Waxhead Tinted Surf Sunscreen is an all-natural, zinc oxide-based sunscreen designed for surfers. It prioritizes both skin health and ocean preservation while offering robust UV protection.

Materials Used

The main component of Waxhead Tinted Surf Sunscreen is non-nano zinc oxide, which accounts for 25% of its formulation. This active ingredient provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Other ingredients include organic beeswax, organic coconut oil, and organic cacao powder, which gives the sunscreen its tint. The product is free from harmful chemicals and additives, making it safe for sensitive skin and the environment.

Quality of Materials Used 

In Waxhead Tinted Surf Sunscreen is outstanding. The non-nano zinc oxide ensures that the sunscreen doesn't enter the bloodstream or harm marine life. The organic beeswax makes the formula water-resistant, allowing it to stay on through sweat and saltwater. Organic coconut oil and cacao powder nourish the skin and provide a natural tint. All these materials are carefully selected to create a sunscreen that is as effective as it is eco-friendly.

How it Has Improved 

Their sunscreen formulas, and this product is no exception. The brand has increased the concentration of zinc oxide for better sun protection, added organic cacao powder for a natural tint, and eliminated all harmful chemicals. These changes have resulted in a product that not only protects the skin from harmful UV rays but also cares for the skin and the environment. Overall, Waxhead Tinted Surf Sunscreen showcases the brand's commitment to continuous improvement and sustainability.

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen is a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen designed for sensitive skin. Its water-resistant, paraben-free formula provides robust UV protection while being gentle on the skin and the environment.

Materials Used

The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen is made with a variety of high-quality materials aimed at providing optimal sun protection without irritating the skin. The active ingredient is non-nano zinc oxide, which offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. The formula also contains no parabens or fragrances, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Its water-resistance for up to 80 minutes makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy water activities.

Quality of Materials Used 

The non-nano zinc oxide ensures that the sunscreen remains on the skin's surface, providing excellent sun protection without entering the bloodstream or harming marine life. The absence of parabens and fragrances reduces the risk of skin irritation, and the water-resistant properties ensure that the product stays on even when you sweat or swim, providing consistent protection.

How it Has Improved 

The Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen model showcases these advancements with its enhanced broad-spectrum protection, longer water-resistance, and more skin-friendly ingredients. Additionally, the brand has made a conscious effort to remove harmful chemicals from their formulas, leading to a product that is not only effective but also safe for both the user and the environment. This evolution highlights Blue Lizard's commitment to continuous improvement and sustainability.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50 is a 100% mineral sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection. Its light tint creates a healthy glow, making it a versatile addition to your skincare routine.

Materials Used 

In this product are carefully selected for their protective and skin-enhancing qualities. The key ingredient is non-nano zinc oxide, which offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Other beneficial components include the brand's exclusive Cell-Ox Shield technology that combines antioxidants to help protect skin from free radicals caused by UV rays. The tint is derived from mineral pigments, providing a natural look that complements various skin tones.

Quality of Materials Used

The non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide offer strong sun protection without the risk of penetrating the skin or causing harm to marine life. The antioxidants included in the Cell-Ox Shield technology offer additional skin health benefits, helping to combat the damaging effects of exposure to sunlight. The absence of harmful chemicals makes this product suitable for sensitive skin and environmentally friendly.

How it Has Improved

The tinted version of their SPF 50 sunscreen brings together the robust protection of their original formulas with the added benefit of a natural-looking tint. This evolution caters to customers seeking sun protection that also enhances their skin's appearance, demonstrating the brand's commitment to meeting diverse skincare needs while maintaining high standards of safety and efficacy.

Coppertone Pure and Simple Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a hypoallergenic sunscreen designed for sensitive skin. It combines broad-spectrum protection with a formula enriched with botanical extracts.

Materials Used

The primary active ingredient in this sunscreen is 100% naturally sourced Zinc Oxide, which offers excellent broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. The formula also incorporates botanical extracts such as tea leaf, sea kelp, and lotus extracts, which are known for their soothing and antioxidant properties. The product is free from parabens, PABA, phthalates, fragrances, dyes, and oils, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

Quality of Materials Used 

The naturally sourced Zinc Oxide provides robust sun protection without the risk of skin irritation or environmental harm. The botanical extracts not only soothe the skin but also offer antioxidant benefits, helping to protect the skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure. The absence of harmful chemicals further enhances the product's safety profile, both for the user and the environment.

How it Has Improved 

In their sunscreen formulations over the years, and the Pure and Simple Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a testament to this evolution. In addition to enhancing the sun protection factor from previous models, they have incorporated botanical extracts for added skin benefits and removed potentially harmful chemicals. This evolution reflects Coppertone's commitment to creating products that are not only effective but also respectful of skin health and the environment.

Neutrogena Beach Defense Water-Resistant Face & Body SPF 70 Sunscreen Lotion is a versatile sunscreen offering powerful protection. Its lightweight, oil-free formula is designed to shield skin from harsh sun rays while resisting water for up to 80 minutes.

Materials Used

This sunscreen is formulated with several active ingredients that provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, including Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, and Oxybenzone. It also contains several skin-conditioning agents that help keep the skin moisturized and healthy. The product is oil-free, PABA-free, and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for use on both the face and body.

Quality of Materials Used

The combination of active ingredients provides robust sun protection, while the skin-conditioning agents ensure that the product doesn't dry out the skin. The fact that it's oil-free and non-comedogenic means it won't clog pores, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types. The water-resistance feature enhances its practicality for outdoor activities or beach outings.

How it Has Improved 

This SPF 70 sunscreen lotion delivers higher sun protection factor than previous versions, catering to consumers who spend a lot of time outdoors in intense sun. Additionally, the brand has fine-tuned the formula to be more lightweight and fast-absorbing, ensuring a comfortable wear throughout the day. This evolution underlines Neutrogena's commitment to meeting consumer needs while maintaining their high standards of sun protection.

Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray is a broad-spectrum sunscreen that delivers sun protection in a convenient spray format. Enriched with Vitamin E, this water-resistant formula stands out for its ease of application and skin-loving ingredients.

Materials Used 

In this sunscreen are designed to provide effective sun protection while also nourishing the skin. The active ingredients, Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, and Octocrylene, offer broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. In addition to these, the formula includes Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals and nourish the skin. The product is also Hawaii 104 Reef Act compliant, meaning it's free from harmful chemicals that could damage coral reefs.

Quality of Materials 

Is top-notch. The combination of active ingredients provides robust sun protection, while the inclusion of Vitamin E enhances the overall skincare benefits of the product. It is also worth noting that this sunscreen is non-comedogenic, making it suitable for a variety of skin types without the risk of clogging pores. The commitment to reef safety further elevates the quality and ethical considerations of this sunscreen.

How it Has Improved 

The Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray represents an evolution from earlier models by offering a more convenient application method. The spray format allows for quick and even coverage, making it easier to apply and reapply throughout the day. This user-friendly design, coupled with the brand's commitment to skin health and environmental responsibility, showcases Sun Bum's dedication to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sport Sunscreen Stick SPF 30 is a high-performing, eco-friendly sunscreen in a handy stick format. This product offers broad-spectrum protection while incorporating nourishing organic oils for skin health.

Materials Used 

In this sunscreen stick include 100% non-nano zinc oxide as the active ingredient, providing robust UVA/UVB protection. The formula is also enriched with organic oils like jojoba and avocado, known for their moisturizing and soothing properties. It's free from harmful chemicals, making it reef safe and suitable for sensitive skin.

Quality of Materials 

Is commendable. The non-nano zinc oxide ensures effective sun protection without the risk of skin absorption, while the organic oils offer skin-soothing benefits. The product's water and sweat resistance for up to 80 minutes make it an excellent choice for outdoor sports or water activities. Additionally, its commitment to being reef safe underlines the brand's dedication to environmental responsibility.

How it Has Improved 

With their Clear Zinc Sport Sunscreen Stick SPF 30 compared to earlier models. They have increased the SPF protection and incorporated organic oils for added skincare benefits. The evolution of this product showcases Babo Botanicals' commitment to balancing effective sun protection, skin health, and environmental considerations in their product development process.

Raw Elements Face and Body All-Natural Mineral Sunscreen is a high-performance sunscreen that prioritizes both skin health and environmental sustainability. Providing broad-spectrum SPF 30+ protection, this sunscreen stands out for its all-natural, organic formulation.

Materials Used

The sunscreen is made with 95% organic, non-GMO ingredients, including natural mineral zinc oxide as the active ingredient. It also incorporates a variety of natural oils, like sunflower oil, mango butter, and beeswax, which are known for their skin-nourishing properties. The formula is reef safe, meaning it doesn't contain chemicals that could harm marine life, making it an eco-friendly choice.

Quality of Materials Used

Is exceptional. The use of all-natural, organic ingredients ensures a product that's gentle on the skin while providing effective sun protection. The inclusion of nourishing oils contributes to skin health, offering moisturizing benefits alongside sun protection. As a reef-safe product, it also demonstrates Raw Elements' commitment to producing environmentally conscious skincare products.

How it Has Improved 

Its sunscreen formulations to meet the growing consumer demand for natural, eco-friendly products. This Face and Body All-Natural Mineral Sunscreen represents a significant advancement, with its all-natural, organic, and non-GMO formulation. The brand has successfully balanced effective sun protection with a commitment to skin health and environmental sustainability, marking an important step in their product development journey.

Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 is a power-packed sunscreen that offers robust protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. This lightweight, hydrating formula stands out for its high SPF, water resistance, and skin-nourishing ingredients.

Materials Used 

In this sunscreen include active ingredients Avobenzone, Homosalate, and Octisalate, which provide broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection. Additionally, the formula is enriched with sunflower extract, a natural ingredient known for its antioxidant properties and ability to protect the skin's barrier. The product is also free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it reef-safe.

Quality of Materials Used

Is outstanding. The combination of active ingredients ensures effective sun protection, while the inclusion of sunflower extract enhances the product's skincare benefits. The fact that this sunscreen is water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes makes it an excellent choice for active outdoor use. Moreover, being reef-safe shows Supergoop!'s commitment to environmental responsibility.

How it Has Improved 

Upon their sunscreen formulations. The PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 represents a significant enhancement from earlier models by offering higher SPF protection and additional skincare benefits. The brand's dedication to refining their products for improved sun protection, skin health, and environmental safety is evident in this effective, user-friendly sunscreen.

Headhunter Sunscreen Face Stick SPF 45 is a highly effective sunscreen designed with the needs of outdoor sports enthusiasts in mind. This product offers robust SPF 45 protection and features a unique powder dry formula for a non-greasy finish.

Materials Used 

In this face stick include active ingredients Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octocrylene, and Octisalate which provide broad-spectrum SPF 45 protection. The product also incorporates a variety of skin-nourishing ingredients, such as aloe leaf extract and vitamin E. The stick form factor makes it incredibly convenient to apply, especially for those on-the-go.

Quality of Materials Used

Is exceptional. The combination of active ingredients ensures effective sun protection, while the inclusion of skin-nourishing additives enhances the product's skincare benefits. The powder dry formula is a standout feature that ensures a non-greasy finish, a common issue with many sunscreens on the market. Furthermore, its water-resistance makes it an excellent choice for individuals who engage in water sports or other vigorous outdoor activities.

How it Has Evolved 

Its sunscreen products to better meet the needs of its consumer base. The Sunscreen Face Stick SPF 45 represents a significant improvement over previous models by offering higher SPF protection, a non-greasy finish, and a more convenient application method. The brand's dedication to refining their products for improved sun protection, user experience, and skin health is clearly demonstrated in this innovative sunscreen stick.

A. The best sunscreen for surfing should have high SPF (at least 30, preferably 50), broad-spectrum protection to guard against both UVA and UVB rays, and be water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It's also important to look out for reef-safe formulas that lack substances like oxybenzone and octinoxate.

A. Ingredients to avoid include oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, and formaldehydes. Instead, look for sunscreens with natural and organic ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that are kind to your skin and the environment.

A. Waterproof sunscreens are designed to provide protection against water for up to 80 minutes. Water-resistant sunscreens are usually tested in a pool or sauna rather than a body of water, so they don't last as long (usually up to 40 minutes). Both are suitable for surfing, but water-resistant sunscreens should be re-applied more often.

A. UVA rays cause skin aging while UVB rays cause burns. Broad-spectrum protection means a sunscreen offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for sunscreens that are labeled “broad spectrum” and have a high SPF rating (at least 30, preferably 50).

A. Spray-on sunscreens can be convenient but they must be applied correctly in order to work properly. Lotions and creams offer more thorough coverage, but they can take longer to apply. Ultimately, the best sunscreen for surfing is one that suits your skin type, stays on in the water, and protects both you and the environment. Happy surfing!

A. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours or immediately after heavy sweating, towel drying or extended swimming. Even water-resistant sunscreens lose their effectiveness after about 80 minutes in the water. Therefore, for lengthy surf sessions, it's crucial to reapply frequently to maintain protection.

A. Yes, you can use the same sunscreen for both face and body. However, some people find that sunscreens formulated specifically for the face are less likely to cause irritation or breakouts. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to consider a face-specific sunscreen.

A. Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, work by sitting on top of the skin to deflect and scatter damaging UV rays away from the skin. They are often preferred for activities like surfing because they start working as soon as you apply them, and they are less likely to sting and irritate the skin, especially when water is involved.

A. 'Reef-safe' sunscreens are those that do not contain chemicals that are harmful to coral reefs, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. These chemicals are believed to contribute to coral bleaching. As surfers spend much of their time in the ocean, it's beneficial for them and the environment to choose sunscreens that are labeled as 'reef-safe'.

A. While sunscreen is a crucial part of skin protection, it's not enough on its own. It's also important to seek shade, wear sun-protective clothing including a long-sleeved rash guard, and wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses when you're not in the water.