in trying to be ever-greener, I've been trying to buy chemical-free sunscreen. It's good for the skin, good for the environment, etc. But these sunscreens all seem to have a natural oil base, and I'd love to find something for my face that is (a) natural, (b) oil free, (c) unscented, and (d) not costing $100/oz.

Any suggestions? Thanks!

your best bet is finding biodegradable sunscreen. It's as green as you are going to get.

Thanks, beachbum. Do you recommend any in particular?

If you google 'chemical-free-' and 'biodegradable sunscreen', you will get all you want to know, and aren't afraid to ask.

ej - on the maya riviera the eco-marine parks do not allow you to use your own sunscreen. they sell something they feel is safe for the reef. perhaps if you ask on the mexico boards someone can tell you the name of that product. or possibly contact xel-ha and ask them what they sell and how to get it. the price did not seem high at the time for what was probably at 6oz. container.

Be aware that most of these products are very drying. So be careful.

With a scientist husband, I have become a bit skeptical about all of the "green" stuff... However, a nice product that is more "natural" than many is the Aveeno SPF 30 sunscreen for faces. I think it feels good, contains more natural ingredients than most,doesn't seem to cause me breakouts and is effective protection.
Not so sure the packaging is environmentally friendly...

You need to check this out:

http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/spe...08/summary.php

hi ej, was looking for other information on www.mapchick.com and found links to 2 products that might interest you.
http://www.mapchick.com
product links:
http://www.caribbean-sol.com/store.asp?catid=19776
or
http://www.mexitan.com/
i see that a caribbean sol product is on the "good" list from caymansue's link.

Thanks for the follow up, Virginia. I'll be sure to check those out!


allietoo, I'm curious why you're skeptical about more eco-friendly sunscreen and what that has to do with your husband's being a scientist...

The sunscreen I currently use is from the Badger company. Zinc oxide mixed into an olive oil base with most ingredients being organic. I love it on my body but my face doesn't appreciate the extra oil, as my skin already leans in that direction.

I can offer a sunscreen with absolutely minimal oil; I use it on my face and (bald) head. The first two inactive ingredients are water and silica (which makes the sunscreen dry to a powder-like finish). Nothing comes off on your finger when you rub after it dries. By far the best non-oily stuff I've ever had on. It is Banana Boat Sport Dri-Blok, spf 30. Six ounces is only $8-9.