When you’re pregnant, you’re likely scouring the ingredient lists on every product you use — not just for your own health, but also for the health of your growing baby.
Many people choose to swap out their usual sunscreen, skincare products, and makeup for more natural alternatives, as certain ingredients can be absorbed more quickly into the bloodstream (this is why your OB-GYN will tell you to cut out retinol from your routine when you become pregnant, as it can increase vitamin A to a level that’s dangerous to an unborn baby).
If you’re on the hunt for a pregnancy-safe sunscreen, many people choose to switch to a mineral sunscreen instead of a chemical one. Mineral sunscreens block harmful UV rays by creating a thick, physical barrier on the surface of the skin, while chemical sunscreens rely on chemical reaction to prevent UV damage.
Because chemical sunscreens are designed to be absorbed into the skin, you may want to cut them out during your pregnancy and instead opt for a less invasive mineral sunscreen, which relies on natural ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that sit on the skin’s surface to block out UV rays. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite mineral sunscreens for all applications and lifestyles to keep your skin protected throughout your pregnancy.
*Note: If you’re concerned about the safety of your sunscreen during pregnancy, always speak to your OB-GYN or dermatologist for an expert opinion.
Pregnancy-Safe Mineral Sunscreens from Thrive Market
Price point guide:
$: $10-$15
$$: $15-$20
$$$: $20-$25
$$$$: $25-$30
f.a.e. by Thrive Market Mineral Sunscreen Spray, SPF 30
Why it’s great: This sunscreen spray is made with non-nano zinc oxide and soothing botanicals, and it doesn’t contain any parabens, phthalates, harsh chemicals, or fragrances. It’s also bottled using air pressure technology that eliminates the need for propellants or additives, making it even more pure. The spray bottle makes it easy to apply as your belly grows.
Price point: $
Why members love it: “So many sunscreens are filled with toxic ingredients, but this one is much better. I feel comfortable using it on myself and my children.” —Brittany from Maine
MyChelle Sun Shield Liquid SPF 30 Tint
Why it’s great: If you’re looking for an all-over tinted moisturizer that adds a wash of smoothing color and a reliable dose of SPF protection, this is a great daily option. It’s broad spectrum (which means that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays) and it leans on natural ingredients like bentonite clay, zinc oxide, and safflower instead of chemical additives.
Price point: $$$
Why members love it: “This is my makeup now. I love this product and just ordered my second bottle. I purchased it for the SPF, and now I don’t even use any foundation. It feels like an extremely light coverage foundation, but definitely smooths and evens out my face.” —Emily from Colorado
Well People Bio Tint Tinted Moisturizer, SPF 30
Why it’s great: Think of this facial sunscreen like skincare and makeup combined. Algae helps to combat hyperpigmentation, organic coconut and ginseng brighten and moisturize the skin, and zinc oxide adds chemical-free sun protection to this all-in-one product. It’s a great swap for your pre-pregnancy tinted moisturizer.
Price point: $$$$
Why members love it: “Works so well to moisturize and give a nice glow while also protecting my skin from the sun.” —Megan from California
Babo Botanicals Daily Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Fluid, SPF 50
Why it’s great: This incredibly lightweight mineral sunscreen is a fluid rather than a cream, which makes it ideal for those with sensitive skin. Plus, this female-founded brand makes skincare products that are safe for both children and adults, so you can feel confident using them throughout your pregnancy.
Price point: $$
Why members love it: “I’ve used it each day this week, and my face is still feeling in-balance. Breakouts can be a concern, so this passed my sensitivity test.” —Sage from Oregon
Larkly Suncare Mineral Powder Sunscreen, SPF 30
Why it’s great: If you like to reapply sunscreen to your face throughout the day, you won’t find an easier application than this mineral powder with a built-in brush. The refillable formula uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect against UVA and UVB rays, and the handy powder helps to control shine throughout the day, so it even makes an effective alternative to your pre-pregnancy setting powder.
Price point: $$$
Why members love it: “Looks great on, and gives me easy SPF protection with a matte finish.” —Melissa from Connecticut
Sunly Tinted Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick, SPF 30
Why it’s great: With low-waste packaging in the form of an easy-to-use stick, this broad spectrum mineral sunscreen is perfect for reapplying throughout the day. It’s also unscented, so it won’t irritate expecting moms even during that first trimester nausea and smell sensitivity.
Price point: $$
Why members love it: “I love this stuff! Went on creamy and absolutely protected my light skin, and I love the safe ingredients.” —Rebecca from Ohio
Cocokind Facial Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 32
Why it’s great: Mineral-based ingredients like non-nano zinc oxide, blue phytoplankton, and microalgae protect skin against UV rays and environmental stressors, and it leaves you with a dewy finish that makes a nice base under makeup.
Price point: $$$
Why members love it: “Lightweight, not oily, not irritating, works great, and doesn’t leave a white cast on my olive skin. Couldn’t ask for more.” —Breana from Georgia
Acure Seriously Soothing Day Cream, SPF 30
Why it’s great: Blue tansy and niacinamide help calm irritated skin (and both fall into the category of pregnancy-safe skincare ingredients), while non-nano, reef-safe zinc oxide provides broad-spectrum sun protection. Acure products are also free of parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, and formaldehyde, adding extra peace of mind during pregnancy.
Price point: $
Why members love it: “My family loves the thickness of this lotion. It applies really nicely, leaving you feeling moisturized without the greasy feeling or stickiness.” —Liv from Washington
Badger Adventure Sport Mineral Sunscreen Cream, SPF 50
Why it’s great: For active moms-to-be, this all-over mineral sunscreen is made for getting outdoors. Organic sunflower oil and beeswax provide a thick, moisturizing coating on the skin, while SPF 50 from zinc oxide keeps you protected from even the high heat of summer.
Price point: $
Why members love it: “My family and I have tried many different types of mineral sunblock, and this is our favorite. It’s easy to apply without the paste-like feel and absorbs well without the white film on the skin.” —Susy from California
Amy Roberts
Amy Roberts is Thrive Market's Senior Editorial Writer. She is based in Los Angeles via Pittsburgh, PA.
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