Product photography People of the Earth: bioactive SPF skincare for Mermaids and Mermen

Skincare with Purpose

Grounded in the belief that skincare should be as kind to the earth as it is nourishing to the skin, at People of the Earth, their products transcend mere beauty. This Australian brand crafts bioactive SPF skincare built on a foundation of sustainability, ethical sourcing, and potent natural ingredients, while focusing on positive environmental and social impact.

Founded by Jules and Freja, People of the Earth started as a personal mission to create high-performing skincare they could trust, and which aligned with their values. They formulated everything themselves, with guidance from an organic chemist, and tested each formula in Australia’s leading dermatological lab for SPF efficacy.

Sustainability and Ingredients

People of the Earth meticulously selects ingredients that are not only effective but also ethically sourced and environmentally friendly. Their formulations are crafted with nutrient-rich, wholefood ingredients that support local ecologies and empower communities.

Ingredients are selected for their low-impact on the environments they’re grown in or end up in (particularly ocean environments), with key species — like shea and cacao butters — chosen whose cultivation supports native ecosystems. As unprocessed as possible, Ingredients like coconut oil, jojoba oil, chamomile and calendula are combined with EcoCert Zinc Oxide and other botanical actives to create mineral sun care products that deliver deep hydration, protection, and healing benefits.

With a steadfast dedication to the well-being of both people and the planet, People of the Earth embodies the spirit of unity and respect. Grwoers and producers are paid above fair wages, and they purchase directly from cooperatives that use profits to restore and conserve the environment, or that are run by women who use profits to build schools, improve access to medical services & clean water for their families.

Each of the 5 products in their SPF-skincare range comes in recyclable tin contains that are plastic-free.

Our experience

Living near salt-swept coastlines and harsh Southern sun, we’re picky about what goes onto our skin. We need products that are clean, effective, and able to keep up with the elements.

I don’t wear makeup day-to-day, so need skincare that keeps my face looking healthy. And I’ll be honest — I’ve never been someone who uses SPF skincare daily. Oops! You'd think I’d be better about protecting my skin, but most SPF-infused creams feel heavy, smell artificial, leave a white cast that makes me look ghostly, are just chock-full of chemicals.

That changed when we discovered People of the Earth. Smooth textures, nourishing ingredients, no fuss, no guilt. And the best part? It actually works. Suddenly, wearing SPF every day doesn’t just feel possible — it feels good, giving us clean, effective coverage with zero irritation.

Here's our real take on the People of the Earth bioactive SPF skincare range:

Sunbiosis™ SPF30

Non-tinted, and ideal for him, her, or anyone looking for natural SPF protection. This is your traditional white zinc — only better. Unlike traditional zincs-based creams, it’s immediately spreadable right out of the tin, no melting in your hands required. The texture is creamy, like a soft mousse or soft, whipped-butter, that sinks in and it doesn’t leave that chalky white cast other mineral sunscreens do.

Our faces felt nourished and moisturized, never greasy, and we didn’t burn once — even after hours in the harsh midday sun. And as a bonus, it didn’t clog our pores!

The natural scent is earthy and calming, like warm cacao and fresh herbs. It’s now a non-negotiable in our travel bag, and the one we reach for most as a daily SPF skincare product.

SPF: 30
Usage: All-over (face and body), post-surf moisturizer

Merface™ Bronze Surf Zinc SPF40

This one surprised me in the best way! For adventure days when I want SPF support and to look alive — this is it. The tint is just enough to give me a warm, sun-kissed glow without looking “made up” and the shimmer is so fun. It makes it less like a “chore” and more like something I look forward to when I want to shine like the sun at golden hour. It seriously stays put, and I got several compliments about how my skin looked.

Depending on your skin tone, this can be used as your main base, or layered over the Sunbiosis where you’d traditionally use bronzer. I also like to brush a little over my collarbone for some extra sparkle.

It’s SPF skincare that shimmers in the sun! Who knew zinc could look this good?!

SPF: 40
Usage: Face base, Surf zinc, Bronzer

Merface™ Gold Surf Zinc SPF40

Another shimmery SPF, the gold tint adds this beautiful luminous finish that makes your skin catch the light in the most natural way. Used over the Sunbiosis or Bare Natural, this one is a great option if you want SPF coverage and a subtle highlighter effect.

I thought the yellow-gold would be too much as an all-over base, but with my skin tone and paired with the kabuki brush, it blends beautifully for all-over shimmer!

I thought the Bronze would be my favorite, but it might actually be the warm gold. And just like the former, it has serious staying power.

SPF: 40
Usage: Face base, Surf zinc, Highlighter

Merface™ Bare Natural Surf Zinc SPF40

The difference between this and the Sunbiosis, is that the Bare Natural is tinted.

It’s a go-to if you want to even out your skin tone, add a little bit of color to your face, or prevent even a hint of white zinc.

While we both reach for Sunbiosis as a stand-alone base, for me, it’s really only because I wear a lot of light clothing and don’t want to stain them, but even then, as someone who doesn’t wear foundation, I really love this one for days when I want to elevate my look — dinner at our favorite beachside restaurant, or gatherings in the sun. It currently comes in one color, a mid-tone tint, that I suspect could blend into several skin tones, however if you find it too dark or too light, opt for the Sunbiosis which blends in clear.

SPF: 40
Usage: Face base

Wilderbalm Botanical Bug Balm

Okay, this one is genius. We used it near the marsh where the mosquitos are relentless, and will absolutely be bringing it on our upcoming hikes and camping trips.

It kept the bugs away without the chemical smell most repellents have. The texture is thick but spreadable, like a balm-stick hybrid, and it doubles as a hydrating skin soother after long days in the sun. We even used it on some dry patches and bites — it reduced the itch almost instantly!

Kabuki Brush

I wasn’t expecting to love a brush this much — after all, it’s the first time I’ve ever considered using one to apply SPF of any kind — but it makes applying the Merface zincs easy and effective. The bristles are insanely soft, and it buffs the product into the skin for seamless coverage. We keep it in our beach bag for easy reapplication during long days in the sun.

Your Questions, Answered

We get it — when it comes to SPF, you want the full scoop before slathering it on your face. Here’s a quick Q&A to help you get to know People of the Earth SPF a little better.

Q.What does it smell like?

A. People of the Earth SPF is filler and fragrance free. While unscented, some of the naturally-derived ingredients may have a light, pleasant smell. The sunbiosis and bug balm has a crisp scent with a clean and natural finish reminiscent of botanicals. The bare natural and Merface shimmers verge earthy, but to me don’t smell like anything at all. If you're sensitive to scent, you’ll likely find it gentle and unobtrusive.

Q. Does it cause breakouts?

A. This SPF is formulated to be non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog pores. While we’re not acne-prone, I do have sensitive skin that doesn’t like being covered. Of course, everyone's skin is unique, but so far this has not caused breakouts. We’ll update this post should anything change.

Q. Is it reef-safe?

A. Yes! People of the Earth SPF skincare is free from oxybenzone and octinoxate — two ingredients common in chemical sunscreen known to harm marine life. Instead, POTE is made with mineral-based filters (like zinc oxide) that are effective, gentle on skin, and safe for our oceans. We’ll be using the sunbiosis on our upcoming trip to get scuba certified!

Q. Is it travel-friendly?

A. Yes! The packaging is compact, sturdy, and TSA-compliant, which means you can toss it in your carry-on or beach bag without a second thought. Plus, no messy leaks — just clean, reliable SPF for wherever you roam.

Q. How does it feel on the skin?

A. It’s lightweight and blends in smoothly. Non-greasy, yet moisturizing, it feels good on my skin for daily wear. If you hate the sticky or chalky feel of some mineral sunscreens, this one might just surprise you!

Q. Is it for face or body?

A. According to their website, People of the Earth recommends applying Sunbiosis to both face and body to protect and nourish, and Merface shimmers as a face base.

We tend to use on my face, while sticking to a liquid SPF from another brand for my body — mostly so we don’t run out too quickly.

Q. How long does it last?

A. People of the Earth shares that with daily face application, these tins last anywhere from 3-4 months (90-120 uses). I could see the Sunbiosis running out sooner than that, especially if used on your body as well — the whipped texture is just so addictive, I find myself using more of this product. I can absolutely see the Merface shimmers lasting an entire summer and beyond, even with everyday use!

Final Word

As someone who lives life outdoors at every opportunity, we can honestly say People of the Earth has nailed the balance between function and philosophy. Their products feel like they’re made for people who care deeply about the planet and want to protect their skin without compromise. Their range is suitable for every occasion, and for everyone that shares this ethos — from men who prefer traditional white zinc, to women looking for a little sparkle (or visa-versa). It’s rare to find skincare that aligns so well with an adventurous lifestyle — and we’re here for it!

We have no doubt we’ll continue to support People of the Earth summer after summer, year after year.

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