In this comprehensive guide, we bring you a curated selection of 8 top rated cruelty-free sunscreen SPF 50. These sunscreens have been carefully chosen for their effectiveness, ingredients, and dedication to cruelty-free practices.
Whether you’re seeking a sunscreen for daily use, for exercising or for your next holiday, you’ll find a cruelty-free sunscreen SPF 50 on this list that meets your needs.
To know more about ethical and clean beauty, check our articles about cruelty-free vitamin C serums, cruelty-free moisturizers, and cruelty-free face washes.
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Table of Contents
Why Choose Cruelty-Free Sunscreens?
Choosing cruelty-free skincare demonstrates your values and compassion, as it stands against animal rights violations while providing effective products for self-care. By opting for cruelty-free skincare, you actively contribute to ending animal suffering and support the development of alternative, humane testing methods. This sends a powerful message to the industry, urging them to prioritize compassion and embrace change.
In addition to the ethical considerations, cruelty-free skincare offers personal benefits. These products often utilize natural and organic ingredients, free from harmful chemicals and toxins, promoting a safe and radiant complexion.
Many cruelty-free skincare brands also prioritize sustainability, making eco-friendly packaging choices and responsibly sourcing ingredients to contribute to the preservation of our planet.
Ultimately, choosing cruelty-free skincare empowers you to align your choices with your values, inspiring others and creating a ripple effect of change in the beauty industry.
Does SPF have to be tested on animals?
No, animal testing legally required for cosmetics sold in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
What to consider when buying sunscreen?
When buying sunscreen, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you choose a product that provides effective protection against harmful UV radiation.
Here are some key considerations supported by expert recommendations and studies:
- Broad-spectrum protection: Look for a sunscreen labeled as “broad-spectrum,” which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) states that broad-spectrum sunscreens are crucial for preventing skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun’s rays.
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): The Sun Protection Factor indicates how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection. The AAD recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for optimal protection.
- Water resistance: If you plan to swim or engage in activities that cause sweating, opt for a water-resistant sunscreen. Water-resistant sunscreens adhere better to the skin and maintain their protective capabilities when exposed to water, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. However, they still need to be reapplied after a certain period, as specified on the product label.
- Ingredients and formulation: Check the ingredients list for effective and safe active ingredients. The most commonly used UV filters in sunscreens include chemical filters like avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone, as well as physical filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
- Personal preferences: Consider your skin type, any known allergies or sensitivities, and your preference for texture, scent, and application. Everyone’s skin is unique, so choosing a sunscreen that suits your specific needs and preferences can enhance your comfort and encourage regular usage.
Remember that regular and consistent application of sunscreen is crucial for its effectiveness. Apply a sufficient amount of sunscreen generously to all exposed skin, and reapply as directed by the product label or after activities that may remove the sunscreen.
8 Top Rated Cruelty-Free Sunscreen SPF 50
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen SPF 50 Spray
Product | Coola – Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
Review | 4.6/5 Stars over 239 Reviews
Price | $28 for 6 oz
- Formulated with 70%+ Certified Organic Ingredients
- Water resistant (80 minutes)
- Naturally scented and unscented options
- Hypoallergenic, vegan, and gluten-free
Customer Review | “I love that this is fragrance free and a clear spray. I find it is so much easier for me to apply to my arms. legs and body without waste.” Karen
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen SPF 50 for Body
Product | Dermalogica – Protection 50 Sport SPF 50
Review | 5/5 Stars over 100 Reviews
Price | 38$ for 5.3 oz
- Suitable for all skin types
- Water-resistant (80 minutes)
- For face and body protection
- Helps with dryness, dehydration, fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone
Customer Review | “Use it on my whole family including 6 month old. No skin irritation or reaction. Rubs in easily. Light smell, but great all around sun block. Back to order more for the summer.” John
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen SPF 50 for Face
Product | Sun Bum – Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion
Review | 4.7/5 Stars over 11,974 Reviews
Price | $14.49 for 3 oz
- For all skin types
- Dermatologist approved, non-comedogenic facial sunscreen
- UVA/UVB protection
- Our oil-free and water-resistant
- Free from Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Gluten, Cruelty and Paraben Free to ensure a fun day in the sun.
Customer Review | “Perfect for sensitive skin! I live in high altitude Colorado close to mountains and over 300 days of sunshine per year. I had been looking for a sunscreen that has high SPF without all those harsh chemicals and tried over 10 different brands and am so pleased that the search is finally over. This sunscreen is perfect even for my highly sensitive skin. It blends well without leaving any white cast even in water. It is unscented and doesn’t cause me break out. The SPF level is great. Highly recommended!” Tess
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen SPF 50 with Mineral Ingredients
Product | SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen
Review | 4.6/5 Stars over 1,022 Reviews
Price | 42$ for 1.7 oz
- Ideal for all skin types
- Tinted sunscreen – leaves no white cast
- Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes
- Mineral SPF filter to protect against UVA and UVB rays.
- Free from Paraben and fragrance; non-comedogenic
Customer Review | “I love this sunscreen and apply it every day year round. It is light and goes on smoothly. I also love that it is lightly tinted so I can apply it and not use my mineral powder when going out. I really love all the SkinCeuticals products I use.” Donna
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen SPF 50 for Stick
Product | Supergoop! – Glow Stick SPF 50
Review | 4.4/5 Stars over 73 Reviews
Price | $26 for 1.23 oz
- Portable, dry oil sunscreen stick for face, chest & shoulders
- Protects against UVA & UVB rays.
- Invisible and hydrating formula. No oily residue.
Customer Review | “Love this product, I use this every day. last thing I apply before I leave my house. great travel sunscreen. My bag is small and fits perfectly with my phone and wallet. My fav.” Wendy
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen SPF 50 for Sport and Outdoor Activities
Product | EltaMD – UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
Review | 4,8/5 Stars over 175 Reviews
Price | 55$ for 7 oz
- UVA/UVB sun protection
- Water-resistant (80 minutes)
- Perfect for exercising: swim, ski, run, or golf – won’t rinse off in water or drip into your eyes and sting when you sweat.
- Free from oil, fragrance, paraben and non comedogenic
- Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
Customer Review | “Wow! This sunscreen feels exquisite. It’s non-greasy and soaks in like a lotion. I haven’t gotten burned wearing it and highly recommend it. “ Angie
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen SPF 50 for Sensitive Skin
Product | Colorescience – Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50
Review | 4.4/5 Stars over 54 Reviews
Price | 49$ for 1.8 oz
- Tinted sunscreen
- Water/sweat-resistant: 40 minutes
- All mineral protection from UVA/UVB, blue light, pollution, and infrared radiation
- Dermatologist tested, non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin
- Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
Customer Review | “I looove this sunscreen! It gives great coverage to the point that I don’t need makeup every day, usually I just apply this sunscreen and then my concealer and that’s it! And the 4+ gives me so much peace of mind that it’s protecting me even from blue light and radiation.” Marcela
Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen SPF 50 for Matte Finish
Product | Paula’s Choice – Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 50
Review | 4.2/5 Stars over 1,618 Reviews
Price | 22$ for 5 oz
- Water resistant, oil-free formula to protect from UVB and UVA
- Suitable for all skin types
- Soft matte finish
- Free from paraben and fragrance
Customer Review | “I always have this sunscreen available. High spf, lasts, non greasy. Great for whole body including face. Easy to apply “ Jean
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