Deliciously Organic - Carrie Korem, FNTP

Healthy, gluten free recipes and thyroid disease including Hashimoto's, Graves', Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism

How to Choose a Natural Sunscreen

Last Updated on April 14, 2026 by Ashleigh Pinkerton

It’s good to be in the sun each day without sunscreen for a limited time to increase production of vitamin D. But what about those times we want to be in the sun for a long period of time? Choosing a good sunscreen can be tricky because of the many chemical ingredients in them. “The FDA announced it would regulate sunscreens back in 1978. The most recent version of its proposed rules came out in 2007. Those proposed regulations still aren’t final. Until they are, sunscreen makers are not required to verify that their sunscreens work, test for SPF protection, check waterproof claims or provide UVA protection.” – The Environmental Working Group.

The EWG (Environmental Working Group) has published a guide to sunscreen so you can find the safest one(s) for your family. Here are a few of my favorites:

Caribbean Sol offers good protection and isn’t too greasy.

This sunscreen by Alba Botanica goes on easy. My kids prefer this one.

 

This California Baby sunscreen is great to slip in your pocket or purse.

Keep in mind that because these sunscreens are made with a mineral base they may leave a bit of a white cast on your skin. It soaks in eventually.

What are your thoughts on sunscreen? Do you have a favorite natural sunscreen?

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Filed Under: Uncategorized | 41 Comments

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41 Comments

  6. Mamabear, JD

    I will have to try the Alba. Last summer we used Soleo Organics, which I thought went on pretty easily and soaked in well, and lasted a long time in the water. We also have some California Baby in a pump that is very convenient to keep out - sometimes I will just put some on faces because we are very fair. We have to do long sleeve rash guards if we are going to be in the water all day, we burn so easily!
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  9. Gail

    I've been avoiding sunscreen like the plague for far too long cause I don't like what it's made of and the greasy factor. I'm not out in the sun too often for extended periods of time so it's usually not a big deal, but this Summer I'd really like to be out more with the baby and do some fun things. I need to look into more healthy sunscreens for the baby...not sure if these are baby safe...but I'll definitely look into them for myself. Thanks for the info!! Gail
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  11. Michelle

    We've started using Blue Lizard Sensitive SPF 30. It goes on very easily, has a great rating from EGW, the kids love it because the white bottle turns dark blue in the presence of UV rays. Our oldest, who has always hated sunscreen application, will happily submit because "the bottle is blue, Mommy!" It's a little pricey ($30+ for an 8.75oz bottle), but our main method of sunscreen is to just stay out of the sun. When we do venture out into the Florida heat, we do so in the early morning or late afternoon/evening, wear hats, and try to stay in the shade.
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  12. Lucy Lean

    I am cautious around sunscreen - are any of the ones you recommend waterproof? It's always good for the kids to be covered up as much as is comfortable at the beach - long sleeved tops - and hats with flaps - my mother would send over great versions from Australia thanks to the Australian Cancer Society they are very on top of this. Rémy now feels he's 'naked' if he's not wearing a rash top and long shorts!
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  13. Taryn

    We use Heiko sunscreen but it is not listed on the EWG site so it's hard to know where exactly it stands in comparison to the ones you (and the EWG) recommend. However, I do like that it is slightly tinted to "skin-tone" so that you don't notice the zinc film as much (maybe the ones you mention are as well.) I only purchased Heiko because it was the best option available in the health food store in my city, but I've been really impressed! My 18 month old daughter has super sensitive skin but does really well with it.
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  20. Dr. Jason North, DC

    Great information on safe sunscreens. As a chiropractor in Springville, Utah I'm constantly looking for ways to improve the overall health of my patients. Obviously there are healthy foods which one should be eating to reduce the effects of the sun, but having good sucreen products that are safe is good when one will be in the sun for a long time. Good review on some safe brands of sunscreen.
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