13 Non-Toxic & Zero Waste Sunscreens (2025)
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Sunscreen is a non-negotiable when it comes to skincare and sun protection, but the average bottle? It’s often single-use plastic, filled with iffy chemicals, and rarely reef-safe.
If you’re trying to tread lighter on the planet, switching to a zero waste sunscreen is one of the easiest and most impactful summer swaps you can make.
These eco-conscious alternatives ditch plastic packaging in favor of reusable tins, compostable tubes, or glass jars, and many are filled with safe, skin-loving ingredients you’ll actually want to put on your body.
Why are chemical sunscreens bad?
It is estimated that between 4,000 and 6,000 tons of sunscreen enter our oceans annually. Unfortunately, those chemicals have a destructive effect on marine life.
Many chemicals like oxybenzone, bleach, and kill coral reefs, impair algae growth, and even affect marine animals’ reproductive systems. This study showed that exposure to oxybenzone interfered with the proper growth and development of young corals.
On top of environmental harm, some chemical ingredients can cause skin allergies, hormone disruption, and quickly seep into your bloodstream.
Avoid these chemical filters: Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene, Homosalate, Cinoxate, and Nanoparticles.
Look for mineral filters like: Zinc Oxide (non-nano) and Titanium Dioxide.
Benefits of plastic-free sunscreen:
- Reef-safe: Safe for coral reefs and marine ecosystems
- Natural ingredients: Often organic, vegan, and cruelty-free
- Minimal packaging: Think reusable tins, glass jars, or compostable tubes
- Safe for sensitive skin: No synthetic fragrances or hormone disruptors
- Great for travel: Most are TSA-friendly solids
13 non-toxic & zero waste sunscreens
Raw Elements Sunscreen
This zero waste suncream comes in a recyclable metal tin and offers protection for up to 80 minutes. It’s thick but spreads well, with a matte finish. Raw Elements is a 1% for the Planet member.
All Good Sunscreen
This smooth, slightly tinted balm offers higher protection in a palm-sized tin. It’s reef-safe, non-greasy, and works great under makeup.
- Size: 1 oz (28g)
- Made in: the US
- Protection: SPF 50+
- Vegan: No, it contains beeswax
- Verified sun protection factor: Yes
- Find All Good at Earth Hero
- Carbon Neutral Certified, Certified B Corp & 1% for the Planet Member
Badger Sunscreen
Made with only a handful of ingredients, Badger’s sunscreen is great for sensitive skin and babies. It’s unscented and comes in fully recyclable packaging.
- Size: 2.3 oz (65g)
- Made in: the US
- Protection: SPF 40
- Vegan: No, it contains beeswax
- Verified sun protection factor: Yes
- Find it on Earth Hero or Amazon
- B Corp certified, Protect Land + Sea Certified Sunscreen
Raw Love Sunscreen
Handmade in Hawaii and full of nourishing oils. Great for the whole family (even little ones), and leaves a light sheen without being greasy.
- Sizes: 2 or 4 ounces (56 or 113g)
- Made in: Maui, Hawai
- Protection: 35 SPF
- Vegan: No, it contains beeswax
- Verified sun protection factor: Yes, FDA compliant
- Find at Well Earth Goods or Amazon
Elevated Sun Sunscreen
A 100% vegan and plastic-free sunscreen that glides on like a dream. Made for daily wear with no white cast.
- Size: 2 oz (56g)
- Made in: the US
- Protection: SPF 30
- Vegan: Yes
- Verified sun protection factor: No
- Find Elevated Sun at Taylor’s Naturals or My Zero Waste Store
Surf Durt
Surf Durf is surf approved & offers many tan & white versions, they have a generous donation system for each order, and has a refill program! This sunscreen is creamy, reef-safe, and comes in a bamboo-lidded tin you can send back for a refill discount.
- Size: 1.5 oz (42.5g)
- Made in: California
- Protection: 30 SPF
- Vegan: No, contains beeswax
- Verified sun protection factor: Yes
- ALMOSTZERO15 code for 15% OFF
- Find at Surf Durt (the US)
Little Hands Hawaii
Small local production, with locally sourced Hawaiian ingredients and sustainable packaging. Ideal for kids, sensitive skin, and tropical heat.
- Size: 1 oz (28g) or 3.4 oz (96g)
- Made in: Hawaii
- Protection: 40 SPF or 35 SPF
- Vegan: No, it contains beeswax
- Verified sun protection factor: No information
- Active ingredient: Non-Nano Zinc Oxide
- Find at Little Hands Hawaii (the US)
Life Guard Sunscreen
Thicker and longer-lasting, this zero waste sunscreen comes in glass jars and offers deep hydration. They use organic and all natural ingredients, which leave no greasy residue.
- Size: 4 oz or 8 oz (113 or 226g)
- Made in: the US
- Protection: Between 25-50 SPF
- Vegan: Vegan option available
- Verified sun protection factor: No
- Find at Empire Squid (the US)
Avasol Sunscreen
Small-batch, reef-safe sunscreen in a stick or refillable aluminum pump. It’s super portable and designed for outdoor lovers.
- Size: 1 oz or 2.5 oz (28 or 70g)
- Made in: the US
- Protection: 30 or 50 SPF
- Vegan: No, it contains beeswax
- Verified sun protection factor: No information
- Find at Avasol (the US)
Sunbutter Sunscreen
Produced in a solar-powered facility in Australia, this buttery soft sunscreen comes in large tins and packs a serious SPF punch. Offers up to 4 hours of protection. It’s baby-friendly and gentle.
Size: 3.5 oz (100g)
Made in: Australia
Protection: 50 SPF
Vegan: Yes
Verified sun protection factor: Therapeutic Goods Administration approved and registered
Find at Sunbutter Oceans (Australia)
Sun & Earth Sunscreen
A tinted zero waste suncream that doubles as light makeup. Offers 3 shades, and it is a bit greasier than other options. It is nourishing with anti-oxidative properties.
- Size: 1.7 oz (50g)
- Made in: Australia
- Protection: 30 SPF
- Vegan: No, it contains beeswax
- Verified sun protection factor: Yes.
- Find at Zero Waste Store (Australia)
Sun Tribe Sunscreen
Created by surf teachers in Sweden, Suntribe’s gentle formula is made for outdoor adventures. It uses non-nano zinc oxide + a few organic ingredients. They offer funky color options & a vegan version (SPF 20).
- Size: 1.5 oz (45g)
- Made in: Sweden
- Protection: 30 SPF
- Vegan: Available options
- Verified sun protection factor: Yes
- Use almost0waste for a 10% discount
- Find at Sun Tribe (worldwide)
Sol De Ibiza
This vegan, zero waste sunscreen is water-resistant and formulated for sensitive skin. It uses organic plant-based ingredients and mineral UV filters, and comes in either a recyclable tin or a biodegradable paper tube. + Kid friendly.
- Size: 40g or 100 ml (1.4 or 3.3 oz)
- Made in: the EU
- Protection: 30 SPF and 50 SPF. Water Resistant 40 minutes
- Vegan: Yes
- Verified sun protection factor: Yes
- Find at Sol De Ibiza (worldwide)
- They donate 1% of profits to Ibiza Preservation Foundation.
FAQ
What makes a good zero waste sunscreen?
Look for a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays (that’s called broad-spectrum), uses mineral ingredients instead of chemicals, is reef-safe, and has an SPF verified by a lab (at least SPF 30). Plus, plastic-free packaging and organic or ethically sourced natural ingredients!
What’s broad-spectrum, anyway?
Broad-spectrum means your sunscreen shields you from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays cause sunburn, while UVA rays penetrate deeper and speed up skin aging. So, you want protection from both.
Why should SPF be verified?
SPF tells you how much longer you can stay in the sun without burning. Verified SPF means a trusted lab has tested it to make sure it works. SPF 30 or higher is best, and remember to reapply every 2–3 hours!
Nano vs. non-nano zinc oxide?
Non-nano zinc oxide has larger particles that stay on your skin’s surface, making it safer. Nano particles are super tiny, and there’s a debate about whether they can be absorbed by your skin and potentially harm cells.
Can I make my own zero waste sunscreen?
Absolutely! You can whip up a DIY sunscreen using natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and non-nano zinc oxide…
DIY zero waste sunscreen
Making your own sunscreen at home is a great way to go. My DIY sunscreen guide walks you through easy steps using natural ingredients that are safe for your skin and better for the planet. Check out the full recipe here if you want to give it a try!
Final thoughts
Choosing the right zero waste sunscreen doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on mineral, reef-safe, broad-spectrum options with verified SPF, you’re making a smart choice for your skin and the environment.
Whether you buy a trusted brand or try your hand at a DIY version, every little step counts toward protecting our planet’s oceans and wildlife – and yourself. So get out there, have fun in the sun, and keep it green!
