The Best Reef-Safe Zinc Sunscreens: Find the Right One for You

When choosing a reef-safe sunscreen, it’s important to find one that works well for your skin type and stays put in the sun and water. All of the brands we recommend use zinc oxide as the active ingredient—providing broad-spectrum protection without harming coral reefs or marine life.

Though each of these sunscreens is natural, non-toxic, and eco-friendly, they vary in shades, textures, and packaging, making it easy to find one that suits your needs. Here's a breakdown of some of the top reef-safe zinc sunscreens available today.

Choose a Sunscreen That’s Local to You

All of these reef-safe zinc sunscreens offer excellent UV protection while safeguarding our oceans. To further reduce your carbon footprint, consider purchasing from brands that manufacture close to your region.

4ocean – A Mission-Driven, Ocean-Friendly Sunscreen (White Color)

More than just a sunscreen brand, 4ocean is dedicated to removing plastic waste from the ocean. Every purchase helps fund global cleanup efforts, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to support marine conservation.

• White zinc formula

• Long-lasting coverage

• Supports a mission to protect oceans

Link here: 4Ocean Sunscreen

Raw Elements – Hydrating Sun Protection (White & Tinted Options)

Raw Elements is known for its nourishing formula, packed with antioxidants and hydrating ingredients to keep your skin moisturized in the sun.

• Available in classic white and tinted options

• Ideal for daily use and water activities

• Great for sensitive skin types

Link here: Raw Elements

SunMud – Ultimate Sun Protection in Four Shades

Designed for surfers, divers, and outdoor lovers, SunMud delivers a thick, durable sunscreen that won’t budge in salt water or sweat.

• Available in four shades to match various skin tones

• Perfect for high-intensity outdoor activity

• Thick, stay-put texture for extreme conditions

Link here: SunMud

SurfDurt – Plastic-Free & Naturally Tinted

SurfDurt is made with organic ingredients and packaged in a reusable tin, making it one of the most sustainable sunscreens on the market.

• Naturally tinted with multiple color options

• Plastic-free packaging

• Great for eco-conscious adventurers

Link here: SurfDurt

Hawaii Peeps – Island-Approved with a Brown Tint

Formulated to meet Hawaii’s strict reef-safe sunscreen regulations, Hawaii Peeps offers a brown-tinted zinc formula that blends well with deeper skin tones.

• Warm-toned tint for minimal white cast

• Compliant with Hawaiian reef-safe laws

• Ideal for melanin-rich and medium to dark skin tones

Link here: Hawaii Peeps

Surf Yogis – Built for Tropical Heat and Hardcore Surf

Surf Yogis is a cult-favorite among surfers for a reason: it’s thick, rugged, and built to withstand intense sun and saltwater sessions. Handcrafted in Bali using natural ingredients like coconut oil and beeswax, this zinc-based formula stays on for hours, even in humid, sweaty, or surf-heavy conditions.

• No preservatives or synthetic chemicals

• Handmade in small batches

Link here: SurfYogis

Final Thoughts: Ditch Harmful Sunscreens for Good

The wrong sunscreen doesn’t just affect your health—it damages our oceans. Spray sunscreens, chemical UV filters, and synthetic additives have no place in responsible sun protection.

By switching to a reef-safe zinc sunscreen, you’re taking a small but powerful step toward healthier skin and a healthier planet.

p.s. All of these sunscreen options go great in ZincTime capsules so that you can reapply on the go!