Sunscreen Ingredients to Avoid and Why

We’re not telling you anything new when we say that sun protection is a non-negotiable part of any effective skincare regimen. But, knowing which ingredients are best (from a personal health and environmental standpoint) is more complex than it seems. Even more so now with the recent controversy surrounding Australian sunscreens. If you didn’t catch the news, some of Australia’s most popular sunscreens have been exposed for failing to provide their advertised protections, and this finding has not only shown potential inconsistencies in sunscreen testing but lifted the lid on a host of dangerous ingredients found in sunscreens.

If you’ve ever viewed a sunscreen label and wondered “what ARE these ingredients, and do they actually belong anywhere near my skin (or the Great Barrier Reef)?”, you’d be right to wonder, and now regulatory body the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has put them under the spotlight. Here, we explore the evidence-based reasons to avoid certain common sunscreen ingredients – with an emphasis on health implications and planetary impact. 

The (Not So) Sunny Side of Sunscreen: Key Ingredients to Avoid

We’re all about protecting skin from UV damage, premature wrinkles, and potential skin cancers but, did you know some chemical sunscreen filters have a duality: protecting you while having adverse effects? Here are the headline offenders in the sunscreen world, audited by both Aussie and global experts:

1. Oxybenzone

• Why it’s used: A common chemical UV filter, oxybenzone, is found in many mainstream sunscreens for its broad-spectrum protection.

• Why avoid it: It’s a known endocrine disrupting chemical EDC, which means it may interfere with hormone function. Research suggests it can be absorbed through the skin, found in blood, urine, even breast milk, and is of special concern for pregnant or breastfeeding people.

• Environmental villain: Oxybenzone wreaks havoc on coral reefs – promoting coral bleaching and harming marine life, which is why reef-rich parts of the world (think Hawaii) have banned sunscreens with this filter.

• Australian update: The TGA recommends stricter controls on oxybenzone due to potential impacts on hormone health.

2. Octinoxate (Octyl Methoxycinnamate)

• Why it’s used: Another popular UV blocker, found in many face creams and makeups.

• Why avoid it: Also classified as an EDC it can disrupt thyroid hormones and mimic oestrogen. There are links to allergies and potentially increased risk of certain cancers.

• Environmental villain: Octinoxate is notorious for contributing to coral bleaching and marine toxicity.

• Worldwide bans: Several regions ban sunscreen containing octinoxate to protect aquatic environments.

3. Homosalate

• Why it’s used: Often included to boost UVB filtering.

• Why avoid it: Suspected EDC. It may also enhance skin absorption of pesticides and other nasties, increasing potential risks.

• Regulation: The TGA is looking at reducing the allowable concentration in Australian sunscreens.

4. Octocrylene 

• Why it’s used: Provides both stability and UVB protection (think of it as sunscreen’s energetic sidekick).

• Why avoid it: Linked with allergies and, when it degrades (especially if left in the heat), forms benzophenone (a possible carcinogen). Also has environmental impacts.

• Tip: Always store sunscreen below 30°C

5. Avobenzone 

• Why it’s used: Popular for broadspectrum coverage; however, it’s unstable and often blended with other filters for effectiveness.

• Why avoid it: Can break down in sunlight and water, forming potentially toxic byproducts; concerns are growing about its environmental and health safety.

6. Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate) 

• Why it’s used: Marketed as an ‘anti-ageing’ antioxidant addition in sun care.

• Why avoid it: In sunlight, this form of vitamin A may break down into potentially cancer-promoting compounds 

• Not an essential in a sunscreen formulation:  Add a dedicated serum to your regime (be aware that some Vitamin A products can only be used in the evenings as they interact with sunlight) or use  our certified organic Vital A Elixir which can be used day and night since it doesn’t cause photosensitivity.

7. Parabens & Synthetic Fragrances

• Why avoid: Parabens are known for hormone mimicry, while synthetic fragrances are top triggers for sensitivities and allergic reactions and contain a myriad of EDCs. In the age of beautiful botanicals, there’s no excuse for skin-irritating extras.

Why Does It Matter – For Your Health and the Environment?

You don’t want to protect your skin at the expense of marine life or your own hormone balance. Australia is a country of sun lovers and beach dwellers, with some of the world’s harshest UV and most spectacular reefs. Ingredients that promote coral bleaching and disrupt aquatic life create ongoing environmental impacts.

The Australian Angle: What Are Regulators Saying?

Thankfully, Australia’s TGA takes sunscreen safety seriously. A 2025 safety review suggests that oxybenzone and homosalate (two of the most common chemical UV filters used) should be restricted, with concentrations reduced in sunscreens. Furthermore, octocrylene and benzophenone byproducts will require monitoring and restricting levels wherever possible. That said, the immediate health threat is not from using sunscreen, but rather from not using it. Be informed, and do your research when choosing which products to buy.

How to Choose a Safer, Smarter Sunscreen

• Go mineral: Look for zinc oxide and titanium dioxide combinations. They create a physical barrier, are broad-spectrum, and don’t disrupt reefs or hormones. Mineral filters are less likely to cause sensitivities and are safer for you and the environment.

• Check for certifications: Seek reef-safe, COSMOS organic, and fragrance-free when possible.

• Read the label: Steer clear of the seven questionable ingredients listed above.

The Mukti Organics Difference

Our Daily Moisturiser Solar Veil SPF30 is proof you can have it all: sheer, dewy protection powered by non-nano zinc oxide including antioxidant supporting botanicals like Kakadu Plum, Knot Grass Extract and Desert Lime. It’s tested to Australia’s world-leading SPF standards, free from toxins, and leaves both your face and conscience luminous.