Men, women, and people of all genders and identities, we are on a very important mission here to let you know that an SPF a day keeps the wrinkles away. That’s why we’ve compiled a list for you containing the best vegan sunscreens.  It is essential that you protect your skin from the early signs of aging, fine lines, sunburn, and skin damage. Vegan ones are your best option as they are thoughtfully engineered to provide an effective defense against suburn, regardless of the weather conditions, while being completely free from any animal-derived ingredients or by-products. Our contributor Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist gives insights into the features of vegan sunscreens, saying, “Vegan sunscreens are no less effective than regular sunscreens. The term 'vegan' simply means that the product does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. The effectiveness of a sunscreen is determined by its SPF level and broad-spectrum protection, which can be found in both vegan and non-vegan products. However, it's always important to read the labels and choose products that are suitable for your skin type and lifestyle.”

According to Alexandra Petrou, Founder Of Alexa Skin, “Sunscreen is the most vital part of your skincare routine and should be worn all year round, no matter the weather. One of the most vital reasons we should use sunscreen everyday is to prevent skin cancer caused by sun damage. Sunscreen not only protects you from sunburn, it also prevents dark spots forming from sun damage, delays aging and can prevent the development of hyperpigmentation.”

Whether you have sensitive skin or any other skin concerns, cruelty-free sunscreens are generally hypoallergenic and gentle, which makes them suitable for a wide range of skin types, including those that are prone to irritation. Also, they are specifically formulated to provide a lightweight and non-greasy effect, making them suitable for daily use as part of your skincare routine. They can be applied under your makeup or used as a standalone product as well. Let’s proceed with our mission which will help you find out which ones are the best in the market that will successfully do their job.

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• 1
  Best Overall

  Sun Bum Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion

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Sunproof your skin without any compromise by using Sun Bum’s moisturizing sunscreen lotion. It is tested and approved by dermatologists as it successfully adds a barrier to your face and delivers UVA and UVB protection. To note, it features SPF 50 which means it blocks 98% of the UVB rays. Plus, it is oil-free, water-resistant, and the texture is denser than cream sunscreens. Whether you are spending a lazy day at the beach or just hanging out with your friends indoors, their non-comedogenic formula will effectively protect your skin.

2

Most Cosmetically Elegant Formula

COOLA Organic Classic Face Sunscreen - SPF 50

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Unlike typical over-the-counter sunscreens that leave a tacky residue on the skin, this one by Coola is a refreshing change as it has a silky consistency that absorbs almost immediately into your skin. Speaking of its sun protection features, it has broad-spectrum SPF 50 consisting of cosmetically elegant organic UV filters that are reef-safe and non-irritant. Besides, this product is brimming with the goodness of botanical extracts that revitalize the skin and double up on protection owing to their antioxidant properties. And, as per our personal experience with this product left us rather delighted.

3

Sun Bum Sunscreen Spray

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If you are too lazy to rub on your lotions and creams, a spray like this will come in handy. Sun Bum’s cruelty-free sunscreen spray complies with the Hawaii 104 Reef Act by being free from octinoxate and oxybenzone, which are chemicals known to harm coral reefs. Talking about this vegan sunblock’s formulation, it is enriched with Vitamin E to combat free radicals and support the skin’s health. Also, the formula is lightweight, convenient, easy to use, and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy or sticky residue.

4

Best Non-sticky Formula

thinkbaby Sunscreen

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Formulated without any unpleasant chemical smell, Thinkbaby’s sunscreen provides effective SPF 50+ sun protection that is suitable for everyday use. It is recommended by dermatologists as it is highly hydrating and easy to apply. Plus, it is fast absorbing without making your skin feel oily, greasy, or sticky. It is free from all harmful toxins and chemicals like PABA, parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, gluten, and dairy. Lastly, you can swim outdoors without any fear as it is waterproof and reef-friendly.

5

Best Water-resistant Formula

Sun Bum Moisturizing Tanning Oil

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All you need to do is spray and rub in this tanning oil – you’re ready to bask in the glory of sunny rays with this vegan facial sunscreen that’s perfect for those who love to get tanned but still want their skin to be nourished and protected. It features SPF 15 UVA/UVB and is water-resistant. Based on our research, it is crafted with the goodness of aloe vera, green tea butter, and other essential and natural oils which include marula, argan, coconut, and avocado among others. To note, it has a unique summery scent that isn’t overpowering or unpleasant.

6

Best Non-comedogenic Formula

pipette Mineral Sunscreen

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Pipette’s plant-based sunscreen is safe to be used by babies and pregnant women while also being reef-friendly too. It uses 100% mineral, non-nano zinc oxide for broad spectrum SPF 50 UVA/UVB sun protection. It is lightweight and features a non-sticky formula that is quick-absorbing. When we tested this product, we found out that its key ingredient is gooseberry extract which treats acne and prevents early signs of aging. It also moisturizes and calms the effect of infrared rays. In addition to that, it contains 100% sugarcane-derived squalane to help the sunscreen glide on smoothly.

7

Best Sunscreen with Natural Ingredients

Sun Bum Mineral Tinted Sunscreen

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If you hate the white cast that sunscreen leaves on the face, then this tinted vegan mineral sunscreen is perfect for you. It is a zinc-based lotion that glides on like butter and acts as a primer for those who wish to apply makeup. To note, it is made using sunflower extract, rice bran extract, and rosemary leaf extract that promise to replenish your skin without stripping it off the natural moisture barrier. What’s more is that it leaves a matte finish and has a broad spectrum of SPF 30 protection. As per our usage experience, it is lightweight, silky, and leaves your skin feeling clean, natural, and protected.

8

Best Matte Finish Sunscreen

Thrive Daily Defense Sunscreen Balm

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Thrive’s daily defense sunscreen balm is safe and healthy when compared to chemical sunscreens as it has non-nano zinc oxide that creates a physical barrier to protect you from the sun. It doesn’t leave any white caste and absorbs quickly onto the skin. Plus, it doesn’t feel greasy, sticky, or oily. To note, it delivers a matte and non-tinted finish without causing your eyes to sting. It is powered by antioxidant-rich plant-based ingredients like wakame seaweed, arabica coffee oil, and tazman pepper to help reduce irritation and redness while repairing skin from sun exposure, pollution, and other daily stressors.

9

Best Lightweight Formula

PACIFICA EVERY DAY LOTION Sunscreen

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This vegan sunscreen for the face and neck is lightweight and provides intense hydration. It comes in a lotion form and is powered by vegan collagen, aloe vera, castor oil, and flower extracts from jasmine and daisy that moisturize the skin. Furthermore, it has hyaluronic acid which has been shown to hold 1000x its weight in water to provide extra moisture. On top of that, it is carefully formulated with broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection that’s suitable for all skin types. Lastly, it is formulated without parabens, phthalates, SLS, mineral oil, or any other harmful ingredients.

10

Best Fragrance-free Formula

babo BOTANICALS SHEER MINERAL SUNSCREEN

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With 80 minutes of water and sweat-resistant coverage, Babo Botanicals’ sheer mineral vegan sunscreen has SPF 50 and features 100% zinc oxide mineral as an active ingredient. It is gently formulated without any fragrance keeping in mind acne and sensitive skin. Plus, it is enriched with Calendula and shea butter, and organic cocoa butter that is known to soothe and moisturize the skin. Apart from that, the main ingredient is sunflower seed oil which promises to minimize skin inflammation and redness. What’s more is that it is lightweight, non-greasy, and hypoallergenic.

11

Best Brightening Properties

BRING GREEN Tone-up Sun Cushion

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Bring Green’s natural vegan sunscreen features a mild formula with tea tree leaf extract and calamine powder that helps in calming and soothing the skin while controlling excess sebum production. It has a broad spectrum SPF 50+, which means this sunscreen provides superior protection against harmful UV rays. When we tried this product, we found out that this natural tone-up sunscreen is versatile and can also be used as a primer as it helps in covering dark spots and blemishes while providing a brighter complexion.

These are the best vegan sunscreens that suit all skin types and don’t cause any skin allergies or rashes. But before you purchase one of them, you need to understand a few key factors that will help you make a smarter decision.

When choosing the best vegan sunscreen, there are several factors to consider. Here are some guidelines to help you make an informed decision:

• Look for Vegan Certification: Check for official vegan certification logos or labels on the product packaging. These certifications ensure that the sunscreen is entirely free from animal-derived ingredients or by-products and has been verified by a reputable organization.
• Broad-Spectrum Protection: Opt for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, which means it guards against both UVA and UVB rays. This ensures comprehensive coverage and shields your skin from sunburn, premature aging, and potential long-term damage.
• Sun Protection Factor (SPF): Choose a sunscreen with an appropriate SPF level for your needs. SPF 30 or higher is generally recommended for everyday use. If you spend extended periods in direct sunlight or have fair or sensitive skin, consider a higher SPF. 

  Alexandra Petrou further says, “One of the differences between SPF numbers is the % of how much UV rays it can block. For example, SPF 15 blocks 93% of UV rays and SPF 30 blocks 97% of UV rays. A sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is best and with a label of broad spectrum, which protects you from UVA and UVB rays.

  The corresponding number is also a measurement of how long your skin will be protected from the sun’s rays when applied correctly V not using anything at all. For example if you use SPF 15 it will take 15 times longer to redden the skin or 30 times longer if using SPF 30. However, using a higher SPF does not equal staying twice as long in the sun because everyone’s skin is different and the threshold for UV exposure varies from person to person.”

• Reef-friendly Formulation: If you will be swimming in oceans or coral reef areas, select a sunscreen that is reef-friendly. So, look for sunscreens that are free from chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, as they have been shown to harm coral reefs. Hence, choose mineral-based sunscreens with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
• Your Skin Type: Consider your skin type when selecting a vegan sunscreen. For example, if you have oily skin, look for lightweight, oil-free formulas. And those with dry skin may benefit from sunscreens that offer additional moisturizing properties. Furthermore, if you have sensitive skin, choose sunscreens labeled as hypoallergenic or designed for sensitive skin.
• Texture and Application: Consider the texture and application method that suits your preferences. Sunscreens are available in various forms, including lotions, creams, sprays, and sticks. Choose one that feels comfortable on your skin and is easy for you to apply.Our contributor Dr. Anna Chacon, shares some important points about the drawbacks of heavy and greasy sunscreens, saying, “Heavy and greasy sunscreens, while often offering high SPF protection, do come with certain drawbacks. First, they can clog pores, leading to breakouts and skin irritation. Additionally, their greasy texture can make them uncomfortable to wear, as they can leave a sticky residue on the skin and may interfere with makeup application. Lastly, their thick consistency may result in uneven application, potentially leaving parts of the skin unprotected.”
• Additional Skin Benefits: Some vegan sunscreens offer added skincare benefits. Try to look for sunscreens enriched with antioxidants, vitamins (such as vitamin E or C), or nourishing botanical extracts. These ingredients can help moisturize, protect, and nourish your skin while providing sun protection.

Listed below are some general guidelines on how to use vegan sunscreen effectively:

• It is important to apply sunscreen at least 15-30 minutes before going out in the sun. This allows the sunscreen to fully absorb into your skin and provide adequate protection.
• Then, apply a generous amount of sunscreen to ensure proper coverage. As a rule of thumb, use about one ounce (approximately a shot glass full) to cover your entire body. For the face, use about a nickel-sized amount.
• Don’t forget to spread the sunscreen evenly over all exposed areas of your skin. Pay attention to commonly overlooked areas such as the ears, neck, back of the hands, and feet. 
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if you are sweating heavily or swimming. Even if the sunscreen is labeled as "water-resistant," it can still wear off over time, so reapplication is crucial.
• Most importantly, don’t forget about the lip and eye area. Always use a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from sun damage. For the delicate skin around your eyes, consider using sunglasses or wearing a wide-brimmed hat to provide extra protection.