Top 5 Eco-Friendly Sunscreens

The festive season and Tourism Month bring blue skies, warm days, and plenty of time outdoors. From hiking the Magaliesberg to lounging at Joburg rooftop pools or road-tripping to the coast, sunscreen is non-negotiable. Yet many Gautengers are beginning to question what they put on their skin—and what flows into their rivers and oceans.

Conventional sunscreens may keep sunburn away, but often release toxic chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. These substances leach into water, damage coral reefs, disrupt marine life, and add to the ecological burden. For residents who love local travel and care about the environment, eco-friendly sunscreen offers a smarter choice—guarding skin while preserving the planet.

Here are five proudly South African brands redefining sun protection with reef-safe, chemical-free formulas crafted for people, planet, and community.

ALSO READ: Top 5 Edge Control Gels for Natural Hair That Last All Day

1. Green Honu Extreme Sports Sunblock

Green Honu doesn’t just promise protection—it’s built for action. Whether trail-running in Suikerbosrand or paddling at Hartbeespoort Dam, this handcrafted sunblock sticks with you. The waterproof formula, made with responsibly harvested beeswax, clings through sweat, swimming, and marathon outdoor days.

It also shields tattoos and high-burn zones, making it a go-to for athletes and outdoor lovers. Better yet, a portion of every sale goes to Breathe Ocean Conservation, meaning your purchase supports both your health and the planet’s.

Price: R190

2. Africology SPF 30 Sun Block

Africology stands out in South Africa’s wellness industry, and their mineral SPF30 proves why. This non-greasy, lightweight sunscreen hydrates as it protects, catering especially to sensitive skin.

The brand’s commitment runs deeper than skincare. By cutting out microplastics, polyethylene glycol, and other harmful ingredients, Africology ensures that what washes off your skin doesn’t poison rivers or oceans. This product hits the mark for Joburgers who want spa-level luxury with green credibility.

Price: R290

3. Back 2 Nature Active Zinc SPF 30 Sunblock

Weekends in Gauteng often mean hikes in Klipriviersberg or road-trips across the province. Back 2 Nature’s Active Zinc SPF30 fits seamlessly into that lifestyle. With 100% natural ingredients, it avoids the harsh chemicals linked to coral bleaching and marine life disruption.

This paraben-free, preservative-free formula does what its name suggests: gives “back to nature.” For eco-conscious families and adventurers, it’s a sunblock that protects both skin and conscience.

Price: Varies by retailer

4. Oh-Lief Natural Body Sunscreen SPF 30

Certified organic and natural, Oh-Lief uses non-nano zinc oxide to form a physical barrier against UVA and UVB rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, it doesn’t seep into the bloodstream—it stays on the skin, offering breathable, safe coverage all day.

It’s fragrance-free, reef-safe, and water-resistant, making it perfect for families with kids or individuals with sensitive skin. Whether you’re cycling in Bryanston or picnicking in Delta Park, Oh-Lief gives you peace of mind while keeping your skin shielded.

Price: R264.99 for 100ml

5. Simply Bee Beeswax Sunscreen SPF 30

Rooted in the Western Cape, Simply Bee draws on fynbos landscapes for inspiration and ingredients. Its beeswax sunscreen blends fynbos honey, shea butter, neem oil, and turmeric root oil to create a deeply nourishing, chemical-free formula.

This is sun protection with heritage—made traditionally, using natural elements South Africans know and trust. For anyone wanting protection with a touch of authenticity, Simply Bee offers a blend of tradition, care, and sustainability.

Price: Varies depending on size

Why Eco-Friendly Sunscreen Matters for Gauteng

South Africa’s intense sun makes protection essential. The World Health Organization warns that the sun contributes to 90% of premature ageing and significantly increases skin cancer risks.

For Gautengers, eco-friendly sunscreens bring a double win: protecting skin while keeping dams, rivers, and oceans free from toxic residues. Choosing local also boosts small businesses and ensures that your spend strengthens South Africa’s economy.

As former MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko once said: “Prevention is always better than cure.” That principle applies directly to sun safety.

A Creative Call to Action: Live Consciously, Choose Wisely

This summer, take sun protection personally—and make it purposeful.

• Switch to eco-friendly sunscreen. Every purchase helps keep Gauteng’s water systems clean.
• Support local innovators. Proudly South African brands are proving that wellness and sustainability go hand in hand.
• Spread awareness. Share your eco-sunscreen finds—your recommendation may spark someone else’s conscious choice.
• Expand the movement. Match your sunscreen switch with other eco-habits: reusable bottles, sustainable shopping, and recycling.

When you step into the Gauteng sun—whether on a hiking trail, by a dam, or at a neighbourhood braai—let your sunscreen be more than protection. Let it be a statement that you value your skin, your heritage, and your environment.