What to Avoid in Sunscreen? A Scientific Safety Guide | Rysun Biotech

Monday, 01/26/2026

Wondering "what to avoid in sunscreen?" From reef-damaging filters to endocrine disruptors, Rysun Biotech’s R&D experts explain the ingredients to skip and how we manufacture safer, compliant alternatives.

SEND MY REQUEST

What to Avoid in Sunscreen? A Manufacturer’s Guide to Safer, Cleaner Protection

Introduction
Sunscreen is essential for health, but not all SPFs are created equal. With increasing scrutiny on chemical safety and environmental impact, consumers and brand owners are asking a critical question: "What to avoid in sunscreen?"

At Guangzhou Rysun Biotechnology, we believe that protection shouldn't come at a cost to your health or the planet. Founded in 2014 by Ivy Wong specifically to address the "inconsistent quality" of market products, and inspired by deep discussions with a Swiss anti-aging expert, we approach sun care formulation with rigorous safety standards.

Backed by our Research Institute and 20 leading scientists, we are here to help you navigate the "No-List." Here is the scientific guide on which ingredients to avoid and how Rysun manufactures superior, safe alternatives for the global market.

Here is our private label sunscreen, pls click here for more details

 

1. The "Reef Killers": Oxybenzone and Octinoxate

The top answer to "what to avoid in sunscreen" involves the ocean.

  • The Problem: Studies show these chemical filters bleach coral reefs and disrupt marine ecosystems. They are already banned in regions like Hawaii, Key West, and Thailand.
  • The Health Concern: Oxybenzone is also a known endocrine disruptor, meaning it can mimic hormones in the body.
  • The Rysun Solution: As an exporter to 50+ countries, we stay ahead of global regulations. We formulate Reef-Safe sunscreens using Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, or modern, eco-friendly chemical filters that provide high protection without the environmental toxicity.

2. The "Irritators": Synthetic Fragrances and Drying Alcohols

  • The Problem: High levels of denatured alcohol can strip the skin barrier, while synthetic fragrances are the #1 cause of allergic contact dermatitis in sun care.
  • The Rysun Solution: We believe in Practical Solutions. We formulate for sensitive skin. Instead of masking odors with perfume, we use high-purity ingredients that don't smell bad to begin with. We replace drying alcohols with advanced delivery systems that allow the sunscreen to dry down quickly without dehydrating the skin.

3. The "Old School" Preservatives: Parabens and Formaldehyde Releasers

  • The Problem: While effective at killing bacteria, these preservatives have been linked to hormonal disruption and sensitivity.
  • The Rysun Solution: We utilize 253 intellectual properties to develop stable formulations using modern, gentle preservative systems (like Phenoxyethanol or Ethylhexylglycerin). Our 50 inspection procedures include "Challenge Testing" to ensure these gentler systems are still 100% effective against bacteria, keeping the product safe without the risks of parabens.

4. Unstable Formulas (The Hidden Danger)

Sometimes, what you need to avoid isn't an ingredient, but a state. You must avoid Oxidation and Separation.

  • The Problem: A sunscreen that separates (oil on top, clumps on bottom) offers zero protection. An unstable formula degrades in the bottle.
  • The Rysun Solution: "Inconsistent quality" is the enemy. We stress-test every SPF formula under heat and UV light to ensure the emulsion remains stable. When you partner with Rysun, you avoid the liability of a product that fails on the shelf.

 

The Manufacturer’s Role: Engineering Safety

It is easy to make a list of what to avoid; it is hard to make a good product without them.
If you remove Oxybenzone, how do you get high SPF? If you remove Alcohol, how do you make it non-greasy?

Rysun Biotechnology solves this through Swiss-Inspired Innovation:

  • Micronization: We replace chemical filters with micronized Zinc Oxide to achieve high SPF without the white cast.
  • Advanced Emollients: We use plant-based silicone alternatives to create that "luxury slip" without clogging pores.
  • Clean Chemistry: We help brands build "Free-From" lists (Paraben-Free, Sulfate-Free, Reef-Safe) that appeal to the modern, educated consumer.

Conclusion

So, what to avoid in sunscreen?
Avoid Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Parabens, and unstable formulations.

At Rysun Biotechnology, we combine over 10 years of manufacturing excellence with strict safety protocols. We create sunscreens that are clean, compliant, and effective. Partner with us to manufacture a sun care line that protects your customers from the sun and from harmful ingredients.

 

FAQs

Q1: Is Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A) safe in sunscreen?
A: There is debate about this. Some studies suggest Vitamin A can speed up skin lesions when exposed to sunlight. To be safe, Rysun generally advises avoiding Retinyl Palmitate in daytime sunscreens. We save Vitamin A for our night repair creams.

Q2: Are "Nano" particles something to avoid?
A: Some consumers prefer to avoid them due to fear of bloodstream absorption. Rysun specializes in Non-Nano Mineral Sunscreens that sit safely on the surface of the skin while still remaining transparent.

Q3: Does Rysun test for benzene contamination?
A: Yes. Benzene is a dangerous contaminant found in some aerosol sunscreens. Our strict quality control and raw material sourcing ensure our products are free from such contaminants.

Q4: Can I avoid preservatives altogether?
A: No. Sunscreen usually contains water, which breeds bacteria. You must have a preservative. However, Rysun helps you avoid harsh preservatives by using modern, skin-friendly alternatives that are safe for global markets.

You may also like
Calming Face Mist - RYSUN
Private Label Calming Face Mist
Private Label Calming Face Mist
Hand Cream - RYSUN
Private Label Hand Cream
Private Label Hand Cream
Overnight Sleeping Mask - RYSUN
Private Label Overnight Sleeping Mask
Private Label Overnight Sleeping Mask
dandruff shampoo - RYSUN
Private Label Dandruff Shampoo
Private Label Dandruff Shampoo

Get more information

If you have any comments or good suggestions, please leave us a message; later our professional staff will contact you as soon as possible.

Please enter your name not exceed 100 characters
The email format is not correct or exceed 100 characters, Please reenter!
Please enter a valid phone number!
Please enter your field_1120 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your field_1121 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your field_1137 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your content not exceed 3000 characters
Contact customer service

Have a specific project?

Hi,

If you are interested in our products/custom services or have any questions, please let us know so that we can better assist you.

×
Please enter your name not exceed 100 characters
The email format is not correct or exceed 100 characters, Please reenter!
Please enter a valid phone number!
Please enter your field_1120 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your field_1121 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your field_1137 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your content not exceed 3000 characters

Customize your exclusive skincare solution

Please fill in your brand concept and product requirements. Rysun will rely on its strong scientific research strength to create high-quality, personalized skin care solutions for you.

×
Please enter your name not exceed 100 characters
The email format is not correct or exceed 100 characters, Please reenter!
Please enter a valid phone number!
Please enter your field_1120 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your field_1121 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your field_1137 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your content not exceed 3000 characters

Get exclusive product quotation

Please fill in the product type, specification and quantity requirements you are interested in. Rysun will provide you with a fast and accurate quotation plan to help your brand land efficiently.

×
Please enter your name not exceed 100 characters
The email format is not correct or exceed 100 characters, Please reenter!
Please enter a valid phone number!
Please enter your field_1120 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your field_1121 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your field_1137 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your content not exceed 3000 characters

Let Us know your brand and needs

In order to better provide you with customized services, please describe your target market, product direction and other special needs. Our professional team will develop the best solution for you.

×
Please enter your name not exceed 100 characters
The email format is not correct or exceed 100 characters, Please reenter!
Please enter a valid phone number!
Please enter your field_1120 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your field_1121 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your field_1137 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your content not exceed 3000 characters