However, choosing the best mineral sunscreen can prove overwhelming due to the broad selection on the market today. To find the best mineral sunscreens, we reviewed, tested, and researched a variety of mineral sunscreens, considering factors such as ingredients, SPF, size, and value. For expert tips on choosing the right mineral sunscreen, we tapped board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Y. Claire Chang of Union Square Laser Dermatology in Manhattan. “I recommend looking for mineral sunscreens that have SPF of at least 30 or greater, and that are labeled water-resistant, as well as broad spectrum,” says Chang. “One of the most important factors when choosing a sunscreen is to find one that you actually like, and that blends in well with your skin,” she adds. Some mineral sunscreens can leave a white cast that people dislike, and, because of this, many do not put a thick enough layer or avoid reapplying throughout the day, both of which are common sunscreen mistakes. “It is important to look for a sunscreen formulation that allows you to apply the adequate amount for full protection, and that you will reapply throughout the day,” Chang says. Our top pick for the best mineral sunscreen is EltaMD’s UV Restore Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 because it provides proper protection without leaving a white cast or heavy feeling on the skin. Here are the best mineral sunscreens. Who it isn’t for: People who have extremely dry and sensitive skin might find it irritating. Voted the best mineral sunscreen many times over, the EltaMD UV Restore Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 is one of the best sunscreens you can buy in general. It has a plethora of skin calming and protecting ingredients, as well as antioxidants like ginger root extract to smooth skin and help to minimize wrinkles. This product also includes squalane to hydrate and plump the skin and a form of vitamin C called tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, which helps to reduce redness. It also comes in a tinted version, which Dr. Chang says is her go-to when it comes to pure mineral sunscreens: “It blends in with many skin types without leaving a white cast or feeling too heavy on the skin,” she says. Price at time of publish: $39
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, ginger root, squalane, vitamins C & ESPF: 40Size: 2 fluid ouncesWater Resistant: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t want to have to rub sunscreen in to get rid of the white cast. For a great mineral sunscreen you can pick up at your local drugstore, the Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion is a superb pick, and won’t break the bank either. It blends in well to the skin compared to some other drugstore mineral sunscreens (although you will have to work it in a bit) and provides adequate sun protection for daily use or even a sun-packed day at the beach. In addition to protection from harmful UVB rays, this economical product offers broad-spectrum UVA protection, too, helping prevent premature aging, wrinkles, and sun spots. As its name suggests, the product goes on smoothly, absorbs easily, and is dry to the touch within seconds. It’s also oil-free, non-comedogenic, and safe for sensitive skin—it was even awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. Price at time of publish: $13
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxideSPF: 50Size: 2 fluid ouncesWater Resistant: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t want to spend so much on sunscreen. It might be pricey, but this dermatologist-approved sunscreen goes on amazingly smooth, blends in easily with a sheer finish, and will keep you sufficiently protected from the sun all day. The Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen is a tinted mineral sunscreen that feels super light on the skin, yet still manages to adequately keep it hydrated and protected from both UVA and UVB rays. It claims to have a universal tint which, we admit, sounds a bit iffy, but it somehow blends in well with all skin tones and provides just a light coverage. It’s by no means a replacement for a full-coverage foundation or concealer, but for a light, no-makeup look, it’s ideal. It won’t emphasize pores, or under eye creases like some concealers tend to do, and it’s great for use as a makeup primer, too. The product stays on extremely well, even after a sweaty workout. Price at time of publish: $67
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, phytoene, phytofluene, ectoin SPF: 36Size: 2.6 fluid ouncesWater Resistant: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who do not want any hint of a white cast. There are many reasons to opt for a reef-safe sunscreen. For starters, a good one—like this Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion—will exclude harsh chemicals that are considered to be environmental pollutants. As a by-product, the lack of these benzophenones, parabens, and other chemical ingredients also make for a product that is gentler on your skin—especially if it’s sensitive. This affordable Hawaii Act 104 Reef Compliant sunscreen option from Sun Bum is zinc-based, hypoallergenic, and cruelty-free. It goes on smoothly, and is impressively cheaper than some other options. It’s even suitable for those with more delicate skin and children. There is a little bit of a white tint after applying this to the face, which doesn’t really matter when you’re engaging in sports, activities, or a day at the beach, but perhaps it’s not ideal for daily use or for darker skin tones. Price at time of publish: $17
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxideSPF: 50Size: 3 fluid ouncesWater Resistant: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who want a water-resistant sunscreen. With zero white cast or annoying icky residue, Drunk Elephant’s Umbra Tinte Physical Daily Defense is perfect for those who want to skip a few steps in their morning skincare routine. Once applied over your morning moisturizer, this tinted formula provides light coverage and leaves you with a glowy and healthy complexion. It has a sheer finish and protects against both UVA and UVB rays. With a smooth and even application, this tinted mineral sunscreen is free from potential irritants like silicone, chemicals, fragrances, dyes, and sodium lauryl sulfates (SLS). Instead, it includes “good” ingredients such as sunflower shoot extract to neutralize free radicals, algae extract to defend against oxidative damage, and raspberry seed oil to protect the skin against environmental pollutants. Price at time of publish: $36
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, sunflower shoot extract, astaxanthin-rich algae extract, raspberry seed oilSPF: 30Size: 2 fluid ouncesWater Resistant: No
Who it isn’t for: People who prefer creams over powder foundations. Available in four shades, the Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield with SPF 50 is a great option for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin who find that they often break out when using other, heavier face sunscreens. This all-mineral powder sunscreen goes on easily and leaves a matte finish. It’s vegan and cruelty-free, and is full of skin-friendly antioxidants. Dr. Chang highly recommends this product, saying, “although I prefer creams over powder sunscreens, this can be used on-the-go and for reapplication over makeup throughout the day.” Its compact size and easy applicator makes it great for keeping in your tote, and it’s also water and sweat resistant for up to 80 minutes. The formula is reef-safe, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic, and it’s free from harsh chemicals, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and oils. Price at time of publish: $69
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxideSPF: 50Size: 6 gramsWater Resistant: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who want a lighter sunscreen for daily use. Though it’s designed for athletes and those who do a lot of outdoor sports, the Thinksport Safe Sunscreen is one of the best options for those who jog, hike, or are fairly active outdoors. It absorbs into the skin quickly and isn’t sticky or oily. There’s also no strong chemical smell. It’s fully water resistant, making it an ideal option for watersports, and it lasts for up to 80 minutes in water before needing to be reapplied. This product has a 1 rating from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), and can be used on the face and the body. It’s also suitable for vegans, in addition to being gluten- and dairy-free. A thick layer of this reef-safe mineral sunscreen should be applied for 15 minutes before you go out into the sun in order to be fully absorbed into the skin and provide the maximum protection possible. Price at time of publish: $22
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxideSPF: 50Size: 6 fluid ouncesWater Resistant: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who want a 100-percent mineral sunscreen. A sunscreen that leaves a white cast—even after you’ve spent ages trying to rub it in—can be super annoying, especially for those with dark skin. Not only does the Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Hybrid leave no white cast, but it’s made with extremely soothing ingredients like aloe, lavender, jojoba, avocado, and shea butter. This moisturizing mineral sunscreen has a hybrid combo of mineral and synthetic ingredients, and feels lightweight both during application and while wearing. It’s water resistant for 80 minutes, and protects against UVA and UVB rays. The ingredients are designed to detox the skin, prevent acne, reduce signs of aging, and protect against irritation, leaving you with a healthy, dewy, and supple complexion. Price at time of publish: $16
Key Ingredients: Homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, zinc oxide, aloe, shea butter, carrot seed oil, sunflower oil, avocado, jojoba, lavender SPF: 50Size: 3 fluid ouncesWater Resistant: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t want any inkling of a white cast. All too often, those with sensitive skin choose to bypass sunscreen for fear that their delicate visage will flare up or get irritated, but this sunscreen from Shiseido was made with these people in mind. Gentle enough to even be used by babies and children, this mineral-based physical sunscreen is free from chemicals, fragrances, alcohol, parabens, and other irritants known to exacerbate sensitive skin. This non-comedogenic mineral sunscreen is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a perfect addition to your beach bag whether you’re soaking up the sun or doing vigorous water sports. In fact, its “WetForce” technology makes this formula even more potent when exposed to water or sweat for 15 minutes. The product is both dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested so it won’t irritate the eyes. However, the active ingredients—titanium dioxide and zinc oxide—do tend to leave a white cast. Price at time of publish: $38
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, aloe extractSPF: 50Size: 3.3 fluid ouncesWater Resistant: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t have a damaged skin barrier or people who don’t want to spend a lot on sunscreen. Even the most sun-conscious among us can be susceptible to sun damage. Whether it’s forgetting to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, neglecting a commonly-forgotten area like the neck or décolletage, or thinking you’re safe from the sun on a gloomy day, you might start noticing extra-large freckles or brown spots on the skin caused by solar damage. This is often referred to as photoaging or photodamage. The good news is that all is not lost and this can be treated. The ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica is a lightweight all-mineral sunscreen that contains patented DNA Repairsomes that help protect and repair existing sun damage. It’s a little pricier than some other options, but it’s perfect for anyone who wants to both protect their skin from future sun damage while treating the damage that’s already incurred. It goes on smoothly, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t leave behind a greasy residue. It should be reapplied every two hours for maximum effect. Price at time of publish: $57
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, photolyase, vitamin E SPF: 50Size: 3.4 fluid ouncesWater Resistant: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who have adequately moisturized skin or a go-to moisturizer they simply can’t part with. A win-win for anyone who wants to hydrate their super-thirsty skin and protect it from both UVA and UVB rays, Tatcha’s The Silk Sunscreen is packed with helpful ingredients that support the skin barrier, even out skin tone, and provide protection against the sun, blue light, and pollution. This product’s key ingredients include hyaluronic acid, known to quench dehydrated skin, niacinamide for an overall even complexion, and silk extracts that leave a smooth finish and make this product double as a makeup primer, too. Skin is left soft and supple with no redness, and after two weeks of use, skin is more radiant and able to lock in more moisture thanks to an improved skin barrier. It is quite expensive, so if you already have a great moisturizer, you may not need to splash out so much on a sunscreen (but it’s worth it if you do—there’s no such thing as too much skin hydration). Price at time of publish: $60
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid, niacinamideSPF: 50Size: 1.7 fluid ouncesWater Resistant: No
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t like liquid-y sunscreens. This highly recognizable bottle in the world of skincare is the go-to for those with acne-prone skin. The extremely lightweight sunscreen is water-resistant for 80 minutes, and features Cell-Ox Shield Technology which has antioxidant properties and provides protection from harmful solar rays. Its broad-spectrum coverage offers protection from UVAs too, and it also contains a lightweight silica powder to absorb excess oil, leaving a shine-free finish. La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios Light Fluid Sunscreen is non-comedogenic—a must for any product designed for acne-prone skin—and it can also minimize the appearance of already existing sun damage. It’s free from oxybenzone and octinoxate—reef-damaging ingredients and known skin irritants for those with sensitive skin—and it doesn’t leave a white cast. It absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving a matte finish for either going bare faced, or topping off with your favorite makeup. Just remember to shake the bottle very well before application, as it tends to separate while resting. Price at time of publish: $35
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, silica, vitamin E, dimethicone, thermal spring water SPF: 50Size: 1.7 fluid ouncesWater Resistant: Yes
Who it isn’t for: People who prefer a more dewy complexion. No list for the best mineral sunscreen would be complete without the cult favorite Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen. This influencer-favorite product is ideal for those with oily skin, as its oil-free and fast-absorbing formulation leaves a matte finish. It gives the appearance of smaller pores, and it can even target fine lines and wrinkles. The formula is vegan and reef-safe, and it has some unusual ingredients like wild butterfly ginger to protect against blue light, as well as antioxidizing bamboo extract to protect the skin against free radicals. Many use this sunscreen as a makeup primer, too, but you may choose to venture out barefaced once you see the smooth and almost poreless finish it provides. Price at time of publish: $38
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, wild butterfly ginger, bamboo extractSPF: 40Size: 1.5 fluid ouncesWater Resistant: No
Who it isn’t for: People who want a spray-on body sunscreen. It’s all well and good being vigorous about protecting your face against the sun’s rays, but what about the neck, décolletage, shoulders, and any other exposed parts of the body? The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen is made for those with sensitive skin, and doesn’t contain any fragrance or alcohol that can prove irritating. The product applies very smoothly and feels extremely lightweight, almost as if you aren’t wearing any sunscreen. It doesn’t leave the skin shiny, and it even provides adequate hydration for dry skin. It also doesn’t pill. This economical product is ideal for outdoorsy folk, and is gentle enough to be used on kids, too. This dermatologist-recommended product is reef-safe, and one of the best things about it is that the bottle cap itself will turn blue when exposed to harmful UV light! Price at time of publish: $14
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxideSPF: 50Size: 5 fluid ouncesWater Resistant: Yes
How to Shop for Mineral Sunscreens Like a Pro
Type and Ingredients
There are many formulations of mineral sunscreen available, ranging from creams, sticks, sprays, and powders. There are mineral sunscreens that are pure mineral sunscreens, containing only zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or both. Some sunscreens may contain a combination of mineral sunscreen and chemical sunscreen ingredients. “The best sunscreen, however, is the one that you will use daily and reapply,” says Chang. In addition to ingredients that can protect against harmful solar rays, some mineral sunscreens also include a bunch of other skin-loving ingredients to target issues such as acne, dry skin, fine lines, wrinkles, and redness. These could include hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and jojoba oil, to name a few.
Broad-Spectrum Protection and SPF
“Broad spectrum” is a term used by sunscreen manufacturers to denote a product that can protect against both UVA (ultraviolet A) and UVB (ultraviolet B) rays. SPF refers to a sunscreen’s sun protection factor and only measures UVB rays—not UVA. UVB rays are the ones that can cause the skin to burn, potentially leading to skin cancer. UVA rays, though, also cause damage and are known to age the skin. In order for a sunscreen to protect against both of these ultraviolet lights, it should be clearly labeled as “broad spectrum”. The number after the “SPF’’ on a bottle of sunscreen refers to the amount of minutes you can stay in the sun without burning. For example, if you typically start to sizzle after 10 minutes, an SPF 30 can technically allow you to stay in the sun for 300 minutes (10 x 30), although it’s advised to reapply sunscreen every two hours. This equation only holds if you are applying the correct amount of sunscreen (approximately 2 milligrams per 2 centimeters of skin). So if you are applying half the recommended amount, the SPF will be halved (meaning that, using the above 10 x 30 equation, you’ll only be protected for 150 minutes). Dermatologists suggest that everyone should wear sunscreen, regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity, skin type, location or season—even if you don’t tend to burn much when exposed to the sun. Yes, sunscreen should even be worn in the winter. In addition, your sunscreen should really be SPF 30 or more for adequate protection, and preferably water-resistant, too. Having a much higher SPF than 30 doesn’t really provide all that much extra protection, since you should be reapplying every two hours anyway. Also, the SPF scale isn’t linear. For example, an SPF 30 can provide 97 percent of protection against UVB rays, whereas an SPF 50 provides just 1 percent more. Having a really high SPF of, let’s say, 70+, doesn’t give you all that much greater protection than an SPF 30, and could give you a false sense of security, leading to less reapplying throughout the day.
Questions You Might Ask
What’s the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreens, containing either or both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, serve as a barrier on the surface of the skin to reflect away UVA and UVB rays. Mineral sunscreens are better for those with more sensitive skin who may get a reaction to chemical sunscreen ingredients. Mineral sunscreens can be applied after a moisturizer as they should sit on the surface of the skin. Chemical sunscreens, including oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, among others, absorb the UV rays rather than deflecting them. Chemical sunscreens should be applied 15-20 minutes prior to sun exposure. Chemical sunscreens need to be absorbed into the skin to work and should therefore be applied before your moisturizer and makeup. In addition, chemical sunscreens have a higher risk of skin reactions than mineral sunscreens. Some chemical sunscreens, including oxybenzone and octinoxate, are associated with negative environmental impacts and may cause harm to coral reefs. “Given these issues,” says Chang, “I typically recommend mineral sunscreens over chemical sunscreens to my patients.”
Does mineral sunscreen expire?
Yes, indeed it can. Mineral sunscreens can expire, usually with an expiration date two to three years after their manufacturing date. “While the active ingredients—zinc and titanium dioxide—themselves may remain stable for longer,” Chang explains, “the other ingredients in the formulation, including preservatives and emulsifiers, may break down, separate, or become less stable.” But how do you know if your sunscreen has expired? “Changes in the color or consistency of your sunscreen is a sign that it is time to get a new bottle,” says Chang. “Mineral sunscreens can become clumpy, separated, or difficult to apply evenly when it gets close to expiration, making them less effective at blocking UV rays.”
Do you need mineral sunscreen if you wear foundation with SPF?
For maximum protection against the sun’s harmful rays, Dr. Chang recommends applying sunscreen along with SPF-containing foundation. “While foundation with SPF can give you some sun protection, most people are not applying a thick enough layer to actually provide adequate UV coverage,” she says. “Doubling up on coverage does not hurt and can only help.”
What’s the best way to apply mineral sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreen should be applied as the last step of your skincare routine, after cleansing, toning, serums, and moisturizers. It can be applied before putting on your makeup. Sunscreen should be applied to all sun-exposed areas of the body, including the ears, scalp, neck, chest, arms and legs. “Adults typically need about an ounce (a shot glass worth) to cover the body,” Chang advises. When it comes to reapplying throughout the day, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, and also after getting wet or sweating. “Sunscreen should be applied every day and reapplied, even on cloudy or winter days,” says Chang. “It is important to make this a daily routine, and something you do not even have to think about.”
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Kat de Naoum, who has over 10 years of commerce-writing experience. Kat is also the Commerce Editor-at-Large at Thomas-Xometry, the leading US online platform for supplier discovery and product sourcing. For this article, Kat reviewed, tested, and researched a variety of mineral sunscreens, considering factors such as ingredients, SPF, size, and value. She also spoke to Dr. Y. Claire Chang, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology in Manhattan.
