While people, and animals, in other parts of the world are struggling to cope with extreme heat at this time of year, it can be hard to believe that, in the UK, we’ve been grateful to see the temperature rise above 20° recently!

And going by the amount of people I’ve seen on the local beach and in parks, I know I’m not the only one who’s been glad to shed a layer of clothing and spend a lot more time out in the sun.

Thankfully we’re all becoming more aware of the damage the sun can do to our skin though, and at this time of year, sun protection products do feature highly in our daily skincare routine. We need to be aware though, that a lot of these lotions, while being great for protecting our skin, are not so great when it comes to the protection of animals. Some may contain animal derived ingredients and could still be tested on animals in laboratories.

As we explain on our page on cosmetics and personal care products, we can check out the Naturewatch Foundation compassionate shopping guide and Cruelty Free International Leaping Bunny website for animal friendly brands. We can also look for the Leaping Bunny logo on packaging or endorsement from Peta.

We’ve compiled a small list of animal-friendly suncare products below that are available this summer; all are vegan and are not tested on animals.

Tube of Body shop skin defence lotion.

Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-Protection Light Essence

A daily moisturiser for the face and neck with SPF50. "Suitable for sensitive skin" and "great under makeup".


Tube of Face Theory moisturiser.


Facetheory Glow-C Daily Moisturiser SPF 30

"A lightweight whipped moisturiser with niacinamide and dual-action vitamin C to brighten and hydrate, plus SPF 30 to protect from UVA/UVB damage".


Jar of UpCircle sunscreen.

UpCircle SP25 Mineral Sunscreen

"This reef-safe, dermatologically approved mineral sunscreen provides an essential physical defence against premature ageing caused by the sun".


Tube of Green People sun cream.

Green People range of sun creams

Green People have a range of natural sunscreen and after sun lotions for adults and children. All have SPF15 - SPF50.


Tube of Organii sun milk.

Organii SPF50 Sun Milk

"The perfect sun protection for the whole family. Our certified organic SPF 50, fragrance free, mineral Sun Milk is suitable for babies, children, and adults and will protect the most delicate skin from the harsh sun rays".


Childs Farm sun protection products.

Childs Farm range of SPF50+ sun creams and lotions

"Protect your little ones from the sun's harmful rays with our specially formulated suncare. Each product in this range offers very high SPF 50+ protection, is fragrance-free, and designed for delicate and sensitive skin".


Tube of Sainsburys sun lotion.

Sainsbury's Sun Protect Moisturising Sun Lotion

"Sun Protect is specifically formulated with the highest UVA 5 star rating and protects against both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays. This helps to defend against sun-induced skin damage and premature ageing. 
"Formulated with green tea extract and vitamin E to soothe and moisturise with 24hr hydration". 


Range of Asda sun protection products

Asda own range sun creams

A selection of sprays and lotions suitable for babies, children and adults. From SPF10 - SPF50+.


Bottle of Cien sun milk

Cien Sun creams

A range of Lidl own brand lotions, creams and sprays, SPF30 – SPF50+.




Spray bottle of Aveda hair protector veil

Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil

Hair needs protection too! "A lightweight, water-resistant UV defense mist that forms an invisible screen to help protect hair from sun exposure to minimize damage and dryness".



So enjoy the sun while it’s here and do check out our list of animal-friendly companies in our Compassionate Living section for a wider range of skin care products.

And don’t forget to share any of your favourite skincare brands with us in the comments below!