Antioxidant Sunscreen
Every formula in the PoolBar range combines broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection with Vitamins C and E for powerful extra free radical scavenging. From zinc oxide mineral creams to clear SPF sprays, each one has been formulated and manufactured in the USA. Reef-safe, cruelty-free, and water resistant up to 80 minutes.
Where to Buy
What Is Antioxidant Sunscreen?
Antioxidant sunscreen is sunscreen that combines SPF protection with antioxidant ingredients to address two types of UV-related skin damage simultaneously.
Standard sunscreen blocks or deflects UV radiation. Antioxidant sunscreen goes further by also targeting the free radicals that UV exposure generates.
Free radicals are unstable molecules produced when skin is exposed to UV radiation. They are missing an electron, which makes them chemically reactive. To stabilize themselves, they take electrons from nearby molecules, including DNA, collagen, and cell membranes.
That process, known as oxidative stress, is one of the primary drivers of premature skin aging, including fine lines, uneven skin tone, and collagen breakdown.
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by donating an electron without becoming unstable themselves, stopping the chain reaction before it damages skin cells. Vitamins C and E are two of the most studied and effective antioxidants available in skincare.
Used together, they provide stronger free radical protection than either vitamin delivers alone, because Vitamin E neutralizes free radicals in the lipid layer of the skin while Vitamin C works in the water-based layer, and Vitamin C also regenerates Vitamin E after it has been used.
Every PoolBar formula is enriched with both Vitamins C and E, combining SPF protection with antioxidant defence in a single step.
Why Vitamins C and E Work Together
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals in the water-based environment of the skin. It also plays a role in collagen synthesis, making it one of the most researched ingredients in both skincare and antioxidant sunscreen formulations.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that works in the lipid layer of the skin, the outer protective barrier. It neutralizes free radicals in a different part of the skin to Vitamin C, which is why the two vitamins are significantly more effective when used together than either one alone.
Together
When Vitamin E neutralizes a free radical, it becomes oxidized and temporarily inactive. Vitamin C regenerates Vitamin E, restoring its antioxidant activity and extending its protective effect.
This makes the combination of Vitamins C and E one of the most effective antioxidant pairings available in suncare, and the reason every PoolBar formula contains both.
Which Antioxidant SPF Is Right For You?
Mineral SPF 50 Face Cream – $14.99
Zinc oxide is the active ingredient for UVA/UVB protection in this dedicated face formula. Enriched with Vitamins C and E for powerful extra free radical scavenging. Fragrance-free, dermatologically tested, and free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Broad spectrum SPF 50. Water resistant up to 80 minutes. Best for: sensitive skin and daily wear.
Mineral SPF 50 Body Cream – $19.99
Broad spectrum SPF 50 mineral protection for full-body coverage with Vitamins C and E. Zinc oxide as the active ingredient, free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Contains a Coconut and Vanilla scent. Water resistant up to 80 minutes. Best for: beach days and high UV index days.
Mineral SPF 30 Body Cream – $19.99
Moisturizing broad spectrum body formula with SPF 30 mineral protection and Vitamins C and E. Free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Contains a Coconut and Vanilla scent. Water resistant up to 80 minutes. Best for: extended outdoor exposure and families.
SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray – $19.99
Broad spectrum SPF 50 in a clear spray format enriched with Vitamins C and E. Coconut and Vanilla scent. Free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Must be rubbed in after application for full SPF protection. Water resistant up to 80 minutes. Best for: beach and pool days, high UV index days.
SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray – $19.99
Broad spectrum SPF 30 in a clear spray format enriched with Vitamins C and E. Coconut and Vanilla scent. Free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens.
Must be rubbed in after application for full SPF protection. Water resistant up to 80 minutes. Best for: everyday outdoor coverage and reapplication throughout the day.
Aftersun Lotion – $11.99
A soothing aftersun lotion enriched with Vitamins C and E, Aloe Vera, and Hyaluronic Acid to calm, hydrate, and support skin recovery after sun exposure. Free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Best for: calming and moisturizing skin after a day in the sun.
Antioxidant Sunscreen - Frequently Asked Questions
What does antioxidant sunscreen do?
Antioxidant sunscreen combines SPF protection with antioxidant ingredients to address two types of UV-related skin damage simultaneously.
The SPF filters protect against UVA and UVB radiation. The antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules generated by UV exposure that damage skin cells, collagen, and DNA if left unchecked.
Why are Vitamins C and E used in sunscreen?
Vitamins C and E are two of the most studied and effective antioxidants available. Vitamin E works in the lipid layer of the skin, neutralizing free radicals in the outer barrier. Vitamin C works in the water-based layer and also regenerates Vitamin E after it has been used, extending its protective effect. Together they provide stronger free radical protection than either vitamin delivers alone.
Do you still need SPF if your sunscreen contains antioxidants?
Yes. Antioxidants do not replace SPF protection. They work alongside it to address a different type of UV-related damage. SPF filters block or deflect UV radiation. Antioxidants neutralize the free radicals that UV exposure generates. Both are needed for complete protection.
What is oxidative stress in skin?
Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals overwhelm the skin’s natural antioxidant defences. UV exposure is one of the primary causes.
Free radicals are unstable molecules that take electrons from nearby molecules including collagen, DNA, and cell membranes to stabilize themselves.
That process damages skin cells and accelerates the visible signs of aging, including fine lines, uneven skin tone, and loss of firmness. Antioxidants like Vitamins C and E neutralize free radicals before they cause that damage.
Can I use antioxidant sunscreen every day?
Yes. Daily use is recommended regardless of the season. UVA rays are present year-round and can penetrate glass, meaning everyday indoor and overcast exposure still counts. Using an antioxidant sunscreen daily means your skin is protected against both UV radiation and the free radicals it generates, every day.
Is antioxidant sunscreen suitable for sensitive skin?
PoolBar’s mineral creams use non-nano zinc oxide as the active ingredient, which does not penetrate the skin barrier and is well-tolerated by most skin types including sensitive and reactive skin. Every formula is free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens, and dermatologically tested.
