If you’re a hiker, then you know how important having the best sunscreen for hiking is! Plus, you’re no stranger to the damaging effects of UV rays from sunburn to chapped lips. But what if you could find a natural sunscreen that protects your skin and does right by the environment?
When it comes to finding the best natural sunscreen for hiking, there are a few key things to look for. You want a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection, is water-resistant, and won’t leave a greasy or sticky feeling on your skin.
Natural sunscreens that contain ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are a great choice because they provide effective protection without the use of harmful chemicals.
Hitting the great outdoors means braving the elements. Whether you’re a hike-by-numbers newbie or a trail-tested veteran, our top picks have got you covered.
Table Of Contents:
- Best Natural Sunscreen for Hiking
- 11 Top Natural Sunscreens for Hiking and Outdoor Activities
- What to Look for in a Natural Sunscreen for Hiking
- Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreens: Which is Better for Hiking?
- Tips for Applying Natural Sunscreen While Hiking
- Best Natural Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin and Acne-Prone Skin
- Reef-Safe Natural Sunscreens for Hiking and Water Activities
- Best Kid-Friendly Natural Sunscreens for Hiking and Outdoor Play
- FAQs in Relation to Best Natural Sunscreen for Hiking
- Conclusion
- Author Bio
Best Natural Sunscreen for Hiking
Best Natural Sunscreen for Body Non Toxic Mineral Sunscreen
As a weekend hiker and founder of a natural sunscreen company, I know firsthand the importance of using the best natural sunscreen for hiking. Whether you’re hitting the trails for a quick day hike or a multi-day backpacking adventure, protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays is crucial. That’s why I always recommend using a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide as the active ingredient.
As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors, I need sunscreen that can keep up with my active lifestyle. Mineral sunscreens fit the bill perfectly, offering comprehensive protection against UVA and UVB rays while being gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types. And let’s be real – when I’m hiking, the last thing I want is a sunscreen that feels heavy or greasy.
Hiking, biking, or simply enjoying the great outdoors? These sunscreen lotions have got you covered. With zinc oxide as the active ingredient, they offer unbeatable broad spectrum protection without any harsh chemicals. Plus, they’re incredibly lightweight and water-resistant – making them an outdoor lover’s best friend.
11 Top Natural Sunscreens for Hiking and Outdoor Activities
As someone who started their own natural sunscreen company, I’ve tried and tested countless options over the years. Here are my top 11 picks for hiking and outdoor activities:
- Skorcha Organic Face Sunscreen Tinted Mineral SPF 50
- Badger Clear Zinc Sunscreen Cream SPF 30
- Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
- All Good Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
- Raw Elements Face + Body Sunscreen SPF 30
- Suntegrity Natural Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
- Kokua Sun Care Hawaiian SPF 50 Natural Zinc Sunscreen
- Manda Organic Sun Paste SPF 50
- Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Baby Sunscreen SPF 30
- Goddess Garden Sport SPF 30 Natural Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
- Stream2Sea Sport Sunscreen SPF 30
What to Look for in a Natural Sunscreen for Hiking
When choosing a natural face sunscreen or body sunscreen for hiking, there are a few key things to look for:
Broad Spectrum Protection
When shopping for sun cream, make sure it offers broad spectrum protection – a necessity for fending off both UVA and UVB rays. While UVA rays prey on your skin, causing premature aging, UVB rays bring the dreaded sunburn. Look for zinc oxide, a potent active ingredient that offers full-spectrum defense.
High SPF
Choose a sunscreen lotion with an SPF of at least 30, but I personally recommend going with SPF 50+ for extended outdoor activities like hiking. Just remember, no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays, so it’s still important to reapply every 2 hours and wear protective outdoor clothing.
Lightweight and Non-Greasy Formula
When you’re hiking, the last thing you want is a heavy, greasy sunscreen that will make you feel sticky and uncomfortable. Look for a lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly into your skin. Many mineral sunscreens now use micronized zinc oxide, which rubs in clear without leaving a white cast.
Water and Sweat Resistance
When you’re hiking, the great outdoors can quickly become a sweaty affair. Don’t let the heat get the best of you – remember to slather on a water-resistant sunscreen stick or lotion that’ll stay put for at least 40-80 minutes, even when you’re working up a serious sweat on the trail.
Pros and Cons of Mineral Sunscreens
The biggest pro of mineral sunscreens is that they’re safe and gentle on sensitive skin. They’re also reef-safe, meaning they won’t harm coral reefs and other marine life. The downside is that some mineral sunscreens can leave a white cast on your skin, but many newer formulas use micronized zinc oxide to minimize this issue as well as tinted versions that you can’t even tell you are wearing.
Pros and Cons of Chemical Sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens are often more lightweight and invisible on the skin compared to mineral sunscreens. However, they can be irritating for sensitive skin and some of the ingredients like oxybenzone have been shown to harm coral reefs. Chemical sunscreens also contain more potentially harmful ingredients that can absorb into your bloodstream.
Ultimately, the choice between mineral and chemical sunscreens comes down to personal preference. But for hiking and outdoor activities, I always recommend mineral sunscreens for their safe, effective, and eco-friendly protection. Your skin (and the planet) will thank you.
Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreens: Which is Better for Hiking?
When it comes to choosing a sunscreen for hiking, you have two main options: mineral or chemical. As a natural sunscreen advocate, I always recommend mineral sunscreens over chemical ones. Here’s why:
How Mineral Sunscreens Work
Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, use zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients. These minerals sit on top of your skin and physically block and scatter UV rays, preventing them from penetrating your skin. They’re naturally broad spectrum and start working immediately upon application.
How Chemical Sunscreens Work
Chemical sunscreens use synthetic compounds like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone to absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin. They absorb into your skin and take about 20 minutes to start working.
Key Takeaway:
To shield your skin from the sun’s harsh UV rays on the trails, choose a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide as the active ingredient – it’s like wearing a natural armor that physically blocks and scatters UV rays, providing broad spectrum protection without harming the environment or your skin.
Tool to Help Your Skin: Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and infused with niacinamide or lactic acid to keep pores clear – these brands like SuperGoop are total game-changers. The sheer tints even out redness too.
Tips for Applying Natural Sunscreen While Hiking
Slathering on sunscreen isn’t enough – you’ve got to apply it strategically for maximum sun protection. Here are my top tips for applying natural sunscreen while hitting the trails:
Apply Generously and Frequently
Don’t be stingy with that natural sunscreen. Most people don’t use nearly enough. You need a shot glass worth (about 1 oz) to properly cover your whole body.
Apply 15 minutes before heading out so it has time to absorb and form a protective barrier. Then reapply every 2 hours, or more often if you’re sweating buckets or taking a dip.
Don’t Forget Easy to Miss Spots
When you’re focused on covering the obvious places like arms and legs, it’s easy to miss sneaky spots that are still vulnerable to UV damage.
The ears, back of the neck, hands, and tops of the feet (if wearing sandals) need love too. Lips can also get crispy, so swipe on a lip balm with SPF. And don’t forget that sensitive scalp. A wide-brimmed hat is clutch.
Pair with Other Sun Protection Measures
Relying solely on natural sunscreen can be risky business. Supplementing with extra protection is always a smart move.
Wear protective clothing like long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a hat with a brim. Sunglasses shield those peepers. And try to avoid hiking during peak sun hours (10am-4pm) when UV radiation is strongest.
By generously slathering on natural sunscreen, covering often-missed spots, and doubling up on protection, you can keep your skin safe while conquering those trails. Now go get your hike on.
Best Natural Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin and Acne-Prone Skin
Gone are the days of my skin reacting badly to harsh sunscreens. Through trial and error, I’ve uncovered the simple yet powerful secrets to choosing natural sun protection that my skin – and yours – will love.
Ingredients to Look for
When you’ve got sensitive or acne-prone skin, mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are your best bet. These physical blockers sit on top of the skin rather than absorbing in, making them less likely to cause irritation.
Look for formulas labeled “fragrance-free,” “non-comedogenic” (won’t clog pores), and “oil-free.” Soothing ingredients like aloe and niacinamide get bonus points.
Ingredients to Avoid
Steer clear of potential irritants like fragrance, essential oils, and alcohol. Chemical UV filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate can also trigger reactions for some.
Coconut oil and cocoa butter may be natural, but they can also be comedogenic and contribute to breakouts. Always scan those labels if you’ve got known sensitivities.
Top Picks for Sensitive Skin
If you’re struggling to find a sunscreen that agrees with your sensitive skin, let me share my top natural picks with you.
- Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch SPF 50
- Aveeno Positively Mineral Sensitive Skin Daily Sunscreen SPF 50
- Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc Continuous Spray SPF 30
To keep your skin protected without any irritation, these formulas rely on zinc oxide for broad spectrum defense. Plus, their lightweight, fragrance-free goodness won’t mess with your makeup application.
Top Picks for Acne-Prone Skin
If you’re anything like me, you know the struggle of finding sunscreens that won’t clog your pores. Luckily, natural sunscreens are the solution we’ve all been waiting for, providing a blissful union of clear skin and sun-kissed happiness.
- EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50
- Zincscreen 100% Mineral Lotion SPF 40
Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and infused with niacinamide or lactic acid to keep pores clear – these are total game-changers. The sheer tints even out redness too.
Don’t let sensitive or breakout-prone skin keep you from enjoying the great outdoors. With these gentle yet effective natural sunscreens, you can hike on with confidence knowing your skin is protected and happy.
Reef-Safe Natural Sunscreens for Hiking and Water Activities
Hiking in tropical paradise? Don’t forget to pack a reef-safe natural sunscreen. Keeping our oceans healthy is just as important as shielding our skin.
When researching formulas for Skorcha, I’ve learned all about the damage certain sunscreen chemicals can do to delicate coral reefs. That’s why we will only ever formulate with mineral-based formulas that are gentle on marine life.
What Makes a Sunscreen Reef-Safe
A truly reef-safe sunscreen is free of ingredients known to harm coral reefs and other sea creatures. The biggest offenders? Oxybenzone and octinoxate.
When you slather on sunscreen to protect your skin, you might inadvertently be harming the very ecosystems you’re trying to enjoy. Certain chemical UV filters have been shown to damage coral reefs and alter the DNA of coral larvae, prompting Hawaii and Key West to ban their use altogether.
Mineral sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are a safer choice for reefs. “Non-nano” means the particles are larger than 100 nanometers, so they can’t be ingested by corals.
Ingredients to Avoid
Besides oxybenzone and octinoxate, other reef-damaging sunscreen ingredients to watch out for:
- Octocrylene
- Homosalate
- 4-methylbenzylidene camphor
- PABA
- Parabens
- Any nanoparticles or “nano-sized” zinc/titanium dioxide.
It’s also smart to skip sunscreens in spray form. They can be harmful if inhaled and make it tricky to apply evenly for adequate protection.
Top Reef-Safe Picks
For my outdoor escapades, I swear by these reliable reef-safe sunscreens that keep me protected and guilt-free.
- Skorcha Organic Face Sunscreen Tinted Mineral SPF 50
- Stream2Sea SPF 30 Mineral Sunblock
- Kokua Sun Care Hawaiian SPF 50 Natural Zinc Sunscreen
- All Good SPF 30 Sport Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
- Manda Organic SPF 50 Sun Paste
- Raw Elements SPF 30 Certified Natural Sunscreen
Your skin – and the planet – will thank you for choosing sunscreens that use non-nano zinc oxide for broad spectrum protection. And with eco-friendly packaging to boot, you can feel good about your purchase.
So next time you’re hiking or snorkeling in a tropical destination, be sure to pack one of these reef-safe gems in your bag. The fish and coral will thank you.
Best Kid-Friendly Natural Sunscreens for Hiking and Outdoor Play
If you’re a mom or dad who loves hiking and playing outside with your little ones, you’re probably always on the hunt for the best natural sunscreens to keep their delicate skin safe.
You need a formula that’s gentle, easy to apply, and – most importantly – offers robust defense against the sun’s strong UV rays. Anything less, and you’re leaving your little ones vulnerable.
What to Look for in a Kid’s Sunscreen
For babies and kids, I prefer mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These natural active ingredients physically block UV rays and are less likely to irritate sensitive young skin compared to chemical filters.
I’m meticulous when it comes to selecting formulas – only the best will do.
- SPF 30 or higher for optimal protection.
- Water-resistant for at least 40-80 minutes.
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic to minimize irritation.
- Broad spectrum to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
Bonus points for easy-to-apply lotions, sticks, or creams. Spray sunscreens can be convenient, but make it hard to tell if you’ve got complete coverage (and are easy to inhale).
Application Tips
Putting sunscreen on squirmy kiddos is an art. Make it more fun by letting them help apply their own (with supervision). Just make sure they’re using enough – about 1 ounce per full body application.
Don’t forget easy-to-miss spots like the ears, back of the neck, hands, and tops of the feet. Re-apply every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating. And always pair sunscreen with other protection like UPF clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
Top Picks
As a parent, I’ve learned to always prioritize sun protection when we’re exploring the great outdoors. Here are the natural sunscreens my family swears by for our adventures.
- Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
- Badger Kids Sunscreen Cream SPF 40
- Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sensitive Skin Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 50
- Babo Botanicals Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
All of these use zinc oxide (and some titanium dioxide) to offer broad spectrum, water-resistant protection without harsh chemicals or fragrances. The creamy, non-greasy formulas rub in well and are gentle enough for babies’ sensitive skin.
So lather up those little ones and enjoy some fun in the sun – without sacrificing their precious skin. With these natural, kid-friendly sunscreens, outdoor play has never been safer.
Key Takeaway:
Protect your skin on hiking adventures by applying natural sunscreen generously, covering often-missed spots, and doubling up on protection with clothing and gear.
FAQs in Relation to Best Natural Sunscreen for Hiking
Which sunscreen is best for hiking?
When it comes to hiking, you want a sunscreen that’s like a trusty trail buddy – reliable and doesn’t quit on you. Look for a broad-spectrum, lightweight sunscreen with high SPF and water resistance, like zinc oxide-based sunscreens.
What is the most effective natural sunscreen?
Think of natural sunscreens like a protective armor for your skin. The most effective ones use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients, providing a physical barrier against UV rays. Mineral sunscreens with a high concentration of zinc oxide offer the best protection.
Which is best homemade sunscreen?
Making your own sunscreen at home is like cooking a recipe – you need the right ingredients in the right proportions. Combine zinc oxide powder with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil, and add some beeswax for thickness. But be warned: homemade sunscreens might not offer the same level of protection as commercial ones.
What is the best alternative to sunscreen?
Sunscreen is just one part of your sun protection arsenal. Clothing with built-in UPF protection is like wearing a force field against UV rays. Pair it with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and shade-seeking, and you’ll be well-protected from the sun’s harmful effects.
Conclusion
When it comes to protecting your skin while hiking, the best natural sunscreen for hiking is a must-have in your backpack. Natural sunscreens provide effective protection against the sun’s harmful rays without the use of harsh chemicals that can harm your skin and the environment.
Ready to hit the trails? Don’t forget to slather on one of these fantastic natural sunscreens. They’re specially crafted for hikers, with broad-spectrum protection and formulas that can withstand the rigors of the great outdoors.
There’s more to natural sunscreen than just shielding your skin from the sun. By going all natural, you’re also giving the environment a high-five! Traditional sunscreens can be toxic to coral reefs and marine life, whereas natural sunscreens are reef-safe and biodegradable.
So the next time you hit the trail, make sure you have the best natural sunscreen for hiking in your pack. Your skin (and the environment) will thank you.
Author Bio
Mick Wadley is the founder of Skorcha Organic Suncare and SEO Specialist at HarpoonB2B, who writes about everything related to suncare, organic goodness, and conservation. He launched Skorcha in 2023 after a decade of working outdoors and personal experience with skin cancer. His goal is to share what he has learned about skin health and safe ingredients, encouraging healthier lives and inspiring people to enjoy the outdoors. You can follow him on LinkedIn and Skorcha on Instagram
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