These picks will help keep your skin safe and avoid the ghostly white cast.
Dermatologists never leave the house without slathering on sunscreen, and they hope you’ll follow suit. Applying sunscreen is the easiest way to prevent sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging (think wrinkles and sagging skin). Zinc-based sunscreens offer broad-spectrum protection against UVB and UVA rays but without the addition of potentially harmful ingredients.
Zinc oxide sunscreens are mineral-based, which means they form a skin barrier that reflects UV rays. Zinc sunscreens are less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, making them a better option if you have sensitive skin, says Aanand Geria, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey. Additionally, some sun-blocking ingredients in chemical sunscreens are being investigated as potentially harmful because they can be absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. In 2019, the FDA proposed that mineral sunscreens are safer than chemical sunscreens.1 For this reason, many beachgoers tend to skip chemical products due to safety concerns.
To help you find the best mineral sunscreens, we spoke to dermatologists and asked for their top picks. We also researched the most effective face zinc oxide sunscreens on the market to compile our final list and had a dermatologist from our Medical Expert Board review this article for medical and scientific accuracy.
How to Select Zinc Oxide Sunscreens
- SPF: The minimum SPF number recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology is 30. However, if you have fair skin or a family history of skin cancer, you may want to choose a higher SPF level.
- Water resistance: If you plan on being in the water or know you sweat a lot, look for water-resistant sunscreen that can withstand moisture for at least 40 minutes. For even better protection, look for a sunblock that is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. However, note that no sunscreen is 100% waterproof. You’ll still have to reapply zinc oxide sunscreens after swimming or sweating and every two hours when you’re outdoors.
Best Overall
EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41 Sunscreen
EltaMD comes recommended by many of the dermatologists we spoke to because it checks all of the boxes. It’s over the recommended SPF 30, has broad-spectrum protection, and is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes. Plus, it’s recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation for daily use.
Major bonus: This formula is lightly tinted, so it won’t leave your skin looking like you slathered it with white paint. It’s also formulated with three types of antioxidants (linoleic acid, quercetin, and thioctic acid), which all help prevent visible signs of aging. And it’s free of parabens, oils, and fragrances so it’s gentle on those with sensitive skin. We also love that EltaMD’s UV Physical Broad-Spectrum sunscreen works well on its own and under makeup, deeming it ideal for everyday use.
Product Details:
- Type: Cream
- SPF: 41
- Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide 7%, Zinc oxide 9%
- Size: 3 fluid ounces
- Water resistance: 40 minutes
Best Drugstore
Banana Boat Mineral SPF 50+
Banana Boat is a classic drugstore sunscreen brand, and we especially love the Sensitive Mineral line because it’s free of oils and fragrances. Plus, it boasts the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, which means it’s suitable for sensitive skin and people with eczema.
It’s worth noting that even though it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, you’ll still want to reapply every two hours when you’re outdoors for optimal protection, as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology.2
American Academy of Dermatology. Sunscreen FAQs.
You can likely find this broad-spectrum sunscreen at your local Walgreens or CVS, which makes it super easy to pick up on your way to the beach (so you’ve got no excuse to not wear it). This line also comes in Baby, Kids, and Sport varieties, which are all 100% mineral-based.
Product Details:
- Type: Cream
- SPF: 50
- Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide 4.5%, zinc oxide 6.5%
- Size: 3 fluid ounces; 6 fluid ounces
- Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best Tinted
Jan Marini Physical Protectant Tinted SPF 45
Jan Marini’s tinted sunscreen comes recommended by Dr. Geria because it has high broad-spectrum protection and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Plus, we love that it’s tinted. The universal tint blends seamlessly into many skin tones, and prevents that harsh white cast that’s often associated with mineral sunscreens.
Jan Marini’s tinted SPF pulls double-duty as somewhat of a light BB cream. The cream is formulated with anti-inflammatory green tea extract and CoQ10, an antioxidant linked to protecting the skin from UV damage, per a study in BioFactors.3 It helps control oil and dries with a sheer, matte finish.
Product Details:
- Type: Cream
- SPF: 45
- Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide 6%, zinc oxide 8%
- Size: 2 fluid ounces
- Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best Spray
Supergoop Play 100% Mineral Body Mist SPF 30 with Marigold Extract
This UV ray-blocking zinc oxide mist from Supergoop comes recommended by Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Spray sunscreens like this one can easily be applied to large surface areas like your arms, legs, and back. And this one from Supergoop sprays on white, but dries quickly into a sheer, dry-to-the-touch finish so you can use it on your face without worrying about it leaving a white cast.
Spray sunscreens are attractive because they can be applied in one fell swoop and don’t leave your hands sticky. But it’s worth noting that they don’t provide the best protection when compared to creams and lotions. Up to 79% of spray sunscreen can be lost under light wind, and that number climbs up to 93% in stronger wind conditions, according to a 2021 report.4
Product Details:
- Type: Spray
- SPF: 30
- Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide 12%
- Size: 6 fluid ounces
- Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best for Melasma
EltaMD UV Elements Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 44
EltaMD’s UV Elements Tinted SPF is an oil-free, chemical-free formula that won’t clog pores and is excellent for sensitive skin. It’s a favorite of board-certified dermatologist Alicia Zalka, MD. She recommends it for those living with melasma—a condition characterized by brown spots and hyperpigmentation from increased sun exposure and/or changes in hormones (like during pregnancy).
This product is tinted, which helps mask melasma pigmentation while protecting skin from damage, Dr. Zalka says, noting that it also helps shield the skin from the high-energy visible light that can worsen the condition.
If you’re looking for a tinted zinc sunscreen that offers a little bit more coverage and doesn’t leave a white cast on darker skin tones, this one’s a great option. Plus, it boasts hydrating hyaluronic acid to plump skin and prevent it from drying out under the sun.
Product Details:
- Type: Cream
- SPF: 44
- Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide 10%, titanium dioxide 5.5%
- Size: 2 fluid ounces
- Water resistance: 40 minutes
Best for Sensitive Skin
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face Dry-Touch Sunscreen
Neutrogena’s Sheer Zinc face sunscreen is free of fragrances, parabens, phthalates, and dyes. It was awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance so you know it’s a great option for sensitive skin. The broad-spectrum protection shields your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, and the lightweight formula won’t sting your eyes.
This pick is widely available at many drugstores, which makes it easier to incorporate into your daily routine, whether you’re playing outdoor sports or working from home by a window. If you find that it leaves a white cast on your skin, try applying your go-to moisturizer first and then layering on this sunscreen. Make sure to rub it in evenly across your face.
Product Details:
- Type: Cream
- SPF: 50
- Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide 21.6%
- Size: 2 fluid ounces
- Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best for Oily Skin
Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder Sunscreen SPF 35 PA+++
If your skin is prone to getting greasy, especially during summer months, you’ll love Supergoop’s Resetting Mineral Powder Sunscreen. It doubles as a sunscreen and setting powder, and it’s made with zinc oxide for broad-spectrum protection and coated silica to help blur pores. While you can use it to help set your makeup, it’s also great on its own. Just swoosh it over your face to stay protected from the sun and mattify shine. But make sure to cover your entire face or use it over your favorite cream or liquid sunscreen to ensure optimal sun protection.
Supergoop’s Resetting Mineral Powder Sunscreen comes in four shades, including translucent, and doesn’t produce a white cast like other zinc sunscreens. Stash it in your bag to reapply and mattify your face throughout the day.
Product Details:
- Type: Powder
- SPF: 35
- Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide 24.7%
- Size: 0.15 ounces
- Water resistance: None
Best for Dry Skin
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Face Lotion
We love Cerave’s Hydrating Face Mineral Sunscreen because it offers broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection plus skin-hydrating ingredients. This formula includes ceramides and niacinamide (a B vitamin) that help add moisture to the skin and maintain the skin barrier.
A mixture of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide shields your skin from the sun’s rays without irritating it. This pick bears both the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance and the Skin Cancer Foundation Daily Use Seal of Approval.
While it does leave a white cast, as most mineral sunscreens do, the lightweight, non-greasy formula also works well under makeup. So feel free to slather it on before applying your favorite foundation. Plus, this pick is affordable and widely available in many drugstores and online.
Product Details:
- Type: Cream
- SPF: 50
- Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide 9%, zinc oxide 7%
- Size: 2.5 fluid ounces
- Water resistance: None
Best for Dark Skin
Unsun Cosmetics Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Founded by a woman of color for people of color, Unsun is wonderful for those with darker skin tones because it’s tinted and doesn’t leave a ghostly white cast. Wearers love that it blends seamlessly into the skin and provides ample hydration.
Unsun is formulated with shea butter and aloe to help moisturize the skin, and this pick works great under makeup as a primer or on its own. It leaves a dewy finish and provides even coverage, so you might even find that you don’t even need to wear foundation when you have this on.
Major bonus: Unsun’s Mineral Tint Face Sunscreen contains iron oxides, which have been shown to protect against high-energy visible light that can cause hyperpigmentation, especially when combined with zinc (like in this sunscreen option), per a study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 5
Product Details:
- Type: Cream
- SPF: 30
- Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide 6.5%, titanium dioxide 5.5%
- Size: 1.7 fluid ounces
- Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best Fragrance-Free
Native Unscented Zinc Face Sunscreen SPF 30
Fragrance-free sunscreens are great for folks with sensitive skin because even some naturally derived fragrances can cause irritation in certain people. This sunscreen from Native comes in an unscented version that’s also clean and formulated with simple ingredients that are all laid out and defined on the brand’s website (and we love transparency). It’s fragrance-free, so you can rest assured that you won’t smell like coconuts, and your sunscreen won’t clash with your favorite summer perfume.
Wearers love that this lotion rubs in easily and doesn’t leave a white cast. It’s made with vitamin E and avocado oil, which naturally moisturize the skin. Another bonus: All Native Sunscreens are compliant with the Hawaii Act 104, which protects Hawaii’s coral reefs.
Product Details:
- Type: Cream
- SPF: 30
- Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide 20%
- Size: 1.7 fluid ounces
- Water resistance: None
Best Under Makeup
Honest Beauty Self-Defense Mineral Sunscreen Fluid, SPF 34
If you wear face makeup, you may want your sunscreen to double as a primer. This pick from Jessica Alba’s brand, Honest, is perfect for wearing under your favorite foundation. Its lightweight, thin formula blends evenly and doesn’t feel sticky or greasy to the touch. Just be sure to rub it in completely to avoid a slight white cast.
It’s also a great option for sensitive skin, as this pick was awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. You won’t find any PEGs, BHT, mineral oil, fragrances, chemical sunscreens, or silicones in this formula. But keep in mind that you’ll need to reapply after sweating or swimming since the sunscreen isn’t water-resistant.
Product Details:
- Type: Liquid
- SPF: 34
- Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide 2%, zinc oxide 15.8%
- Size: 1 fluid ounce
- Water resistance: None
Best Stick
MDSolarSciences Tinted Solar Stick SPF 40
MD Solar Sciences Solar Stick SPF 40 is a lightweight and easy-to-apply sheer tinted mineral stick, says Caroline Robinson, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. It dries matte, making it a great choice for oilier skin types. Stick formulas like this one from MD Solar Sciences are usually a great option for folks with oily skin because they boast a drier texture than traditional lotion or cream sunscreens. Plus, Dr. Robinson loves that the stick application makes it easy to reapply as needed.
The iron oxides in this formula provide added visible light protection, so it may be helpful for those prone to dark spots, Dr. Robinson says. If you want a bit more coverage without a white cast, opt for the tinted version of this sunscreen stick.
Product Details:
- Type: Stick
- SPF: 40
- Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide 8.1%, zinc oxide 6%
- Size: 0.6 fluid ounces
- Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best for Travel
Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick
Sunbum’s Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick is super easy to travel with. Just stash the TSA-friendly stick in your carry-on, purse, or fanny pack for easy application wherever life takes you. The glide-on formula won’t get your hands dirty and can be easily applied to your face (including under your eyes), ears, lips, and body. Plus, you won’t have to worry about washing your hands before or after applying sunscreen with this finger-free formula.
The zinc-only stick is fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and contains plant oils including coconut and avocado oils to moisturize dry summer skin. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so it’ll last through dips in the ocean, days by the pool, sweaty city strolls, and so much more. As with all sunscreens, make sure to apply this 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors.
Product Details:
- Type: Stick
- SPF: 50
- Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide 19.2%
- Size: 0.53 fluid ounces
- Water resistance: 80 minutes
Best for Kids
Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen
Zinc sunscreen is a great option for babies and kids who have weak skin barriers, since it can be used safely on children as young as six months, says Rachel Nazarian, MD, a New York-based dermatologist and fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Aveeno’s Baby Continuous Protection Zinc Sunscreen bears the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance and is made with skin-soothing oat, so you can rest assured it’s suitable for delicate baby skin. It’s also water-resistant, so it will stay put in the pool or ocean for up to 80 minutes.
The formula is thick and a bit hard to rub in, but that might work in your kid’s favor. The white cast acts as a guideline to help you identify where you’ve already applied the sunscreen, so you won’t miss any spots on your baby’s face and body.
Product Details:
- Type: Cream
- SPF: 50
- Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide 21.6%
- Size: 3 fluid ounces
- Water resistance: 80 minutes
How to Apply Zinc Sunscreen
When applying zinc-based sunscreen, the key is to ensure you’re using enough to get the label protection on the bottle. Apply a quarter-size amount for the full face and a shot glass amount (or about 1 ounce) for the rest of your sun-exposed body.
Apply sunscreen from the center of your face and rub it towards the border. Don’t forget to cover the skin around the hairline. Reapply every two hours or as needed.
Your Questions, Answered
Is zinc oxide the best sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which form a skin barrier that reflects UV rays, Dr. Geria says. Meanwhile, chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin while converting UV rays into heat and releasing them from the body, per Piedmont.6
Mineral sunscreens are less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, making them the best option for those with sensitive skin, Dr. Geria says.
Whether you opt for a mineral or chemical sunscreen, make sure it contains broad spectrum protection (which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays from the sun), a minimum of SPF 30, and water resistance for at least 40 minutes (especially if you sweat a lot or will be in the water).
Is it safe to wear zinc oxide sunscreen every day?
Yes, zinc and mineral sunscreens are safe to wear daily. Mineral sunscreens tend to be less irritating than chemical sunscreens, so they are advantageous for people who have very sensitive skin, Dr. Zeichner says. Mineral sunscreens are also recommended for young children because their skin is more prone to irritation.
Sunscreens are considered over-the-counter drugs and are subject to FDA regulations. Both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are recognized as safe and effective by the FDA, Dr. Zeichner says. Also worth noting: Although titanium dioxide was banned in Europe as a food additive, that does not affect its use in cosmetic products, Dr. Zeichner tells us.
What are the disadvantages of zinc oxide sunscreen?
The downside to mineral sunscreens is that many leave behind a white cast on the skin, which is especially problematic for those with darker skin tones, Dr. Zeichner says. However, nowadays there are many tinted zinc oxide sunscreens out there, which reduce the amount of white residue left on your skin while offering the natural sun protection you need.