The skincare world is shifting toward greener, more sustainable options—and cannabis-based sunscreens are part of that evolution. With consumers becoming increasingly aware of what they put on their skin and how it affects the planet, these hemp- and CBD-infused products are standing out for their eco-conscious formulas and environmental benefits. But do they truly make a difference, or is it just another greenwashed trend? Let’s take a closer look at the environmental impact behind the rise of cannabis-based sun care.
Hemp: A Low-Impact Powerhouse
At the heart of cannabis-based sunscreens is hemp—a crop known for being one of the most environmentally friendly plants on Earth. Hemp grows quickly, requires minimal water, and doesn’t rely on pesticides or herbicides. Even more impressive, it helps clean the soil through a process called phytoremediation, absorbing toxins and heavy metals from the ground.
This makes hemp-derived ingredients, like hemp seed oil and CBD, attractive choices for skincare formulators who want a renewable resource that’s good for both people and the planet. Compared to petroleum-based ingredients or palm oil (which contribute to deforestation), hemp’s sustainability record is hard to beat.
Cleaner Oceans with Reef-Safe Formulas
Conventional sunscreens have been under fire for containing chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate—both of which have been linked to coral reef damage and ocean pollution. Cannabis-based sunscreens typically replace these harsh chemicals with natural, mineral-based UV blockers such as non-nano zinc oxide.
These “reef-safe” formulations help protect aquatic life while still providing broad-spectrum sun protection. For eco-minded consumers who spend time on the beach, this is a big win. It means they can enjoy the sun knowing their sunscreen isn’t harming coral reefs, marine animals, or delicate ocean ecosystems.
Packaging and Production That Reflect Sustainability
Beyond the formula, sustainability also extends to how cannabis sunscreens are made and packaged. Many brands in this niche use recyclable glass jars, aluminum tins, or biodegradable tubes instead of single-use plastics. Some even incorporate hemp-based packaging materials, closing the loop on the plant’s full potential.
On the production side, companies committed to eco-friendly practices often source hemp locally to reduce transportation emissions. Others utilize renewable energy in manufacturing and maintain cruelty-free standards. Together, these efforts make cannabis-based sunscreens part of a broader clean-beauty movement pushing for accountability and transparency.
Challenges That Still Need Addressing
While cannabis-based sunscreens show great promise, they’re not completely without flaws. For example, not all hemp is farmed sustainably, and some products still include small plastic components like pump tops or caps. Additionally, without standardized regulations, it can be hard for consumers to distinguish between genuinely eco-conscious brands and those using green marketing buzzwords.
Third-party certifications—like “reef safe,” “organic,” or “carbon neutral”—help validate a product’s sustainability claims. As the market expands, these designations will likely become essential for separating authentic environmental efforts from superficial ones.
A Sustainable Future for Skincare
In an era where climate change and ocean health dominate global discussions, even small shifts in consumer behavior can make a big difference. Cannabis-based sunscreens reflect that shift—offering a way to protect skin from harmful UV rays while supporting environmental well-being.
By blending nature, science, and sustainability, these products are showing that it’s possible to enjoy the outdoors responsibly. As awareness grows, cannabis-infused sun care may help redefine what it means to go green—not just in how we live, but in how we protect our skin under the sun.