Protect your skin from the sun with these expert-recommended formulas. Dermatologists always talk about the importance of having the best sunscreen, but have you ever wondered how it protects you?
The first thing you should know is that there are two types of sunscreen: chemical and physical (or mineral). The first involves using chemical filters to “absorb UV rays and prevent them from penetrating the skin,” explains Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. “Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, contain inorganic compounds like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to block UV rays,” he says. Because of how mineral sunscreens work, you might associate them with a thick, white plaster. However, many of today’s formulas are nearly clear, making it difficult to blend your SPF, even if you have darker skin. Plus, experts say mineral sunscreens are great for sensitive skin because they generally don’t cause irritation. Angela Casey, a dermatologist and skin cancer specialist at Ohio State’s Dermatologic Surgery Center, says many experts consider mineral sunscreens safer than chemical formulas. Both types of sunscreen are approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but last year the FDA called for more research to examine the safety of certain chemical sunscreens once they’re absorbed into the skin. Mineral sunscreens don’t have the same effect. However, there are a variety of mineral sunscreens on the market, but don’t worry: We’ve done all the hard work for you. After consulting several dermatologists and checking countless online reviews, we found the best mineral sunscreens for every skin type and tone. Looking for a sunscreen that’s safe, effective, and requires reapplication all summer long? Below, dermatologists have ranked the best mineral sunscreens for face and body. 1. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Liquid Broad Spectrum SPF 50: This liquid mineral sunscreen comes highly recommended by several dermatologists we spoke to and Emily Goldman, editor-in-chief of Prevention magazine. It has a lightweight formula that absorbs right into the skin and blends seamlessly. It’s also non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, so it won’t clog pores or cause unnecessary irritation. Another plus is the higher SPF and water resistance. Goldman calls it “super lightweight” and emphasizes that it feels great on her skin. “My skin feels perfectly hydrated, even in the colder months. This is a sunscreen that works year-round.” 2. CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50: This mineral sunscreen contains ceramides to help the skin retain moisture, which is what Meghan Feely, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey and a clinical instructor at Mount Sinai in New York City, recommends. The oil-free, noncomedogenic, nongreasy formula also contains niacinamide to soothe redness, making it a great facial sunscreen. Goldman is also a fan of CeraVe, which is a must-have in my medicine cabinet. It’s super gentle for my sensitive skin but still very powerful at SPF 50, and it’s pretty affordable. I wear it every day. ”
3. Eucerin Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50: If you’re looking for a sunscreen that can be used anywhere and is also suitable for sensitive skin, this one from Eucerin is your best choice.
“This ultra-light sunscreen uses only mineral filters and can be used on both the face and body,” says Dr. Illustrator. “It spreads easily over large areas of the body and is completely absorbed into the skin, leaving no harsh white residue. It’s also water-resistant for 80 minutes.” ”
4. Coppertone Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50: Coppertone’s mineral sunscreen lotion has a high SPF value and is relatively inexpensive. It’s perfect for your days by the pool.
The formula contains zinc oxide and skin-strengthening botanicals like tea, kelp, and lotus extracts to keep your face and body hydrated and happy even in the hot sun.
5. Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen, Sensitive SPF 30+: This mineral sunscreen “contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in a particle size that’s too big to penetrate the skin, so it won’t cause irritation,” says Marisa Garshick, a dermatologist at MDCS in New York City.
“We’ve been here before. It offers broad-spectrum protection at SPF 30, and the bottle changes color when exposed to UV rays to remind you when to apply.”
6. EltaMD UV Elements Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF 44 This option is great for everyday use. “Its universal tint is perfect for most skin types and provides the most coverage possible for all skin tones,” says Dr. Cathy. It also contains skin-hydrating hyaluronic acid and antioxidants for extra protection from environmental impacts. “EltaMD’s tinted sunscreen is great for those looking for an SPF and foundation combo,” says
Goldman. “I wear this when I want to achieve a fuller look and am out longer than planned. Think daytime weddings.”
7. Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry Facial SPF 50 Neutrogena Sheer Zinc sunscreen uses the brand’s Dry Touch technology to prevent your face from looking and feeling greasy. Waterproof, fragrance-free, and lightweight
Finish. The oil-free, non-comedogenic, non-greasy formula makes it worry-free to use on oily or even acne-prone skin. “This is my favorite spot on a long beach day,” says Goldman. “The broad spectrum SPF 50 protects me when I’m at the beach, and it’s water resistant for up to 80 minutes, so even if I’m swimming in the ocean, I’m protected. I’ve been using the Neutrogena variant since I was a kid, and it hasn’t done me any harm.”
8. Dr. Jart+ Every Sunday Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ Are you looking for a high-quality mineral sunscreen from a Korean cosmetics brand? This product from Dr. Jart is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and reviewers love its absorbency, lightweight feel, and matte finish. “I finally found my perfect sunscreen,” one Sephora shopper wrote. “The product is lightweight and blends easily into the skin. My skin is light brown and it doesn’t leave a white film… My face feels hydrated but doesn’t feel sticky or look greasy.” ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultra – Light Emulsion Sunscreen SPF 50+ This zinc oxide sunscreen is “a favorite among women and men because it applies well and doesn’t leave a white film on the skin,” says Dr. Shari Marchbein, a New York City dermatologist, FAAD. “It’s a physical sunscreen, so it’s great for people with sensitive skin,” she adds. It also contains other ingredients, including DNA repair enzymes and vitamin E, for extra protection.
