When it comes to protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, choosing the right sunscreen is crucial—especially if you have sensitive skin. Finding a sunscreen that offers both effective protection and a gentle formula can be a challenge, but it’s certainly not impossible. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the best sunscreen for sensitive skin, highlighting the benefits of reef-safe sunscreen, mineral options, and other key factors to look out for.

1. Look for Mineral Sunscreens
Mineral sunscreens are often the best choice for sensitive skin because they use natural ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to physically block UV rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV rays, mineral sunscreen sits on top of the skin and creates a physical barrier, reducing the likelihood of irritation or allergic reactions. Hawaii mineral sunscreen, for example, is designed to be gentle on your skin while providing broad-spectrum protection. If you’re looking for a sunscreen that’s both effective and kind to your skin, choosing a mineral sunscreen is a smart option.

best sunscreen for sensitive skin

2. Choose Reef-Safe Formulas
If you care about the environment and want to protect marine life, opt for reef-safe sunscreen. Traditional sunscreens can contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can damage coral reefs and marine ecosystems. Raw Love Sunscreen offers a reef-safe sunscreen formula that’s free of these harmful ingredients, making it a perfect choice when you’re concerned about your skin and the environment.

3. Consider Travel Size Sunscreens
When you’re on the go, whether it’s a trip to Maui or a quick weekend getaway, travel size sunscreens can be incredibly convenient. Small, compact, and easy to carry, these sunscreens offer the protection you need without taking up too much space in your bag. Plus, they’re great for testing new formulas before committing to a full-size product.

4. Go for Maui Sunscreen for Tropical Destinations
For a tropical destination like Maui, Hawaii, it’s important to choose a sunscreen that provides long-lasting protection in sunny, high-humidity conditions. Our Maui sunscreen products are designed to withstand sweat, water, and intense sun exposure, making Raw Love Sunscreen ideal for outdoor adventures like surfing, snorkeling, whale watching, and hiking.

5. The Best Mineral Sunscreen for Senstive Skin
When choosing a mineral sunscreen, make sure it’s suited to your specific skin type. For sensitive skin, opt for a formula that is fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and contains soothing ingredients. Raw Love Sunscreen is an excellent option, as it’s specially formulated for sensitive skin and contains natural ingredients that won’t irritate your skin.

Choosing the right sunscreen for your sensitive skin is easier than you think. Focus on mineral, reef-safe formulas and check the sunscreen ingredients to make sure the sunscreen is suitable for your skin type. Whether you’re enjoying a day in Maui or lounging by the pool, you can confidently protect your skin with the best mineral sunscreen options available—like Raw Love Sunscreen.

Reef Safe Sunscreen Guide: Protecting Hawaii’s Reefs and Your Skin

If you’re planning a trip to Maui or any Hawaiian island, choosing a reef safe sunscreen isn’t just smart — it’s required by law. Since 2021, Maui County has enforced a ban on the sale and use of sunscreens containing harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. These ingredients have been shown to damage coral reefs, disrupt marine ecosystems, and contribute to coral bleaching.

So what’s the alternative? Look for mineral sunscreens that use active ingredients like non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients sit on top of the skin to physically block harmful UV rays without seeping into the water and harming marine life. The best mineral sunscreen is not only effective but also environmentally responsible and gentle on all skin types.

If you’re on the prowl to to find Hawaii reef safe sunscreen products and you actually want the best reef safe sunscreen, look no further. Raw Love Mineral Sunscreen is the original Hawaii reef safe sunscreen — the first Hawaii mineral sunscreen to pass FDA approval and has been helping families and athletes protect their skin from the sun for years.

Reef Safe Sunscreen Guide

We’re proud to stand out in the reef-safe sunscreen space. We’re a Hawaii-based company dedicated to sustainability and skin health. Our full line of Hawaii sunscreen products includes:

Each option is made with organic sunscreen ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and zinc oxide. Our formulas are moisturizing, long-lasting, and safe for babies, making them perfect as baby sunscreen too. Whether you’re heading out for a surf session or a hike through Maui’s lush trails, you’ll find a mineral sunscreen option at Raw Love that fits your lifestyle.

Sustainable packaging is another big win. Our first and original formula comes in mineral sunscreen tins, which reduce plastic waste and are easy to travel with. If you care about the ocean and want to keep your skin protected with a moisturizing sunscreen that works, this brand checks all the boxes.

Before your next island adventure, make sure you choose a reef-safe Maui sunscreen like Raw Love. Your skin — and the coral reefs — will thank you.

Learn more and shop the full collection here: Raw Love Sunscreen.

Want the best reef safe sunscreen for babies? We’ve got it, plus amazing moisturizing organic baby balm!

Best reef safe sunscreen for babies

When it comes to protecting your baby’s delicate skin from the sun, choosing the right sunscreen is essential. Raw Love Sunscreen, crafted in Maui, Hawaii, offers a line of mineral sunscreens specifically designed for babies and sensitive skin, ensuring both safety and environmental responsibility.

Our Baby Mineral Sunscreen stands out as a top choice for parents seeking a reef-safe sunscreen. This moisturizing sunscreen is fragrance-free and formulated with 22.5% non-nano zinc oxide, providing broad-spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 35 protection. It’s gentle enough for the most sensitive skin and won’t sting the eyes, making it ideal for full-body application on babies and children.

For families on the go, the Baby Mineral Sunscreen Stick offers the same trusted protection in a convenient, mess-free format. With SPF 30 and water resistance for up to 40 minutes, it’s perfect for quick reapplications during outdoor adventures.

By choosing Raw Love’s Hawaii sunscreen products, you’re not only safeguarding your child’s skin but also contributing to the preservation of our precious coral reefs.

The Organic Baby Skincare Gift Set includes the Baby Mineral Sunscreen, a soothing organic baby balm, and a sunscreen stick, making it a thoughtful gift for new parents or a comprehensive starter kit for your own family.

Embrace the best mineral sunscreen for your little one with Raw Love’s Maui sunscreen offerings, combining effective sun protection with eco-conscious values.

Shop now for the best reef safe sunscreen for babies

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maui mineral sunscreen

When you’re exploring the beaches of Maui or hiking lush trails under the tropical sun, one thing is essential—skin protection that’s safe for both you and the environment. Enter Raw Love, home of the best mineral sunscreen in Hawaii, handcrafted on Maui and trusted by locals and visitors alike.

Raw Love’s Maui mineral sunscreen uses non-nano zinc oxide to offer reef safe, broad-spectrum protection. It’s a moisturizing sunscreen made with organic ingredients, perfect for sensitive skin, babies, and ocean lovers. Unlike many chemical sunscreens, Raw Love products are oxybenzone- and octinoxate-free, aligning with Hawaii’s reef-safe regulations. Their formulas stay put in the water, making them ideal for surfing, snorkeling, and everyday sun exposure.

Why Raw Love is the Best Mineral Sunscreen in Hawaii

Raw Love’s Maui mineral sunscreen is crafted with non-nano zinc oxide and organic ingredients, ensuring broad-spectrum SPF 30–35 protection without harming coral reefs. Their moisturizing sunscreen formulas are gentle on sensitive skin and free from harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are banned in Hawaii due to their damaging effects on marine life.

Whether you’re snorkeling in Lahaina or hiking in Hana, Raw Love’s products are designed to stay on through sweat and waves, making them the ideal Maui sunscreen for active lifestyles.

Travel Light with the Best Travel Size Sunscreens

For travelers, Raw Love offers a range of TSA-approved, travel size sunscreens perfect for carry-ons and beach bags. Their 2oz Mineral Sunscreen Tin, 3oz Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, and compact Mineral Sunscreen Stick are all designed for convenience without compromising on protection. These products are not only easy to pack but also ensure you’re always ready for spontaneous beach adventures.

Where to Buy Raw Love Sunscreen

You can purchase Raw Love Sunscreen online or find them in various retail stores across Hawaii, including locations on Maui, Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island. Supporting local retailers helps sustain the community and ensures you have access to the best mineral sunscreen options available.

What makes Raw Love truly special are the glowing testimonials from happy customers. Users rave about how gentle it is on their skin, how beautifully it absorbs without leaving a white cast, and how it even works on young children. Many say it’s the only sunscreen they’ll use in Hawaii! One customer noted, “Best sunscreen for my sensitive skin. Easy to blend. Love the tin.” Another shared, “The sunscreen feels great on my skin and it smells great. It blends into the skin nicely, so you are not white and can use it daily.”

Choosing Raw Love means you’re opting for a moisturizing sunscreen that protects your skin while preserving Hawaii’s delicate marine ecosystems. It’s more than just sun protection; it’s a commitment to the environment.

Experience the difference with Raw Love—the best mineral sunscreen in Hawaii. Protect your skin, honor the ocean, and embrace the aloha spirit.

We use reef safe ingredients because we are awesome and love and respect sea life.

Why Reef-Safe Sunscreens Are the Best Choice for Maui

corals

Maui’s coral reefs are some of the most beautiful and diverse in the world, but they’re also extremely fragile. Unfortunately, traditional sunscreens containing chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate can cause serious damage to these ecosystems, contributing to coral bleaching and harming marine life.

To protect these vital reefs, Maui County passed a law that went into effect on October 1, 2022, banning the sale, distribution, and use of non-mineral sunscreens without a doctor’s prescription. Now, only mineral sunscreens using ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—both proven safe for humans and marine environments—are allowed for purchase on the island.

Choosing a reef-safe sunscreen isn’t just about following the law—it’s about making a real difference. Mineral sunscreens work by sitting on top of your skin and reflecting UV rays, rather than absorbing into your body and washing off into the ocean. Switching to reef-safe options helps protect the vibrant coral gardens and incredible sea life that make Maui so special.

If you’re looking for the best reef-safe sunscreen while you’re in Hawaii, look no further than Raw Love Sunscreen. Created right here on Maui, Raw Love offers natural, non-nano zinc oxide sunscreens made with organic, eco-friendly ingredients. Their formulas are not only kind to the ocean but also nourishing for your skin—perfect for long days at the beach.

Supporting companies like Raw Love Sunscreen means you’re protecting your health and Maui’s underwater treasures at the same time. Next time you’re packing your beach bag, choose a sunscreen that loves the ocean as much as you do!

Chemical Ingredients to Avoid in Sunscreens

When choosing a sunscreen, it’s important to read the label carefully. Many traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that are harmful to coral reefs, marine life, and even human health.

reef safe sunscreen values

What are sunscreen ingredients to avoid?

Here are some of the main ingredients you should avoid when choosing a sunscreen:

  • Oxybenzone: One of the most damaging ingredients to coral reefs. It can cause coral bleaching, disrupt marine reproduction, and damage coral DNA, making it harder for reefs to recover.
  • Octinoxate: Another common chemical that contributes to coral bleaching and affects the growth and development of marine species.
  • Octocrylene: This chemical can accumulate in coral tissues and may contribute to coral stress and damage. It can also break down into harmful byproducts under UV exposure.
  • Homosalate: Used to absorb UV rays, but it can disrupt hormones in humans and accumulate in the environment.
  • Avobenzone: Often used for UVA protection, but it can degrade quickly in sunlight unless stabilized with other chemicals that may be harmful to marine life.
  • PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid): Less commonly used today, but when found, it can cause allergic reactions and harm aquatic ecosystems.

Instead, look for mineral-based sunscreens that use non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These natural ingredients are not only effective at blocking the sun’s harmful rays, but they are also safe for the environment and gentle on your skin. Raw Love uses non-nano zinc oxide!

Best Reef Safe Mineral Sunscreen Reef Safe sunblock kit

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Making the switch to reef-safe sunscreen is a simple way to protect both yourself and the incredible marine life that makes Maui—and the entire planet—so beautiful.

Why is Sunscreen Bad for Coral Reefs?

Many traditional sunscreens contain chemical ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate that can be extremely harmful to coral reefs. When swimmers wear these sunscreens and enter the ocean, the chemicals wash off into the water. Even a small amount—just a few drops in an Olympic-sized pool—can start damaging coral.

These chemicals can cause coral bleaching, which happens when corals lose the algae they rely on for food and color. Bleached coral is weaker, more vulnerable to disease, and can eventually die. Chemical sunscreens can also disrupt the growth and reproduction of coral and marine life, harming the entire underwater ecosystem.

Because coral reefs are so important for ocean health, coastal protection, and marine biodiversity, protecting them is essential. One easy way to help is by using reef-safe mineral sunscreens made with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which don’t harm corals or marine creatures.

Is Avobenzone Bad for Reefs?

Yes, avobenzone can be harmful to coral reefs. While it’s commonly used in chemical sunscreens to protect against UVA rays, studies suggest that avobenzone can break down in water and create byproducts that are toxic to marine life. It doesn’t cause as much direct coral bleaching as ingredients like oxybenzone or octinoxate, but it still contributes to overall water pollution and can stress marine ecosystems.

For the safest choice, it’s best to stick with reef-safe mineral sunscreens that use non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—both are much safer for coral reefs and ocean life!

By making small changes like choosing reef-friendly sunscreens, we can all help keep the ocean vibrant and healthy for future generations.

Choosing reef-safe mineral sunscreens helps protect our reefs and marine animals!

Reef Friendly Sunscreen Brands: Protecting Your Skin and Hawaii’s Coral Reefs

Hawaii’s stunning coral reefs are home to diverse marine life, but harmful chemicals found in many sunscreens contribute to coral bleaching and environmental damage. To protect the ocean while keeping your skin safe, choosing reef friendly sunscreen brands is essential. With the Maui County sunscreen ban restricting certain chemicals, it’s more important than ever to use mineral sunscreen options that meet local regulations.

What Makes Sunscreen Reef Friendly?

Reef safe sunscreens in Hawaii must be free from oxybenzone and octinoxate—two chemicals banned by the Maui County ordinance. The safest choices are mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide in non-nano form. These ingredients provide broad-spectrum protection without harming marine ecosystems.

Top Reef Friendly Sunscreen Brands

If you’re looking for the best mineral sunscreens for children or reef safe sunscreen for babies, consider Raw Love Sunscreen – A Hawaii-based brand offering biodegradable, non-nano zinc oxide sunscreen, free from synthetic additives and safe for all ages.

Why Choose Fragrance-Free Sunscreen?

Fragrances in skincare products often contain synthetic chemicals that may cause skin irritation and contribute to environmental harm. Opting for fragrance free mineral sunscreens helps reduce unnecessary exposure to allergens and ensures a safer experience for those with sensitive skin.

Where to Buy Reef Safe Sunscreen in Hawaii

Many local retailers, surf shops, and pharmacies in Hawaii carry reef-friendly sunscreens. Brands like Raw Love Sunscreen are especially popular among eco-conscious travelers. You can also find them online to ensure you’re stocked up before your trip.

By choosing reef friendly sunscreen brands, you protect both your skin and Hawaii’s fragile marine ecosystems. Before heading to the beach, make the switch to mineral sunscreen and contribute to preserving the beauty of our oceans for generations to come.

What is the best sunscreen for face application?

Skincare experts have said that mineral sunscreens are less likely cause acne breakouts or clog pores. So that makes Raw Love mineral sunscreen products a great option if you have oily skin or typically get facial acne or are concerned about breakouts from using sunscreen on your face. Mineral sunscreen also gives you immediate sun protection against harmful UVA/UVB sunrays because it acts as a barrier on your skin. Learn more about our organic mineral sunscreen benefits and ingredients.

Raw Love proudly offers you the best sunscreen for face application and you can choose from several options in our shop. We’ve got 30 SPF Sunscreen for face and body.

mineral sunscreen for face

SPF 30 Sunscreen Benefits

Mineral sunscreens with SPF 30 provide excellent protection against sunburn when used correctly. SPF 30 sunscreen is the ideal sun protection for many people. Most people don’t need higher SPFs and the FDA states that products with SPF above 30 don’t provide more benefits than SPF 30 sunscreen options. Water-resistant products provide protection for up to 40 minutes of water activity or sweating.

RECOMMENDED FACE SUNSCREEN:

3 ounce mineral sunscreen tube

Our 3 ounce sunscreen lotion tube has an ultra moisturizing formula using organic ingredients. It’s fragrance free and perfect for faces, sensitive skin and children and babies.

– Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 30
– Water Resistant (80 min)
– 18.75% Non-Nano Zinc Oxide Only Active Ingredient
– Fragrance Free
– Travel Size Mineral Sunscreen / TSA Approved Carry-on Sunscreen
– Reef Safe Sunscreen
– Cruelty Free Skincare
– Plant Based Sunscreen
– Post Consumer Recycled Plastic Container (Saving plastic from going into the ocean or landfill!)

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The best travel size sunscreen & skincare products made in Hawaii

We are so excited to offer many options of the best travel size mineral sunscreen and skincare products.

mineral sunscreen sticks

From our SPF 35 mineral sunscreen tins to our mineral sunscreen sticks and baby mineral sunscreen sticks, plus our popular mineral sunscreen lip balm with SPF 15

We recently added a whole section for travel size sunscreen for airplane trips! Our organic mineral sunscreens are moisturizing and we offer several formulas to meet the desire and demand of our customers. Keeping you happy and sunkissed (without sunburns) is always our goal at Raw Love!

mineral sunscreen lotion

 

Have you tried our lotion mineral sunscreen yet?

SPF 30 and rubs on smooth and easy, ideal for children and anyone who needs a quick application.

Mineral Sunscreen Tins with SPF 35

Our original mineral sunscreens come in 2 ounce tins and 4 ounce tins with SPF 35. The 2 ounce tin is perfect to slip in your pocket or purse and it’s TSA approved for traveling, making it one of the best travel size mineral sunscreen  choices!

2 ounce reef safe mineral sunscreen tin

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Raw Love Sunscreen is proud to be one of the best Hawaii mineral sunblock products available. We’ve stuck to our commitment by creating reef safe sunblock and convenient sunblock options for families and athletes. We currently offer several mineral sunblock protection products to meet your needs. Whether you’re an ocean athlete who loves to surf, snorkel, paddleboard or kitesurf, or you’ve got small children who need sun protection you can trust — we’ve got you covered, literally!

Check out our product line of mineral sunblocks that are reef safe and approved for use in Hawaii.

How much SPF is needed in Hawaii?

Skincare and sunscreen experts generally recommend choosing a sunscreen with minimum 30 SPF. Great news – Our organic mineral sunscreens come in various SPFs to offer high quality reliable sunblock in Hawaii or wherever you may be traveling and enjoying the outdoors.

reef safe mineral sunscreen tins

SPF 35 Mineral Sunscreen

Our original mineral sunscreens come in 2 ounce tins and 4 ounce tins with SPF 35.

Mineral Sunscreen Lotion Tubes

SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen

Our new lotion mineral sunscreen is 3 ounces and rubs in so smooth and easy! This organic mineral sunscreen lotion offers Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 30 to keep your skin safe and protected outside while you’re enjoying nature and the beach.

Mineral Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 15 Reef Safe sunblock

SPF 15 Mineral Sunscreen

Our lip balm offers Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 15 and is water resistant for 40 minutes. It uses 8% non-nano zinc oxide as the only active ingredient. It’s fragrance free and its compact size makes it one of the best travel size sunscreen options for those who want an all natural sunscreen with organic ingredients.