- SPF: 30.
- Type of protection: UVA/UVB.
- Water-resistant: No.
- Price on publish: $25.
This content is created by AP Buyline in accordance with AP’s editorial guidelines and supervised and edited by AP staff. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about AP Buyline here.
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Updated August 22, 2024
Ever left the beach or pool with a gnarly sunburn after forgetting to apply sunscreen? The skin is the largest organ in the body and it’s important to take care of it. With that in mind, I searched for the best mineral sunscreens and found options for a range of skin types, complexions and budgets. I also interviewed dermatologists about what to look for in mineral sunscreen, the difference between mineral and chemical formulations and best practices to protect your skin in the summer and beyond.
Our top picks for the best mineral sunscreens
Best sheer mineral sunscreen
Mad Rabbit SPF 30 Tattoo Sunscreen
Thick, pasty sunscreen isn’t a good look at the beach or on the field. Mad Rabbit’s tattoo sunscreen, though marketed towards people with tattoos who don’t want their ink to fade in the sun, can be used by anyone. It’s especially great for people with dry skin as it's filled with moisturizing ingredients such as vitamin C, carrot extract and aloe vera. Plus, it doesn’t leave behind a white cast, so you won’t look like a ghost after applying it.
Details
Reasons to Buy
- Formulated for all skin types.
- Fragrance-free formula.
- Suitable for skin with tattoos.
Reasons to Reconsider
- Doesn’t come out easily.
Best mineral sunscreen for face
Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense Mineral Face Liquid SPF 30
While you may already have the best face moisturizer, you still need a mineral sunscreen for your face to protect against the sun’s damaging rays. This lightweight sunscreen blends effortlessly into the skin, creating a thin protective layer of antioxidants and vitamin E. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so it’s ideal for day trips and outings, plus you can reapply it in a jiffy. The best part? You can use this sunscreen under makeup, so you can protect your skin while wearing foundation and concealer that may not have SPF in the formula.
Details
- SPF: 30.
- Type of protection: UVA/UVB.
- Water-resistant: Yes.
- Price on publish: $21.99.
Reasons to Buy
- Works under makeup.
- Protects against environmental toxins.
- Packed with antioxidants.
Reasons to Reconsider
- Low-quality packaging.
Best mineral sunscreen spray
Oars & Alps 100% Mineral Antioxidant Sunscreen Spray
Sunscreen spray is a great alternative if you don’t like the feel of creamy, lotion-based products. Made from a blend of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, this mineral sunscreen easily blends into the skin and provides protection from the sun’s rays. The brand's Bag-On-Valve technology helps ensure propellants aren’t being dispersed, just the sunscreen, so you don’t have to worry about inhaling noxious fumes. Lastly, the Marula oil and jojoba seed oil in the formula provide extra hydration ideal for those with dry skin.
Details
- SPF: 50.
- Type of protection: UVA/UVB.
- Water-resistant: Yes.
- Price on publish: $20.
Reasons to Buy
- No added fragrance.
- Suitable for all skin types.
- Contains skincare ingredients.
Reasons to Reconsider
- Takes a while to rub in.
Best mineral sunscreen for body
Earth Mama Uber-Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40
It’s not just your face that needs sun protection. Earth Mama’s mineral sunscreen is formulated for the entire body. With its gentle colloidal oatmeal formula infused with shea butter, jojoba oil, aloe vera, calendula and raspberry seed oil, this sunscreen is ideal for sensitive skin. Plus, it’s water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, making it a good choice during swimming or beach volleyball without turning pasty and sticky.
Details
- SPF: 40.
- Type of protection: UVA/UVB.
- Water-resistant: Yes.
- Price on publish: $16.
Reasons to Buy
- Suitable for sensitive skin.
- Dermatologist-tested formula.
- No artificial fragrance.
Reasons to Reconsider
- Difficult to rub in.
Best mineral sunscreen with no white cast
Calendula Essential Hydrating Lotion SPF 30
Finding a sunscreen that provides ample protection without leaving your skin with a white cast can be tricky, but this pick from Calendula is up to the task. The creamy, hydrating lotion incorporates micronized zinc to protect from UVA/UVB rays while its knotgrass and calendula oil nourish and repair the skin barrier. Since this sunscreen doesn’t leave a white cast, it’s a perfect pick for those with darker complexions, as it blends into your skin invisibly.
Details
- SPF: 30.
- Type of protection: UVA/UVB.
- Water-resistant: Yes.
- Price on publish: $73.
Reasons to Buy
- Formulated for all skin types.
- Cruelty-free and vegan formula.
- Uses reef-safe ingredients.
Reasons to Reconsider
- May feel grainy.
Best mineral sunscreen for oily skin
CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
This sunscreen is best for individuals with oily skin as it’s oil-free and won’t leave you looking greasy. It reflects UVA/UVB rays for optimal protection while moisturizing the skin with ceramides that help maintain the skin's natural barrier. It’s free from potentially harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, avobenzone and benzene, and instead uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for optimal results. People with sensitive and dry skin will also appreciate this sunscreen as it’s made with hyaluronic acid, which helps retain moisture and prevent dryness.
Details
- SPF: 50.
- Type of protection: UVA/UVB.
- Water-resistant: No.
- Price on publish: $14.97.
Reasons to Buy
- Contains several skincare ingredients.
- Oil-free and noncomedogenic formula.
- Fragrance-free.
Reasons to Reconsider
- Thick consistency.
Best tinted mineral sunscreen
Toty Ilumina CC Cream SPF 50+
Tinted sunscreen is the way to go if you want the protection of SPF and the coverage provided by a foundation in one product. Infused with antioxidants, this tinted mineral sunscreen leaves skin with a natural finish and is available in 15 shades, from Fair Porcelain to Deep Caramel. It’s also buildable, so you can apply less or more coverage without using multiple products.
Details
- SPF: 50+.
- Type of protection: UVA/UVB.
- Water-resistant: No.
- Price on publish: $42.
Reasons to Buy
- Available in 15 shades.
- Noncomedogenic.
- Easy to apply.
Reasons to Reconsider
- Pricey.
Best mineral sunscreen for acne-prone skin
Dune Skincare The Mineral Melt
This doctor-developed mineral sunscreen is a suitable option for those with acne-prone skin as it’s rich in antioxidants and doesn’t clog pores. It’s formulated with vitamin E, carrot seed extract, carrot root, sunflower extract and rock rose extract, to help strengthen the skin barrier and improve texture and elasticity for a more youthful complexion. Unlike other sunscreens, it uses a microdispersion technology that quickly works its way into the skin so you can be protected from the sun in minutes.
Details
- SPF: 30.
- Type of protection: UVA/UVB.
- Water-resistant: No.
- Price on publish: $26.95.
Reasons to Buy
- Thin and fast-absorbing formula.
- Noncomedogenic.
- No white cast.
Reasons to Reconsider
- May pile on skin.
- Not water-resistant.
Best mineral sunscreen to wear under makeup
Seaweed Bath Co. Smooth & Protect Invisible Mineral SPF 50 Zinc Oxide Face Sunscreen
If your makeup doesn’t already contain SPF, then you’ll want to wear sun protection underneath. This invisible mineral sunscreen goes on similarly to a primer and protects skin with a non-nano zinc oxide formula that’s also safe for ocean life. Plus, this sunscreen is formulated with rainbow seaweed and bisabolol that help to brighten and soothe dry skin, so you can look and feel your best when out in the sun.
Details
- SPF: 50.
- Type of protection: UV.
- Water-resistant: Yes.
- Price on publish: $21.59.
Reasons to Buy
- Hydrates and protects skin.
- Leaping Bunny-certified.
- No white cast.
Reasons to Reconsider
- Bottle doesn’t come sealed.
Best mineral powder sunscreen
Brush On Block SPF 30 Translucent Mineral Powder Sunscreen
Powder sunscreen is similar to makeup in the way it’s applied, which makes it a good option for those who are prone to forgetting their sun protection. Simply rub the brush on your face and on specific areas of the body for coverage in seconds. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and won’t run or soak into your clothing when you’re breaking a sweat in the sun. For added benefit, you can use it on the scalp and in those hard-to-reach areas that often go unprotected.
Details
- SPF: 30.
- Type of protection: UVA/UVB.
- Water-resistant: Yes.
- Price on publish: $34.
Reasons to Buy
- Suitable for acne-prone skin.
- Can be worn under or over makeup.
- Safe for children over 6 months old.
Reasons to Reconsider
- May run out quickly.
What to consider when buying a mineral sunscreen
Application
One way to encourage yourself to use sunscreen every day is to find one that’s easy to apply. Brands make sunscreen in a variety of forms — stick, powder, lotion and spray. When it comes to sunscreen for the face, a stick or powder might be easier to use and reapply throughout the day than a lotion. But for people with sensory issues, a spray might be better as it doesn’t feel sticky afterwards.
Ingredients
Dr. Sheila Malek Kassir, co-founder of Kassir Plastic Surgery and Inside Beauty Spa, recommends you read the ingredient list and opt for a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which provide an extra layer of sun protection and are less prone to causing irritation. “If you have sensitive skin, choose a product with gentle inactive ingredients and avoid those with fragrances or preservatives,” she says.
SPF
Sun protection factor (SPF) is an important element to consider when looking for sunscreen as it indicates how well it will protect your skin from the sun. “Generally speaking, the higher the SPF, the more coverage it'll have, but also the higher the SPF, the more chemicals it'll have in it, so the more potential for irritation,” says Dr. Sarvenaz Zand, a board-certified dermatologist specializing in skin cancer. “I feel great about an SPF 30 as long as people are reapplying it every two hours.”
How we selected the best mineral sunscreens
To find the best mineral sunscreens, I researched numerous brands on the market, used firsthand insights and read a whole bunch of customer reviews. I also obtained professional advice from dermatologists about the importance of sunscreen in the summer and beyond. My list includes mineral sunscreens for various skin types, body parts and complexions.
How does mineral sunscreen differ from chemical sunscreen?
The main difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens is in their ingredients and how they protect your skin. “Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, use minerals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to create a shield on the skin that reflects UV rays,” says Malek-Kassir. “Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, use organic compounds that get absorbed into the skin and convert UV rays into heat.”
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is mineral sunscreen suitable for all skin types?
Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, says mineral sunscreens are often a better choice for people with sensitive skin and acne-prone skin. “The physical blockers, typically zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions compared to some chemical sunscreen ingredients,” she says.
Is mineral or chemical sunscreen better?
Deciding whether chemical or mineral sunscreen is better for you comes down to personal preference. Both have their pros and cons. From a cosmetic standpoint, mineral sunscreen tends to leave a white cast, which can be problematic for those with darker complexions. Chemical sunscreens might be easier to apply but can raise health risks. “Chemical sunscreens have concerns around hormone disruption, the potential to cause cancer and other risks that still need more elucidation but aren't totally clear yet,” says Zand.
Similar to finding the best face washes, you’ll want to check with your dermatologist to figure out which type of sunscreen is best for your skin.
Is SPF 30 or 50 better for your face?
Both SPF 30 and SPF 50 provide strong protection against UV rays if applied correctly. “For everyday use, SPF 30 is usually enough for most people, especially if you also wear a hat and seek shade,” says Malek-Kassir. “But if you have fair skin, a history of skin cancer or spend a lot of time outdoors, you might want to go with SPF 50 for extra protection. The key is to apply enough sunscreen — about two finger-lengths or a nickel-sized dollop for your face — and to reapply every two hours.”
Is zinc sunscreen better?
Zinc oxide sunscreen is a popular choice for many due to its broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, which is effective at preventing sunburn and skin damage. “It's gentle on sensitive skin and starts working immediately upon application, without causing irritation,” says Garshick.
Zand says it's always better to use zinc and titanium dioxide, another protective ingredient commonly used in mineral-based sunscreens, instead of chemical sunscreens to protect your body from harmful exposures.
Read more: The best anti-aging serums, according to skincare experts
This content is created by AP Buyline in accordance with AP’s editorial guidelines and supervised and edited by AP staff. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about AP Buyline here.