Many of us only think about applying sunscreen when the weather is warm and sunny. But our skin is susceptible to sun damage even in the winter and when the weather is cloudy. And when you think about it, preventative care for our skin is a very effective way to avoid treatments later on that could not only be costly, but also pretty wasteful!
If there's no other time that you put a little extra care into avoiding plastic, we think that those products made for the outdoors should be that special exception. And if you don't know where to start, here are eight sun protection products in plastic-free or plastic-minimal packaging.
Face & Body Sunscreen
Active Ingredient(s) | Zinc Oxide
SPF | 30
Best For | Long Sun Exposure Days
End of Life | Tin is 100% curbside recyclable. Aluminum tube is curbside recyclable when cleaned. Plastic cap can be returned to us for recycling.
This sunscreen is all about performance, making it a great option for intense sun-exposure days (think beach days, hiking, gardening, etc.). A combination of plant oils and beeswax make it water-resistant for more than 80 minutes. Ingredients also include vitamins and antioxidants to protect the skin after exposure. It’s available in a 100% plastic-free tin, or an aluminum squeeze tube.
Tinted SPF Moisturizer
Active Ingredient(s) | Zinc Oxide
SPF | 30
Best For | Long Sun Exposure Days
End of Life | Tin is 100% curbside recyclable. Aluminum tube is curbside recyclable when cleaned. Plastic cap can be returned to us for recycling.
Similar to the Face & Body Sunscreen, the Tinted SPF Moisturizer is made for performance, so it’s also going to be an effective SPF for all-day beach trips, long hikes, or pool parties. It’s tinted for a bit of coverage, and the tint suits most skin tones (other than very fair skin). It’s also water-resistant for more than 80 minutes. This can make it feel a bit heavier on the skin. For everyday use, we recommend mixing it with your favorite face oil to achieve a lighter application.
Baby & Kids Sunscreen
Active Ingredient(s) | Zinc Oxide
SPF | 30
Best For | Little Ones
End of Life | Tin is 100% curbside recyclable. Push tube is 100% backyard compostable.
The Face & Body Sunscreen is safe for kiddos, but this Baby & Kids Sunscreen was formulated specifically for the most delicate of skin. It’s hypoallergenic, made to glide on skin easily, and won’t run or sting eyes. It is also water-resistant for more than 80 minutes. It’s available in two 100% plastic-free varieties: a metal tin or paper applicator tube.
Mineral Sunscreen Spray
Active Ingredient(s) | Zinc Oxide
SPF | 30
Best For | Everyday Protection for Body for Adults & Kids
End of Life | Spray can is 100% curbside recyclable. Plastic spray nozzle can be returned to us for recycling.
This sunscreen is formulated for daily use, and ease of application. Like all the others in this list, it's a mineral sunscreen so it is reef-safe. It's also a non-aerosol spray, so unlike many spray sunscreens, they don't have harmful impacts on the environment. These spray sunscreens are available for both adults and kids.
Essential Tinted SPF 30
Active Ingredient(s) | Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide
SPF | 30
Best For | Everyday Protection for Face
End of Life | Bottle is curbside recyclable. Pump can be returned to us for recycling.
This oil-based tinted SPF provides sheer coverage and sun protection for your every day. It includes moisturizing ingredients like raspberry seed oil, plum oil, and macadamia oil. Skin will feel dewy and fresh after application. It’s available in three different tints: dark, light, and medium. Tints provide enough coverage to skip foundation but are sheer enough that an exact match is not necessary.
Malu Day Cream SPF
Active Ingredient(s) | Zinc Oxide
SPF | 30
Best For | Everyday Protection for Face
End of Life | Bottle is curbside recyclable. Pump can be returned to us for recycling.
Malu Day Cream is a sheer coverage daily SPF that won’t leave a white cast, is non-greasy, and smells a bit like Hawaii. It’s a perfect option for anyone who is normally sensitive to the texture of sunscreen. After applying, don’t expect to be bothered a bit by the feel of this sunscreen!
Lip & Cheek Tint - SPF 15
Active Ingredient(s) | Zinc Oxide
SPF | 15
Best For | Everyday Protection for Lips
End of Life | Glass jar and metal lid are curbside recyclable
A tinted lip balm to protect your lips from everyday sun exposure. It comes in three tints so that you can find the perfect flattering bold or subtle look. They smell fantastic, too.
All of these sunscreen products were carefully curated to be stocked at Way of Being based on their packaging, ingredients, and the commitments of their makers. Let us know if you have any other favorite low waste sun care products to share!
