The 11 Best Clean & Non Toxic Sunscreen Brands In Canada

Are you looking for the best non-toxic sunscreen brands in Canada? As someone who advocates for natural skincare, I firmly believe that harmful chemicals have no place in our daily routines. 

However, it’s crucial to clarify that advocating for clean beauty doesn’t mean we should forgo essential skincare products like sunscreen. With natural sunscreens, we can enjoy the benefits of sun protection without exposing ourselves to unnecessary risks. 

To help you have sun-kissed, but burn-free summer adventures, I researched and found the cleanest sunscreen formulas on the Canadian market that can shield our skin from the full spectrum of harmful UV radiation.

Read on to discover the best natural sunscreen Canada has to offer.

For more safe options, check out these 25+ eco-friendly & non-toxic bathroom swaps and these 10 delicious smelling, clean laundry detergent brands.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

---

The Best Non-Toxic Sunscreen Brands in Canada, at a Glance

• Best overall: ATTITUDE
• Best sunscreen spray: Live Clean Sport 
• Best sunscreen stick:  Raw Elements
• Best organic: ThinkSport
• Best tinted: Australian Gold
• Best non-toxic sunscreen for the face: All Good
• best non-toxic sunscreen for the body: Blue Lizard
• Safest sunscreen for kids: Babyganics
• Best for eczema: Tower 28 SunnyDays Tinted SPF 30
• Best made-in-Canada: Birch Babe

---

As we gear up for another summer of fun in the sun, I want to have a heart-to-heart about the importance of slathering on some good-quality natural sunscreen. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way about the dangers of sun exposure. Like most folks out there, I’ve also ended up with a nasty sunburn that had me regretting every moment of bliss under those rays once or twice in my life.

The hard truth is that sunburn isn’t just a temporary inconvenience –  it can have long-term effects too. Research shows that sunburns increase your risk of skin cancer, premature aging, and other skin damage.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, just five or more sunburns in your lifetime can double your risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Despite all the evidence, Canadians remain unaware of the true toll the sun can take on their skin. In fact, 32% of those asked believe that the dangers of sun exposure are exaggerated, despite the 11,300 new cases of melanoma predicted to be diagnosed in 2024 alone.

That’s why investing in a good-quality non-toxic sunscreen in Canada isn’t just a summer essential – it’s a year-round commitment to protecting your skin and your health. UV rays can easily penetrate through clouds and reflect off snow and ice, leading to sunburn and skin damage, even in winter. 

Natural sunscreens, formulated with mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, offer broad-spectrum protection without the harmful chemicals found in conventional sunscreens. Plus, a non-chemical sunscreen is gentler on your skin and safer for the environment, so you can feel good about lathering up before soaking in those rays.

So, let’s make a pact to prioritize sun protection, not just for the sake of a sunburn-free summer, but for the health and happiness of our skin for years to come.

The Most Toxic Ingredients in Sunscreen to Avoid

Benzophenone-3 (Oxybenzone)

This chemical is used as a UV filter in sunscreens, but studies suggest it can penetrate the skin and disrupt hormone function, particularly estrogen. Research published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2018) highlights oxybenzone’s potential to induce hormonal changes and its correlation with adverse reproductive effects. Another eye-opening research exposed oxybenzone as a contributor to coral bleaching, threatening marine ecosystems.

Avobenzone

Avobenzone acts like a sponge, soaking up UVA rays before they can penetrate your skin and cause damage. When you apply sunscreen with avobenzone, it forms a protective layer on your skin, absorbing and neutralizing those harmful rays. While avobenzone is generally safe for most people, some may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions. This can manifest as redness, itching, or a rash. One thing to keep in mind is that avobenzone can break down when exposed to sunlight, reducing its effectiveness over time. According to the  International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2019), avobenzone’s photostability may lead to decreased sun protection efficacy and potential skin damage upon UV exposure.

Cyclopentasiloxane/Cyclomethicone

These silicone-based compounds offer many coveted properties in sunscreens, such as smooth application and water resistance. However, their persistence in the environment and potential bioaccumulation have raised concerns because its presence threatens the aquatic organisms.

Butyloctyl Salicylate

This compound serves as an emollient in sunscreens, but its potential to disrupt hormone function raises red flags. While research on its specific effects is limited, a very interesting review discussed the ability of certain salicylate derivatives to penetrate the skin and interfere with endocrine signaling pathways.

Homosalate

Homosalate is a common chemical UV filter used in sunscreens to absorb UVB rays. The issue is that many experts believe that it can disrupt hormone function and penetrate the skin. A study published in Chemosphere (2017) investigated the estrogenic activity of homosalate and its metabolites, proving its potential endocrine-disrupting effects. I also read a great study that explained how homosalate can accumulate in the body over time, raising concerns about its long-term health effects.

Methylisothiazolinone

This preservative is often used in sunscreen formulations to prevent microbial growth. According to the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, we’ve seen an increase in methylisothiazolinone-induced allergic reactions over the last few years which is very concerning.

Formaldehyde Preservatives

These preservatives, commonly found in sunscreens, release formaldehyde over time, posing health risks. Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives in cosmetic products are notorious for causing allergic reactions and skin sensitization.

Why a Sunscreen Needs to Be “Reef-Safe”?

Sunscreen ingredients, particularly chemical UV filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been found to have detrimental effects on coral reefs and marine ecosystems. When these chemicals wash off our bodies while swimming or during activities, they can enter the ocean and accumulate in coral reefs, causing harm. 

You’ve probably heard of coral bleaching, a phenomenon where corals expel the symbiotic algae living in their tissues, leading to the coral’s death. Oxybenzone can disrupt coral’s reproduction, growth, and development, ultimately contributing to coral bleaching and reef degradation.

If that wasn’t enough, UV-filtering chemicals can cause DNA damage in coral larvae, impairing their ability to settle and develop into new coral colonies which means that the recovery and resilience of damaged reefs is decreasing day by day. 

On top of that, some sunscreen ingredients, such as octinoxate, can promote the growth of harmful algae, leading to algal blooms that smother coral reefs and disrupt marine ecosystems. These blooms can block sunlight and deplete oxygen levels in the water, further stressing coral and other marine life.

Reef-safe sunscreens are formulated with mineral UV filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are less harmful to marine life and do not contribute to coral bleaching or reef degradation. These mineral sunscreens work by creating a physical barrier on the skin’s surface, reflecting and scattering UV rays away from the skin, rather than being absorbed into the skin like chemical filters.

When selecting a non-toxic sunscreen in Canada, look for products labeled as “reef-safe,” “biodegradable,” or “ocean-friendly.” 

The Safest Sunscreen Ingredients

Natural sunscreen with mineral-based formulations and safe ingredients offers effective sun protection without the use of potentially harmful chemicals. 

Zinc Oxide: This mineral acts as a physical barrier on your skin, reflecting and scattering UV rays away. It’s known for its broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, making it a reliable choice for all-day defense. Plus, it’s gentle on the skin, making it suitable for even the most sensitive types.

Titanium Dioxide: Similar to zinc oxide, titanium dioxide forms a protective layer on the skin’s surface, blocking out harmful UV rays. It’s effective against both UVA and UVB rays and is often used alongside zinc oxide in sunscreen formulations. Like zinc oxide, it’s well-tolerated by most skin types.

These natural minerals create a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting and scattering UV rays away from the body. Unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide provide immediate protection upon application.

How to Choose the Best Non-toxic Sunscreens on the Canadian Market?

1. Pay Attention to the SPF Rating and Broad-Spectrum Protection: The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating indicates the level of protection a sunscreen offers against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. Look for the cleanest sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for adequate protection. Additionally, opt for products labeled as “broad-spectrum,” which protect against both UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
2. Water Resistance: If you’ll be spending time in the water or sweating heavily, choose a water-resistant non-toxic sunscreen. These formulas adhere better to the skin and maintain their effectiveness even when exposed to water. Water-resistant sunscreens are labeled with a specific duration, such as 40 or 80 minutes, indicating how long they remain effective during water activities before needing to be reapplied.
3. Application Method: Consider the convenience and preference of the application method. Non-toxic sunscreen for the face and body is available in various forms, including lotions, sprays, sticks, and creams. Lotions provide thorough coverage and are suitable for most skin types. Sprays offer quick and easy application, ideal for covering large areas of the body. Sticks are convenient for targeted applications, such as around the eyes and lips. Choose a formulation that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
4. Sustainable Packaging: When possible, look for non-chemical sunscreens packaged in recyclable materials or with minimal packaging to reduce environmental impact. Some clean sunscreen brands in Canada brands offer refillable or eco-friendly packaging options so that you can minimize waste and support sustainable practices.

Canada’s Sunscreen Ingredient Regulations and Safety Requirements

In Canada, sunscreen products are regulated as natural health products (NHPs) by Health Canada under the Natural Health Products Regulations (NHPR) or as drugs under the Food and Drugs Act (FDA) and the Cosmetic Regulations.

Sunscreens classified as NHPs (Natural Health Products) must meet specific requirements outlined in the NHPR. These requirements include providing evidence of safety, efficacy, and quality through a product license application submitted to Health Canada. NHPs must also display a Natural Product Number (NPN) on their labels, indicating that they have been approved for sale in Canada.

The Sun Protection Program (SPP), launched in 1989, was an initiative by Health Canada aimed at raising awareness about the importance of sun protection and promoting the safe use of sunscreen products. While the SPP was primarily focused on education and public outreach, it also set guidelines and recommendations for sunscreen use in Canada.  

For example, sunscreens claiming to be water-resistant must undergo testing to verify their effectiveness after exposure to water. Products must specify the duration of water resistance (e.g., 40 minutes or 80 minutes) on the label.

Health Canada requires sunscreen manufacturers to provide evidence of the safety and efficacy of their products through rigorous testing. This includes assessing the photo-stability of active ingredients, skin irritation potential, and overall sun protection performance.

What Natural Sunscreen Is the Best in Canada?

ATTITUDE is the best natural sunscreen in Canada because it’s EWG-verified and rated 1st in EWG’s best sunscreen moisturizers list. Their collection includes non-toxic sunscreen for the face and body as well as many chemical-free options for babies and toddlers. The liquid formulas are also available in zero-waste stick forms. Instead of harmful chemicals, ATTITUDE chose to create clean mineral sunscreen made with 100% non-nano zinc oxide.

Best Natural, Clean & Non-Toxic Sunscreen in Canada

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

Effective Sun Protection Measures Beyond Sunscreen

1. Seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. When outdoors, look for natural shade from trees, umbrellas, or buildings to reduce direct exposure to the sun’s rays.
2. Protective clothing act as a physical barrier against UV rays, reducing sun exposure and protecting the skin from damage. Choose clothing with tightly woven fabrics and darker colours for better sun protection.
3. Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses with UV protection. Look for sunglasses labeled as providing 100% UV protection to shield your eyes from both UVA and UVB rays.
4. The skin on your lips is susceptible to sun damage, so it’s essential to protect them with lip balm containing SPF. Choose lip balms with broad-spectrum protection to shield against UVA and UVB rays.
5. Water, sand, snow, and other reflective surfaces can amplify UV radiation, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to minimize exposure to reflected sunlight.
6. Spending time in the sun can increase the risk of dehydration, as your body loses fluids through sweat. Dehydration cause everything from fatigue, to dizziness, and headaches, impacting your ability to enjoy outdoor activities safely. Having a reusable water bottle with you makes it easy to stay hydrated throughout the day, whether you’re hiking, lounging at the beach, or running errands. You can sip water whenever you feel thirsty, helping you maintain optimal hydration levels.

Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Toxic Sunscreen in Canada

Is mineral sunscreen safe for the face?

Yes, mineral sunscreens are safe for use on the face. In fact, many people prefer mineral sunscreens for facial application because they tend to be less irritating than chemical sunscreens, especially for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Mineral sunscreens, which contain active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, work by forming a physical barrier on the skin’s surface to reflect and scatter UV rays away from the skin. This mechanism of action makes them suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, as they are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.

What sunscreen is Canada recalling?

Canada is recalling certain Ombrelle Garnier sunscreen products due to elevated levels of benzene. Specifically, all lots of Ombrelle Garnier Complete Dry Mist Spray sunscreen in both SPF 30 and SPF 60 are included in the recall.

Is Neutrogena sunscreen recalled in Canada?

Yes, there was a recall of several Neutrogena spray-on sunscreens due to the detection of elevated levels of benzene in many of the bottles. Although benzene is not an ingredient in any of the Johnson & Johnson sunscreens, it was found in the following products: Neutrogena’s Beach Defense aerosol sunscreen, Cool Dry Sport aerosol sunscreen, Invisible Daily Defense aerosol sunscreen, and Ultra Sheer aerosol sunscreen, as well as Aveeno’s Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, prolonged and repeated exposure to high levels of benzene can lead to leukemia and other cancers.

This post was about clean, non-toxic sunscreen brands in Canada

There you have it, the absolutely best non-toxic sunscreen brands in Canada. Regardless of the season, incorporating clean sunscreen into your daily skincare routine is essential for protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful effects. Choose a broad-spectrum natural mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously to all exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, hands, and any other exposed areas. Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially if you’ll be spending extended periods outdoors or engaging in activities that may cause sweating or water exposure. Remember, when you make it a habit to wear natural sunscreen year-round, you can enjoy the benefits of sun protection and maintain healthy, beautiful skin for years. 

Other Posts You May Like:

How I Start My Day | Full Morning Routine Checklist

9 Best Organic Cotton Sheet Sets in Canada

Best Non-Toxic Bakeware & Safest Baking Sheets in Canada

11 Best Organic & Non-Toxic Bath Towels in Canada, Reviewed in 2024