Safer Sunscreen 2026

Mar 18
2 min read

Updated: Mar 21

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Chemical Sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens use filters like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. These filters absorb UV radiation within the upper layers of the skin, then convert it into heat that is released from the body.

Some people choose to limit certain chemical filters due to:

• skin sensitivity

• environmental concerns (like reef impact)

• or because small amounts of some filters have been detected in the bloodstream after repeated use

Mineral Sunscreen

Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. These ingredients sit on the surface of the skin and primarily absorb UV radiation, while also scattering a small portion of UV rays.

They are generally considered a good option for sensitive skin, and zinc oxide is not significantly absorbed into the skin or bloodstream.

Many people prefer mineral formulas for their simpler ingredient profiles and broad-spectrum protection.

Ingredients to Avoid in Sunscreen

avobenzone

homosalate

octinoxate

octisalate

octocrylene

oxybenzone

benziosothiazolinone

butylated hydroytoluene (BHT)

butyloctyl salicylate

disodium EDTA

diethanolamine (DEA)

ethoxylared ingredients (PEG-, PPG-, poly-, -eth, -oxynol

fragrance / parfum

mineral oil

methylisothiazolinone

monoethanolamine (MEA)

nonaparticles

para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA)

parabens

phenoxyethanol

phthalates

propylene glycol

triethanolamine (TEA)

titanium dioxide (mainly in aerosols or powders)

A note on Titanium Dioxide

TiO₂ is often discussed in safety conversations, so it’s worth clarifying. Current evidence suggests that it does not penetrate intact, healthy skin and is not associated with systemic or localized harm when applied topically (Campaign for Safe Cosmetics).

Regulatory bodies, including the European Commission’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, have identified titanium dioxide as a possible category 2 carcinogen when inhaled. This classification is specific to inhalation exposure, such as from loose powders or aerosolized products, rather than skin application.

In cream-based formulations, titanium dioxide has not been shown to pose the same concerns. However, for the purpose of this review, only zinc oxide-based options have been included.

A note on Butyloctyl Salicylate

Many sunscreens, especially spray formulas, contain butyloctyl salicylate. This ingredient is commonly used to improve spreadability and help boost SPF performance. It belongs to the salicylate family and is structurally similar to some chemical UV filters, although it is not classified as an active sunscreen ingredient itself.

Some research and safety databases note concerns such as potential skin absorption, low-level hormone activity, and effects on aquatic life. Because it is part of the salicylate family, some experts recommend caution during pregnancy, although research on long-term health effects is still limited and not conclusive.