13 Best Sunscreens Without Oxybenzone, As Per An Expert: 2024
Protect your skin from the harsh rays of sun and combat redness, irritation, and sunburn.
Georgia Smith is a cosmetologist-turned-cosmetic chemist and has been in the industry for over 13 years as a beauty therapist. She is the founder of Skin Sister and owns a hugely successful, skin focused beauty salon in Sydney, Australia. Georgia is also a qualified Cosmetic Chemist, and she learned about the chemistry behind the skin and the complex science behind skin care ingredients to transform her clients’ skin and fix their skin concerns.
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Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the brilliant works of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 3 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.
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Oxybenzone is a popular ingredient in sunscreens, but it can cause skin rashes or allergies in certain people. You can check out these best sunscreens without oxybenzone if you are hyperallergic.
Oxybenzone is an organic compound used in sunscreens to absorb UV-A ultraviolet rays. We know that sunscreen is non-negotiable for healthy skin. It reduces the risk of being exposed to harsh UV rays, which can cause irritation, redness, and sunburn. Prolonged exposure to harmful sun rays can even lead to skin cancer. In fact, it is now recommended to use sunscreen even when you are indoors. It is advisable to reapply sunscreen at constant intervals to minimize sun damage. Since sunscreen is an integral part of skincare, you need to look for the types of sunscreens that suit your skin and cater to your specific needs. We bring you a list of the best oxybenzone-free sunscreens. Go ahead, and enjoy your favorite outdoors without getting any skin rashes or sunburns or worrying about UV lights damaging your skin.
In This Article
13 Best Sunscreens Without Oxybenzone For Gorgeous Skin
1. Best Oil-Free: Neutrogena Clear Face Oil-Free Sunscreen
It can be extremely challenging to find a sunscreen without oxybenzone that doesn’t feel sticky or greasy for your acne-prone skin, especially at a drugstore price. But fret not. We have found you the right sunscreen product. Tested by dermatologists, this facial lotion is made oil-free and non-comedogenic to ensure it does not clog your pores or lead to breakouts and can be used as your daily sunscreen. Hence, it is perfect for your acne-prone skin. Scientifically formulated with Helioplex technology, it provides protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays with broad spectrum SPF 30 and helps prevent sunburn. The lightweight product from this dermatologist-recommended sun care brand allows your skin to breathe. It offers a matte-finish, making it a comfortable wear under the makeup.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Water-resistant
- Water-light texture
- Clinically-proven
Cons
- Contains phenoxyethanol
Did You Know?
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 17,562 great reviews on Amazon.
2. Best Cruelty-Free:Alba Botanica Hawaiian Sunscreen SPF 50 Coconut Clear Spray
You need not compromise on your ethics for your skincare. This cruelty-free and 100% vegetarian oxybenzone-free sunscreen absorbs quickly into your skin to provide protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, the gluten-free lotion offers water-resistance for up to 80 minutes. This SPF 50 sunscreen has a lightweight formula made with botanical emollients like coconut extract, shea butter, and avocado oil that hydrate and rejuvenate your skin. The skin-friendly sunscreen ingredients will make sure you fall head over heels with this product.
Pros
- Gluten-free
- Octinoxate-free
- Water-resistant
- Lightweight
- Paraben-free
- Not tested on animals
- Dermatologist-tested
- 100% vegetarian
- Recommended by Skin Cancer Foundation
Cons
- Contains added fragrance
Did You Know?Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 10,857 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
3. Best Dermatologist-Tested:Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen
Before you pack for your trip this summer, pack this drugstore sunscreen without oxybenzone along, especially if you are looking for a reef-friendly one. Also free of octinoxate, this dermatologist-tested lotion offers broad spectrum protection from the harmful UVA/UVB rays. Rich in antioxidants like vitamins C and E, it also includes skin nourishing ingredients like shea butter, mango seed butter, papaya fruit extract, and aloe leaf juice. Its oil-free and non-greasy recipe softens your skin and makes it radiant. It has water-resistant properties that can hold up for up to 80 minutes. Recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation, it can help reduce early signs of aging due to sun damage.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- No animal testing involved
- Oil-free and non-greasy
- Nourishes your skin
- Prevents sunburn
- Prevents early skin aging
- Leaves skin radiant
Cons
- Contains fragrance and xanthan
- Contains parabens
Did You Know?Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 10,463 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
| Neutrogena Clear Face Oil-Free Sunscreen Best Oil-Free | Alba Botanica Hawaiian Sunscreen SPF 50 Coconut Clear Spray Best Cruelty-Free | Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen Best Dermatologist-Tested | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 5.13 x 2.38 x 1.38 inches | 2.13 x 2.13 x 7.5 inches | 2.75 x 1.4 x 6.55 inches |
| Weight | 3 Ounces | 0.8 Ounces | - |
| Number of Items | - | - | 1 |
| Weight | - | - | 0.5 Pounds |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 17,562 | 10,857 | 10,463 |
| Price | $10.97 | $10.48 | $8.16 |
4. Best For All Skin Types:La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Melt-In Sunscreen Milk
Pamper your skin with this extraordinary sunscreen with deep moisturization and antioxidants-rich formula that this melt-in sunscreen milk offers. Suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive skin, this dermatologist-recommended and award-winning sunscreen without oxybenzone and octinoxate offers broad spectrum SPF 60 UVA/UVB protection. The non-comedogenic and paraben-free formula, designed with Cell-Ox shield technology and antioxidant protection leaves your skin moisturized with smooth and velvety texture. It helps minimize the early signs of aging too!
Pros
- Dermatologist-approved
- Tested on sensitive skin
- Fragrance and parabens-free
- Non-greasy and fast-absorbing
- Moisturizing
- Allergy tested
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Contains phenoxyethanol
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 9,286 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
5. Best Lightweight Antioxidant:Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40
If it takes a cute packaging to get you to try some sunscreen, check this oxybenzone-free sunscreen out. Well, of course, it is not just about packaging and design. Infused with some really good stuff, it defends your face against blue light, UVA, UVB, and IRA rays with SPF 40. Its lightweight antioxidant-rich recipe is made with red algae, frankincense, and complex derived from meadowfoam seed. The oil-free formula glides onto skin to soothe, hydrate, and provide even skin texture— all without compromising on superlative sun protection.
Pros
- Prevents photoaging
- Lightweight and non-sticky
- Nourishes your skin
- Prevents dryness
- Soothes your skin
- Improves skin texture
- Fragrance-free
- Rich in antioxidants
Cons
- Contains octinoxate
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 4,174 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
6. Best Water-Resistant:Hint SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray
Being one of the best sunscreens without oxybenzone, you need not even have a hint of doubt about this product. With its broad spectrum SPF 30 formula, it shields your skin from the harmful rays of the sun and helps you enjoy your day out even more. The compressed-air spray does not leave any greasy residue behind on your skin and gets absorbed quickly, covering your skin evenly. Made with kiwi fruit extract, aloe vera leaf juice, glycerin, and raspberry fruit extract, its water-resistant formula is easy to apply and is very soothing.
Pros
- Non-greasy and non-sticky
- Easy to apply
- Water-resistant
- No propellant chemicals
- Helps in sunburn prevention
Cons
- Contains octinoxate
- Contains added fragrance
7. Best For Sensitive Skin:Badger Broad Spectrum SPF 40 Natural Mineral Sunscreen Cream
Try this mineral-based sunscreen without oxybenzone for your child which is not just affordable but also fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and uses pure zinc oxide as its active ingredient. It is formulated with just 9 ingredients that include organic beeswax, organic plant oils, sunflower, and vitamin E, and is perfect for sensitive skin. The water and sweat-resistant formula helps you enjoy all summer activities including swimming and sports without fearing any sun damage. This natural sunscreen is suitable for kids and it scatters and absorbs UVA & UVB rays but does not let it enter into the bloodstream. It’s also known to be a kids-friendly sunscreen as it has a tangerine and vanilla scent.
Pros
- Non-GMO
- Reef-friendly
- Non-toxic
- Water-resistant
- 98% organic ingredients
- Sweat-resistant
- Hypoallergenic
- Ultra-moisturizing
- Rich in antioxidants
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- Some may find the consistency thick.
8. Best Skin-Friendly:Seven Minerals Skin Friendly Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Do not forget to add this in your handbag for a better beach experience or for your me-time on a sunny afternoon. One of the best among the non-mineral SPF 50 sunscreens, it not only protects your skin from the UVA & UVB rays but also nourishes your skin. Made in the USA, it has bottled reef-safe, skin-friendly, and natural ingredients like aloe vera gel, green tea extract, watermelon extract, coconut oil, sunflower oil, mango butter, natural vitamin E, in a 100% recycled plastic container. Dermatologist-approved, this drugstore sunscreen without oxybenzone and octinoxate is suitable for sensitive skin and is safe for use even for children. It is non-comedogenic and offers water resistance for up to 80 minutes. According to the reviews, it is proven to deliver visible results.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Scent- free
- Paraben and octinoxate-free
- Kid-friendly
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Reef-friendly
- Dermatologist-tested
- Packaged in 100% recycled plastic
Cons
- Contains avobenzone
9. Best Non-Comedogenic:MDSolarSciences 30 Mineral Tinted Crème
This amazing broad-spectrum tinted sunscreen is perfect for your everyday skin protection. Boosted with skin-loving ingredients like vitamin C, green tea, cranberry fruit, and pomegranate extracts, this sunscreen without oxybenzone and octinoxate offers maximum protection from harmful sun rays. Its gentle formula adds a silky smooth texture to your skin. It is non-comedogenic and hence does not clog your pores, making it a great sunscreen for your sensitive skin. The sunscreen also doubles as a makeup primer and provides water resistance for up to 80 minutes.
Pros
- Developed by dermatologists
- Moisturizes your skin
- Fragrance and oil-free
- Offers matte finish
- Non-comedogenic and non-irritating
- Lightweight formula
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Some may find the scent unpleasant.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 633 reviews claiming its efficacy.
10. Best Vegan:All Good Sport Sunscreen SPF 30
If you are an adventure sports freak, this is among the best sunscreens without oxybenzone for you. While you ski, bike or surf, you can completely focus on the respective activity without worrying about sun damage. This product will help protect your skin, with its SPF broad spectrum formula, against UVA/UVB rays. It offers mineral-based protection and hence the harmful rays do not get absorbed into your bloodstream. The key ingredients include farm-grown calendula, organic green tea, rose hips, and olive oil that help repair and rejuvenate your skin. The vegan and coral reef-friendly product is also water-resistant.
Pros
- Water and sweat-resistant
- Non-greasy
- Coral reef-friendly
- Non-GMO
- Gluten-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Biodegradable
Cons
- Contains xanthan
11. Best Mineral-Based Formula:Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Sunscreen
Let your child play safe in the sun as a team of physicians and scientists have developed this sunscreen without avobenzone and oxybenzone specifically for babies. The non-nano zinc oxide and non-aerosol formulation is certified cruelty-free, gluten-free, and vegan. The award-winning product gives broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB with SPF 50 formula. Made in the USA, it does not leave an oily feeling behind on your baby’s skin. Ensure you apply the sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply at least once in every 2 hours.
Pros
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Gluten-free
- Paraben and phthalate-free
- Fast absorption
- Mineral-based formula
- Non-oily
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- May not be water-resistant
12. Best Quick-Absorption:Banana Boat Kids Mineral Enriched Sunscreen Lotion Spray
This tear-free sunscreen lotion can score full marks for providing the best suncare for your children. With SPF 50, it protects your child from the harmful sun rays so that they can enjoy their playdate outdoors. This sunscreen without oxybenzone and octinoxate comes in the form of a mist spray that gets absorbed quickly into the skin so that your child need not get restless while you apply the sunscreen on their skin. The shield stays on in 7 conditions like sun, pool water, ocean water, wind, sweat, sand, and even 100-degree heat, which is all you need when you’re looking for an effective sunscreen for your little one.
Pros
- Mild and tear-free formula
- Reef-friendly
- Paraben and oil-free
- Scent-free
- Stays on in 7 conditions
- Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
- Water-resistant
Cons
- Contains phenoxyethanol
13. Best For Childrens:Reef Repair Suncream SPF 50+
This sunscreen without oxybenzone is strong enough to protect your skin from sun damage and yet gentle and soothing enough for your delicate and sensitive skin. This reef-safe sunscreen is completely chemical free and is safe for even kids to use. Its all natural formula contains red raspberry seed and coconut oil to provide better protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Shea butter, avocado oil, and beeswax, on the other hand, provide intense hydration to your skin. This (non-nano) zinc oxide based sunscreen with SPF 50 is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. With almost no rubbing, it spreads evenly on skin and does not leave any sticky white cast or residue. It does not cause excessive sweating too and hence, is a perfect companion on a hot sunny day at the beach.
Pros
- Moisturizing formula
- Reef-safe
- Not tested on animals
- Recyclable and biodegradable
- Easy application
- Safe for children
- Repairs damaged skin
Cons
- Some may find the consistency too thick.
While it is important to learn about various sunscreens available in the market, you should also know how to pick the best for your skin. Let us help you with that.
How To Choose The Best Oxybenzone-Free Sunscreen
- Skin type
If you have sensitive skin, it is better to look for a hypoallergenic sunscreen with mineral-based formula. It contains active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide which are less likely to cause any skin irritation. You can opt for non-comedogenic formulas or specific sunscreens designed for acne-prone skin if you have oily skin so that it does not clog your pores. For dry skin, you can look for a combination of sunscreen and moisturizer.
- Broad spectrum protection
Read the label of the sunscreen carefully before you pick one. Ensure that it offers broad-spectrum protection which means it would protect your skin against both UVA and UVB rays. These rays cause sunburn and lead to early signs of aging.
- SPF factor
Dermatologists recommend sunscreen which offers at least SPF 30 protection. SPF 15 blocks only 93% of the UVB rays while the SPF 30 blocks 97% of it. So, it is advised you choose SPF 30 or higher.
Infographic: Is Oxybenzone Good Or Bad? How To Choose A Safe Sunscreen?
Sunscreens are an integral part of skin care. They protect the skin from harmful UV rays and improve its health. But, using any sunscreen containing toxic ingredients can damage your skin and make it prone to aging.
Check out the following infographic to get a deep understanding of sunscreen’s basic facts and benefits. Also, learn why oxybenzone, which is so common in sunscreens, is harmful to the skin. Keep scrolling! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right sunscreen is often a tricky task. Oxybenzone is a chemical that acts as a sun blocker and absorbs UV-A ultraviolet rays that cause skin cancer. Sunscreens containing oxybenzone can alter hormone levels and cause skin rashes or allergies. Hence prolonged usage of oxybenzone sunscreen can be harmful to your skin. So, you can choose other options, such as the Neutrogena Clear Face Oil-Free Sunscreen which is a great option for acne-prone skin, or the La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Melt-In Sunscreen Milk which is suitable for sensitive skin. If you are looking for a formula that gives a natural finish, try the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40. The products mentioned in our list are vegan, non-comedogenic, non-greasy, and cruelty-free. However, some products contain added fragrance and a pungent smell. If you are hyperallergic, it is advisable to avoid such sunscreens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is oxybenzone so bad in sunscreens?
Oxybenzone is known as a potential hormone disruptor, and hence it can affect your endocrine system, which regulates your thyroid, metabolism, growth and development, sexual function, and other biological processes.
Does oxybenzone darken skin?
Yes, since oxybenzone is a hormone disruptor, it may cause hormonal skin darkening over a period of time.
What are the side effects of oxybenzone?
Use of oxybenzone in sunscreens has been banned in various places for good reasons. Some of the common side effects of oxybenzone include contact dermatitis, acne, skin rash, and irritation.
Is an oxybenzone-free sunscreen safe?
Yes, oxybenzone-free sunscreens are safe to use. The formulations do not disrupt your hormones and keep your skin free of allergies and rashes.
Is oxybenzone safe for sensitive skin?
No, oxybenzone irritates the skin and increases acne. It also causes skin allergies and triggers sensitive skin issues like eczema or psoriasis.
How long does oxybenzone stay in your body?
Oxybenzone can stay in your body for up to seven days.
Is oxybenzone the same thing as benzene?
No, benzene and oxybenzone are completely different ingredients. Oxybenzone is an active ingredient found in chemical-based sunscreens. Benzene, on the other hand, is used to make plastics and is found in cigarette smoke.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Kirtana Divakar, the author, is a skin care and beauty enthusiast and loves writing detailed and well-researched articles on the same. She has spent hours going through several health and beauty forums and reviewing all valued customer feedback before curating this list of the best sunscreens without oxybenzone for you. You can include any of these oxybenzone-free sunscreens without worrying about any rashes or irritation.
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