Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays isn’t just a summertime habit—it’s a year-round necessity.Whether you’re lounging by the pool in July or walking to work in January, daily sunscreen use is one of the most effective ways to prevent premature aging, sunburn, and long-term skin damage. But protecting yourself shouldn’t come at the expense of the planet. Many traditional sunscreens contain ingredients that can harm marine life, especially coral reefs, and contribute to environmental pollution.

The good news? What’s healthy for your body is often healthy for the environment, too. By choosing reef-safe, eco-friendly sunscreens made with skin-loving, non-toxic ingredients, you can shield your skin while also protecting our oceans, rivers, and natural ecosystems. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best safe sunscreens that are good for your skin, safe for the environment, and effective year-round—so you can make a choice that’s as smart for the planet as it is for your health.

Here at Jenna Bricher Swim, we love the Yuka App, so we've made sure each of these is Yuka App approved at "Excellent" or above.

The List:

Best Beef Tallow Sunscreen: Sky & Sol

🥕 Yuka Rating: 93/100

Sky & Sol sunscreen is a natural, reef-safe sunscreen crafted with edible ingredients to protect your skin without harmful chemicals. Its unique beef tallow base deeply hydrates, supports skin barrier health, and helps prevent breakouts—making it perfect for everyday wear. Gentle on your body and safe for the environment, Sky & Sol is the ultimate year-round sun protection for healthy, glowing skin.

Best Sunscreen for Adventure: Badger Adventure Sport

🥕 Yuca Rating: 93/100

Badger Sport Mineral Sunscreen delivers powerful SPF 40 protection with 98% organic, reef-safe ingredients like zinc oxide, sunflower oil, and vitamin E. Antioxidant-rich and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, it nourishes while shielding against UVA/UVB rays. Choose the infinitely recyclable tin for an eco-friendly option that’s gentle on your skin and the planet.

Best Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin: SVR Eau Solaire

🥕 Yuka Rating: 100/100

SVR Sun Secure Eau Solaire SPF 50+ is a lightweight, hydrating sunscreen for sensitive skin that protects against UVA, UVB, and infrared rays. Its clean formula is free from endocrine disruptors and enriched with vitamin E, niacinamide, and watercress extract to nourish and strengthen skin. Water-resistant and dermatologist-tested, it offers high protection without compromising skin health or the environment.

Best Budget-Friendly Mineral Sunscreen: Trader Joe's Facial Mineral Sunscreen

🥕 Yuka Rating: 93/100

Trader Joe’s Daily Facial Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40 offers lightweight, broad-spectrum protection with 20% non-nano zinc oxide, creating a physical barrier that isn’t absorbed. Its nearly invisible matte finish leaves no white cast or grease, perfect for everyday use. Fragrance- and oxybenzone-free, it’s gentle on sensitive skin and wallet-friendly. Plus, grabbing one is a great excuse to stop by Trader Joe’s for treats and fresh flowers.

Best Sunscreen as Skincare: ThinkSport

🥕 Yuka Rating: 86/100

Thinksport SPF 50 Clear Zinc Sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection with 23.4% non-nano zinc oxide, creating a physical barrier that stays on the skin without being absorbed. Its lightweight, water- and sweat-resistant formula dries clear, leaving no white cast. Free from harmful chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and oxybenzone, it's safe for all ages and suitable for sensitive skin. Enriched with nourishing ingredients like aloe, jojoba oil, and vitamin E, it provides effective sun protection while caring for your skin.

Choosing the right sunscreen is one of the best investments you can make for your skin’s health and the planet’s well-being. Whether you’re seeking the best mineral sunscreen for sensitive skin, a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on protection, or an adventure-ready formula that can keep up with your active lifestyle, there’s a perfect fit for every need.

All five sunscreens featured here have earned top marks for their clean ingredients and effectiveness, giving you peace of mind as you protect your skin year-round. Remember, consistent use of a reef-safe, eco-friendly sunscreen not only helps prevent sun damage but also supports a healthier environment.

So next time you shop for SPF, choose wisely—and enjoy the confidence that comes with safe, nourishing, and sustainable sun protection.

Want to learn more about our sustainable swimwear? Click here.