We have carefully curated a list of the best gluten-free sunscreens of 2023, ensuring that you can enjoy the sun without worrying about potential gluten-related concerns.
Whether you have specific dietary restrictions or simply prefer to use gluten-free products, this guide will provide you with valuable insights and recommendations. So, let’s dive in and explore the best gluten-free sunscreens, highlight their benefits and help you make an informed choice for your skin’s safety and well-being.
If you want to learn more about gluten-free products, read our articles about Gluten-Free Mascara, Gluten-Free Concealers, Gluten-Free Eye-Creams, and Gluten-Free Lipsticks.
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Table of Contents
Is There Gluten In Sunscreen?
Ever wondered about the ingredients that go into your trusted sun protection? Well, it turns out that wheat isn’t just a staple in our kitchens; it might sneak into your sunscreen too. For instance Vitamin E, frequently included in sunscreen formulations, derives from wheat germ oil and may contain gluten.
Some additives present in sunscreen formulations are derived from gluten-containing ingredients.
A majority of sunscreen brands contain detectable traces of gluten and even the gluten-free options could be produced in facilities that handle both wheat and gluten materials. Therefore it’s likely that your sunscreen contain gluten.
Recognize Gluten-Containing Ingredients
Here’s a list of ingredients commonly found in skincare that contain gluten.
- Wheat (including various types like spelt, emmer, farro, and durum)
- Rye
- Barle
- Oats (unless specifically labeled gluten-free)
- Malt
- Brewer’s yeast
- Starch
And their scientific names:
- Triticum vulgare
- Hordeum vulgare
- Secale cereale
- Hordeum distichon
- Avena sativa
- Alpha-glucane
- Starch acetate
Labels & Certifications For Gluten-Free Products
Certifications serve as reliable indicators of a product’s compliance with gluten-free standards.
By being aware of these certifications, individuals with gluten sensitivities can confidently select products that align with their dietary restrictions and minimize the risk of adverse reactions.
3 Gluten-free certifications you can trust
The Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) operates under the Gluten Intolerance Group of North America (GIG), a non-profit promoting gluten-free well-being. GFCO offers a strict third-party certification for gluten-free products, exceeding federal standards. With ISO accreditation, GFCO has certified thousands of products since 2005, supporting both consumers and outreach initiatives.
The Gluten-Free Certification guarantees gluten-related disorder sufferers that food meets strict safety standards. Certification symbols on products ease identification for celiac individuals. Beyond Celiac endorses GFCP, a facility-based program, ensuring safe practices from sourcing to testing. This partnership, supported by independent audits, enhances global food safety. Certified products bear GFCP marks, endorsed by Beyond Celiac, ensuring conflict-free assurance.
The NSF mark, recognized worldwide, signifies product testing by a respected certification organization. It’s tailored to items like supplements, confirming standards compliance through inspections. This mark attests to guideline adherence, label accuracy, and quality commitment. Established in 1944, NSF develops health standards collaboratively. With over 75 active standards and 95 protocols, certified products, including those related to gluten, display the NSF mark.
FAQ
Do celiacs need gluten-free sunscreen? Can celiacs use skin products with gluten?
According to Alessio Fasano, medical director of the Center for Celiac Research, it is generally safe for celiacs to use skin products containing gluten. The gastroenterologist explains that for those with celiac disease, the main worry is eating gluten, not using products with gluten on your skin.
To sum up, if you’re sensitive to gluten or have celiac disease, it’s especially important to pay attention to lipsticks and lip care products that might end up in your mouth.
While it’s generally considered safe to use skincare products with gluten for celiacs, skin allergies to gluten can happen.
Can gluten ingredients cause skin allergies?
Wheat allergies can indeed occur. An example is the 2011 incident in Japan where a soap called “Cha no Shizuku” resulted in approximately 471 cases of wheat allergy reactions. These reactions led to a range of symptoms, including swelling, rashes, breathing difficulties, and even unconsciousness.
In response, the Health Ministry cautioned consumers about potential risks. Among the 66 individuals hospitalized due to these reactions, there was even a case of someone losing consciousness after using this soap.
However, it’s important to note that most individuals sensitive to gluten and those with celiac disease typically don’t experience gluten-related skin allergies to this extent.
Can celiacs absorb gluten through skin?
No celiacs cannot absorb gluten through the skin.
The study “Gluten in Cosmetics: Is There a Reason for Concern?” found that there is currently no scientific evidence suggesting that gluten used in cosmetics is harmful to individuals with celiac disease unless the products are ingested or absorbed through open skin lesions.
While gluten cannot be absorbed through healthy skin, it can still trigger skin allergies.
Can sunscreen be gluten-free?
Yes, sunscreen can indeed be gluten-free.
Check the ingredients and labels to ensure that the sunscreen you’re using doesn’t contain any gluten-derived ingredients.
Check our list of gluten-free sunscreens for every skin type below.
12 BEST GLUTEN-FREE SUNSCREENS OF 2023
Best Water Resistant Gluten-Free Sunscreen
100% Pure – Yerba Mate Mist
SPF | 30
Review | 4.4/5 stars over 301 reviews
Features | Natural, Vegan & Cruelty-free, made in the USA, Gluten-free
Price | $38
Customer Review | “This is the best SPF product I have tried and I’ve stuck with it. It is light weight, yes it has a white tinge to it but it rubs in well. I have super acne-prone skin and it does not break me out. I apply it once on my face at about 10 a.m. most mornings and the application definitely keeps me protected all day.” Katie
- Ultra light body sun protection with a matte finish
- For all skin types, this spray offers full UVA/UVB protection
- Water-resistant and coral reef-safe with spectrum mineral zinc oxide
Best Gluten-Free Sunscreen With Organic Ingredients
Juice Beauty – Sport Sunscreen
SPF | 30
Review | 4.6/5 stars over 152 reviews
Features | Organic Ingredients, Vegan, Cruelty free, Gluten-free
Price | $19.5
Customer Review | “This product is a little more expensive than your average sunscreen, but I’m committed to organic products that don’t poison my bloodstream (like the oxybenzoates in lots of popular sunscreens). You need very little of this product especially on your face. Though it blends in well, it is a mineral based product, and you will look like a ghost if you put too much on. The smell is kind of strong, but it’s not a bad smell.” Linda
- Mineral zinc sunscreen for broad-spectrum sun protection
- Made with certified organic ingredients
- Water resistant and perfect for an active outdoor lifestyle
Best Overall Gluten-Free Sunscreen
Pacifica – Mineral Bronzing Face Shade Coconut Glow
SPF | 30
Review | 4.5/5 stars over 122 reviews
Features | Gluten-free, vegan and cruelty free. Free petroleum, parabens, silicones, retinyl palmitate, phthalates and chemical UV absorbers such as PABA, octisalate, octinoxate, and oxybenzone
Price | $16
Customer Review | “I have very pale skin but I use this on top of the vegan collagen SPF lotion every morning in lieu of makeup/contouring and it works great! No complaints, and highly recommended” Miep
- Mineral-based face lotion with clean and non-toxic ingredients
- UVA & UVB protection
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
Best Gluten-Free Sunscreen For Body Spray
COOLA Organic Sunscreen Sunblock Spray
SPF | 30
Review | 4.6/5 stars over 1,168 reviews
Features | Organic, dermatologist tested, vegan and gluten-free
Price | $28
Customer Review | “This is my second summer buying this brand and I don’t Think I’ll ever change. Great SPF protection, lightweight and doesn’t smell bad!” Brooke
- Organic sunscreen spray
- Water- and sweat-resistant formula packed with antioxidants and skin-nourishing ingredients
- Absorbs fast with no greasy feel
Best Affordable Gluten-Free Sunscreen
Australian Gold Extreme Continuous Spray Sunscreen
SPF | 30
Review | 4.7/5 stars over 11,036 reviews
Features | Free from Oxybenzone, PABA, Phthalate, Gluten-Free, and CFCs, Vegan, and Cruelty-Free.
Price | $10.99
Customer Review | “I have used this product line for years, and I have always been very well pleased with how well it works. I get a great tan every time whether I am tanning indoors or out. I also use the Australian gold Sinfully, Black Lotion. This SPF 30 spray is great for outdoor tanning, it also moisturizes the skin without being greasy. I have not found that it stains any of my clothing which is a huge plus. My recent purchase was for a beach trip.” BamaFan
- Lightweight, fast-drying, non-greasy sun protector spray
- Shields the skin from both UVA and UVB rays
- Water & sweat resistant, up to 80 minutes
Best Gluten-Free Sunscreen With Minerals
The Ordinary – Mineral UV Filters SPF 15 with Antioxidants
SPF | 15
Review | 4.4/5 stars over 286 reviews
Features | Vegan, cruelty-free, oil-free, gluten-free, silicone-free
Price | $9.9
Customer Review | “I like what it does for my skin but if I add a little bit too much it leaves that white thing on my face but otherwise it’s good n very soothing on the skin” Sashona
- Mineral UV Filters to provide protection and hydration
- UVA and UVB coverage
- Suitable for all skin types and ages
Best Gluten-Free Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin
EltaMD UV Restore Broad-Spectrum
SPF | 40
Review | 4.6/5 stars over 287 reviews
Features | Dye-free, fragrance-free, gluten-free, oil-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, non comedogenic and dermatologist tested
Price | $42
Customer Review | “I have a fairly light skin color and was a little hesitant because this sunscreen leaves a white cast initially but it disappeared in a few minutes. I love how is moisturizes and makes my skin glow just a tad. And it is one of the few sunscreens that doesn’t irritate my eyes.” Baschi
- 100% mineral sunscreen that improves sun-damaged skin and helps revitalize it
- Restores skin’s natural moisture and suppleness.
- Award winning product suitable for all skin types
Best Gluten-Free Sunscreen For Dry Skin
Dermalogica – Prisma Protect Moisturizer
SPF | 30
Review | 4.6/5 stars over 1,309reviews
Features | Paraben-free, gluten-free
Price | $19
Customer Review | “I love this product. It is so light under my make-up, it’s easy to apply, non greasy, and hydrates my skin which I really need where I live. “ Sandra
- Multitasking moisturizer for all skin types
- Defends against UV rays, free radical damage and pollution
- Hydrates for visibly smooth skin all day long
Best Gluten-Free Sunscreen For Oily Skin
Fenty Beauty – Hydra Vizor Broad Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen Moisturizer
SPF | 30
Review | 4/5 stars over 6 reviews
Features | Cruelty-free & Gluten-free, non comedogenic
Price | $39
Customer Review | “This sunscreen//moisturizer is great!! I use it every morning & it hasn’t let me down. I’m fair skinned and burn easily & so far my face hasn’t burned at all” Olivia
- Mineral sun protection for all skin tones
- Lightweight sunscreen to even skin tone, refine pores, and boost skin’s moisture barrier.
- Absorbs instantly – no greasy feeling
Best Gluten-Free Sunscreen For Aging Skin
Sunday Riley – Light Hearted Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
SPF | 30
Review | 4.4/5 stars over 106 reviews
Features | Cruelty-free, Sulfate-Free, Paraben-Free, Gluten-Free, Soy-Free, Phthalate-Free, Fragrance-Free, Vegan, and B Corporation.
Price | $35
Customer Review | “Excellent product. Great coverage and my skin feels soft and hydrated.” Rebecca
- Breathable, lightweight, and transparent sunscreen
- Perfect for all skin types and tones
- Velvet finish that reduces the look of pores while minimizing the appearance of dark spots, lines, and wrinkles
Best Gluten-Free Sunscreen & Foundation
Milk Makeup – Sunshine Skin Tint
SPF | 30
Review | 4.4/5 stars over 860 reviews
Features | vegan, clean, cruelty-free, non comedogenic, paraben-free, silicone-free, and gluten-free
Price | $42
Customer Review | “It’s lightweight, blends easily, and is buildable. I’m not a foundation girl but this is easy for me for everyday use. I have a greasy face and this doesn’t make it any worse. I just wish it wasn’t so expensive.” Laura
- Lightweight foundation/BB cream
- Protection from UVA and UVB sun rays
- Made with hydrating skincare ingredients to plump the skin
Best Gluten-Free Sunscreen & Tinted Serum
Ilia – Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
SPF | 40
Review | 4.5/5 stars over 10,394 reviews
Features | Cruelty-Free, vegan, free from gluten, silicone and fragrance, Non-comedogenic, and safe for sensitive skin
Price | $48
Customer Review | “I love this tinted moisturizer so much, beautiful coverage, shimmery finish, clean ingredients and doesn’t clog my pores! I have mature skin and this doesn’t settle into my lines and the shimmer effect actually blurs them. Please never change because I will buying this forever!” Alta
- Tinted serum with high mineral sun protection
- Light coverage for a dewy finish
- Improves the look of dryness, blemishes, redness, wrinkles, and uneven tone
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