Zinc oxide sunscreens

If you’re getting ready to break out the beach umbrella or the pool floats, you might be looking for a quality sunscreen that will keep you protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Zinc oxide sunscreen is a great alternative to chemical sunscreens, as the 100% mineral-based formula is gentle on skin and safer for coral reefs. In fact, some places like Hawaii and parts of Mexico have banned the use of chemical sunscreens because of their damage to local marine life.

If you’re looking to purchase a zinc oxide sunscreen this season, you’ll be navigating a vast market with a variety of brands, formulas and styles to choose from.

How does zinc oxide work in sunscreen?

The primary ingredient in any zinc oxide sunscreen is zinc oxide, a powdery mineral that physically protects your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. The zinc sits on top of your skin, forming an effective barrier that reflects the UVA/UVB rays that cause sunburn and skin cancer. That’s why zinc oxide sunscreens are known as barrier sunscreens or mineral sunscreens.

This type of sun protection is different from chemical sunscreens, which need to be absorbed into the skin to work. Chemical sunscreens use ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate and oxybenzone, which work by absorbing UV rays, converting them into heat and releasing them from the body. This is why chemical sunscreens need time to absorb into the skin before they’ll be effective. Because zinc forms a barrier on the skin, it starts working right away.

Zinc oxide sunscreens benefits

Safer on sensitive skin

Zinc oxide sunscreen does not contain harsh chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin. Instead, it’s made of 100% minerals and often contains added ingredients, such as beeswax or emollient oils, which benefit the skin.

Won’t clog pores

Zinc oxide is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, meaning it will not clog your pores. Zinc oxide also does not contain some of the chemical ingredients in other sunscreens that sometimes cause acne flare ups.

Better for the environment

Many of the chemicals in regular chemical sunscreen, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, can leach into the water when you swim and damage coral reefs and other ocean life. Zinc oxide sunscreen does not contain these chemicals and is safer for marine life than other sunscreens.

What to look for in a zinc oxide sunscreen

Formula

When purchasing zinc oxide sunscreen, it’s important to check the label to ensure what you’re purchasing contains at least 10% zinc oxide. Many brands will advertise as zinc oxide sunscreens, though they only contain a small amount of zinc oxide in addition to chemical filters. A zinc oxide sunscreen should contain at least 10% and up to 20% zinc oxide. Some products may also contain a small percentage of titanium dioxide, another mineral that acts as a physical barrier on your skin.

Water-resistant

You’ll want to choose a water-resistant zinc oxide sunscreen if you’re planning to go swimming or even if you’re somewhere hot where you might sweat. Check the label to see if the formula is water-resistant and for how long. Water-resistant sunscreen can usually last anywhere between 50-90 minutes before you’ll need to reapply.

SPF rating

SPF stands for sun protection factor, which refers to the sunscreen’s ability to block UV rays. The number refers to how long it takes the skin to sunburn when the sunscreen is applied based on tests in a lab. A higher SPF will block a higher percentage of rays than a lower SPF. In general, dermatologists recommend a sunscreen with SPF 15-30 for daily use. For longer or more intense exposure, choose a higher SPF. Keep in mind that sunscreen needs to be liberally and properly applied for the SPF to be accurate.

Face vs. body

While nearly all zinc oxide sunscreens are OK for sensitive skin, some products are specially formulated to be used on the face and may contain additional ingredients that can benefit your complexion. Facial sunscreens can be more expensive than full-body formulas, so it’s not cost-effective to use them on your entire body.

Tint

Zinc oxide sunscreens tend to be thick and white and may leave a white residue on your skin. If this is a concern, you may want to opt for a tinted formula for your face, though it may cost you a bit more. We think the CeraVe SPF 30 sheer face tint sunscreen is an excellent bang for your buck.

Price

A zinc oxide sunscreen will cost as little as $3 or $5 per ounce for basic formulas and upward of $10 or more per ounce for advanced formulas that contain special ingredients that address anti-aging or other skin concerns. A mid-priced zinc oxide sunscreen between $8-$10 is likely to contain vitamins and minerals that benefit the skin.

Best zinc oxide sunscreens

Solbar Zinc Sun Protection Cream SPF 38: Available at Amazon
A scent-free, water-resistant sunscreen that’s particularly gentle on sensitive skin. This lightweight formula is entirely free of chemicals and can easily be layered beneath makeup. The consistency may feel a bit oily for some.

Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 50: Available at Amazon
This 100% mineral sunscreen offers superior sun protection with a hypoallergenic and non-greasy formula featuring dry-touch technology. Plus, it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and has a sheer application with no white marks.

Sun Bum Original SPF 50: Available at Amazon
This clear 100% zinc oxide formula goes on clear with no pasty residue or oily feel. The jar makes it easy to apply as much as you need. Plus, it has a light and summery scent.

Badger SPF 30 Kids Sunscreen: Available at Amazon
A beautifully scented sunscreen that’s hypoallergenic, water-resistant and biodegradable. This kid-friendly formula includes beeswax, vitamin E and sunflower oil for added skin benefits. However, the thick consistency can be challenging to apply for some.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50: Available at Amazon and Ulta
A 100% mineral sunscreen featuring exclusive Cell-OX Shield technology and added antioxidants for healthy skin. The non-greasy formula can be used on both your body and face and will not leave any white residue.

Katy Severson is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.

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