le rub

Production locations

• Italy

Working Conditions & Living Wages

Italy is part of the EU, so all activities should be protected by EU legislation.

Ingredients

Face sunscreen ingredients

• Aqua (Water) – The base of most skincare products, providing hydration and helping other ingredients blend smoothly.
• Zinc oxide (non-nano, uncoated) – A mineral UV filter that acts as a physical shield against UVA and UVB rays by reflecting them away from your skin. We only use non-nano, uncoated zinc oxide, meaning the particles are larger and won’t be absorbed into your bloodstream.
• Caprylic/​capric triglyceride – A lightweight skin-conditioning oil derived from coconut oil, known for its ability to lock in moisture and provide a silky-smooth texture.
• Hydrogenated ethylhexyl olivate – A nourishing emollient from olive oil that helps skin retain moisture, keeping it soft and smooth.
• Glycerin – A natural humectant that pulls moisture from the air into your skin, ensuring long-lasting hydration and a plump, dewy finish.
• Cetearyl alcohol – A fatty alcohol that keeps ingredients blended together while also soothing and softening dry skin.
• Propanediol (from corn sugar) – A hydrating ingredient that reduces water loss from the skin, making the sunscreen feel light and absorb easily.
• Sweet almond oil (Prunus amygdalus dulcis oil) – A nutrient-rich oil packed with vitamin E and fatty acids to nourish and soothe the skin.
• Hydrogenated olive oil unsaponifiables – A plant-derived lipid that supports skin hydration and elasticity, preventing dryness.
• Glyceryl stearate SE – A natural emulsifier that blends oil and water while forming a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss.
• Sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronic acid salt) – A deeply hydrating ingredient that attracts water molecules, reducing the appearance of fine lines and plumping the skin.
• Saccharomyces/​grape ferment extract – A fermented grape extract that stimulates the body’s vitamin D receptors, supporting healthy skin.
• Coco-glucoside – A gentle, plant-based cleanser derived from coconut and fruit sugars, ensuring a non-drying, skin-friendly experience.
• Polyhydroxystearic acid – A texture-enhancing thickener that stabilizes UV minerals and prevents a white cast from forming.
• Caprylyl glycol – A moisturizing ingredient derived from coconut oil that hydrates and protects while also preserving the product.
• Polyglyceryl‑3 polyricinoleate – A castor oil-based emulsifier that keeps oil and water blended while softening the skin.
• Microcrystalline cellulose – A plant-based antioxidant that works as a thickener and stabilizer, improving the formula’s texture.
• Isostearic acid – A fatty acid that acts as a binding agent, helping the sunscreen spread easily on the skin.
• Lecithin – A natural skin conditioner derived from soy, sunflower, or canola that helps maintain hydration and even skin tone.
• Cellulose gum – A natural thickener derived from plant fibres, forming a barrier that prevents moisture loss.
• Xanthan gum – A natural stabilizer made by fermenting sugar, ensuring a smooth and even application.
• Sodium gluconate – A fermented sugar acid that helps balance skin hydration and stabilize the formula.
• Phenylpropanol – A natural preservative found in flowers that keeps the product fresh while neutralizing unwanted scents.
• Tocopherol (Vitamin E) – A powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from free radicals while providing deep hydration.
• Sunflower seed oil (Helianthus annuus) – A nourishing oil rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, helping to calm and moisturize dry skin.
• Parfum (natural fragrance, allergen-free and preservative-free) – A naturally sourced fragrance blend with low allergenic potential.
• Linalool – A natural aromatic compound found in citrus plants, adding a fresh scent.
• Limonene – A zesty, citrus-derived ingredient used for its uplifting scent.
• Eugenol – A naturally occurring fragrance found in clove, cinnamon, basil, and bay leaves.

Body sunscreen ingredients

(Each ingredient retains the same function as in the face sunscreen but formulated for a lighter texture and easier application across the body.)

• Aqua (Water)
• Zinc oxide (18%) – A broad-spectrum mineral UV filter.
• Sunflower seed oil (Helianthus annuus) – Softens and soothes the skin.
• Caprylic/​capric triglyceride – Locks in moisture and provides a silky feel.
• Hydrogenated ethylhexyl olivate – Hydrates and conditions.
• Glycerin – Prevents dryness and improves skin’s moisture retention.
• Grape seed oil (Vitis vinifera) – A lightweight oil rich in antioxidants.
• Hydroxyethyl acrylate/​sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer – Helps stabilize and thicken the sunscreen for a non-greasy feel.
• Hydrogenated olive oil unsaponifiables – Supports skin elasticity and hydration.
• Polyhydroxystearic acid – Prevents white cast and stabilizes UV filters.
• Cetearyl alcohol – Softens and soothes dry skin.
• Polyglyceryl‑3 polyricinoleate – Emulsifier that blends oil and water.
• Arachidyl alcohol – Texture enhancer for a smooth finish.
• Isostearic acid – Helps spread sunscreen evenly on the skin.
• Behenyl alcohol – A skin-conditioning fatty alcohol.
• Coco-glucoside – Mild, skin-friendly cleansing agent.
• Xanthan gum – Ensures smooth application.
• Lecithin – Locks in moisture.
• Parfum (natural fragrance)
• Limonene – Citrus scent booster.
• Arachidyl glucoside – Emulsifier that enhances spreadability.
• Tocopherol (Vitamin E) – Hydrates and protects from free radicals.
• Lauroyl lysine – Provides a soft, silky texture.
• Phenoxyethanol – Preservative that maintains product freshness.
• Ethylhexylglycerin – Moisturizes and enhances preservative function.
• Linalool – Adds a fresh, citrus-like aroma.
• Geraniol – Floral-scented compound.
• Benzyl salicylate – UV-absorbing fragrance stabilizer.
• Ecocert/​Cosmos approved

Traditional mineral sunscreens often get a bad rep for feeling thick, chalky, and leaving a white cast. Le Rub has fixed that by using:

• Silky-smooth dispersion – Their zinc oxide is blended with premium skin-conditioning ingredients to ensure a lightweight, non-greasy finish.
• High-quality emollients – Like sweet almond oil, sunflower seed oil, and olive-derived ingredients that help the formula spread seamlessly over the skin.
• Smart hydration boosters – Ingredients like sodium hyaluronate and glycerin lock in moisture and prevent dryness.

This means no white cast, no sticky feel, just powerful and invisible protection.

Serum ingredients: 

• Aqua (Water) – The base of the serum, ensuring hydration and a lightweight feel.
• Propanediol – A moisturizing agent derived from corn sugar that enhances hydration and improves ingredient absorption.
• Glycerin – A powerful humectant that pulls moisture into the skin, keeping it plump and hydrated all day.
• Hydrolyzed tomato skin – Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, this ingredient helps to protect skin from environmental stressors and promote a healthy glow.
• Apricot juice (Prunus armeniaca) – Packed with vitamins A and C, apricot juice brightens and nourishes dull skin.
• Opuntia ficus-indica stem extract (Prickly pear cactus) – A hydration powerhouse, prickly pear cactus is loaded with antioxidants and essential fatty acids to soothe and protect the skin.
• Lactobacillus/​Acerola cherry ferment – A fermented fruit extract that helps balance skin’s microbiome while delivering a boost of vitamin C for radiant skin.
• Myrtus communis leaf extract – Derived from the myrtle plant, this extract has purifying and antioxidant properties to support clear, healthy skin.
• Sodium hyaluronate – The salt form of hyaluronic acid, known for deeply hydrating the skin and reducing fine lines.
• Caprylyl glycol – A skin-conditioning agent that helps the serum feel silky-smooth while also providing gentle antimicrobial benefits.
• Cucumber fruit extract (Cucumis sativus) – Soothes, hydrates, and reduces puffiness, making it perfect for tired or sensitive skin.
• Pistacia lentiscus leaf extract – This extract, from the mastic tree, has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, helping to keep skin balanced and refreshed.
• Menthyl lactate – A cooling agent that provides a refreshing sensation while soothing irritation.
• Sclerotium gum – A natural thickener that helps create a smooth, gel-like texture.
• Saccharomyces ferment lysate filtrate – A fermented yeast extract that boosts skin regeneration and hydration.
• Phenylpropanol – A naturally derived preservative that also helps neutralize unwanted scents.
• 1,2‑Hexanediol – A skin-conditioning agent that enhances product stability.
• Citric acid – A mild exfoliant that helps to maintain skin’s natural pH balance.
• Sodium benzoate – A gentle preservative that keeps the serum fresh and effective.
• Potassium sorbate – Another natural preservative, ensuring the formula stays safe and stable.
• Leuconostoc/​radish root ferment filtrate – A probiotic-based preservative with skin-soothing benefits.
• Ecocert/​Cosmos approved – Meaning the ingredients meet strict environmental and ethical standards.

Repairing lotion ingredients: 

• Aqua (Water) – The base of the lotion, delivering essential hydration.
• Grape seed oil (Vitis vinifera) – A lightweight oil packed with antioxidants and omega fatty acids to protect and nourish the skin.
• Aloe vera leaf juice (Aloe barbadensis) – A soothing ingredient known for its hydrating, cooling, and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Glycerin – Draws moisture into the skin to keep it soft and supple.
• Cetearyl olivate – A plant-derived emulsifier that helps blend oil and water for a smooth texture.
• Propanediol – A hydration booster that helps skin absorb moisture more effectively.
• Cucumber juice – Refreshes and hydrates the skin while calming redness and irritation.
• Shea butter (Butyrospermum parkii) – A deeply nourishing butter rich in vitamins A and E, perfect for soothing dry or sensitive skin.
• Caprylic/​capric triglyceride – A moisturizing and skin-conditioning oil derived from coconut oil, ensuring lightweight hydration.
• Sorbitan olivate – A natural emulsifier that helps keep the lotion stable and creamy.
• Hydrogenated ethylhexyl olivate – A hydrating and protective emollient derived from olive oil.
• Caprylyl glycol – A multi-functional ingredient that provides hydration and antimicrobial protection.
• Menthyl lactate – Cools and soothes irritated skin while offering a refreshing sensation.
• Hydrogenated olive oil unsaponifiables – A lipid-rich extract from olive oil that softens and smooths the skin.
• Sclerotium gum – A natural thickener that helps create a silky-smooth lotion texture.
• Myrtus communis leaf extract – An antioxidant-rich botanical that protects and purifies the skin.
• Pistacia lentiscus leaf extract – Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, this extract helps to reduce irritation and redness.
• Allantoin – A soothing compound that calms irritation and promotes skin repair.
• Phenylpropanol – A natural preservative that helps keep the lotion fresh while also neutralizing unwanted scents.
• Tocopherol (Vitamin E) – A powerful antioxidant that protects against free radicals and helps nourish and hydrate the skin.
• Saccharomyces ferment lysate filtrate – A fermented yeast extract that supports skin renewal and hydration.
• Sunflower seed oil – Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, helping to moisturize and soothe the skin.
• 1,2‑Hexanediol – Helps enhance ingredient stability while keeping skin hydrated.
• Linalool – A natural fragrance compound found in essential oils.
• Sodium hyaluronate – A deeply hydrating ingredient that helps the skin retain moisture and stay plump.
• Parfum (natural fragrance) – A low-allergenic fragrance blend, free from harsh synthetic chemicals.
• Citric acid – A gentle pH balancer and mild exfoliant.
• Potassium sorbate – A mild preservative to keep the product fresh.
• Sodium benzoate – A gentle preservative that ensures product safety.
• Limonene – A citrus-derived fragrance component.
• Geraniol – A natural fragrance component found in rose and geranium oils.
• Ecocert/​Cosmos approved – Ensuring the formula meets high ethical and environmental standards.

Packaging

FSC® Certified Paper Boxes from France – The brand’s outer packaging is made in France from FSC Certified paper, meaning the paper is sourced from responsibly managed forests. These boxes are 100% recyclable, making disposal effortless and eco-friendly.

Water usage

Chemical sunscreens have been linked to coral bleaching and marine toxicity. Le Rub’s non-nano zinc oxide won’t dissolve into ocean water, keeping coral reefs and marine ecosystems safe.

Le Rub only uses non-nano zinc oxide—that means particles over 100 nanometers in diameter, which are too large to be absorbed into the bloodstream. Some sunscreens use nano-particles for a lighter feel, but these tiny particles may penetrate the skin and enter aquatic life, disrupting ecosystems.

NOTE: Water usage/​pollution down to the raw materials is generally impossible to track for cosmetic products.

Circular packaging design

Le Rub’s packaging is made from high-quality, recycled, and recyclable materials, sourced responsibly to reduce waste and environmental impact. Here’s how they do it:

• Recycled Aluminium Tubes – the tubes are made from 95% post-consumer and 5% post-industrial recycled aluminium. Aluminium is infinitely recyclable, meaning it can be repurposed over and over again without losing quality. Recycling aluminium also requires significantly less energy than producing new aluminium, cutting down on mining pollution and CO₂ emissions.
  • Aluminium has a higher recycling rate than plastic and a lower environmental footprint. Unlike plastic, which can degrade over time, aluminium retains its quality no matter how many times it’s recycled.
  • Aluminium prevents air, moisture, and bacteria from contaminating the product inside, ensuring maximum freshness and effectiveness of Le Rub formulas. This is particularly essential for sensitive products like SPF, which can degrade when exposed to light and oxygen.
  • Unlike traditional plastic tubes, aluminium allows you to squeeze out every last drop of product. Simply roll it up from the bottom, ensuring no waste and maximum efficiency.
• Italian Glass Bottles with Recyclable Droppers – Glass bottles are sourced from Italy, ensuring a recyclable and reusable packaging option that aligns with the brand’s sustainability values. Glass is a long-lasting material that can be continuously recycled without degrading in quality.

At this time, Le Rub does not have a takeback or refill program—but their packaging is designed for easy recycling, empowering customers to keep the cycle going.

• Aluminium Tubes: Rinse out any remaining product and place them in your household metal recycling bin. Since aluminium is infinitely recyclable, it will be repurposed into new products without losing quality.
• Glass Bottles & Droppers: Separate the glass and the dropper before recycling. The glass bottles can go into your glass recycling bin, while the dropper’s components (glass, rubber, and plastic) should be separated according to local recycling guidelines.
• FSC® Certified Paper Boxes: These are 100% recyclable and can be placed in your paper recycling bin.

Distance & complexity of the supply chain

• Production locations: Italy
• HQ is located in Hasselt, Belgium
• Le Rub sells/​exports in these countries: The brand works in 3 zones. Zone 1: Belgium, France, Germany and The Netherlands. Zone 2: Italy, Monaco, Spain, Luxembourg, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Czech Republic, Poland. Zone 3: Norway, UK, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Croatia, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Latvia, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Cyprus, Malta and Slovakia. Shipping and delivery time varies per zone.

The brand states it minimizes its footprint by choosing local suppliers and aims for a short supply chain. Most materials supposedly come from the Mediterranean area.

Transportation

• Transportation in the supply chain: Probably road transport, no specifications
• Transportation in e‑commerce: DHL, UPS, FedEx, Bpost, PostNL, Colis Privé, Local Hero.

All products from Le Rub are created to be reef-safe, vegan and cruelty-free (though we don’t have any proof of certification). The brand purposefully doesn’t use octinoxate, oxybenzone, benzophenone or other ingredients that could be harmful to reefs and marine life. 

Product design

Le Rub creates face and body sunscreen, a sun serum and body and face repair lotion. The brand believes in sun protection for every gender, age, and background for all skin types and skin tones. All products are dermatologist approved.

Transparency on product

Each product page shows a detailed description of all ingredients and their function.

Transparency on processes

The brand doesn’t disclose a lot of information of their suppliers or production on their website. 

Disclaimer: Transparency in cosmetics isn’t very regulated yet.