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10 Best Reef Safe Sunscreen Hawaii 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion - Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Sunscreen with Vitamin E - Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Made without Octinoxate & Oxybenzone) - Travel Friendly - 3 oz

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,268
Additional Skin Benefits

Most important from
30780 reviews

Additional Skin Benefits
Perfect for sensitive skin; even my daughter can tolerate it.

The Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion is a vegan, reef-safe option that complies with the Hawaii 104 Act, meaning it is free from harmful chemicals like Octinoxate and Oxybenzone. This lotion provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, making it suitable for extended sun exposure. Its water-resistant formula lasts up to 80 minutes, which is beneficial for swimming or sweating.

The inclusion of Vitamin E adds moisturizing benefits, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. The sunscreen is non-comedogenic and free from gluten, cruelty, and parabens, ensuring it won't clog pores or irritate the skin. The lotion's banana scent is a pleasant addition, though it may not appeal to everyone.

The application is straightforward: apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours for continued protection. Its portable 3 oz size is convenient for carrying around, but it may not last long for frequent users. This product is ideal for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable sun protection that is also environmentally friendly.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,268
Additional Skin Benefits

Most important from
30780 reviews

Additional Skin Benefits
Perfect for sensitive skin; even my daughter can tolerate it.
#2

Sun Bum Original SPF 70 Sunscreen Spray |Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen with Vitamin E | 6 oz

Rating
9.8
Application Type
Additional Skin Benefits

Most important from
25210 reviews

Application Type
Easy to apply to yourself and others.
Additional Skin Benefits
Smells great and provides excellent coverage.

The Sun Bum Original SPF 70 Sunscreen Spray is a vegan, reef-safe option that complies with Hawaii's 104 Reef Act, as it is free from harmful chemicals like Octinoxate and Oxybenzone. It promises broad-spectrum protection, shielding your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. With its SPF 70 rating, it offers a high level of protection, making it suitable for prolonged sun exposure. The sunscreen is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which is great for swimming or sweating.

Be mindful to reapply it every two hours for continuous protection. The spray application makes it easy to use, though care should be taken to avoid the eye area. Additionally, it is enriched with Vitamin E, which helps to moisturize the skin, and it's non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores. Users appreciate its pleasant scent, often described as smelling like summer.

Despite its many benefits, some users might find the price on the higher side, and the spray form may not be as environmentally friendly due to aerosol usage. Nonetheless, it's an effective and convenient choice for those looking for strong sun protection without harming marine life.

Rating
9.8
Application Type
Additional Skin Benefits

Most important from
25210 reviews

Application Type
Easy to apply to yourself and others.
Additional Skin Benefits
Smells great and provides excellent coverage.
#3

Badger Reef Safe Sunscreen, SPF 40 Sport Mineral Sunscreen, 98% Organic Sunscreen Ingredients, Broad Spectrum, Water Resistant, Zinc Oxide Sunscreen, Unscented, 2.7 fl oz (3 Pack)

Rating
9.7
Active Ingredients
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Additional Skin Benefits

Most important from
3703 reviews

Active Ingredients
One of the best sunscreens for your skin according to EWG healthy living. It’s free of unnecessary chemicals and highly recommended for those conscious about what they apply on their body.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Ideal for vacation use – consistently great performance and reliable sun protection.
Additional Skin Benefits
Reef safe and effective – a go-to sunscreen for over 5 years, especially for those with sensitive skin as it doesn’t cause irritation or breakouts.

Badger Reef Safe Sunscreen is a solid choice for anyone looking for effective sun protection without harming marine life. With SPF 40, it offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, which is crucial for preventing sunburn and skin damage. One of the standout features is its use of mineral zinc oxide as the active ingredient, making it hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin, which is a big plus for users with skin concerns.

This sunscreen is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which is ideal for beach days, surfing, or other outdoor activities. Its simple formulation includes just four natural ingredients: zinc oxide, sunflower oil, beeswax, and vitamin E, providing additional skin benefits such as nourishment and hydration. Moreover, it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, ensuring it's safe for coral reefs, which is particularly important for those traveling to places like Hawaii or Mexico.

However, there are a few points to consider. While the unscented formula is a bonus for many, some users might find it less enjoyable than scented alternatives. The application may require a bit more effort compared to spray sunscreens, which can be a drawback for those who prefer a quick application. Additionally, being a mineral sunscreen, it can sometimes leave a slight white cast on the skin, which might be noticeable depending on your skin tone. In terms of sustainability, Badger has committed to using cruelty-free practices and eco-friendly packaging, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

Rating
9.7
Active Ingredients
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Additional Skin Benefits

Most important from
3703 reviews

Active Ingredients
One of the best sunscreens for your skin according to EWG healthy living. It’s free of unnecessary chemicals and highly recommended for those conscious about what they apply on their body.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Ideal for vacation use – consistently great performance and reliable sun protection.
Additional Skin Benefits
Reef safe and effective – a go-to sunscreen for over 5 years, especially for those with sensitive skin as it doesn’t cause irritation or breakouts.

Buying Guide for the Best Reef Safe Sunscreen Hawaii

Choosing the right reef-safe sunscreen is crucial not only for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays but also for preserving marine life and coral reefs. Reef-safe sunscreens are formulated without certain chemicals that can harm coral reefs and marine ecosystems. When selecting a reef-safe sunscreen, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you are making an environmentally friendly and effective choice.
Active IngredientsActive ingredients in reef-safe sunscreens are typically mineral-based, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients are important because they provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays without harming marine life. When navigating active ingredients, look for sunscreens that list non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the primary active ingredients. Non-nano particles are less likely to be ingested by marine organisms. If you have sensitive skin, zinc oxide is often recommended as it is gentle and less likely to cause irritation.
Broad-Spectrum ProtectionBroad-spectrum protection means that the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. This is important because UVA rays can prematurely age your skin, while UVB rays can cause sunburn. To ensure you are getting broad-spectrum protection, check the label for the term 'broad-spectrum' or look for sunscreens that list protection against both types of rays. For everyday use, a sunscreen with SPF 30 is generally sufficient, but if you are spending extended time outdoors, consider a higher SPF.
Water ResistanceWater resistance indicates how long the sunscreen remains effective while you are swimming or sweating. This is important for maintaining protection during water activities. Water resistance is typically measured in minutes, such as 40 or 80 minutes. If you plan to be in the water or sweating a lot, choose a sunscreen with a higher water resistance rating. Remember to reapply sunscreen according to the instructions, especially after swimming or towel drying.
Application TypeReef-safe sunscreens come in various application types, including lotions, creams, sticks, and sprays. The application type is important for ease of use and coverage. Lotions and creams are great for full-body coverage and are easy to apply evenly. Sticks are convenient for targeted areas like the face and are less messy. Sprays can be quick and easy to apply but may not provide as even coverage. Choose the application type that best fits your lifestyle and preferences. For example, if you are applying sunscreen to children, a stick or lotion might be easier to manage.
Additional Skin BenefitsSome reef-safe sunscreens offer additional skin benefits, such as moisturizing properties, antioxidants, or anti-aging ingredients. These benefits are important if you have specific skin concerns or want to enhance your skincare routine. When navigating additional skin benefits, look for ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, or hyaluronic acid. If you have dry skin, a moisturizing sunscreen can help keep your skin hydrated. If you are concerned about aging, look for sunscreens with antioxidants to help protect against environmental damage.

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