When you’re slathering your family with sunscreen in the summer, or all year round for that matter, it can be easy to go through bottle after bottle. And with all the popular brands of sunscreen bottled in plastic, it’s no surprise that most of us don’t know any different. But you’ll be surprised to learn that you can actually buy plastic-free sunscreen in the UK that’ll keep you, and our precious world, protected for the future.
What to look for in plastic-free sunscreen
Material
Plastic-free sunscreens can come in aluminium or paper tubes. So, rather than ending up in our oceans or in landfill, they can be recycled instead. Striving to make their sunscreen zero-waste and all-natural, you’ll also find that these sunscreens are vegan and organic too without compromising on the Sun Protection Factor (SPF).
SPF
Whether your sunscreen is plastic-free or not, a high SPF is important to ensure a good level of protection. The best sunscreen to purchase is one which has an SPF of at least 30. You’ll also want to choose one with broad-spectrum protection if possible, providing protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Ingredients
Better yet, plastic-free sunscreen is perfect for the whole family, including young grandchildren who may be visiting. Made from natural ingredients and free-from harsh chemicals and preservatives, the formula will be kind on both allergy-prone and sensitive skin.
It’s also kind to our oceans. When you take a dip in the sea, sunscreen can wash off. Those containing chemical ingredients, especially oxybenzone and octinoxate, can break down and in turn damage plant and animal life.
You might find that kinder sunscreens are labeled reef-safe or biodegradable. Those safer ingredients that you can look out for include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
Best plastic-free sunscreen UK
Best for reusable packaging
Suitable for use on the face and body for the whole family, this mineral sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection with SPF50. Made from certified natural and organic ingredients, it contains Non-Nano Zinc Oxide which is safe for your skin and clean for the planet. The steel tin packaging is completely plastic-free and you can even reuse it.
This is a solid sunscreen, so you'll need to take a small amount in your fingers and massage until creamy and soft before you apply as usual.
SPF: SPF 50
Reef-safe? Yes
Pros: Vegan and eco-friendly, handy reusable tin, good protection.
Cons: A bit difficult to apply.
One reviewer said: "It definitely works - I wore it on my face during a recent baking day at the seaside and even with only one reapplication and multiple swims zero burning. Also less drying than other brands I've tried. But it's hard to apply, and there is a white cast even if minor. So while I rate it for protection, I'd say you'd have a hard time if this was your main suncream for frequent application all over your body - it would take you SO long to rub it all in."
Best for dry skin
www.friendlyturtle.com
Using all-natural and sustainable ingredients, Amazinc! uses Zinc Oxide to reflect harmful sun rays. Providing SPF 50, it's been blended with olive and almond oils to keep your skin hydrated at the same time. You can use the creamy textured mineral sunscreen all over your body. It's waterproof, light-textured, and easy to apply.
In terms of packaging, it's been bottled in a recyclable aluminium bottle with a screw-top lid that'll help prevent any unwelcome sunscreen explosions in your bag.
SPF: SPF 50
Reef-safe? Yes
Pros: Vegan and eco-friendly, recyclable packaging, good protection, easy to apply, suitable for the whole family.
Cons: Recommended for dry/combination skin types - might not be the best choice for oily skin.
One reviewer said: "Good product arrived quickly."
Best for sensitive skin
Whilst all these natural-based sunscreens are great for sensitive skin, this one stands out as it's been made with just four ingredients; organic virgin coconut oil, unrefined beeswax, Zinc Oxide, and organic unrefined shea butter. Suitable for all ages and skin conditions, the Oxide provides a physical barrier to the sun while the other ingredients soothe, nourish, and moisturise the skin.
The brand recommends applying generously before sun exposure and smoothing out any natural clumps - effective immediately.
SPF: SPF 25
Reef-safe? Yes
Pros: Reusable tin container, simple and natural ingredients, suitable for all skin types.
Cons: Not tested for water resistance, not the best SPF rating.
One reviewer said: "This has been great for putting on my face despite it appearing to be thick in texture it actually blends really easily into my skin and is great protection for the more delicate areas (like under eye). It’s a tiny pot but lasts ages. I would recommend!"
Best for children
With certified organic ingredients, this sunscreen by Green People has been designed specifically for children. Unscented, vegan, and suitable for kids with eczema, this highly-rated sunscreen is also water resistant for fun days out at the beach. Suitable for use on babies from six months old, the formula is easy to apply and naturally nourishing whilst still being non-greasy.
This may look like a plastic tube, but it's actually made from recyclable sugar cane.
SPF: SPF 30
Reef-safe? Yes
Pros: Unscented, organic ingredients, naturally water-repellent, great for sensitive skin.
Cons: Could have a better SPF rating.
One reviewer said: "I have been using this product for my 10-year-old son since he was a baby It is extremely gentle for his delicate sensitive skin which can be prone to eczema He has never burnt in the sun even when out in the sea snorkelling and playing on holiday."
Editor's Choice
And don't worry, Green People has the adults covered too! Just like the children's version, this sunscreen is scent-free and packed with organic ingredients. The breathable, silicone-free formula is water-repellent and suitable for those who may be prone to prickly heat. It's naturally nourishing, reef-safe, and ideal for all skin types, from dry to spot-prone.
As well as the tube being made from sugar cane, we love that 20p from every sale is donated to the Marine Conservation Society.
SPF: SPF 30
Reef-safe? Yes
Pros: Easy to apply, unscented, organic ingredients, naturally water-repellent, great for sensitive skin.
Cons: Could have a better SPF rating.
One reviewer said: "I really like this product, it is a bit more expensive than some sun creams but it does go a long way. My skin does not feel sticky after using it. I have re-ordered it and my daughter uses it for her whole family."
Best for travel
If you think the Sol De Ibiza in the tin will be a little tricky to apply, try its mineral sunscreen stick instead. It doesn't come in reusable packaging but a reclosable, recyclable cardboard tube instead. The solid sunscreen can be applied directly from the tube with the warmth of your skin causing the sunscreen 'melt'. It provides broad spectrum protection and has 40 minutes of water resistance.
SPF: SPF 50
Reef-safe? Yes
Pros: Vegan and cruelty-free, suitable for all ages, unscented, easy to carry on the go, good protection.
Cons: Some still found it a little tricky to apply compared to traditional liquid sunscreens.
One reviewer said: "I'm a natural blonde with a red hair in family too. I burn easily. Even at 10am in a breeze or when everyone has a coat on when camping on a hill. No smell, no stickiness, doesn't go into your eyes when applying makeup or contact lenses. Lasts forever. So handy for travel too as small and not a liquid. I drive for a living and it's handy to keep on the car when you need a top up. Looks good under makeup. 10/10."
Best premium option
kriskincare.com
For size, this is the most premium option, but it looks like it too with the clear glass jar and aluminium lid, both of which are fully recyclable or reusable. Suitable for sensitive skin with no essential oils or fragrances, the formula absorbs quickly to provide an instant barrier without feeling greasy or sticky. If you're worried about white sunscreen leaving a white residue, Kri also has a tinted mineral sunscreen with all the same properties that'll help it blend more seamlessly into your skin.
SPF: SPF 30
Reef-safe? Yes
Pros: Pretty design, broad spectrum protection, unscented, lightweight, easy to apply.
Cons: Could have a better SPF rating, more expensive.
One reviewer said: "I personally love this product, It does exactly what it’s supposed to do and also gives such a nice glow and makes your skin look so refreshed."
Best for face application
This sun stick from Aloha is designed for use on your face and looks just like a large lip balm. Intended for watersports, it's water-resistant and easy to apply. With SPF 50+, it provides high broad spectrum protection and is packed in a handy paper tube for zero-waste and plastic.
Unlike the others on our list, this one comes in a choice of colours - blue, pink, white, or nude. If you want to make sunscreen application a little more fun or just want to make sure it's properly applied, try out one of the coloured sticks instead.
SPF: SPF 50+
Reef-safe? Yes
Pros: High SPF, broad spectrum protection, unscented, easy to take on the go, vegan.
Cons: Some found it took some practice to apply.
One reviewer said: "The last few years I have suffered with awful cold sores triggered by holiday sunshine, even SPF 50 lip cream hasn’t prevented them. I’ve just got back from 10 days in Madeira and using this product every day has protected my lips and I’ve had no cold sores - I would highly recommend this…"
Are plastic sunscreen bottles recyclable?
If there’s a sunscreen brand you’re particularly fond of that isn’t plastic-free, instead check if their plastic bottles can be recycled. The best way to check is to look for the ‘Widely Recycled’ symbol. This is used on the packaging that can be collected and recycled by 75 per cent of local authorities across the UK.
You can also still find plastic bottled sunscreens that have biodegradable ingredients. So, if you’re not ready to take the plunge on a plastic-free sunscreen, we’d recommend going for the next best thing. Find a recyclable plastic bottled sunscreen with reef-safe ingredients that’ll still provide your family with great sun protection.