Natural Alternatives to Chemical Sunscreen: Why We Choose Zinc Oxide

Most of us grew up slathering on sunscreen without a second thought. But a closer look at the ingredients in conventional sunscreens raises some serious questions — and has led many people to seek out safer, more natural alternatives. Here's what you need to know.

The Problem with Chemical Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV radiation and converting it to heat inside your skin. The active ingredients responsible for this — oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, and others — are synthetic compounds that have raised growing concern among researchers and consumers alike.

A 2019 FDA study found that these chemical UV filters are absorbed into the bloodstream at concentrations far exceeding the FDA's safety threshold — within just one day of use. Subsequent studies have detected oxybenzone in blood, urine, and breast milk. Some research suggests these compounds may act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormone function.

Beyond human health, chemical sunscreens are also damaging to marine ecosystems. Oxybenzone and octinoxate have been shown to contribute to coral bleaching, leading Hawaii and several other regions to ban their sale entirely.

What Is Mineral Sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreens — also called physical sunscreens — work differently. Instead of absorbing UV rays, they use mineral compounds like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to physically block and reflect UV radiation before it reaches your skin. The minerals sit on top of the skin rather than absorbing into it.

Zinc oxide is widely considered the gold standard of sun protection. It provides broad-spectrum coverage against both UVA and UVB rays, is photostable (doesn't break down in sunlight), and has an excellent safety profile backed by decades of research.

Why Non-Nano Zinc Oxide Matters

Not all zinc oxide is the same. "Nano" zinc oxide particles are small enough to potentially penetrate the skin barrier — which defeats the purpose of a physical sunscreen. Non-nano zinc oxide uses larger particles that stay on the surface of the skin, providing effective protection without absorption concerns.

Our Sun Balm uses exclusively non-nano zinc oxide — so you get the full protective benefit of mineral sunscreen without any of the absorption risk.

The Tallow Advantage

Most mineral sunscreens use synthetic bases — silicones, polymers, and chemical emulsifiers — to suspend the zinc oxide and make it spreadable. Our Sun Balm uses 100% grass-fed beef tallow as its base instead. Tallow's biocompatibility with human skin means the zinc oxide blends smoothly and evenly, with no white cast and no greasy residue. And because tallow is rich in Vitamins A, D, E & K, you're nourishing your skin at the same time as protecting it.

Who Should Switch to Mineral Sunscreen?

• Anyone concerned about chemical absorption and hormone disruption
• People with sensitive skin that reacts to chemical sunscreens
• Babies and young children (pediatricians consistently recommend mineral sunscreen for kids)
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Swimmers and ocean-goers who want a reef-safe option
• Anyone who wants sun protection that also moisturizes

Make the Switch

Our Sun Balm is handcrafted in the USA with non-nano zinc oxide and 100% grass-fed tallow. It's baby safe, reef safe, and free from synthetic chemicals. Sun protection the way nature intended.