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It’s hard to find non-toxic sunscreen options for brown skin. Trust me, I’ve been on this quest for a while.
As a kid, I never understood why I needed sunscreen for brown skin if I didn’t burn.
I quickly learned the benefit of having more melanin than my lighter-skinned friends.
My parents are Jamaicans, so were use to spending large amounts of time in the sun. My mom made sunscreen mandatory.
What I always hated about it, was that it left a streaky, white residue that never seemed to rub in.
My mom wanted us to rub it all over, but it just sat on top of my skin, and made me look ashy. Sunscreen was just embarrassing to wear.
When I became an adult, I switched to face moisturizers that had sunscreen in it as an alternative, and spray sunscreens so that I didn’t have to rub in the white stuff anymore.
What I noticed about the sprays is that if it happened to get in your mouth or near your face, it tasted horrible and would make you cough.
Since diving into a more non-toxic lifestyle, I’ve realized that so many of the products (and brands) that we’ve all come to know and love are filled with toxic chemicals.
When I started having (biracial) children, I began to pay attention to the ingredients listed on the bottle. Now I’m “that” mom.
The mom that reads EVERY SINGLE LABEL.
I promise, I’m not just doing it to be extra, but because I’m investing in my family’s wellness.
So here are a few non-toxic sunscreen options for brown skin:
California Baby
California Baby is a little on the pricier side, but when you purchase their products, you know that your child’s skin is safe. The founder (mom) Jessica Iclisoy found plant-based substitutes for harmful chemicals in baby products. Many of the plant-based ingredients used in California Baby products were grown on a farm right here in the U.S.
Ya’ll know that I’m a sucker for companies that are transparent about their ingredients. If you head over to the Babo Botanicals website, you will find an ingredient list with pictures AND what each ingredient is good for. They make sunscreens formulated for babies and adults.
Baby Bum Baby bum is on my list of sunscreens to try next. I spotted this brand while on a Target run. Their products are vegan, plant-based, tear-free, dermatologist tested and cruelty-free.
Earth Mama Organics Kids
I love the Earth Mama brand. I used their nipple butter while breastfeeding (and it also doubles as an amazing foot cream!). They have launched a new kids line, and I love using products from companies I can trust.
Young Living
Ya’ll know how much I love natural, non-toxic products. Young Living makes sunscreen options for brown skin that are lightweight and fast-absorbing. It protects against UVA & UVB rays.
What I love about Young Living products is the seed to seal promise. In short, Young Living prides itself on not using harmful synthetics, contaminants or cheap fillers. The oils & ingredients in their products are sourced from their own corporate-owned farms, partner farms, and seed to seal certified suppliers.
Are you ready to start your wellness journey with Young Living? Click here.
Black Girl Sunscreen
What I love about this one is that is works on ALL complexions and doesn’t leave white streaks or sticky residue. It glides on like facial moisturizer. It’s worth every bit of the price.
Sunscreen Tips
Remember, babies need sunscreen too, but it’s best to apply when your baby is older than 6 months old.
If you plan to be in the sun, your baby needs sunscreen daily. In addition to sunscreen, utilize clothing and shade to protect your baby’s delicate skin.
How often should I reapply?
Reapply sunscreen based on your activity. The rule of thumb is generally every 2 hours. However, if you are getting in and out of the water, you may want to apply more often.
The sun’s rays are hottest from 10 AM- 3PM. (I grew up hearing my mom telling me to wait until after 3 before I could play outside.)
The sun’s UV rays can be damaging to all skin-even brown skin. There is a misconception that melanin is an instant protector against the sun’s rays and sunscreen isn’t necessary. Although people with more melanin are not as prone to sunburns, UV rays can still cause significant damage.
Finding a sunscreen that doesn’t make brown skin look ashy and provides non-toxic protection can be challenging. Share this list with someone that is looking for some sunscreen options!
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