3 Natural Sunscreens We'll Be Adding to Our Rotation in 2023
I've been in the beauty industry for 4+ years now, although my background is originally in fine arts. In between researching and publishing our guides, I’m usually snacking and making spontaneous (and somewhat chaotic) choices about what to do with my hair.
Under the hot sun, UV damage can happen quickly and causes serious adverse effects—we’re not talking just sunburn.
You don’t have to enter the world of chemical filters if you want to help keep your skin protected from UV rays.
Discover the world of natural SPF* for summer 2023, so you can enjoy healthier skin with less impact the environment.
Find out more about keeping your skin protected from UV rays in our Ultimate Guide to Sunscreen.
*SPF is only one part of sun protection! Always seek shade, and wear sunnies, a hat and protective clothing. Use sufficient sunscreen for all unprotected areas and reapply sunscreen as directed. Frequent re-application or use in accordance with directions is required for effective sun protection. Always read the label. Prolonged high-risk sun exposure should be avoided.
What Is Natural Sunscreen?
Natural sunscreens are free of the chemicals that can be found in sunscreens, particularly modern ones.
These chemicals may cause irritation and sensitivity to some. Many are also concerned that they damage our reefs and oceans.
Natural sunscreens typically contain physical sunblocks such as Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, which work on the surface of your skin to help block UV rays.
Why Is It Important to Wear Sunscreen?
Wearing sunscreen is an important step if you want to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Although your makeup may contain some SPF, it isn’t enough to keep your skin protected.
There are two forms of SPF creams: physical and chemical. Physical sunblocks are designed to physically block UV rays at the surface of your skin, whereas chemical sunscreens work deeper within the dermis to absorb rays before they can cause damage.
We’ve picked out our best natural sunscreens, so you can protect your skin all year long.
Here Are the 3 Best Natural Sunscreens in NZ
Ultra-Hydrating Face and Body SPF
This vegan and cruelty-free sunscreen provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with SPF 30. An ultra-hydrating and emollient formula, Grown Alchemist’s physical sunscreen is easy to apply and has cute packaging. It’s also infused with rosehip oil and hyaluronic acid, which work together to nourish and moisturise the skin.
Grown Alchemist is an Australian beauty brand that’s dedicated to harnessing the powers of botanicals and natural ingredients. Grown Alchemist Natural Hydrating Sunscreen SPF30 50ml is an Australian-made all natural vegan sunscreen. This ocean- and reef-safe sunscreen is free of chemical filters such as Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene, PABA, and Parabens, all of which can damage the environment.
A Mattifying Broad Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen
This product is loaded with Zinc Oxide to provide broad-spectrum SPF 30 to even the most sensitive of complexions. Ultra Violette’s nourishing daily sunscreen helps soothe irritation with Cucumber and Green Tea. Made in Australia, this reef-safe sunscreen is great for everyday use!
Ultra Violette is a brand that’s dedicated to changing the world of sunscreen. Saying goodbye to heavy and disruptive formulas, its sunscreens are designed as both skincare and suncare, working to nourish and protect your complexion. Traditional physical sunblocks can wreak havoc on oily skin, but Ultra Violette Clean Screen SPF30 Skinscreen 75mlwon’t disturb your makeup or skincare routine with its lightweight, mattifying texture.
A Lightweight Physical, Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen
Combining Titanium Dioxide with Zinc Oxide, this cosmeceutical sunscreen reflects solar radiation away from the skin without clogging pores or causing inflammation. It also uses anti-pollution and anti-A.G.E technology, which are unique offerings from this well loved cosmeceutical brand.
Medik8 puts research at the heart of the company, working to provide green cosmeceuticals that deliver amazing results while remaining gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin. Medik8 Physical Sunscreen SPF 50+ 60ml is a lightweight broad-spectrum sunscreen designed to help shield skin from UVA and UVB rays without nanoparticles.
Brand and product inclusions are at the sole discretion of Adore Beauty. We do not seek or accept payment from brands or individuals listed in our guides.
