Reef Safe + Vegan Sun Cream

It used to be enough to want your suncream to be both vegan and cruelty free. However, there’s a lot more you need to take into consideration if you’re looking for harm-free, animal-friendly sun lotion. It’s been found that some ingredients commonly used in sun care is hugely damaging for our marine environment and is harming our coral and our fish. So here are some eco-friendly options for protecting your skin and protecting our planet.

What does reef safe mean?

Unfortunately, like so many beauty terms, there’s no agreed definition for ‘reef-safe’. A reef-safe product should not contain any ingredients known to harm coral or marine life. As science evolves, the list of ingredients to avoid is likely to evolve too. Typically, products that do not contain oxybenzone and octinoxate are considered reef-safe. However, look for companies that are passionate and proactive in sustainability and environmental care if you want to feel confident in your purchase. Those are the sort of companies I’m recommending in this post.

For the Face

• Pai British Summertime SPF30 Sensitive Sunscreen* | Dermatologically and patch tested, suitable for sensitive and eczema-prone skin. Previously known as ‘Hello Sunshine’.
• COSRX Aloe Soothing SPF50 PA+++ Sun Cream* | This Korean beauty SPF uses aloe to create this ultra-hydrating SPF.
• Green People Scent-free SPF30 Facial Sun Cream* | A non-irritating formula which uses anti-ageing Green Tea to protect and maintain collagen and elastin in the skin. Made with 73% certified organic ingredients.
• The Inkey List’s  SPF 30 Daily Sunscreen* | Uses 100% mineral filters to offer broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. This fragrance-free formula is suitable for all skin types – yes, even acne-prone and sensitive complexions.
• Evolve Climate Veil Tinted SPF20* | Combines natural high tech anti-ageing ingredients with eco-friendly sun protection. Tinted for gentle coverage for light/medium skin. More shades are in development.
• Aesop Sage & Zinc Facial Hydrating Cream SPF15* | A hydrating SPF15 formulation enhanced with calming botanicals and mineral-based Zinc Oxide, which forms a barrier to reflect sunlight without clogging pores.
• Aesop Protective Facial Lotion SPF25* | A lightweight, rapidly absorbed SPF25 hydrator that provides broad-spectrum protection against the damaging effects of UVA and UVB radiation.

For the Body

• Green People Edelweiss Sun Lotion with Tan Accelerator SPF 15* | This reef-safe formula includes a natural tan accelerator helps you tan 28% faster. It’s packaged in fully recyclable, renewable sugar cane packaging.
• Aesop Protective Body Lotion SPF50* | Broad-spectrum moisturising sunscreen with high SPF50 protection—formulated to provide up to four hours’ water resistance. Please click here for more information on Aesop and their reef-safe sun care.
• Alba Botanica Hawaiian Aloe Vera Sunscreen SPF30 | This moisturising lotion is recommended as an effective broad spectrum sunscreen. Made with preferred sunscreen ingredients, it is non-greasy, quick-absorbing, water resistant and perfect for daily wear.

This post contains affiliate links which are marked with an * asterisks. This means that I can earn commission if you shop through them.

Love Vegan Beauty?

Keep up to date with the latest vegan beauty news by signing up to my monthly newsletter. You can also follow me on Instagram @veganbeautygirl or subscribe over on YouTube. In the meantime, check out some of my other posts:

• Best Vegan & Plastic Free Moisturisers
• Top Vegan Beauty YouTubers
• Lush Zero Waste Foundation Review
• 5 British Meals Made Vegan
• Sustainable Underwear Haul