SunSafe® Explained

What Do The SunSafe® Categories Mean?


The Sunscreen List™ created the SunSafe® categories to make it easier to understand what matters most to you.

Use them as a filter to find the SPF that fits your needs—whether that's sensitive skin, active lifestyles, beauty, family use or environmental considerations.

All SunSafe® Categories Explained

  • Reef SunSafe®

    What does SunSafe® Reef mean? Learn how The Sunscreen List™ assesses marine-conscious sunscreen products, reef-safe claims, ingredient transparency and environmental considerations.

    Reef SunSafe®

    What does SunSafe® Reef mean? Learn how The Sunscreen List™ assesses marine-conscious sunscreen products, reef-safe claims, ingredient transparency and environmental considerations.

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Explore Certified SunSafe® Product:

Explore The SunSafe® Reports

  • The Watch List™

    The Watch List™

    SPF ingredients and claims under scrutiny. The Watch List highlights what to question, avoid, and monitor based on emerging research and standards.

    The Watch List™

    SPF ingredients and claims under scrutiny. The Watch List highlights what to question, avoid, and monitor based on emerging research and standards.

  • The Ingredient List™ by The Sunscreen List™ explaining sunscreen ingredients including non-nano zinc oxide, marine bioactives, antioxidants and SunSafe® ingredient education.

    The Ingredient List™

    Understand what’s in your SPF. The Ingredient List breaks down UV filters, preservatives, and additives to support safer, informed sunscreen choices.

    The Ingredient List™

    Understand what’s in your SPF. The Ingredient List breaks down UV filters, preservatives, and additives to support safer, informed sunscreen choices.

  • Case Studies

    Case Studies

    Independent SunSafe® case studies uncover SPF truths—microplastics, reef-safe claims, ingredient safety, and global testing standards for safer sun protection.

    Case Studies

    Independent SunSafe® case studies uncover SPF truths—microplastics, reef-safe claims, ingredient safety, and global testing standards for safer sun protection.

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