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If there’s one thing your derm wants you to be religious about, it’s making sure you use a daily SPF regardless of the season. Protecting your skin is the key to preventing skin cancer, painful sunburns, and premature aging, especially on your face. The best mineral sunscreens for your face are gentle on the skin and have adequate SPF levels for optimal protection. And according to dermatologists, formulas with zinc oxide are best. To help compile a list of the best SPFs for every skin tone and need, we spoke with a dermatologist who explained the active ingredients in mineral sunscreens, plus the best picks to shop.
The Best Mineral Face Sunscreen, at a Glance
Best Overall:Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50, $54
Best Brightening:Caudalie Vinosun Protect Brightening Daily Mineral Face Sunscreen SPF 50, $39
Best Editor’s Pick:Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free SPF 42 Mineral Face Sunscreen, $38
Best for Acne-Prone Skin:Clearstem You Are Sunshine Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+, $42
Best for Teens:Drunk Elephant Umbra 100% Mineral Cream SPF 30/PA+++ Tinted Face Sunscreen, $26
Best Hydrating:Kosas DreamBeam Silicone-Free Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40, $40
Most Affordable:Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Face & Body SPF 50, $13
Best Fragrance-Free:Saie Sunvisor Radiant Moisturizing Face Sunscreen SPF 35, $38
Best Oxybenzone Free:Vacation Shake Shake SPF 50, $27
Most Popular:Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry-Touch Mineral Face Sunscreen, $13 (was $14)
Best for Melasma: EltaMD UV AOX Elements Tinted Mineral Face Sunscreen, $45
What to Look for in a Mineral Sunscreen
“For everyone, I recommend non-comedogenic mineral sunscreens,” says Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Here’s what to look for when looking for mineral sunscreens.
Ingredients: Dr. King suggests seeking forms that contain non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in a base that contains antioxidants and humectants to hydrate the skin, emollients to support the skin barrier, and occlusives to lock in moisture. Skin-calming ingredients like green tea is also helpful.
SPF Levels: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a face sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Those with darker skin tones and a family history of skin cancer should opt for those with higher SPF levels.
The Difference Between Mineral and Chemical SPF for Your Face
Dr. King explains that chemical sunscreens are crafted with chemicals that are absorbed into the skin. They work by soaking up the UV rays and creating a chemical reaction that changes them into heat, which is released from the skin. “They typically contain a combination of two to six of these ingredients: oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, and homosalate.” Some chemical sunscreen ingredients get absorbed into the bloodstream, and some recent studies have shown that some chemical sunscreen ingredients may be potentially harmful, particularly oxybenzone, octinoxate and homosalate because they mimic hormones.
Mineral and physical sunscreens contain zinc oxide and (or) titanium dioxide and are less likely to irritate sensitive skin, and there are fewer concerns about absorption and safety.
“I recommend physical sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) because they block a wide range of UV wavelengths and they are photostable,” Dr. King adds. “And there are fewer concerns about their potential adverse effects both to the body and to the environment. And they have come a long way from their chalky, white, hard-to-spread predecessors. There are now many brands making physical sunscreens that are easy to apply and look great.” According to Dr. King, physical sunscreens are less likely to clog pores and irritate complexions, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
However, Dr. King does note that for those with darker skin types, it can be difficult to find mineral sunscreens that don’t leave a white cast.
Ahead, see 11 best mineral face sunscreens approved by dermatologists.
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Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50
Shopping for a new mineral face sunscreen? The Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50 is among the best on the market. The lightweight mineral formula is protective and offers a slight tint for flawless coverage. The mineral sunscreen is crafted with the brand’s patented EnviroScreen and Flex technology, which combines iron oxide pigments and advanced antioxidants to protect against UVA/UVB, blue light, pollution, and infrared radiation. Additionally, Colorescience’s face sunscreen is deeply hydrating for an all-day glow.
Type: Cream
SPF: 50
Active ingredients: Zinc oxide
Water-resistance: Yes
Size: 1.8 fluid ounces
Does it leave a white cast? No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Pros:
Dermatologist tested, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic
4 shades
Hydrating
Cons:
Very light coverage
Caudalie Vinosun Protect Brightening Daily Mineral Face Sunscreen SPF 50
Caudalie is known for its tried and true skincare products, including this mineral face sunscreen that’s packed with soothing ingredients. The sunscreen shields your skin with SPF 50, but the effective combination of non-nano zinc oxide, grapevine vinifera, and niacinamide grabs reviewer’s attention. The formula brightens, hydrates, and smooths for a more even skin tone.
Type: Cream
SPF: 50
Active ingredients: 21.1% Zinc oxide
Water-resistance: Yes
Size: 1.7 fluid ounces
Does it leave a white cast? For some skin tones
Fragrance-free: Yes
Pros:
Has skincare benefits
Good for dark spots
Cons:
Slight cast on some skin tones
Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free SPF 42 Mineral Face Sunscreen
There’s not enough time to sing the praises for this mineral face pick from Shiseido. It’s the one mineral formula that doesn’t leave my olive skin with a chalky, white cast. And even though it feels weightless on your skin, this heavy-hitting formula protects against harmful rays from the sun. It also reduces fine lines, wrinkles, dryness, and oiliness. How? The secret is in the sunscreen’s formula, which consists of hyaluronic acid, spirulina energy essence, and licorice root extract.
In a study conducted by Shiseido, 91% “said this product makes their skin texture look smoother after four weeks of regular use.”
Type: Cream
SPF: 42
Active ingredients: 13.6% Zinc oxide, 4.9% titanium dioxide
Water-resistance: Yes
Size: 1 fluid ounce
Does it leave a white cast? No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Pros:
Oil-free
Doubles as a face primer
Lightweight
Cons:
Smaller size
Clearstem You Are Sunshine Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+
Clearstem’s You Are Sunshine Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ leaves a light, glowy tint behind without clogging your pores. It’s best for adding a layer of protection to your skin, but the SPF is also packed with green tea to reduce inflammation and control excess oil. Better yet, it’s dermatologist-tested and proven suitable for those who struggle with acne, rosacea, dryness, and discoloration. Wear it independently or pair it as a primer to create an even texture.
Type: Cream
SPF: 50
Active ingredients: 21% Zinc oxide
Water-resistance: Yes
Size: 2.1 fluid ounces
Does it leave a white cast? No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Pros:
Safe for sensitive skin
Dermatologist tested
Cons:
Has a thicker consistecy
Drunk Elephant Umbra 100% Mineral Cream SPF 30/PA+++ Tinted Face Sunscreen
Drunk Elephant‘s preppy packaging will have tweens and teens excited to remember to apply sunscreen every day. Parents love the SPF’s non-pilling, lightweight, and blendable composition that’s suitable for all skin types. The sunscreen is crafted with astaxanthin, which is derived from seaweed and known to have powerful antioxidant benefits. There is also tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, a vitamin C variant that improves visible signs of aging and uneven skin tone.
Type: Cream
SPF: 30
Active ingredients: 20% zinc oxide
Water-resistance: Unknown
Size: 2 fluid ounces
Does it leave a white cast? No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Pros:
Non-pilling
Best for all skin types
Cons:
Slight skin tint
Kosas DreamBeam Silicone-Free Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40
The Kosas DreamBeam Silicone-Free Mineral Sunscreen marries skincare with protection into this multi-tasking product. The creamy formula melts into your skin without leaving a pesky white cast behind. It protects against harmful rays, brightens, defends against signs of aging, and hydrates all in one since there are powerhouse ingredients such as peptides, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid. The bottle includes an easy-to-use nozzle that delivers the perfect amount of product with each use. Plus, the subtle peachy-pink hue helps neutralize the zinc oxide’s natural bluish-white color, which leaves a sun-kissed glow behind.
Type: Liquid
SPF: 40
Active ingredients: 21.7% non-nano zinc
Water-resistance: Up to 60 minutes
Size: 1.3 fluid ounces
Does it leave a white cast? No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Pros:
Easy to apply
No greasy finish
Cons:
Nozzle can be messy
Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Face & Body SPF 50
If you’re searching for an effective mineral sunscreen that won’t break the bank, consider Cetaphil’s formula. It features SPF 50 for optional protection that blends easily into the skin. And even though it’s not specially m added for your face, it’s derm-tested and non-comedogenic, so it doesn’t cause breakouts. Another notable callout of this sunscreen is that it has a microbiome-friendly formula that positively affects the skin while protecting the skin’s barrier. It also protects against free radicals and other environmental stressors by using vitamin E, a soothing antioxidant that protects the skin’s surface.
Type: Cream
SPF: 50
Active ingredients: 4.9% titanium dioxide
Water-resistance: Up to 80 minutes
Size: 3 fluid ounces
Does it leave a white cast? Slight cast on some skin tones
Fragrance-free: Yes
Pros:
Antioxidant properties to fight free radicals
Dermatologist-tested
Reef safe
Cons:
Not specifically for face
Saie Sunvisor Radiant Moisturizing Face Sunscreen SPF 35
Think of the Sunvisor as a serum, oil, moisturizer, and SPF all in one. Its smooth and creamy texture has quickly become a staple in my skincare routine. The 100% mineral non-nano zinc Oxide SPF 35 protects the skin against UVA/UVB rays and free radical damage. The SPF also harnesses the power of skincare’s reigning ingredients. First up is encapsulated vitamin C, which brightens the skin’s appearance. Next, the brand says hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and aloe vera lock moisture into the skin of the “Saie Glow” finish. My skin always feels healthy and plump paper using just a few pumps of this mineral sunscreen.
Type: Cream
SPF: 35
Active ingredients: Zinc oxide
Water-resistance: Up to 60 minutes
Size: 1.35 fluid ounces
Does it leave a white cast? No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Pros:
Two sizes available (full and mini)
Also targets dull and dry skin
Cons:
Lower SPF level
Vacation Shake Shake SPF 50
For a unique and nostalgic SPF experience, reach for the Vacation Shake Shake SPF 50. Made with a proprietary non-nano ZincWater, this sunscreen actually delivers on its promise of a smooth and streak-free application. Shoppers use the ultra-light, “watery-milk” texture that’s dosed out via unique shaker balls that mix that SPF with every use. Along with ensuring your skin is covered, Vacation also includes barrier-supporting hyaluronic acid, squalane, ceramides, and polypeptide to boost hydration. There is also a small light sunscreen scent that evokes childhood memories — yes, please!
Type: Liquid
SPF: 50
Active ingredients: Proprietary non-nano ZincWater
Water-resistance: Up to 60 minutes
Size: 1.7 fluid ounces
Does it leave a white cast? No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Pros:
Oxybenzone-free and octinoxate-free
Manufactured in the USA
Cons:
Some shaker balls get stuck
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Oxide Dry-Touch Mineral Face Sunscreen
This mineral face sunscreen is one of the most popular on beauty shelves for a good reason: It offers exceptional coverage, doesn’t cause breakouts, and is proven to be two times more protective than other brands. The oil-free formula leaves a non-greasy, matte finish so your skin is shine-free. It’s lightweight and sheer, making it gentle on the skin.
Type: Cream
SPF: 50
Active ingredients: Zinc oxide
Water-resistance: Up to 80 minutes
Size: 2 fluid ounces
Does it leave a white cast? Yes, on dark skin tones
Fragrance-free: Yes
Pros:
Under $20
Number 1 dermatologist-recommended suncare brand
Cons:
Takes longer to blend because of thick consistency
EltaMD UV AOX Elements Tinted Mineral Face Sunscreen
EltaMD’s face sunscreen produces a buildable, lightweight tint that offers just the right amount of coverage when needed. It boasts a moisturizing creamy texture and does not leave a white cast. Instead, it leaves a matte finish that’s ready for your other makeup products. Derms recommends this option for those with melasma (known for its hyperpigmentation and brown spots caused by the sun). The sunscreen protects against harsh rays from the sun that worsen the condition, and it also includes hyaluronic acid to plump skin.
Type: Cream
SPF: 50
Active ingredients: 13.5% zinc oxide, 4.4% titanium dioxide
Water-resistance: Up to 40 minutes
Size: 1.7 fluid ounces
Does it leave a white cast? No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Pros:
Helps with melasma
Non-drying formula
Cons:
Can show too dark on fair skin
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