With picks from Elta MD, CeraVe, SkinCeuticals, and more
If we’ve said it once, we’ve said it a thousand times: It’s imperative to use sunscreen every day, 365 days per year, rain or shine, no ifs, ands, or buts about it. You can exfoliate, mask, and moisturize until the cows come home, but if your sunscreen game isn’t on point, all the products in the world won’t save your skin—so you need to make sure you like your SPF. And even your scalp needs sunscreen. When it comes to choosing sunscreen, some criteria are really important. “You want to make sure the sunscreen you pick is at least SPF 30, that it is labeled as broad-spectrum, and that it contains zinc oxide with or without titanium dioxide,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Arash Akhavan.
Sunscreen formulas fall into two categories. There are chemical sunscreens and mineral (or physical) sunscreens. “Chemical sunscreen ingredients absorb the energy of the sun and undergo a chemical reaction protecting the skin from absorbing that energy,” Dr. Akhavan says. “Physical sunblocks, which I prefer and recommend to my patients, reflect the sun’s energy away from our skin.”
Each has its own pros and cons, but mineral sunscreens are generally less irritating. They also aren’t absorbed into the bloodstream like their chemical counterparts (something the FDA is currently investigating), and don’t demonstrate the hormonal activity that filters like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene display in animal studies (although more research on humans is needed).1 One of the most commonly used minerals in sunscreen is zinc oxide. But it’s not like the thick, goopy, white stuff that lifeguards slather on their noses. The latest iterations are much more cosmetically elegant and feel more like a dewy layer of moisture than a nuisance only dermatologists could love.
To draw up our shortlist of favorites, we conducted hours of research on the best zinc oxide sunscreens at home and in our Manhattan lab. This real-life testing allowed us to examine a wide range of formulas, assessing them on their SPF level, level of water resistance, active ingredients, and the ingredients they are free from. We could also see first-hand how they felt on the skin and how quickly they absorbed. After considering dozens of options, and consulting with board-certified dermatologists, we landed on the following best in show.
Best Overall: EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
From one of the brand’s most often recommended derms, this formula—made with 9 percent clear zinc oxide—provides broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection for both the face and body. It’s a go-to for every day as it goes on clear and doesn’t streak or run. And since it’s also non-comedogenic, you can trust that clogged pores won’t be an issue. We put it under real-life testing in our Lab and at home and found it absorbed super quickly into the skin. While it did leave a slight white cast, this disappeared very quickly. It also left a healthy glow on our testers’ skin and didn’t settle into any creases. The added hyaluronic acid also helps to retain moisture in the skin throughout the day while creating a great base beneath makeup.
Best Drugstore: CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Face Lotion
Dr. Akhavan is a fan of this 100 percent mineral-based sunscreen—which uses a combination of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide—and recommends it to all of his patients, especially those with acne-prone skin. “It feels super lightweight and has anti-inflammatory niacinamide added into the formula, as well,” he says.
New York City board-certified dermatologist Dr. Debra Jaliman also counts this as one of her favorites, noting that the niacinamide can help combat dark spots and any redness, as well.1 What’s more, she says the formula’s ceramides restore and repair the skin’s natural barrier, and hyaluronic acid helps skin retain moisture—all without the lotion feeling too heavy. It’s no wonder the Skin Cancer Foundation awarded this affordable drugstore gem its Daily Use Seal of Approval, and the National Eczema Foundation endorsed it.
During our own Lab testing, we discovered (and loved) that the creamy consistency covers your entire face easily with a teaspoon-sized amount. As it is a mineral sunscreen, however, it does need quite a lot of rubbing in but once absorbed it leaves a non-greasy matte finish that works well beneath makeup.
Best for Face: ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Mineral SPF 50+ Sunscreen
Yes, the name is admittedly a mouthful, but don’t be put off by that. One of our perennial go-to’s and a favorite of Dr. Akhavan for its super elegant feel, this facial sunscreen formula uses straight-up zinc oxide for powerful protection and contains DNA repairsomes—ingredients that help reverse previous sun damage. Best of all, it’s incredibly lightweight and melts into the skin like butter, which is why it consistently holds a coveted spot among our daily skincare staples. During testing, we found that a little goes a long way and it sinks into the skin quickly and easily while layering well with moisturizers and makeup. As it is an emulsion, make sure to give it a good shake before using.
Best Splurge: SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
This one may be splurgy, but trust that it’s worth the investment. It provides powerful broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection to the face, neck, and chest. And because it uses both microfine versions of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, it’s specially formulated to stay put—so much so that you can even apply it on your eyelids and the delicate skin surrounding the undereye. The formula also contains artemia salina, a plankton extract that helps boost the skin’s natural defense against UV and heat stressors, while translucent color spheres lend a universal skin-enhancing tint. Oh, and the whipped texture layers nicely under makeup, too.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face Dry-Touch Sunscreen
If your skin is easily irritated, any kind of mineral sunscreen is going to be your best bet, but this one, in particular, takes the cake. It’s made with 100 percent zinc oxide and won’t clog your pores. It’s so gentle that it’s even earned the National Eczema Association’s seal of approval. And whether your skin is sensitive or not, the completely dry, non-greasy finish is a universal crowd-pleaser. During testing we found that it absorbed nicely and left a healthy glow across the skin. It’s also water-resistant so it’s ideal for wearing in the city on humid days or on vacation.
Best for Travel: Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Stick
There’s no need to stress about TSA confiscation with this solid stick. Not only is the spill-proof formula ideal for travel, but the small size is also great for swiping on often-forgotten spots like your ears and the back of your neck. Zinc oxide is suspended in a hydrating cocoa seed butter base, so it glides on seamlessly without pulling or tugging and leaves the skin oh-so soft. This particular option isn’t best for full body coverage but will work really well for light touch ups.
Best for Dark Skin: Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense Face Sunscreen SPF 30
This touts an impressive 20 percent concentration of zinc oxide, which would normally mean that it could look white or chalky, particularly on darker skin tones. Not the case here. The sheer texture melts beautifully into the skin without leaving behind any kind of tell-tale residue, as pointed out by happy Sephora reviewers (even those with dark skin). Also nice: Along with powerful sun protection, it contains two different types of antioxidants to counteract free radical damage caused by sun exposure.
Best Classic Zinc: Kinesys Clear Zinc Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30
Consider this the modern take on old-school, thick, white zinc oxide (per our lifeguard reference from earlier). It comes in a jar so you can easily scoop on as much as you want, and even though it applies white, it rubs in completely clear and smooth. It’ll nourish dry skin thanks to soothing aloe leaf, coconut oil, and sunflower seed oil. Plus, its scent is super refreshing, thanks to peppermint and rosemary leaf oils, which also act as natural preservatives.
Best for Touch-Ups: Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50
Here’s the thing: You really should be reapplying your sunscreen every two hours. That can seem like a lofty goal, but this powder makes it surprisingly attainable (available in four shades, it also won’t mess up your makeup). Equal parts zinc oxide and titanium dioxide come together to protect you from UVA and UVB rays and blue light, the light emitted from the screens of electronic devices, which can also be damaging to the skin.2 We love the super unique brush that allows for really convenient touch-ups.
Best Tinted: Alastin Skincare HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36
There are some days you want to wear a full face of makeup, and then there are some days you just don’t. On the latter, reach for this sunscreen, which we’ve sung the praises of time and time again. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide deliver broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, while the formula’s subtle tint evens out your complexion and lends a stunning glow. What’s more, it’s infused with a litany of antioxidants and other ingredients that can help shield your skin from infrared radiation, pollution, and even blue light. Plus, it doesn’t leave behind a white cast, making this one a no-brainer.
Best With Added Benefits: Paula’s Choice RESIST Super-Light Daily Wrinkle Defense SPF 30
Ideally, layering an antioxidant serum underneath your sunscreen (yes, every single day) is the absolute best way to protect your skin. But if you’re looking to shave a little time off of your morning skincare routine and/or just love multi-tasking products, check out this pick. Jaliman lauds it for the addition of powerful antioxidants such as resveratrol, making it a good choice for those concerned with anti-aging.3 It has a little bit of a tint, imparting just a touch of coverage.
Best for Body: COOLA Mineral Body Sunscreen Spray SPF 30
There’s no denying that spray sunscreens are much easier to use on your body than traditional creams or lotions, particularly when it comes to getting those hard-to-reach spots on your back. The only issue? Spray sunscreens have been entirely chemical formulas until recently. Enter this mineral option, which uses, you guessed it, zinc oxide. You get the easy-to-use benefits of a spray and added antioxidant protection; it’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a good choice for beach or pool days. “It contains jojoba oil, glycerin, and shea butter, so it’s hydrating, unlike some other sprays, and also has skin-soothing aloe,” says Jaliman.
Best for Sunscreen Haters: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare All-Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30
Even the most sunscreen-averse won’t have a hard time using this featherweight formula daily. Light and airy, the oil-free sunscreen looks and feels completely undetectable. It blocks out rays with zinc oxide but also packs a punch of plant-based ingredients and antioxidants that guard against other skin saboteurs, like pollution, blue light, and infrared heat. And while it’s not tinted, it still somehow manages to blend in seamlessly (on all skin tones) without leaving behind even a trace of a gray cast.
Best Sheer: Supergoop! Mineral Sheerscreen SPF 30
If you want to avoid the dreaded white cast left behind by many zinc sunscreens, Supergoop! is the way to go. The brand’s Mineral Sheerscreen instantly blends into the skin, transforming into a virtually invisible finish. Containing a blend of skin-loving ingredients, it’ll enhance the look of your bare complexion—but if you’re putting on a full face of makeup, it also works great as a primer.
Best Liquid: Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen
This sunscreen by Summer Fridays became one of our top favorites quite quickly during testing in our Manhattan-based lab. (No surprise given that we’ve previously awarded it as our ‘Best Facial Sunscreen’). Why? Not only is it reef-friendly, cruelty-free, and vegan, but it also has a very lightweight texture that sinks into the skin super easily while leaving a matte finish. This worked especially well for our testers with oily skin. We also loved that it didn’t pill, streak, or run and felt almost invisible beneath makeup.
Not only does this sunscreen protect the skin from harmful UV rays, but it also has many skincare benefits, too. For instance, it’s enriched with vitamins, soothing chamomile, and antioxidants to keep your skin soft and hydrated. What’s not to like?
Best for Sensitive Skin: Kinship Self Reflect SPF 32 Probiotic Moisturizing Sunscreen
Containing 22.4% of Non-Nano Zinc Oxide, this mineral sunscreen fared very well when put under intense testing in our Manhattan-based Lab. Not only does it have a high zinc oxide percentage that provides powerful SPF32 UVA and UVB protection, but it’s also reef safe and cruelty-free. What’s more, we found that it blended beautifully into the skin, absorbing quickly and easily without too much rubbing.
One thing to note is that it has a light pink tint that leaves a subtle glow on the surface of the skin, but it also lightens it too. The downside to this is that on darker skin tones this could leave behind a white cast, so we’d advise testing this out before purchasing a full-size bottle.
Best Multi-Tasker: Iris & Romeo Weekend Skin SPF 50 + Vitamin C + Glow
This SPF50+ sunscreen from Iris & Romeo not only offers very high UV protection but it’s also cleverly formulated with serum-grade time-released vitamin C and niacinamide. This add a gorgeous glow to the skin and during testing we loved the even, healthy sheen it left on our face. After a few minutes, the sunscreen also felt totally undetectable – like an invisible shield.
It does contain a little fragrance which is very subtle but may not be for everyone. The beautiful glow it leaves on the skin does also fade but you can enjoy it again every time you re-apply which is always a nice incentive.
Best for Dry Skin: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
There’s so much to love about this mineral sunscreen from Blue Lizard. First off, it provides high SPF50+ protection against UV, plus it doesn’t contain Oxybenzone or Octinoxate making it coral-reef safe. During testing in our Lab, we found that this formula is best suited to drier skin types due to its slightly thicker consistency that comes out quite watery before becoming creamier. While it is on the thicker side, it’s ideal if you’re very sporty or like to enjoy days at the beach thanks to its sweat and water-resistant formula. We also love its great value price that comes in under $20.
Final Verdict
We’re giving top honors to the EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50. A dermatologist fave, this formula applies clear and won’t clog your pores, unlike many zinc oxide products. Plus, we love that it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, lasting through an outdoor workout or dip in the pool. Because we must protect our faces as much as our bodies, the ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50+ is a must. Not only does it provide powerful broad-spectrum protection against the sun, but it contains DNA repairsomes that work hard to reverse the signs of previous sun damage. Finally, reapplication is just as important as your initial application, so we’re big fans of the travel-friendly Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Stick, which allows you to apply (and reapply) on the go. We also appreciate how hydrating the cocoa seed butter base is.
How We Tested
Every Zinc Oxide sunscreen in our roundup was tested in our Manhattan-based lab and at home so that we could see how they fared in real life. Testing was undertaken by a wide range of women of different ethnicities, aged between 25 to 54. We tested formulas suited for acne and blemish-prone skin while considering additional concerns such as dryness, sensitivity, and dullness.
What to Look for in Zinc Oxide SunscreenZinc Oxide Percentage Between 9 Percent and 11 Percent
As you peruse through zinc oxide sunscreens, Dr. Akhavan recommends reaching for products with a zinc oxide percentage falling between the 9 to 11 percent range. For instance, EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 contains 9 percent. “Anything lower can be ineffective, and anything higher can get too sticky,” he says.
Waterproof Formula
A waterproof (or at least water-resistant) formula is a must for any sunscreen, zinc oxide or not. “This way it can still be effective at the pool or beach and when you sweat,” says Dr. Akhavan. Of course, be sure to check the label to see how long the water resistance lasts, and always reapply after you swim, sweat, or towel off. It’s worth noting that many mineral sunscreens are reef-friendly.
Our favorite water-resistant formulas include Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 50 for the face and Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 50 for the body—both of which are good for up to 80 minutes of splashing or sweating.
Comfortable Feel
While the above is, of course, very crucial for a sunscreen to be fully effective, Dr. Akhavan says that the most important thing he looks for in a zinc oxide sunscreen is that it has a comfortable, elegant feel to it. “Mineral sunscreens need to feel silky and luxurious and go on sheer. Otherwise, I find that my patients won’t use them regularly.”
Remember, the best sunscreen is the one you’ll use. With this in mind, a couple of the best options that feel good on the skin include Supergoop! Mineral Sheerscreen SPF 30 and Dr. Dennis Gross All-Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defense Sunscreen SPF 30.
FAQHow should you apply zinc oxide sunscreen?
Dr. Akhavan suggests applying it with the fingertips, allowing it to fully absorb before applying any foundation or other makeup to ensure it doesn’t become diluted. Of course, be sure to reapply (at least) every two hours or immediately after getting wet or sweating and use a powder formula for application over makeup.
What percentage of zinc oxide should be in sunscreen?
Dr. Akhavan recommends opting for sunscreens that contain between 9 to 11 percent zinc oxide to ensure it has full UV exposure protection.
Does zinc oxide sunscreen expire?
Yes, like all sunscreens, zinc oxide products do expire, “and protection against UV rays can be significantly affected after expiration,” warns Dr. Akhavan. In general, sunscreens are considered expired after three years, but be sure to check for a date listed on any product you use.
Does zinc oxide sunscreen cause acne?
According to Dr. Akhavan, zinc oxide sunscreens do not generally cause acne, “especially if the product is formulated for the face,” he says. If your skin is particularly finicky, reach for sunscreen products for acne-prone skin. These are non-comedogenic to ensure they won’t clog your pores or further exacerbate an existing breakout.