Looking for a reef-safe sunscreen that uses only zinc oxide as an active ingredient? You’re making a smart choice!
My family has tested over 100 natural mineral sunscreens over the last 10 years, so we know what really works. This brand is pretty good, but in my opinion, if you’re looking for the cleanest ingredients and smoothest application, then head over to my ultimate guide to natural mineral sunscreens and grab one of my top recommended zinc oxide sunscreens instead. My standards are really high though, so this one is still pretty good. 🙂
You can read all the details below to find out why this safe sunscreen brand did not make my top recommended list.
Aubrey Organics Natural Sun Green Tea Protective Sunscreen
Details:
DISCONTINUED
Price: 2017 price estimate: ~$5-$7 (4 oz.) less than ~$1.50-$2/ounce
EWG rating: 3
SPF: 25
Active ingredient(s): Padimate O (PABA ester) (8%), titanium dioxide (10%)
Antioxidants added: Vitamin E and C, green tea
Ease of application: – Very thick and goopy, a bit greasy but spreads well( see photo below)
Scent: excellent; my son LOVES this one
Water resistant? Yes, visible barrier against water
My experience: The texture is a bit like clay and very thick, and the cream does separate in the tube, which makes it harder to apply. Although my son would choose it every time based solely on scent, I’m not so sure about the ingredients and would choose one of the other sunblocks first every time. The price, however, is nice.
Katie’s thoughts: Rated at 3, although Padimate O (PABA ester) is listed as one of EWG’s three FDA-approved sunscreen ingredients that have “highest concern for human exposure and toxicity.” The ingredient independently is rated a “5” in safety. I don’t understand why I’d want to use this option when others are available, unless I was allergic to zinc oxide.
Wondering if this one is the very best natural sunscreen for your family?
I organized alllll the sunscreens we reviewed in each one’s recommendation category – one page, at-a-glance to find out what is safe to buy AND works! Print it or save to your phone for reference!
The guide also includes answers to questions people ask me all the time:
- Which brand rubs in the clearest?
- What’s the best for all day outdoor sports?
- How do I save money on natural sunscreens?
- What looks good on ladies’ faces?
- Is there an option that is FAST to apply to wiggly kids?
I’ll send a copy to your email so you can see it right away and find it again later!