In 2026, sunscreen formulas labeled as “clean” or “nontoxic” are in demand—and according to dermatologists, branding in this category isn’t mere greenwashing. “While the term ‘nontoxic’ is not strictly regulated, it’s often used to describe sunscreens that avoid certain chemical filters like oxybenzone, homosalate, and octinoxate,” says Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Manhattan and New Jersey. “Some consumers prefer this, due to concerns about irritation, allergies, or environmental impact.”
Vogue’s Favorite Nontoxic Sunscreens:
As top brands meet the demand, rolling out clean formulas with modern technologies, nontoxic sunscreens are taking on an increasingly elegant feel. “Many modern mineral sunscreens are designed to blend more easily into the skin and avoid the white cast that older versions were known for,” Dr. Garshick says. “Plus, as consumers become more ingredient-conscious—and the sunscreen market becomes more competitive—brands are focusing on formulas that combine effective UV protection with skin-care benefits.” She notes that antioxidants and hydrating ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin, are becoming the norm in nontoxic sunscreens.
Which formulas are getting the sun-protection job done—and then some? Ahead, find the nontoxic sunscreens that dermatologists most recommend.
In This Story:
Best Overall: Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen
- Why We Love It: Of all the pros we tapped to weigh in on this piece—and there were many—nearly everyone recommended Blue Lizard Mineral Sunscreen. There must be something in the formula of this dermatologist-, biochemist-, and facial-plastic-surgeon-approved pick. Let’s break it down. Nava Greenfield, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City, ticks off its attributes: “This is soothing, as it contains aloe vera, and it’s nontoxic for the skin and environment,” she says. “It’s a mineral sunscreen free of harsh chemicals with broad-spectrum coverage.” Aparovich also praises the ingredients. “Featuring a safe mineral filter—zinc oxide—to shield the skin, it provides reliable broad-spectrum protection while rubbing smoothly into your skin,” she says. “A great pick for dry, normal, sensitive, and dehydrated skin, it’s packed with plant-based oils like shea butter and sunflower oil to nourish the skin and protect it from moisture loss.” She adds that it also has aloe barbadensis leaf extract to hydrate and soothe and caprylic/capric triglyceride and squalane to moisturize the skin and strengthen its barrier. Another recommendation comes from Arnold Breitbart, MD, head plastic surgeon at Long Island Facelift. “I’ve used Blue Lizard for years—way before the whole nontoxic sunscreen craze,” he says. “It’s always been one of my go-tos. It offers great sun protection, has no harsh chemicals, and is good on sensitive skin.”
- Chemical or Physical: Physical (titanuim dioxide 8%, zinc oxide 10%)
- Key Ingredients: Organic aloe, shea butter, sunflower oil, caprylic/capric triglyceride, squalane
- SPF Level: 50
- Texture: Lotion
- Size: 5 fl. oz.