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Byrdie / Chloe Jeong
When it comes to sunscreen, the absolute most important thing is that you’re using one. And so, to that point, when shopping for sunscreen, it’s imperative that you find a formula you like and are going to use. (That is, after you make sure it’s a broad-spectrum formula that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and has at least an SPF of 30.) If your daily activities include swimming or getting a sweaty workout on, water-resistant formulas will be essential to slather on—reapplying every hour or so to ensure continuous coverage.
But it’s worth knowing that sunscreens fall into two different camps—chemical options, which absorb UV rays, and mineral (AKA physical) options, which deflect the rays away from the skin. The former has come under some scrutiny as of late, thanks to recent findings concerning the efficacy of chemical ingredients and how much of them penetrate the bloodstream. (And if you’re trying to avoid chemical filters due to these or other concerns, make sure to browse the ingredients list before you purchase as some sunscreens are a blend of both mineral and chemical filters.)
The two most commonly used mineral ingredients, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are both sunscreen ingredients the FDA has deemed to be generally safe and effective. Not to mention, mineral formulas also have the benefit of being much less irritating, especially if your skin skews toward sensitivity. Again, we’ll leave the ultimate call up to you since—say it with us—the most important thing is to wear sunscreen every day.
Not all mineral sunscreens are created equal, so we did our research and consulted board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick for her recommendations to compile a list of the very best in show.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS: Medical Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery Centers and is the Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Cornell University.
Keep reading for the best mineral sunscreens out there.
Best Overall: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare All-Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30
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Amazingly undetectable formula
Doesn’t have that infamous sunscreen smell
Contains protective antioxidants
Pricey
If you have dry skin, you may want to layer a moisturizer underneath
If you’re going to reach for one sunscreen day in and day out, make it this one. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed. It truly goes on more sheer—both in color and feeling—than any mineral formula we’ve ever used. (And we’ve used a lot of them.) It’s oil-free and contains sea buckthorn, ferulic acid, and lingonberry for antioxidant protection; some research suggests that the latter may help combat blue light damage. A perfect addition to your everyday skincare routine, truly.
Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 30 | Size: 1.7 oz | Free of: Chemical sunscreens, parabens, phthalates | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes
What Our Editors Say
“I love the clear little tube-like applicator on this Dr. Dennis Gross sunscreen. It makes it really easy to measure out your SPF using the "two-finger" rule that my dermatologist recommends—cover your index and middle finger with a strip of SPF and you'll reach the protection level you see on the label. That, and it blends beautifully (no white-cast) and doesn't pill under makeup." —Holly Rhue, Senior Editor
Best Budget: Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
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Courtesy of Target
Affordable
Soothing formula
Non-greasy finish
Texture is somewhat thick
This trusty drugstore find offers broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection against UVA and UVB rays thanks to naturally sourced 100% zinc oxide. Even better, it uses a special dry-touch technology that ensures you won’t be left feeling greasy after application. Is your skin on the sensitive side? Fear not. “It’s especially great for those with sensitive skin, as it’s free of fragrance, parabens, phthalates, and dyes and has been awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance,” says Dr. Garshick.
Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 50 | Size: 2 oz | Free of: Oils, fragrance, parabens, phthalates, dyes, octinoxate, oxybenzone | Water-Resistant: Up to 80 minutes | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No
Best Face: Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense SPF 30
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Courtesy of Amazon
Soothing formula
Moisturizes skin
Relatively pricey
Despite an impressive 20% concentration of zinc oxide, this never leaves your complexion white or chalky (no matter your skin tone) and has a sheer texture that melts beautifully into the skin. “It’s a great option for the face, as it’s also rich in antioxidants like raspberry seed oil, astaxanthin-rich algae extract, and sunflower seed extracts to help protect against free radical damage,” says Dr. Garshick. Think of sunscreen and antioxidants as peanut butter and jelly—each is good on its own, but even better when combined.
Type: Physical | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | SPF: 30 | Size: 3 oz | Free of: Fragrance, essential oils, silicones, octinoxate, oxybenzone | Water-Resistant: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes
Best for Enlarged Pores: Supergoop! Mineral Matte Screen SPF 40
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Courtesy of Nordstrom
Blurs pores
Protects skin from blue light
Evens out skin tone
Relatively pricey
When your pores look large and in charge, the last thing you want is for a thick, oily sunscreen to accentuate their appearance. That’s what makes this ultra-light, translucent SPF such a great pick. In addition to being a 100% mineral sunscreen with SPF 40, it dries to a blurring matte finish that helps smooth the skin’s appearance and reduce the look of problem pores. “It also protects against blue light, as it contains butterfly bush extract, and contains white mulberry root, which helps to brighten the skin and improve tone,” adds Dr. Garshick. Wear it under your foundation as a skin-protecting primer or on its own for a no-makeup makeup look sans grease.
Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | SPF: 40 | Size: 1.5 oz | Free of: Parabens, sulfates, gluten, fragrance, octinoxate, oxybenzone | Water-Resistant: Up to 40 minutes | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: No
Best Splurge: Dr. Brandt Skincare Liquid Sun Shield Daily Brightening Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
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Sephora
Helps fade dark spots
Boosts radiance
Moisturizes skin
Pricier than other options
When it comes to sunscreen that doubles as skincare, this luxe serum from Dr. Brandt Skincare can’t be beaten. Not only does it offer broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection against UVA and UVB rays via non-nano zinc oxide, but it’s infused with plankton extract to protect against hyperpigmentation and clary sage ferment to brighten and even out your complexion. It leaves behind an invisible finish, so there’s no need to worry about a pesky white cast, and it also makes an excellent base for makeup.
Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 50 | Size: 1.7 oz | Free of: Parabens, fragrance, formaldehyde, phthalates, oxybenzone, octinoxate | Water-Resistant: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes
Best for Under Makeup: Unsun Cosmetics Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
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Amazon
Has a subtle tint
Reduces redness
Moisturizing formula
Small bottle size
This chemical-free sunscreen from Unsun Cosmetics provides SPF 30 protection and a subtle tint that imparts a healthy glow on all skin tones. It’s also chock full of skincare benefits, formulated with antioxidant-rich shea butter, plankton extract, green tea leaf extract, and vitamin E to hydrate the skin and offer additional protection from UV rays, infrared radiation, and pollution. All in all, it makes for a perfect base under makeup since it blends so magically into the skin, but it’s also a great choice for the days you want to go sans makeup (but still give your skin a little something).
Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | SPF: 30 | Size: 1.5 oz | Free of: Sulfates, parabens, phthalates, octinoxate, oxybenzone | Water-Resistant: Up to 80 minutes | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: No
Best for On-the-Go: Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50
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Courtesy of Amazon
Convenient packaging
Great for reapplication
Comes in a few shades
Not ideal for dry skin
Stash one of these in your purse, your desk drawer, your car… you get the picture. This powder protector is not only perfect for travel (no spills here) but also makes reapplication easier than ever. (FYI, you really should be reapplying your sunscreen every two hours, which we know seems like a lofty goal, but trust us, this makes it surprisingly attainable.) “This is a great option, as it can be easily applied over makeup and can be used on the go,” says Dr. Garshick. “It contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide and incorporates Enviroscreen technology to provide protection not only against UVA and UVB rays, but also pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation.” It also comes in four different shades that blend into a wide range of skin tones, so it’s guaranteed you’ll find a perfect match.
Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | SPF: 30 to 50 | Size: 0.21 oz | Free of: Oils, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, octinoxate, oxybenzone | Water-Resistant: Up to 80 minutes | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes
Best Active: EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
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Courtesy of Amazon
Moisturizing formula
No white cast
Non-comedogenic
Leaves behind a slightly shiny residue
This formula is often recommended by dermatologists, and it should be a go-to for anyone who loves outdoor activities. Nine percent clear zinc oxide protects you even through the most grueling workouts, so you can be sure it will do the job even if you’re just out for a walk. “This is a great option for those looking for a mineral sunscreen,” says Dr. Garshick. “It’s easy to apply and especially good for those who are active, as it won’t sting or drip when you sweat. Plus, it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and provides broad-spectrum coverage against UVA and UVB rays. It’s also non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores and rubs in easily without leaving a white cast.”
Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, tocopheryl acetate | SPF: 50 | Size: 3 oz | Free of: Oils, fragrance, parabens, oxybenzone | Water-Resistant: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: No
Best Lightweight: ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50+
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Amazon
No white cast
Lightweight
Contains antioxidants
Pricey
Don’t worry, we won’t ask you to say that three times fast. One of our perennial go-to’s, this formula uses straight-up zinc oxide for powerful protection and also contains DNA repairsomes, ingredients that help reverse previous sun damage (ideal if you haven’t been so on top of your sunscreen game in the past). It’s also a favorite of Dr. Garshick, who loves it for its absorbency. “This ultralight zinc sunscreen absorbs so well it’s often hard to believe it contains zinc,” she says, so tell-tale white residue isn’t an issue (so long as you rub it in). Give it a good shake before applying, then prepare to be amazed by how quickly and easily it disappears.
Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 50 | Size: 3.4 oz | Free of: Parabens, octinoxate, oxybenzone | Water-Resistant: Up to 40 minutes | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No
Best for Sensitive Skin: EleVen by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35
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Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue
Boosts radiance
Soothing formula
Pricey
Yes, that’s Venus Williams—as in the tennis superstar—who created this pick to combine sun protection and skincare benefits. Namely, it has the added perk of being infused with calming, hydrating, and firming prickly pear stem extract and protective safflower oleosomes, micron-sized spheres that house safflower oil. Super lightweight, it goes on transparently on all skin tones—even dark complexions. Plus, it’s clean, vegan, and reef-safe, so you can feel good using it, too.
Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 35 | Size: 1 oz | Free of: Oxybenzone, octinoxate | Water-Resistant: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes
Best Tinted: Alastin Skincare HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36
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Courtesy of Alastin
Incredibly hydrating
Gorgeous tint with a beautiful glow
Contains a wide array of antioxidants
Only available in one shade
New sunscreens come and go in our rotation, but this one remains a constant no matter what. It relies on two mineral blockers, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and, as the name suggests, has a consistency more akin to a tinted moisturizer than a sunscreen. It’s so hydrating that you can easily skip moisturizer and offers the perfect amount of coverage to leave your skin even and with a gorgeous glow. (Most days, we just apply this before heading out the door.) The addition of a healthy dose of antioxidants in the formula is just the icing on the cake.
Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | SPF: 36 | Size: 2.6 oz | Free of: Fragrance, parabens, chemical sunscreens | Byrdie Clean: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best Body: COOLA Mineral Body Sunscreen Spray SPF 30
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Ulta
Fragrance-free
Water-resistant
Easy-to-use spray applicator
Requires some rubbing to blend in well
For body protection purposes, we much prefer sprays over creams—they just make it so much easier to get widespread coverage. The only problem? Up until recently, most sprays were chemical formulas. Happily, there are now mineral options available, including this one. Fast-absorbing and non-greasy, it has a 14.2% concentration of zinc oxide, along with a blend of protective plant-based antioxidants to act as a second line of defense against skin-damaging free radicals. We also appreciate that it’s fragrance-free and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 30 | Size: 5 oz | Free of: Fragrance, parabens, phthalates, chemical sunscreens | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best Hybrid Formula: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
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Courtesy of EltaMD
Infused with niacinamide and lactic acid
Goes on totally clear
Great for sensitive and acne-prone skin
Not very hydrating
If you’re not looking for a ‘screen that’s strictly mineral-based, consider this option. It’s a hybrid that blends zinc oxide and octinoxate, a chemical sunscreen ingredient, in a formula that does, in fact, go on totally clear. We also like it as an option for acne-prone skin since it’s not only oil-free but also touts anti-inflammatory niacinamide (vitamin B3) and gently exfoliating lactic acid.
Type: Mineral & chemical | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, octinoxate | SPF: 46 | Size: 1.7 oz | Free of: Fragrance | Byrdie Clean: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes
What Our Editors Say
“EltaMD UV Clear is simply the best of the best. The formula goes on completely clear—so clear that it's impossible to believe it's a mineral formula." —Holly Rhue, Senior Editor
Best for Sensitive Skin: Alastin Silk Shield All Mineral Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
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Alastin Skincare
Extremely gentle and non-irritating
Boasts anti-aging benefits
Pricey
By definition, any mineral sunscreen is going to be a better bet for the easily irritated set, since minerals are more inert and generally thought to be less likely to cause any kind of allergy or reaction than organic sunscreen filters (which are commonly known as “chemical” SPFs). That being said, if you really want to up the ante, try this pick. The zinc oxide-based formula is oil- and fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and so gentle that it can even be used on post-procedure skin (think after treatments such as lasers or microneedling). Not to mention, you also get the added benefit of the brand’s patented TriHex technology, a blend of peptides that helps build healthy new collagen and elastin.
Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 30 | Size: 1.9 oz | Free of: Fragrance, parabens, chemical sunscreens | Byrdie Clean: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best for Sunscreen Haters: ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
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Courtesy of Credo Beauty
Extremely hydrating
Available in 30 shades, which is rare for tinted sunscreen
Clean and cruelty-free
Formula is somewhat runny
Pricey
Convinced you’ll never find a sunscreen you like? This one is for you. If it weren’t for the sun protection it offers, we’d hesitate to even call it sunscreen; it’s more of a serum-foundation combo. On the serum side, it contains plant-based squalane and two types of hyaluronic acid, which penetrate at various levels of the skin to impart tons of hydration. The coverage is gorgeous, sheer, and glowy and comes in an impressive range of 30 shades. (Pro tip: The color does change a little after you apply it, so let it sit for 30 to 60 seconds before blending.) And let’s not forget to mention its broad-spectrum SPF 40 sun protection, thanks to a 12% concentration of zinc oxide.
Type: Mineral | Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide | SPF: 40 | Size: 1 oz. | Free of: Fragrance, parabens, phthalates, chemical sunscreens | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Final Verdict
When it comes to mineral sunscreens, we’re giving top honors to the Dr. Dennis Gross All-Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defense SPF 30. A team Byrdie favorite, it goes on completely sheer and blends in to be entirely undetectable. It layers beautifully under makeup, too, making it a great choice for everyday use. Reapplying sunscreen is just as important as applying it in the first place, which is why we love the Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush-On Shield SPF 50 for touch-ups throughout the day. The powder formula contains broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays and can easily be applied over your makeup on the go. And finally, ample sun protection shouldn’t break the bank, which is why we love the Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Mineral Sunscreen Lotion. This trusty drugstore favorite provides non-greasy, broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection thanks to naturally-sourced zinc oxide, and it’s a great pick for those with sensitive skin since it omits irritants like fragrance and dyes.
What to Look For in a Mineral Sunscreen
At Least SPF 30 Protection
When it comes to the amount of SPF protection in a sunscreen, Dr. Garshick stresses the importance of using a formula that contains SPF 30 or higher. “When applied and reapplied correctly, SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 15 is thought to block just 93%,” she says. However, there’s also no need to shop for products with a super high SPF amount, either. According to a recent report by EWG, sunscreens offering SPF protection above 50 may not necessarily provide stronger protection against UV rays, so there’s no need to look for anything higher than that.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
In addition to high enough SPF protection, Dr. Garshick says that broad-spectrum protection is also just as important. “This indicates coverage against both UVA and UVB rays,” she says. “While it’s thought that UVB rays are responsible for sunburns and UVA rays are responsible for skin aging, both types of rays can contribute to skin cancer.”
Water-Resistant Formulas
If you’ll be swimming and/or sweating a lot, you should also be using a water-resistant formula. “No matter what type of sunscreen you’re using, it’s important to understand the label and be aware of whether it’s water-resistant, and if so, for how long,” says Dr. Garshick. “This is important because you should reapply sunscreen if exposed to water after 40 or 80 minutes, based on what’s indicated on the label.”
Purely Mineral Formulas
As we mentioned above, some sunscreens can contain a combination of mineral and chemical ingredients, so be sure to check the label to see if it’s a purely mineral formula versus a mix of mineral blockers and chemical filters. “Mixed formulas aren’t a big problem unless you’re specifically trying to avoid chemical sunscreen ingredients,” says Dr. Garshick. “Always make sure to read the label and look at the active ingredients so you understand what you’re using.”
Why Trust Byrdie
Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. A skincare junkie, sunscreen is her absolute, number one, must-have product—specifically mineral sunscreen, which her sensitive and easily-irritated skin much prefers. She’s a personal fan of all of the products on this list and especially loves the Colorescience option as the perfect way to make reapplication easier than ever. (Because yes, you’re supposed to reapply sunscreen every two hours.)