Sky and Sol Sunscreen Review: A Comprehensive Look at This Natural SPF Gem

I’m always on the hunt for a sunscreen that doesn’t just protect my skin but feels good to wear and aligns with my values of clean, natural ingredients. Sky and Sol Sunscreen SPF 50 caught my eye with its unique tallow-based formula and promises of no white cast or greasy residue.

After weeks of testing it under the sun, I’m convinced you should give this product a try. It’s a game-changer for anyone who wants effective sun protection without the chemical overload. Let me walk you through my experience, the pros and cons, maintenance tips, and how it stacks up against other brands.

My Experience With Sky and Sol Sunscreen

I first stumbled across Sky and Sol Sunscreen while searching for a mineral-based SPF that wouldn’t irritate my sensitive skin.

The idea of tallow in a sunscreen intrigued me—could something so unconventional really work?

I ordered the SPF 50 Face and Body Sunscreen and decided to put it to the test during a summer packed with beach trips, hikes, and lazy afternoons in my backyard.

From the moment I squeezed the product out of its sleek tube, I knew this wasn’t your average sunscreen.

The texture was surprisingly creamy, not the thick, chalky paste I’d come to expect from mineral sunscreens.

It glided onto my skin with ease, and I was shocked at how quickly it blended in without leaving that dreaded white cast. I have a medium skin tone, and I’ve struggled with sunscreens that make me look ghostly, but Sky and Sol’s jojoba-coated zinc oxide worked like magic.

It absorbed into my skin within minutes, leaving a soft, matte finish that didn’t feel heavy or sticky. I applied it to my face and body, and it felt nourishing, almost like a lightweight moisturizer.

One sunny day at the beach, I slathered it on before a swim. The water-resistant formula held up impressively—even after splashing around for an hour, I didn’t notice any streaking or loss of protection.

My skin stayed burn-free, and I didn’t experience the stinging or irritation I’ve had with chemical sunscreens in the past. The faint, natural scent was another pleasant surprise; there was no overpowering “sunscreen smell,” just a subtle, clean note that didn’t linger.

I also tested it under makeup, a true challenge for any sunscreen. After letting it set for a couple of minutes, I applied my foundation, and it went on smoothly without pilling or sliding off. My skin felt hydrated but not greasy, which is a rare win for someone with combination skin like mine.

Over the weeks, I noticed my skin looked healthier, likely thanks to the nutrient-rich tallow and jojoba oil. This wasn’t just sun protection—it was skincare in disguise. My only gripe was the slight tackiness on my fingers after application, but a quick rinse fixed that. Overall, Sky and Sol made me rethink what a sunscreen could be.

Pros Of Sky and Sol Sunscreen

Effective Broad-Spectrum Protection: Sky and Sol’s SPF 50 offers robust defense against both UVA and UVB rays. I felt confident wearing it during long outdoor sessions, knowing my skin was shielded from sun damage and premature aging.
No White Cast: The jojoba-coated zinc oxide is a standout feature. Unlike other mineral sunscreens, this one blends seamlessly into my medium skin tone, leaving no chalky residue. It’s a relief not to look like a ghost after application.
Nourishing Ingredients: The grass-fed tallow and cold-pressed jojoba oil make this sunscreen double as a moisturizer. My skin felt soft and hydrated, not stripped or dry, which is a common issue with other SPFs.
Non-Greasy Finish: Despite its rich ingredients, it dries to a matte finish that’s perfect for oily or combination skin. I didn’t feel like I was wearing a heavy layer of product, even in humid weather.
Reef-Conscious Formula: Sky and Sol uses non-nano zinc oxide, avoiding chemical UV filters like oxybenzone that harm marine life. I love knowing my sunscreen choice supports environmental health.
Gentle for Sensitive Skin: As someone prone to irritation, I appreciated the hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic formula. It didn’t clog my pores or cause breakouts, even after daily use.
Water-Resistant Performance: Whether I was swimming or sweating, this sunscreen stayed put. It held up through a 40-minute swim without needing immediate reapplication, which is a huge plus for active days.

The combination of effective protection, skin-friendly ingredients, and environmental consciousness makes Sky and Sol a standout. It’s rare to find a sunscreen that checks so many boxes while feeling luxurious to apply. I’ve used it consistently for weeks, and it’s become a staple in my routine, especially for outdoor adventures.

Cons Of Sky and Sol Sunscreen

Slight Tackiness Post-Application: After applying, I noticed a subtle sticky feeling on my fingers. It’s not a dealbreaker, but I had to wash my hands to get rid of it, which added an extra step.
Higher Price Point: Sky and Sol isn’t the cheapest option out there. For those who use sunscreen daily or in large quantities, the cost might feel steep compared to drugstore brands.
Limited Availability: I could only find it online through their website or select retailers like Amazon. It’s not as convenient as grabbing a tube at a local store, which might frustrate some shoppers.
Matte Finish May Not Suit Dry Skin: While I loved the matte finish for my combination skin, those with very dry skin might find it less hydrating than expected. It’s nourishing but not as rich as some heavier creams.
Slight Learning Curve for Application: The creamy texture requires a bit of rubbing to fully blend, especially on areas like elbows or knees. It’s not as effortless as a spray sunscreen for quick coverage.
Not Certified Organic: While the ingredients are natural, some aren’t organic, which might matter to those who prioritize fully organic skincare. I didn’t mind, but it’s worth noting.

Despite these drawbacks, none felt like dealbreakers. The tackiness and price are minor compared to the benefits, and the availability issue is manageable with online shopping. For me, the pros far outweigh the cons, but these are factors to consider based on your preferences and budget.

Tips For Sky and Sol Sunscreen

Apply Generously and Evenly: To get the full SPF 50 protection, you need to use enough product. I aim for a quarter teaspoon for my face and a shot glass worth for my body. Spread it evenly, especially on high-exposure areas like your shoulders and nose.
Reapply Every Two Hours: Even though it’s water-resistant, reapplying every two hours is key, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. I set a phone reminder during long beach days to stay on top of it.
Cleanse Before Application: I always wash my face and body before applying to ensure it absorbs properly. A clean canvas helps the sunscreen work its magic without interference from oils or dirt.
Store Properly: Keep the tube in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. I noticed that leaving it in a hot car made the texture slightly runnier, which affected application. A bathroom cabinet works perfectly.
Let It Set Before Makeup: If you wear makeup, give the sunscreen a minute or two to sink in. I found this prevents pilling and ensures my foundation glides on smoothly.
Patch Test for Sensitive Skin: Even though it’s gentle, do a patch test if you’re new to tallow-based products. I tried a small amount on my inner arm first to make sure it didn’t irritate my sensitive skin.
Combine With Other Sun Protection: I pair Sky and Sol with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for extra protection. It’s a great sunscreen, but layering with physical barriers maximizes safety during peak UV hours.

These tips have helped me get the most out of Sky and Sol. Proper application and storage make a big difference in its performance, and combining it with other protective measures ensures you’re fully covered.

Comparison With Other Brands

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46: EltaMD UV Clear is a favorite among dermatologists for its lightweight feel and niacinamide, which soothes inflammation. I’ve used it before, and it’s great for sensitive skin, much like Sky and Sol. However, EltaMD combines zinc oxide with chemical filters like octinoxate, which I prefer to avoid due to potential skin irritation and environmental concerns. Sky and Sol’s all-natural, tallow-based formula feels more nourishing, while EltaMD’s chemical components make it less appealing for daily use on my sensitive skin. EltaMD is also pricier per ounce, and I found Sky and Sol’s matte finish more flattering under makeup.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen is a clear gel that’s a go-to for a weightless, makeup-friendly SPF. I tried it last summer, and its silky texture is hard to beat for a barely-there feel. However, it’s a chemical sunscreen with ingredients like avobenzone, which can irritate sensitive skin and isn’t reef-safe. Sky and Sol’s mineral formula, with non-nano zinc oxide, offers better environmental credentials and hydration thanks to its tallow and jojoba oil. Supergoop! is easier to apply in a rush, but Sky and Sol’s nourishing properties make it a better choice for long-term skin health.
Badger Active Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30: Badger’s mineral sunscreen is another natural option, relying on uncoated zinc oxide and organic ingredients like sunflower oil. I tested it during a camping trip, and its thick texture provided solid protection but left a noticeable white cast, unlike Sky and Sol’s seamless blend. Badger’s formula is greasier, which didn’t work well for my combination skin, and it required more effort to rub in. Sky and Sol’s water-resistant formula also outperformed Badger during sweaty activities. While Badger is budget-friendly, Sky and Sol’s innovative tallow base and lack of residue make it a superior pick for daily wear.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50: Beauty of Joseon’s sunscreen is a K-beauty staple with a lightweight, hydrating formula. I loved its dewy finish when I tried it, but it contains chemical filters like avobenzone, which can sting my eyes during workouts. Sky and Sol’s mineral-based approach feels gentler and more protective for extended sun exposure. The K-beauty option is better for a glowy look, but Sky and Sol’s matte finish and natural ingredients align more with my preference for clean, non-toxic skincare. Plus, Sky and Sol’s reef-conscious formula gives it an edge for environmentally aware users.

Sky and Sol holds its own against these popular brands, offering a unique blend of nourishment, protection, and eco-friendliness. Its tallow-based formula sets it apart in a crowded market, making it a top choice for those prioritizing natural ingredients and effective sun protection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Sky and Sol sunscreen FDA approved?

Sky and Sol Sunscreen complies with FDA regulations for SPF testing and ingredient safety, as noted on their website with Certificates of Analysis (COA) for ingredient quality. However, the FDA doesn’t “approve” sunscreens; it regulates them to ensure they meet safety and efficacy standards. Sky and Sol’s non-nano zinc oxide and clean ingredients align with these guidelines, making it a safe choice for most users.

What is the most highly recommended sunscreen?

The “best” sunscreen depends on your needs, but Sky and Sol is a top contender for its natural, non-toxic formula and broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection. Other highly recommended options include EltaMD UV Clear for sensitive skin and Supergoop! Unseen for a lightweight gel. For natural, reef-safe options, Sky and Sol stands out for its nourishing tallow base and minimal white cast.

What is the difference between Sky and Sol and Supergoop?

Sky and Sol uses a mineral-based formula with non-nano zinc oxide and tallow, making it nourishing, reef-safe, and ideal for sensitive skin. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen is a chemical-based gel with avobenzone, offering a weightless feel but potentially irritating sensitive skin and less eco-friendly. Sky and Sol provides a matte, hydrating finish, while Supergoop! is better for a silky, makeup-priming texture.

Is Sol Protect sunscreen good?

Sol Protect isn’t a specific brand I’m familiar with, but if you’re referring to Sky and Sol, it’s excellent for those seeking a natural, non-greasy sunscreen. Its SPF 50, broad-spectrum protection, and skin-friendly ingredients like tallow and jojoba oil make it effective and gentle. It’s particularly great for sensitive skin and environmentally conscious users due to its reef-safe formula.

Conclusion

After weeks of testing, I’m sold on Sky and Sol Sunscreen SPF 50. It’s a rare find that combines effective sun protection with nourishing, natural ingredients like tallow and jojoba oil. Whether you’re hitting the beach or just stepping out for errands, this sunscreen delivers without the white cast or greasy feel. It’s perfect for sensitive skin and eco-conscious folks. Give it a shot—you’ll love how it feels and performs.