type of sun protection product that mainly consists of mineral UV filters, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, instead of synthetic-chemical filters. Mineral filters work by forming a physical barrier on the skin: they reflect and block UV rays, while synthetic-chemical UV filters (such as oxybenzone or avobenzone) absorb the radiation and convert it into heat. Natural sunscreens also often contain nourishing ingredients from nature, such as plant oils and natural wax, and usually no microplastics, parabens, or artificial fragrances.

Chemical or synthetic?

Natural sunscreen is often colloquially compared to chemical sunscreen. Actually, that's not a good choice of words, because all creams are made through a chemical process. A chemical process doesn't automatically mean something "unnatural" or "synthetic" is involved. It simply refers to mixing, preserving, thickening, or stabilizing substances to create a final product. That's why the comparison natural/mineral versus synthetic would be more accurate.

Differences between natural and synthetic sunscreen

• UV filters: natural sunscreen uses mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) and non-mineral sunscreen uses synthetic filters.

• Mechanism: Mineral filters reflect UV light. Synthetic filters absorb it.

• Ingredients: synthetic sun protection often contains synthetic additives such as parabens, fragrances, microplastics. Natural sunscreen usually does not. Want to be sure it contains 0% synthetic substances? Then go for a 100% natural variant.

• Environmental impact: synthetic filters are linked to damage to coral reefs and aquatic organisms (more explanation below); mineral filters in non-nano form (more explanation below) are more environmentally friendly.

• Skin reactions: natural sunscreen is often better for people with sensitive skin and allergies.

Because mineral sun protection sits more on top of the skin, it can feel thicker on the skin or leave a 'white cast'. In the past you often looked like a ghost, but nowadays many formulas are developed so that the white cast is minimized, without compromising on protection.

Nano versus non-nano

Nanoparticles are so small that they can easily be absorbed into your skin, but also into plankton, coral, and fish. Non-nano particles are absorbed less easily because they are larger. The advantage is that this is safer for the environment and body (less absorption). The disadvantage is that the texture is slightly thicker and less transparent. Fortunately, it's still possible to make it into a fine, spreadable cream by, for example, using nice fruit oils.

What makes natural sunscreen unique?

Natural sun protection uses (non-nano) mineral filters, which on the one hand put less strain on the environment and on the other hand are suitable for sensitive skin. Synthetic sunscreen can potentially be harmful to coral and marine life.

You increasingly see 'reef safe' or 'ocean friendly' on packaging. Be careful, these are not protected terms, so anyone could put this on the packaging. Look closely at the ingredient list.

Is sunscreen harmful to coral?

Let's start by saying: the sea and coral probably prefer no sunscreen at all. But how strong is the evidence that synthetic sunscreen is harmful to coral? The science behind this is fairly clear, but there are nuances. There are several laboratory studies that show direct damage from substances like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene. These substances cause DNA damage and lead to deformities, growth delays, and coral bleaching. Source: research by C A Downs et al in Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. Laboratory studies have also been conducted on the mineral filters zinc oxide and titanium oxide, which showed that these filters in the form of uncoated nanoparticles can be harmful to coral. Source: Shengwu Yuan et al, Environmental Science & Technology 2023.

The nuance is that this hasn't been fully established in nature yet. In open water it's difficult to establish direct links, because there are many other factors that affect coral mortality (pollution, global warming, overfishing). The concentrations of UV filters are also lower than in lab tests.

Although there is still debate about the exact ecological impact in the wild, the scientific consensus is that certain UV filters pose a risk, which is why they are also banned in some areas.

That's why we choose what is currently considered the safest option: non-nano, uncoated zinc oxide as a mineral filter.

Are all natural sunscreens safe and effective?

Not every sunscreen sold as 'natural' offers equally good protection. Choose products with clear UVA and UVB protection and at least SPF30. Make sure the filters are non-nano, as nano form can potentially be absorbed into the body through the skin and has an unclear environmental profile. Preferably also look for additional certifications.

Facts and figures:

• The EU allows a maximum of 25% zinc or titanium dioxide in sunscreen. Source: gov.uk.

• Only two UV filters are recognized as safe by the FDA: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Source: fda.gov.

• Oxybenzone was found in the blood of 97% of tested people (CDC, US). Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Which ingredients should you avoid in "regular" sunscreens?

Many common synthetic UV filters are controversial due to potential hormonal disruption, allergies, and negative effects on the environment:

• Oxybenzone (benzophenone-3): linked to potential hormone-disrupting properties, reduced fertility, found in breast milk. Banned in many tropical countries due to damage to coral reefs.

• Octocrylene: breaks down into benzophenone (potentially carcinogenic), harmful to coral, often present in around 2,400 sunscreen products worldwide.

• Homosalate: potentially hormone-disrupting, speeds up absorption of other substances through the skin, now limited to 1.4% in Europe.

• Octinoxate: potentially hormone-disrupting and damaging to marine life.

• Avobenzone: breaks down under sunlight, must be combined with other synthetic stabilizers, which can cause side effects.

• Parabens and phthalates: synthetic preservatives that can disrupt hormone balance.

Various research shows that these substances easily penetrate the body through the skin. Watch labels, avoid the above ingredients, and preferably choose natural sunscreen with transparent ingredients.

Which brands offer sustainable sunscreen?

Fortunately, more and more brands are offering beautiful, natural sunscreens with as little impact on the planet as possible.

Some 100% natural sun protection brands without microplastics are:

1. Food for Skin SPF30. 100% natural, non-nano zinc oxide, 100% PCR tube, very nourishing, no fragrance, produced in the Netherlands.

2. Beach Street, non-nano zinc oxide, plastic-free.

3. Nourished. Zinc oxide, made in the Netherlands, with vanilla extract.

4. Loveli. Non-nano zinc oxide. Choose the fragrance-free version.

5. Loïs Lee. Non-nano zinc oxide. Note: SPF20.

6. Inika. Zinc oxide, fragrance-free.

7. Witlof Skincare. SPF30 day cream with zinc oxide (make sure you apply enough!).

8. SMPL. Titanium dioxide, nano coated. Fragrance-free.

Natural sunscreen for children and sensitive skin (such as eczema)

Natural sunscreen is usually suitable for babies, children, and people with sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Mineral filters such as zinc oxide form a layer on the skin and barely penetrate the body. This minimizes the risk of irritation and hormonal disruption. Make sure the product contains no fragrance or harsh alcohols, as these are also often a trigger.

Environmental friendliness of natural sunscreen

Synthetic sunscreens can end up in the sea while swimming. Some UV filters, such as oxybenzone, octocrylene, and octinoxate, are linked to potential damage to marine life, including coral, fish, and plankton. For this reason, several countries, especially in tropical regions, have now banned the use of these ingredients. Mineral sunscreen, especially with non-nano zinc oxide, is generally considered the most environmentally friendly option.

Note: 'Reef safe' or 'ocean friendly' are not protected terms. Always check the ingredient list.

What does water resistant mean for sunscreen?

Water resistant sunscreen means that the product still offers protection for a certain time after contact with water. Regular sunscreen washes off faster while swimming or sweating. It's also better for coral and marine life if the sun protection stays on your body as much as possible.

Still, it's recommended to reapply after swimming, since some of it can come off due to rubbing, drying off, etc.

How do you choose the right SPF for natural sunscreen?

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) indicates how much longer you're protected against UVB radiation. SPF30 means about 97% protection, SPF50 about 98%. For children, people with fair skin, or longer exposure, at least SPF30/50 is recommended. Always choose 'broad spectrum' protection (UVA and UVB). This is clearly stated on the packaging of good natural sunscreen products.

Practical tips for safe use of natural sunscreen

• Apply generously: use two fingers (lengthwise) per body part. For example: two for arms, two for neck and face, etc. Source: KWF.

• Reapply every 2 hours and always after swimming, sweating, or drying off.

• Don't forget ears, nose, neck, feet, and the back of your legs.

• Dress children in light clothing, use a hat/cap, and protective clothing for extra protection.

• Avoid the sun between 12 and 3pm when radiation is strongest, and generally seek shade often.

• Choose environmentally friendly, recyclable packaging where possible (for example a 100% PCR tube).

• Extra tips

Conclusion

Natural sunscreen offers an effective and relatively environmentally friendly alternative to regular sunscreen. Especially for children, sensitive skin, eczema, or environmentally conscious users, natural sunscreen is the easiest and best choice. When buying, look carefully at the ingredients, check for 'non-nano' minerals, and choose fragrance-free variants where possible. Don't forget: sunscreen, however good, never offers complete 100% protection. Don't lie in the sun for hours, protect yourself with clothing too, and seek shade.