Best Paraben-Free Facial Sunscreens of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2025

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Paraben-free facial sunscreens are becoming increasingly popular among consumers who are looking for safer and healthier skincare options. These sunscreens are free from parabens, which are synthetic preservatives commonly used in cosmetics and skincare products. Instead, they use natural and organic ingredients to protect the skin from harmful UV rays while also providing nourishment and hydration. Some popular paraben-free facial sunscreens include brands like Coola, Supergoop!, and Suntegrity. These products are perfect for anyone looking to protect their skin from sun damage without exposing themselves to potentially harmful chemicals.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Aveeno SPF 60 Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion Cover #TOP 1
Aveeno SPF 60 Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Bondi Sands Fragrance Free Sunscreen SPF 50 Cover #TOP 2
Bondi Sands Fragrance Free Sunscreen SPF 50
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Sun Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion Cover #TOP 3
Sun Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Paraben-Free Facial Sunscreens

Aveeno SPF 60 Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion

1691175
2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Aveeno SPF 60 Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion Cover
Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen Moisturizing Face Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 60 and Prebiotic Oat, Paraben, Phthalate, Oxybenzone and Oil Free Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin, 2.0 FL OZ

Protect and hydrate your skin with Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Face Sunscreen Lotion. This facial sunscreen contains SPF 60 to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays while deeply hydrating it all day with nourishing prebiotic oat. The weightless formula is refreshing and non-greasy, leaving your skin feeling soft and moisturized. It's also non-comedogenic, paraben-free, phthalate-free, oil-free, Oxybenzone-free, and dye-free. Plus, it's water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

What We Like
Lightweight and refreshing
Does not cause breakouts
Moisturizing
Easy to apply
No white cast
#TOP 2

Bondi Sands Fragrance Free Sunscreen SPF 50

Bondi Sands Fragrance Free Sunscreen SPF 50 Cover
Bondi Sands Fragrance Free Daily Sunscreen Face Lotion SPF 50 | Hydrating UVA + UVB Protection, Non-Greasy, Gentle, Water Resistant | 2.53 Oz/75 mL

Bondi Sands Sunscreen SPF 50 is a perfect choice for those with sensitive skin. Being fragrance-free means it won't irritate your skin or overwhelm your senses. This sunscreen is also free from sulfates and parabens, making it a gentle option that avoids harsh chemicals commonly found in other products. Additionally, it's cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it without contributing to animal testing. With this sunscreen, you can enjoy effective UVA and UVB protection while keeping your skin hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.

What We Like
Fragrance-free for sensitive skin
Sulfate and paraben-free
Cruelty-free formulation
Hydrating and non-greasy
#TOP 3

Sun Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion

20-45092
Yellow
3 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Sun Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion Cover
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion | Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Facial Sunblock with Vitamin E | Oil Free | Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) | Travel Friendly | 3 oz

The Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion is the ideal sunscreen for daily use. It provides a weightless, invisible, and matte finish, making it perfect for the face or anywhere you want a sheer look and feel. The fragrance-free lotion is dermatologist and Sonny approved, and it provides UVA/UVB protection, is water-resistant, and reef-friendly. It is non-comedogenic and packed with Vitamin E, making it ideal for all skin types. Apply it every two hours for maximum sun protection, and enjoy a fun day in the sun without worrying about hypoallergenic, gluten, cruelty, or paraben.

What We Like
Easy to spread
Moisturizing
Affordable
No visible residue
No skin irritation
#TOP 4

THRIVE Natural Mineral Face Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin SPF 30

FJFIEJFOK2622
2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
THRIVE Natural Mineral Face Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin SPF 30 Cover
Thrive Natural Care Mineral Face Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin SPF 30, 2 Ounces - Moisturizing Unscented Sunscreen for Face - Broad Spectrum with Clear Zinc Oxide - Vegan

THRIVE Natural Mineral Face Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin SPF 30 is a daily mineral sunscreen that is specifically designed for sensitive skin. With non-nano zinc oxide and dual moisturizer, it shields your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays while hydrating and revitalizing it. The unscented formula protects and restores your skin without any potential triggers or essential oils. It also contains natural ingredients such as Fierrillo and Coralillo extracts, Wakame Kelp, and Tazman Pepper that provide powerful antioxidants and help reinforce your skin defenses against sun, pollution, and daily skin stressors. This facial sunscreen is vegan, cruelty-free, PABA-free, GMO-free, and paraben-free. With every purchase, you get a healthy mineral face sunscreen while supporting the rural farmers who produced Thrive's regenerative plants.

What We Like
Specifically designed for sensitive skin
Contains natural ingredients that provide powerful antioxidants and help reinforce your skin defenses against sun, pollution, and daily skin stressors
Hydrates and revitalizes your skin with dual moisturizer

CeraVe SPF30 Facial Moisturizer

301871365015
SPF 30
3 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
CeraVe SPF30 Facial Moisturizer Cover
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 30 | Oil-Free Face Moisturizer with SPF | Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide & Ceramides | Non-Comedogenic | Broad Spectrum Sunscreen | 3 Ounce

Protect and hydrate your skin with CeraVe SPF30 Facial Moisturizer. Its micro-fine zinc oxide sunscreen provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. It spreads easily, absorbs quickly, and leaves a non-greasy finish. Use it as the last step in your morning skincare routine after other products have been absorbed. This oil-free day cream contains Hyaluronic Acid to retain skin's moisture and Niacinamide to help calm skin. Its MVE Technology delivers hydration throughout the day. Moreover, it contains three essential ceramides that help restore and maintain the skin's natural barrier. Recommended by dermatologists, it is suitable for all skin types, including dry, sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin.

What We Like
High-quality
Easily absorbed
Improves skin texture and appearance
Protects from sun damage
Great value for the price
#TOP 6

COOLA Organic Face Sunscreen SPF 50 Sunblock Lotion

face sunscreen
COOLA Organic Face Sunscreen SPF 50 Sunblock Lotion Cover
COOLA Organic Face Sunscreen SPF 50 Sunblock Lotion, Dermatologist Tested Skin Care for Daily Protection, Vegan and Gluten Free, Fragrance Free, 1.7 Fl Oz.

The COOLA Organic Face Sunscreen SPF 50 Sunblock Lotion is a dermatologist-tested skin care product that offers daily protection from harmful UV rays. Its broad-spectrum SPF 50 spray is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, providing long-lasting sun protection. The formula is enriched with skin-nourishing ingredients that absorb quickly without leaving a greasy feeling. It also contains antioxidant-rich plant protection, which helps fight free radicals, hydrates, and nourishes the skin barrier. The fragrance-free lotion is environmentally friendly and complies with the Hawaii Reef Compliant Act 104. It is vegan, gluten-free, and paraben-free.

What We Like
Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
Quickly absorbs with no greasy feel
Enriched with antioxidant-rich plant protection
Fragrance-free
Environmentally friendly and compliant with Hawaii Reef Compliant Act 104

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen

02500
Untinted
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen Cover
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46, Oil Free Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, Dermatologist Recommended Sunscreen,1.7 oz Pump

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen is a broad-spectrum sunscreen lotion designed for sensitive, acne-prone skin. With 9.0% Zinc Oxide, Niacinamide, and antioxidants, it promotes healthy skin while protecting from harmful UV rays. This oil-free sunscreen is non-greasy, fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, and noncomedogenic. It helps soothe sensitive skin types prone to acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation, and protects against breakouts. With SPF 46 coverage, it is a daily face sunscreen for your everyday skin care needs.

What We Like
Gives skin a beautiful glow
Lightweight and moisturizing
Does not leave a sticky or greasy feeling

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Sunscreen

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Sunscreen Cover
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Liquid Mineral Sunscreen, Lightweight, Broad Spectrum SPF 70 Facial Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin Leaves a Silky, Non-Greasy Finish, Oxybenzone-Free, 1.4 fl. oz

The Neutrogena Face Sunscreen offers broad spectrum SPF 70 protection, making it an excellent choice for sensitive skin. Its ultra-lightweight formula ensures that it feels different from typical mineral sunscreens, so you won't feel weighed down. Users will appreciate how easily it spreads and the quick drying time, helping you to feel smooth and soft without any greasy residue. This sunscreen is also designed to keep your skin hydrated for up to eight hours, thanks to its special blend of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which protects against sunburn while also providing a translucent finish.

What We Like
Lightweight and non-greasy
Quick-drying formula
Hydrates for eight hours
Suitable for sensitive skin
#TOP 9

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

Sunscreens
Light
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Cover
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 with Sheer Tint, Tinted Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide, Blends Seamlessly For Healthy Glow, Stocking Stuffers, Light, 1.7 Oz

CeraVe Tinted Mineral Sunscreen offers a sheer tint available in three shades, allowing you to achieve a natural glow while minimizing the dreaded white cast. This sunscreen is perfect for those who want to combine sun protection with a tinted moisturizer, making it suitable for all skin types, including dry or sensitive skin. Formulated with Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid, it hydrates your skin while shielding it from sun damage. Additionally, it contains three essential ceramides that help restore and maintain your skin's natural barrier, ensuring your complexion stays healthy and protected.

What We Like
Sheer tint available in three shades
Hydrating formula for all skin types
Contains essential ceramides
Free from harmful chemicals
#TOP 10

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 30

S0900000
4.2 Fl Oz / 125 ml
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 30 Cover
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer with SPF 30, Hydrating Face Cream for All Skin Types, UVA & UVB Sunscreen Protection, Skin Feels Soft and Smooth, with Squalane, Paraben-free - 4.2 fl oz

Kiehl's Facial Moisturizer offers a lightweight and effective way to protect your skin from sun damage while keeping it hydrated. This moisturizer absorbs quickly, ensuring your skin feels soft and smooth without any greasy residue. It helps defend against harmful UVA and UVB rays, which can lead to premature aging. Infused with Squalane, a natural lipid derived from olives, this product replenishes your skin's moisture barrier, leaving it supple and well-nourished. It's ideal for all skin types, making it a versatile addition to your daily skincare routine.

What We Like
Quick absorption
Hydrates and protects
Infused with Squalane
Suitable for all skin types
Buying Guide Image

Finding the Best Paraben-Free Facial Sunscreens for You

Why Paraben-Free?

When it comes to selecting a sunscreen for our face, it's important to consider the ingredients in the product. Parabens, for instance, are a type of preservative commonly found in skincare and cosmetics. While they have been deemed safe for use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), some research suggests that they may have estrogen-like effects in the body, which could be harmful.

Choosing a Paraben-Free Facial Sunscreen

When shopping for a paraben-free facial sunscreen, it's important to look for products that are specifically labeled as such. Some brands may not include parabens in their formulas, but they may not necessarily advertise this on their packaging. It's always best to check the ingredient list to be sure.

Another important factor to consider is the sun protection factor (SPF) of the sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect against the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Additional Considerations

In addition to being paraben-free and having a high SPF, there are a few other things to look for when choosing a facial sunscreen. For example, you may want to choose a sunscreen that is water-resistant and has a non-greasy formula to avoid clogging pores and causing breakouts.

It's also a good idea to choose a sunscreen that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic to avoid irritating sensitive skin. And if you have dry skin, you may want to look for a facial sunscreen that contains moisturizing ingredients to keep your skin hydrated.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, when choosing a paraben-free facial sunscreen, it's important to consider the ingredients, SPF level, and additional factors such as water-resistance and non-greasiness. By selecting a product that is specifically labeled as paraben-free and meets your skin's needs, you can help protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays while minimizing the potential risks associated with parabens.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know if my sunscreen is paraben free?

To determine if a sunscreen is paraben-free, check the product's packaging or label. If it is paraben-free, it will typically be clearly stated as 'free from parabens' or '0% parabens' on the packaging.

2. Why was PABA banned?

PABA, a once-common sunscreen ingredient, has been banned due to its potential to cause allergic dermatitis and photosensitivity. Research has indicated that PABA also has carcinogenic potential, further supporting the decision to avoid its use in sunscreen products.

3. Why was PABA taken off the market?

PABA derivatives, which were commonly used in sunscreens, have been removed from the market due to their potential to cause adverse skin reactions. Additionally, the photochemical properties of PABA derivatives did not meet the criteria for an ideal sunscreen. These factors led to the decision to discontinue the use of PABA in sunscreen products.

Editor's Notes

During our paraben-free facial sunscreen research, we found 48 paraben-free facial sunscreen products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 903,994 customer reviews through our big data system to write the paraben-free facial sunscreens list. We found that most customers choose paraben-free facial sunscreens with an average price of $12.81.

The paraben-free facial sunscreens are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of paraben-free facial sunscreens, including Aveeno, Bondi Sands, Sun Bum, Thrive Natural Care, CeraVe. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.