Venus Williams Created an Eco-Friendly Sunscreen That Easily Blends Into Darker Skin

Photo credit: Hector Vivas - Getty Images
Photo credit: Hector Vivas - Getty Images

From Prevention

  • Champion tennis player Venus Williams created a sunscreen that blends seamlessly into darker skin tones.

  • EleVen by Venus in partnership with Credo recently dropped two new mineral sunscreen formulas that are eco-friendly.

  • “As an athlete and professional tennis player spending most of my life outdoors, I was compelled to create a sun care collection I could use daily,” Williams said.


As a lifelong tennis player, Venus Williams has always slathered on the sunscreen, but she’s struggled to find one that blends seamlessly into her dark skin and is good for the environment. That’s why she decided to create her own formula.

EleVen by Venus in partnership with Credo recently dropped two new mineral sunscreens—the On-The-Defense Sunscreen SPF 30, a more traditional cream that has zero white cast and a semi-matte finish ideal for oily skin, and the Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35, a lighter formula complemented by hydrating ingredients.

Both utilize zinc oxide as a physical blocker from the sun’s rays, which is safer for the ocean’s coral reefs than chemical formulas, according to the National Park Service. The Park Service reports that chemical sunscreens can actually awaken coral viruses, causing the reefs to become sick, expel their algae, and die.

“As an athlete and professional tennis player spending most of my life outdoors, I was compelled to create a sun care collection I could use daily,” Williams shared in a statement, per InStyle. “Safe for our planet and good for people of all skin shades and types, I hope to inspire others to get out, be active, and stay healthy.”

In addition to the skin-loving and environmentally-friendly ingredients, Venus ensured the packaging was as recyclable and sustainable as possible. The Unrivaled Sun Serum bottle is made of recyclable glass, and the On-The-Defense sunscreen tube is made of 40% post-consumer recycled materials and can be recycled again through Credo’s Terracycle program. Both products are vegan, cruelty-free, and their packaging is comprised of 100% recycled paper and soy-based ink.

The product line hasn’t been available for purchase long, but has already garnered some positive feedback. “I was hooked after my first day wearing it,” one reviewer wrote on Credo’s website about the sun serum. “Goes on so light doesn’t leave and residue on my skin at all.” Another reviewer raved about the sunscreen: “This has a beautiful matte finish, and very moisturizing to my dry skin. I also love how this is fragrance free, as I have allergic dermatitis.”


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