Primally Pure Sun Cream SPF 30

This mineral-based, tallow-infused sun cream uses zinc oxide to create a physical barrier against UVA and UVB rays. The blend of tallow, beeswax, coconut oil, and mango butter gives it a rich, barrier-supporting feel, making it a simple option for those who prefer a minimalist mineral sunscreen. It comes in Unscented and Lavender Mint, depending on how your skin (and nose) does with essential oils.

Ingredients

Unscented SPF 30
Active: Zinc Oxide (25%)
Inactive: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Organic Tallow, Organic Beeswax, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Mango Butter, Tocopherol

Lavender Mint SPF 30
Active: Zinc Oxide (25%)
Inactive: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Organic Tallow, Organic Beeswax, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Lavender Oil, Organic Mango Butter, Organic Peppermint Oil, Tocopherol

Certifications & Standards

  • Cruelty-free (brand-stated)

  • Made with organic ingredients (brand-stated; multiple ingredients are listed as organic)

  • “Reef-safe” (brand-stated)

  • Zinc oxide–only UV protection (based on the listed active ingredient)

  • No synthetic fragrance (based on the ingredient list; Lavender Mint is scented with essential oils)

What I Like

  • Non-nano zinc oxide provides mineral UV protection without chemical UV filters.

  • The tallow, beeswax, and mango butter base feels deeply nourishing and supportive for dry-feeling skin.

  • The ingredient list is short and straightforward, which makes it easier to evaluate.

  • The Unscented option is an excellent pick for people who prefer to avoid essential oils entirely.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • EWG Rating: 3. When products like this are run through the EWG analyzer, essential oils (like peppermint) can contribute to a higher score, which is why the Lavender Mint version may rate higher than the Unscented version.

  • This is a richer, more occlusive texture than a typical lotion-style sunscreen so that it can feel heavier on the skin.

  • Mineral sunscreens can leave a sheen or a mild white cast, depending on skin tone and application amount.

  • Patch testing is a smart step for acne-prone or congestion-prone skin, since coconut oil and richer balms can be comedogenic for some people.

Sensitive Skin & Pregnancy Considerations

The Unscented version contains no essential oils, which makes it a simple option for those who prefer to keep pregnancy and breastfeeding routines as minimal as possible. Zinc oxide is widely considered one of the more pregnancy-compatible sunscreen actives because it primarily sits on top of the skin.

The Lavender Mint version contains lavender and peppermint essential oils, which can be more stimulating for highly reactive or fragrance-sensitive skin, especially during pregnancy, when sensitivities can change. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding and prefer to minimize essential oils, the Unscented version is typically the easier choice.

Essential Oil Transparency

The Lavender Mint version contains essential oils. Essential oils can carry trace contaminants, depending on sourcing and processing, so I prioritize brands that prioritize purity and testing to minimize unwanted contaminants.