The sunscreen aisle can be a complicated place. You have to choose whether you want to use a mineral sunscreen or chemical sunscreen, find a formula that works with your skin type, and ensure it has a high enough SPF for daily use. But deciphering the ingredients is, perhaps, the most challenging part. There are several different ingredients that can be used in sunscreen—some of which are a bit controversial. Oxybenzone and octinoxate, for example, are both commonly found in chemical sunscreens. While they can help shield the skin from UV rays, both are also known to harm coral reefs (which is why they’re both banned in Hawaii). Fortunately, plenty of sunscreen brands offer formulas made without these potentially harmful ingredients. While many are mineral sunscreens, there are also excellent chemical (and hybrid) formulas made without oxybenzone and octinoxate. If you’re looking for a new SPF to add to your lineup, keep reading. We’re sharing some of the best body sunscreens and facial sunscreens made without oxybenzone and octinoxate below. What Is Oxybenzone? Oxybenzone is a compound that is commonly found in sunscreens, specifically chemical or hybrid chemical-mineral sunscreens. According to the National Library of Medicine, it works by absorbing UVA rays. Is oxybenzone safe? Oxybenzone is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an active ingredient in sunscreens. When used following FDA regulations, oxybenzone is a safe and protective ingredient in sunscreen. That being said, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), oxybenzone is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Instead, it’s best to opt for a 100% mineral sunscreen during those nine months. What Is Octinoxate? Octinoxate is another common ingredient in chemical sunscreens, according to the National Library of Medicine. Like oxybenzone, it is absorbed into the skin, where it converts UV rays into heat before they have a chance to damage your skin. Is octinoxate safe? Octinoxate is FDA-approved and considered safe when used as directed. However, because it’s absorbed into the skin, it’s best avoided during pregnancy. The Difference Between Chemical and Mineral Sunscreen According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), chemical sunscreens are those that use chemical filters—such as oxybenzone or octinoxate (though there are others—to help protect your skin from the sun. These ingredients absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat before they’re able to penetrate your skin, which is how these sunscreens protect against burns and other sun-induced skin concerns. <!-- p--> Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, are formulated with mineral filters, such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide (and they never contain oxybenzone or octinoxate). These ingredients sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays—which is why mineral sunscreens are sometimes referred to as physical sunscreens. That being said, there are plenty of chemical and hybrid sunscreens formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate. These formulas contain other chemical UV filters, such as avobenzone or homosalate. The simplest way to know what you’re putting on your skin is to opt for a 100% mineral sunscreen, since they’re always formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate. If you’d prefer to use a chemical SPF, be sure to read the ingredients label closely before making your purchase. And at the end of the day, remember that the best suntan lotion is whichever one you’ll actually use.
