The Golden State's Mineral Sunscreens That Are Worth Buying

Mineral sunscreens have taken over the market, providing reef-safe, zinc-oxide sunscreens as an alternative to the chemical-laden ones of our childhoods. Though we once believed a higher SPF meant we would be getting more protection, we now know that protecting both our coral reefs and our skin is possible with as low as SPF 30 sunscreen. Anything higher is marginally more protective, but using non-nano zinc-oxide lotions that do not contain toxic ingredients is far better for our bodies than a higher SPF.

While these new, safer lotions have become more prevalent, it can be hard to choose between the many options available. So, we checked out the best California-made mineral sunscreens to make your decision easier.

All Good Sport Sunscreen Lotion spf 30

Headquartered in: Morro Bay

Price: $16 for 3 ounces

Price per ounce: $5.33

Aside from being my personal favorite sunscreen, the All Good Sport Sunscreen is great because it provides all of the protection you would expect—without any of the grease that traditionally comes with sun protection. While the lotion can go on white, massage it in and watch as it absorbs into your skin. (Pro tip: Use moisturizer before applying zinc sunscreen, and you will have an easier time smoothing it on.)

Benefits:

• UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection
• Made with only non-nano zinc
• Non-greasy
• Vegan and gluten-free 
• Water resistant for up to 80 minutes
• Reef friendly
• Purchases support environmental restoration with 1% For the Planet
• All Good is a Certified B Corporation

Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Mist SPF 30

Headquartered in: Santa Monica

Price: $36 for 6 ounces

Price per ounce: $6

Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Mist is the perfect solution for everyone who hates applying and wearing sunscreen. The easy, air-powered mist makes for extremely fast application, and the end result is surprisingly pleasant because there is seriously no oily residue left behind. If you are in a hurry, this mist is absolutely the way to go. 

Benefits:

• Easy application
• Non-nano zinc oxide
• Reef friendly
• Water resistant for up to 80 minutes
• UVA/UVB protection
• Sprays on white to guide application but blends in easily
• Beautycounter is a Certified B Corporation

Juice Beauty SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen

Headquartered in: San Rafael

Price: $16 for 3 ounces

Price per ounce: $5.33

Made specifically for outdoor recreation, Juice Beauty’s SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen is designed for all skin types, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin. On top of providing the sun protection you expect from sunscreen, this lotion also includes vitamins C and E—plus organic coconut, aloe, and jojoba for antioxidant hydration. 

Benefits:

• Non-nano mineral zinc oxide
• Water resistant for up to 80 minutes
• Reef safe
• UVA/UVB protection
• Cruelty-free
• Formulated with organic ingredients

Coola Mineral sunscreen Spray SPF 30

Headquartered in: Carlsbad

Price: $42 for 8 ounces

Price per ounce: $5.25

More than 70 percent of Coola’s Mineral Body Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 is made with certified-organic ingredients that are safe for sensitive skin. This formula is crafted using antioxidants as well as plant-derived products, which help to fight free radicals and nourish skin.

Benefits:

• Available in tropical coconut or fragrance-free
• Non-nano zinc oxide
• Sprays on white and dries sheer
• Vegan and gluten-free
• Water resistant for up to 80 minutes
• Reef safe
• Broad-spectrum protection
• Perfect for sensitive skin

Raw Elements Face and Body sunscreen SPF 30

Headquartered in: Huntington Beach

Price: $19 for 3 ounces

Price per ounce: $6.33

Crafted with all-natural ingredients, Raw Elements’ Face and Body Tint SPF 30 sunscreen takes care of the planet as well as your skin. While the application process may be slightly different than you would expect from traditional sunscreen, this product is likely to become a new favorite. Its rich antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and more are bound to keep your skin feeling good and healthy. 

Benefits:

• Plastic free
• Broad-spectrum protection
• Reef safe
• UVA/UVB protection
• Biodegradable
• Never runs or stings eyes
• Water resistant for up to 80 minutes
• Reef safe
• Free of soy, gluten, and nuts 
• Cruelty-free
• Non GMO