Beauty
The Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens That You Can Shop Locally
Who says we can't take care of our skin and our planet at the same time?
by Kyla Villena
Published on Apr 29, 2025
Summer is here! It’s time to have fun under the sun, and it is also the time to truly, passionately commit to sunscreen. Applying products with Sun Protection Factor or SPF daily protects the skin from damage. It prevents drying, inflammation, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and so much more—you’d be surprised how far this little step can go.
While taking care of our skin is an important thing to keep in mind during this hot season, we shouldn’t forget to take care of our environment as well. After all, how far can we enjoy and create memories of sun, sand, and sea when there are no longer waters to swim in?
Coral reefs highly contribute to marine biodiversity, serving as habitats, feeding grounds, and breeding sites for countless organisms. We may view the sea as a summer vacation hotspot, but it is considered home by these wonders of nature, and they can unfortunately be damaged by what we put on our skin before we enter.
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SHOP: Reef-Safe Sunscreens to Protect Your Skin and Our Planet
Reef-safe or mineral sunscreens don’t contain chemicals that harm marine life, and they still give us the shield that we need. Here are five local mineral sunscreens to achieve that healthy summer glow as you take a dip, worry-free!
1. Pure Culture Dream Shield Universal Day Cream (SPF 50)
Ever heard of a sunscreen that doubles as a highlighter? The Pure Culture Dream Shield Universal Day Cream is infused with amber powder, which gives a light shimmer and a satin finish. You can apply it under makeup for an overall radiance, on top makeup to highlight the high points of your face, or just on its own for that natural glow. It’s gentle too, so it works well for normal to combination skin, and even sensitive or reactive skin. It’s no wonder why it made its way to the Preview Beauty Awards 2024.
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2. MAGWAI Reef-Safe Sheer Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
The MAGWAI Reef-Safe Sheer Mineral Sunscreen is resistant to water and sweat, making it a great choice for the humid weather. Having a non-greasy feel and a smooth and natural finish, it’s also comfortable for daily wear.
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3. blk cosmetics universal mineral sunscreen primer stick (SPF 50 PA++)
The blk cosmetics universal mineral sunscreen primer stick requires no blending—simply swipe and guiltlessly go. The primer stick leaves a smooth, mattifying layer with no white cast, so you can confidently wear as you sunbathe in the day and take with-flash photos in the night. Formulated to be gentle, it’s suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin types, pregnant women, and children too.
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4. Belo SunExpert Reef-friendly Sunscreen (SPF 60 PA++++)
If you have sensitive skin, the Belo SunExpert Reef-friendly Sunscreen is clinically-proven safe for you and your underwater adventures. Aside from having SPF 60, the Belo SunExpert Reef-friendly Sunscreen is rated PA++++, which is the highest protection grade against harmful UV rays.
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5. Human Nature Natural Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 60 PA++++)
Mineral sunscreens normally have a thicker texture compared to chemical sunscreens, but the Human Nature Natural Mineral Sunscreen does not give a heavy feeling. With all natural ingredients, it’s a sure and safe choice—even for the delicate skin of babies. It blends and absorbs easily too, so it won’t take long to get your sun defense on.
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